In the world of short-term rentals, keeping your availability up to date across multiple platforms (like Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com) is the best way to avoid the headache of double bookings.

The iCalendar (iCal) feature is the industry-standard tool that makes this possible.

Here is a breakdown of how it works and how you can set it up.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is iCalendar (iCal)?

iCalendar is a universal file format used to share calendar information between different platforms. Think of it as a "digital bridge" that tells Platform B when a guest has booked on Platform A.

2. How does iCal synchronisation work?

It works through a system of Exporting and Importing links.

Exporting: You provide our platform’s unique link to other sites so they know when you are busy.

Importing: You paste links from other sites into our platform so we can block off dates booked elsewhere.

3. Does it sync in real-time?

iCalendar syncs at regular intervals: every 60 minutes.

Note: Because there is this waiting period, it is always a good idea to manually check your calendars if you receive a booking during a high-traffic period.

4. Does iCalendar sync pricing or guest details?

No. iCal is designed for availability only.

What syncs: Blocked dates and "Busy" status.

What does NOT sync: Nightly rates, guest names, number of guests, or cleaning fees.

How to Set Up Your Sync

To get started, you will need to perform a "handshake" between your various listing calendars.

• Step 1 | Export Your Link: Go to your Properties tab and click Manage (note: this is only available once a property draft is published). In the property’s calendar page, look at the sidebar under the discount fields and select Connect Calendar. Copy the URL provided.
• Step 2 | Paste into External Sites: Log in to your other platforms (e.g., Airbnb, VRBO), and find the "Connect Calendar" section for the same property you are managing in the Booking Hub. Paste our link there.
• Step 3 | Import External Links: Copy the iCal link from those other platforms and paste it into the Holiday Homes import field.
• Step 4 | Name Your Feed: Give the connection a clear name (e.g., "Main Airbnb Feed") so you can easily track your sources.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Dates aren't blocking: Ensure the link you pasted ends in .ics. If it doesn't, the platform won't recognise it as a calendar file.
• Cancelled bookings still showing: Sometimes a "ghost" booking remains if the sync hasn't refreshed. Try clicking a "Refresh Now" button if the platform provides one.
• Double bookings: If a double booking occurs, check the "Last Synced" timestamp in your settings to see if the delay was the cause. Proceed to cancelling the double-booking immediately, and if any support is needed, contact our Customer Support team.