5 Holiday Upsells That Turn Check-In to Cheer

The holidays are more than just a busy travel period – they are the perfect opportunity to offer special extras that help guests make magical memories.

With travelers eager to embrace the season, thoughtful upselling can turn ordinary days into festive stays. But upselling during the holidays isn’t just about increasing revenue. The focus must always remain on guest satisfaction and building brand loyalty in the long run.

Guests traveling for the holidays seek unique moments, personalized touches, and experiences that allow them to immerse themselves in the nostalgia of the season. This means hotels can create packages, offers, and upgrades that speak to the emotional side of the season while also boosting their bottom line.

Revamping the upselling approach for the holidays is critical. For hotels, it’s a way to maximize revenue during a peak travel season. When done right, upselling adds value for the guest while increasing the average spend per stay, making it a win-win scenario. From a guest perspective, tailored holiday options show thoughtfulness and effort. After all, guests are more likely to remember – and rave about – a holiday stay that felt magical and personalized.

So, how can hotels strike the perfect balance between boosting sales and creating unforgettable memories? It starts with creativity, strategic planning, and a guest-first mindset. Here, we explore five standout ideas to enhance the holidays.

1. Festive room add-ons

Transform guest rooms into a holiday haven with festive add-ons that guests can choose at booking or upon arrival.

• Holiday décor packages: A mini Christmas tree, Hanukkah menorah, garlands, or twinkling lights bring the season to life.
• Stockings for kids or adults: Pre-fill containers with treats, small gifts, or even mini bottles of festive beverages for grown-ups.
• Personalized greetings: Guests can add a handwritten card or note to surprise their loved ones in the room – or staff can provide them, too.

These extras are simple enough to implement and create lasting impressions.

2. Winter-themed dining

The holidays are synonymous with indulgence, so why not elevate food and beverage options?

• Special holiday menus: Feature limited-time seasonal dishes or a prix fixe family-style dinner, complete with mulled wine or peppermint hot cocoa.
• Private igloo dining: For properties with outdoor space, set up cozy igloos or heated domes where guests can enjoy a winter wonderland meal.
• Holiday cooking classes: Offer hands-on experiences where guests learn to bake gingerbread cookies, decorate festive cupcakes, or create signature cocktails.

These offerings should be highlighted on websites, social media, and reservation pages to entice guests before they even arrive.

3. Exclusive seasonal packages

Bundle holiday-themed add-ons into winter packages that cater to different preferences and lifestyles.

• Family fun package: Combine discounted room rates with tickets to local holiday events, access to a gingerbread house-making station, and free hot cocoa for kids.
• Romantic winter getaway: For couples seeking a cozy retreat, champagne, chocolates, and reservations for a private dining setup or spa treatment are included.
• Adventure seeker bundle: Partner with local vendors to offer skiing passes, sledding adventures, or ice skating tickets for guests craving outdoor fun.

Packages make it easy for guests to see value in upgrading their stay and simplify decision-making.

4. Themed spa treatments

Help guests unwind from the holiday hustle with seasonal wellness treatments.

• Peppermint massages or Sugar Plum facials: Infuse treatments with festive scents for a unique twist.
• Winter warm-up packages: For the ultimate in relaxation, combine hot stone massages, warm ginger tea, and sauna access.
• Holiday self-care kits: As an upsell option, offer take-home spa kits with bath salts, candles, and skincare products.

Promoting these treatments with a festive spin will especially appeal to the stressed-out traveler.

5. Exclusive lounge events

If your property has a club lounge or banquet space, elevate it with seasonal exclusives to drive interest.

• Holiday happy hours: Seasonal cocktails, like spiked eggnog or cranberry mimosas, served in a pop-up speakeasy will impress guests seeking adult time.
• Special events: Live music, holiday trivia nights, or meet-and-greets with classic holiday characters create buzz.
• Festive snacks and treats: Offer a rotating selection of holiday cookies, pies, or charcuterie boards paired with seasonal drinks.

Presenting a section of the property as an exclusive holiday retreat can entice guests to give in to the FOMO and join the fun.

Making holiday cheer last all year

The holiday season is an opportunity for hotels to shine all year long. Visits are elevated by offering irresistible upsell options, and guests are more likely to return.

From festive room enhancements and winter-themed dining to exclusive packages and spa treatments, these efforts generate additional sales while making a holiday stay more special. Guests who feel they’ve received exceptional service and unique seasonal offerings are also more likely to leave glowing reviews.

By embracing the festive spirit and rethinking upselling strategies, hotels can make that generous holiday feeling linger well into the new year.