If you're a vacation rental owner or manager, you're likely familiar with the challenges of keeping your reservations synced across platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and other booking sites. A calendar URL is the key to solving this problem. It's a link to an iCalendar (iCal) file, a universal calendar format that makes it easy to share and sync reservation data.

In simple terms, a calendar URL is like a live feed of your booking calendar. When connected to other tools or platforms, it automatically updates with new reservations, cancellations, and blocked dates, saving you time and reducing the risk of double bookings.

Lodging Lotto uses calendar URLs to synchronize with your calendar so we only show your listing when you have near-term vacancies. Read below for info on where to find your calendar URL and other ways you can use it.

Where to Find the Calendar URL on Airbnb

1. Log in to Your Airbnb Account
   Go to your Airbnb account and navigate to the property you want to manage.

2. Access the Calendar

   • From the Hosting Dashboard, select the listing.
   • Click on Availability or Calendar.

3. Export Your Calendar

   • Look for the Export Calendar option (usually located in the calendar settings).
   • Click on it, and you'll see a unique URL generated for your property.

4. Copy the URL
   Copy the provided link and save it for use in other platforms or tools.

Where to Find the Calendar URL on Vrbo

1. Log in to Your Vrbo Account
   Access your owner or property manager dashboard.

2. Go to Calendar Settings

   • Select the property.
   • Navigate to Calendar or Reservation Settings.

3. Export Your Calendar

   • Look for the Export Calendar or Sync Calendar option.
   • Click to generate the iCal URL.

4. Copy the URL
   Save this link—it will be used to sync your Vrbo calendar with other tools or platforms.

How to Use a Calendar URL

Once you have the calendar URL, you can use it in several ways:

1. Syncing across Platforms

• Paste the Airbnb URL into Vrbo’s calendar import tool and vice versa. This ensures all reservations are mirrored between platforms.
• Use the URL to sync with other booking sites like Booking.com or custom platforms.

2. Connecting to Property Management Tools

• Tools like Lodgify, Hostaway, or Your Porter let you sync multiple calendar URLs to centralize your reservations.

3. Personal Use

• Import the calendar URL into apps like Google Calendar, Apple Calendar, or Outlook for personal tracking.

4. Automation with Apis

• Developers can use iCal feeds in custom solutions for automated booking management or analytics.

5. Marketing Automation with Lodging Lotto

• Lodging Lotto helps you fill last-minute vacancies on your properties. We use your calendar URL to to know when your property is available and then advertise your last-minute rate if there are openings.

Tips for Managing Calendar Urls

• Regular Updates: Although most platforms update automatically, check your sync settings to ensure they’re current.
• Separate URLs for Each Listing: Each property has its own unique calendar URL. Be careful not to mix them up.
• Privacy Considerations: Be cautious when sharing calendar URLs, as they might include sensitive reservation details.

Final Thoughts

Calendar URLs are essential for streamlining your vacation rental operations. By exporting and syncing your calendars, you can eliminate manual updates, minimize errors, and provide a seamless experience for your guests.

If you’re managing multiple properties or simply want to improve your workflow, understanding and utilizing calendar URLs is a must-have skill. Start by exporting your calendar from Airbnb or Vrbo, and explore the possibilities for simplifying your vacation rental business.