How to Use Smart Calendar Management
Master vacation rental calendar management with TrueBookings. Learn to sync calendars, manage availability, and automate booking confirmations.
Access Your Calendar Dashboard
Navigate to your calendar management system:
- Log in to your TrueBookings admin dashboard
- Click on the "Settings" tab in the navigation
- Select "Policies" from the settings sub-tabs
- Set minimum stay requirements and availability rules
Set Up Initial Availability
Configure your property's availability settings:
- Default Availability: Set your property as available by default
- Advance Booking Window: Set how far in advance guests can book (e.g., 6 months)
- Minimum Stay Requirements: Set minimum night requirements for different periods
- Check-in/Check-out Days: Specify which days of the week allow check-ins
- Buffer Time: Add buffer days between bookings for cleaning
Block Unavailable Dates
Mark dates when your property is not available:
- Personal Use: Block dates when you plan to use the property
- Maintenance: Block dates for repairs, renovations, or deep cleaning
- Seasonal Closures: Block off-season periods if you don't rent year-round
- Local Events: Block dates during major local events if you prefer
- Emergency Blocking: Quickly block dates for unexpected issues
Multi-Platform Sync
Sync with Airbnb, VRBO, and other platforms to prevent double bookings
Real-Time Updates
Automatic updates across all platforms when bookings are made
Instant Blocking
Block dates instantly to prevent unwanted bookings
Analytics
Track occupancy rates and booking patterns
Set Minimum Stay Requirements
Configure your availability rules in the Settings > Policies section:
- Weekend Minimums: Set 2-3 night minimums for weekends
- Holiday Requirements: Longer minimum stays for major holidays
- Seasonal Rules: Different minimums for peak/off seasons
- Advance Booking: Require bookings X days in advance
- Last-Minute Rules: Special rules for same-day bookings
Configure Cancellation Policies
Set up cancellation policies in the Settings > Policies section:
- Flexible Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before check-in
- Moderate Policy: Free cancellation up to 5 days before check-in
- Strict Policy: Free cancellation up to 14 days before check-in
- Custom Rules: Set your own cancellation terms
- Refund Amounts: Specify partial or full refunds
Manage Booking Requests
Handle incoming booking requests efficiently:
- Instant Booking: Allow guests to book immediately for available dates
- Request Approval: Review and approve booking requests manually
- Auto-Decline Rules: Automatically decline requests that don't meet criteria
- Booking Notifications: Receive alerts for new booking requests
- Response Time: Set expectations for how quickly you'll respond
💡 Pro Tip: Calendar Optimization
Use your calendar analytics to identify patterns. If you notice low occupancy on certain days, consider offering special rates or minimum stay discounts to fill those gaps.
Handle Cancellations and Changes
Manage booking changes and cancellations:
- Cancellation Processing: Quickly process cancellations and update availability
- Date Changes: Allow guests to modify their booking dates when possible
- Automatic Reopening: Automatically make cancelled dates available again
- Refund Processing: Handle refunds according to your cancellation policy
- Guest Communication: Notify guests of any calendar changes
Use Calendar Analytics
Leverage calendar data to optimize your rental business:
- Occupancy Rates: Track how often your property is booked
- Booking Patterns: Identify peak booking times and seasons
- Revenue Tracking: Monitor earnings by date and season
- Guest Behavior: Understand booking preferences and lead times
- Performance Metrics: Use data to improve pricing and availability
Mobile Calendar Management
Manage your calendar on the go with mobile features:
- Mobile App: Access your calendar from anywhere with the TrueBookings mobile app
- Quick Blocking: Block dates instantly from your phone
- Push Notifications: Receive instant alerts for new bookings
- Offline Access: View your calendar even without internet connection
- Emergency Management: Handle urgent calendar changes remotely
Ready to Master Calendar Management?
Start using TrueBookings' smart calendar system to streamline your rental business.
Get Started Today →