What Really Works in Hotel Upselling

Upselling is less about pushing extras and more about creating moments that guests genuinely want to experience. While technology makes the process easier to automate, the success of an upsell depends on the offer itself. Some products consistently perform better than others because they feel timely, exclusive, and hard to replicate later.

Late Check-Outs and Early Check-Ins
Flexibility is often the simplest yet most powerful upsell. Guests who arrive from a long flight or who want to squeeze a few more hours of rest before departure see real value in early check-in or late check-out. These options don’t require physical inventory or preparation, yet they can dramatically improve the guest experience while generating incremental revenue for the property.

Romance Packages and Curated Experiences
Packages that bundle a few thoughtful elements, like champagne, flowers, or chocolate, continue to outperform generic add-ons. When offered through a digital tool like Sponteous, these experiences are even more appealing: guests can discreetly personalize their stay online without the potential awkwardness of making such requests at the front desk.

Local Products
Travelers are drawn to authentic experiences, and local products deliver exactly that. A platter of regional delicacies, artisanal treats, or a bottle of local wine gives guests an immediate sense of place as soon as they enter the room. It’s a simple way for hotels to act as facilitators of discovery, offering something guests might not find on their own. Because it blends authenticity with convenience, this type of offer consistently performs well in upselling.

Ultimately, upselling works best when it feels like an enhancement rather than an add-on. By focusing on offers that align with the guest’s journey (moments tied to arrival, departure, or special occasions) hotels can increase revenue while strengthening the overall guest experience.