Short for promotional code, a Promo Code provides bookers with access to a promotional rate. On NightsBridge you are able to create promo codes to send to your bookers.
These discounts are exclusive and only apply when a guest enters a specific code (made up of letters and numbers) on your NightsBridge booking form.
When a valid Promo Code is applied, it unlocks special discounted rates that are not visible or available to guests who don’t have the code.
Why use Promo Code discounts?
Promo Codes are a flexible and effective tool for encouraging direct bookings and rewarding loyalty. You can use them to:
- Drive commission-free direct bookings via your own website and booking form.
- Reward repeat or loyal guests with special rates.
- Encourage bookings during quieter periods or for specific dates.
- Create targeted offers for events, promotions, or individual guests.
- Share easily via email campaigns, social media, or directly with guests.
Common ways Promo Codes are used
Promo Codes are ideal for marketing campaigns aimed at past or prospective guests.
For example, you could email a special code to previous guests or share it on social media to encourage bookings through your own booking form.
Once guests have the code, they simply enter it on your booking form to view the discounted rates.
Many properties create Promo Codes specifically for returning guests as a thank-you for booking again.
These codes can be shared via email after a stay or included in post-stay communication to encourage future bookings.
Promo Codes can be used to boost bookings during quieter periods, midweek stays, or specific date ranges.
Because the discount is hidden behind a code, it doesn’t publicly reduce your standard rates.
Promo Codes are ideal for private or limited offers that aren’t visible to everyone.
This could include special pricing for:
- Corporate clients.
- Friends and family.
- Wedding guests or event attendees.
- Small groups or individuals.
Promo Codes work well as part of marketing campaigns such as:
- Email newsletters.
- Social media promotions.
- Seasonal or event-based offers (for example, Black Friday or holiday specials).
They’re easy to communicate and simple for guests to redeem.
Some properties provide Promo Codes to guests who are currently staying with them, encouraging them to book again in the future at a preferred rate rather than booking elsewhere.
How to tell guests about your Promo Codes
Use marketing channels.
Promo Codes work best when they’re actively promoted. You can share them via:
- Email campaigns (for example, to past guests using Mailchimp).
- In-house promotions to guests currently staying with you, encouraging them to book again.
- Social media posts on platforms like Facebook or Instagram.
What to say in your offer
When marketing a Promo Code, it’s important to explain:
- What the offer is, and
- How the guest redeems it
Here's a good example of how you could explain a Promo Code offer to a guest when marketing a Black Friday promotion on social media:
Black Friday Accommodation Special!
Take advantage of our Black Friday special this November and enjoy 50% off any stay until 30 November.
- Go to www.cosyguesthouse.co.za
- Use Promo Code COSYBFRIDAY2020
To redeem this promo code offer:
- To redeem: Enter the code on our booking form, select your dates, and click Check Availability to view the discounted rates.
- Bookable from 10 November only.
Identifying bookings made with a Promo Code
When a booking is made using a Promo Code, the code will appear in:
- The booking notes.
- The booking confirmation email.
- Your Property Management System (for example, your NightsBridge Calendar).
It will display as:
Promotion code applies: XXXX
(the actual promo code will display in place of the 'XXXX'
Promo Codes and booking channels
Promo Codes are not sent to or offered on your connected booking channels. They are only available to use on your Booking Engine. Guests can only access the applied discount using the promo code.