post it notes with marketing funnel stages

In the hotel world, it’s not enough to just hope people find you. You’ve got to guide them through every stage of the travel planning journey, from that first spark of awareness to the moment they click “book now.” That’s where the hotel marketing funnel comes in.

NB: This is an article from Travelboom

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The hotel marketing funnel is similar to the classic marketing funnel with awareness, consideration and conversion stages, but the big difference is timing. According to TravelBoom’s 2025 Leisure Travel Study, more than half of travelers start planning their trip one to three months in advance. So you’ve got a decent window to get in front of them and make your hotel stand out, but only if you’re showing up in the right places and setting yourself apart.

The Stages of the Hotel Marketing Funnel

Awareness: Get in Front of Future Guests

The awareness stage of the hotel marketing funnel is about making your hotel visible and appealing to potential guests who are in the early stages of planning.

Effective Awareness Channels:

  • Organic Social Media: Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are influential, with 62% of travelers using them for inspiration.
  • SEO (Search Engine Optimization): Optimizing your website content ensures visibility when travelers search for accommodations in your area.​
  • Paid Search: Targeted ads can place your hotel in front of travelers actively seeking options in your location.

Consideration: Standing Out Among Choices

Once travelers start getting serious about their options, they’ll be comparing everything: location, amenities, photos, reviews, and most importantly, price. This is your chance to make sure they choose your hotel, and more importantly, that they book directly with you.

Here’s the thing: OTAs (like Expedia or Booking.com) are great for getting visibility, but they take a big chunk out of your revenue and don’t help build long-term guest relationships. If someone books through your site, you save on fees, keep control over the guest experience, and have more opportunities to connect with them before and after their stay.

So how do you encourage direct bookings over OTAs? It starts with making your website feel like the obvious choice.

Here’s what works:

  • A polished, easy-to-navigate website that makes booking simple with no lag and no clutter
  • Direct booking perks like 20% off, free upgrades, or complimentary breakfast
  • Clear value – show off your standout amenities, local experiences, or exclusive packages
  • Flexible policies like free cancellation or late checkout (especially helpful for nervous or last-minute travelers)
  • Price – Try and make sure your rates are better than what’s on OTAs

Travelers will go with what feels trustworthy and convenient. If your website offers the best deal and a smoother experience, there’s no reason for them to book anywhere else.

Also worth noting: a lot of travelers don’t even realize they’re paying more when they use an OTA. Use your site and your messaging to remind them they’re getting the best price and the best perks by booking direct.

Read the full article at Travelboom