Sustainable Upselling: 5 ideas to improve the guest experience and promote responsible tourism

Content in collaboration with our partner Bioscore Sustainability, a sustainability consultant for tourism companies.

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Sustainable upselling not only increases the income of your accommodation, but also reinforces the experience of the guests by promoting responsible tourism. Offering additional products and services that have a low environmental and socially responsible impact aligns with the expectations of conscious travelers.

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Here we share 5 ideas for sustainable upselling that you can implement to improve the customer experience and contribute to a more respectful tourism:

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1. Local and sustainable experiences

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One of the best methods of upselling is to offer local experiences that encourage cultural immersion and sustainability. Promote activities such as guided hiking trails led by locals or traditional craft workshops, which not only support the local economy but also respect the natural environment. Through these experiences, guests feel connected to the destination while helping the community thrive.

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For example, collaborate with local businesses that offer unique experiences such as visits to organic farms or gastronomic tours with locally sourced products. This type of sustainable tourism allows guests to contribute directly to the local economy in a respectful manner.

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2. Upgraded eco-friendly rooms

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Offering your guests the option to upgrade to an eco-friendly room is an effective way to implement sustainable upselling. These rooms can include sustainable amenities such as eco-friendly hygiene products, renewable energy systems, and organic bedding. In addition, inform guests about the positive impact of their stay in these rooms, such as the reduction of their carbon footprint.

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Make sure to highlight environmental initiatives on your accommodation's website and marketing channels to incentivize travelers to choose this option.

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3. Menus of local and organic products

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Another excellent idea is to offer upselling in the gastronomic area through menus of local, seasonal, and organic products. Sustainable meals, such as vegetarian or vegan menus, are an excellent way to promote a more conscious and environmentally friendly diet. In addition, guests will be willing to pay more for a culinary experience that reflects local flavors while reducing environmental impact.

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Promote locally sourced alternatives in your restaurant or bar that highlight fresh, organic ingredients from the community. Additionally, you can include options for eco-friendly picnic baskets for excursions.

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4. Sustainable transportation

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Provide guests with the option of sustainable transportation such as electric bicycles or hybrid cars to explore the surroundings. Promoting these mobility alternatives helps reduce dependence on polluting vehicles, and for travelers, it is a convenient and responsible way to get to know the destination. Offering an airport pick-up service in electric vehicles or premium public transportation can also be an attractive form of upselling.

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Promote green mobility through personalized packages, offering itineraries designed to encourage exploration of the environment without the need for conventional transportation.

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5. Wellness and sustainability kits

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Upselling can also include physical products that reinforce the well-being of guests and the commitment to sustainability. You can offer sustainable wellness kits that include products such as reusable water bottles, portable solar chargers, or ocean-friendly sunscreens. These products not only improve the customer's stay but are also an excellent way to educate about the importance of reducing waste and opting for eco-friendly products.

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In addition, you can personalize these kits based on the guest's interests, offering alternatives that align with their values, thus creating a unique and memorable experience.

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Sustainable upselling is an opportunity not only to generate additional income but also to position your accommodation as a benchmark in responsible tourism. By integrating sustainable practices into upselling options, you will be aligning your services with the growing demands of conscious travelers and contributing to more balanced and respectful tourism. Do not forget that the key is to clearly communicate your efforts and offer products and services that add real value to both the guest and the environment.

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For more information on how to implement sustainable strategies in your accommodation, visit the website of our partner Bioscore Sustainability and discover how the Bioscore Certification for Accommodations can help you differentiate yourself in the responsible tourism market.

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