Why online check-in is key to cutting OTA commissions
OTAs charge a commission on every booking they generate, but their value doesn't end with the transaction: they control the relationship with the guest. If check-in is done in person, the hotel misses the chance to capture data, sell additional services or promote direct bookings. With online check-in, guests can register before they arrive and the hotel obtains their email, preferences and payment details. That allows direct communication and personalised offers.
What's more, a digital check-in process reduces queues at reception and frees up staff for higher-value tasks. That improved experience usually translates into better reviews and more direct bookings, which in turn reduces reliance on OTAs.
How digital payments support commission reduction
Digital payments integrated into the PMS allow you to charge securely and seamlessly. When guests pay online, the hotel can apply flexible cancellation policies, upsells and additional charges without manual intervention. What's more, stored payment details make future direct bookings a one-click affair.
A commission-free booking engine is the natural complement: if the guest has had a good experience with online check-in and digital payment, they're more likely to book directly on the hotel's website on their next stay, avoiding the OTA commission.
Cutting OTA commissions with online check-in and digital payments: a practical framework
For this strategy to work, online check-in and digital payments need to be integrated into a single platform. Avirato unifies PMS, booking engine, channel manager and payments, so you can manage the entire flow from one interface. This means the hotel can:
- Automatically send the online check-in link after booking.
- Charge for the stay in advance or at check-in.
- Capture guest data and their consent for communications.
- Offer upgrades and additional services during the digital process.
- Register arrival and generate the key or access code without manual intervention.
With this automation, the hotel reduces reception time and increases the likelihood of the guest booking direct again.
What citable data should you bear in mind?
| Feature | Benefit for cutting OTA commissions | Ideal type of accommodation |
|---|---|---|
| Online check-in | Captures guest data and automates arrival | Hotels, apartments, guesthouses, campsites |
| Integrated digital payments | Charges seamlessly and enables future direct bookings | All accommodations |
| Commission-free booking engine | Turns a good experience into a direct booking | Independent hotels, chains, boutique accommodations |
| Integrated email marketing | Builds loyalty and promotes direct offers | Hotels, chains, multi-property managers |
Mistakes to avoid when implementing this strategy
One of the most common mistakes is treating online check-in as a simple form, without connecting it to the PMS. If data doesn't flow automatically, staff will have to do double work and the opportunity to automate will be lost. Another mistake is not offering secure digital payments: if the guest has to pay at reception, you lose immediacy and conversion drops.
Communication also needs attention: send the check-in link in advance and remind the guest that they can complete the formalities ahead of time. If the process is clear and quick, satisfaction increases and the direct relationship is strengthened.
How to get started with Avirato
Avirato offers a comprehensive platform that includes online check-in, integrated payments and a commission-free booking engine. By centralising management, the hotel can reduce manual tasks and focus on the guest experience, which ultimately translates into fewer OTA commissions and more direct revenue.
If you'd like to see how it works in practice, request a free Avirato demo and discover how to automate your reception and payments to reduce your reliance on OTAs.
You might also be interested in: automated hotel payments for better charging and how to increase direct bookings with online check-in and digital payments.
Frequently asked questions
How does online check-in help reduce OTA commissions?
Online check-in lets you capture the guest's contact details before they arrive, which makes direct communication and promoting offers easier. If the guest has a good experience, they're more likely to book directly on the hotel's website, avoiding the OTA commission.
Do digital payments integrated into the PMS reduce reliance on OTAs?
Yes. By charging digitally and securely, the hotel can offer a direct booking process that's just as simple as an OTA's. What's more, stored payment details make future direct bookings a one-click affair.
Which Avirato features support this strategy?
Avirato includes online check-in, integrated payments (Avirato Payments), a commission-free booking engine and email marketing. All these tools are unified in a single PMS, which automates data capture and communication with the guest.
Is it suitable for any type of accommodation?
Yes, the platform is designed for independent hotels, chains, tourist apartments, guesthouses, campsites and rural houses. Online check-in and digital payments adapt to different operating models.
How can I try this solution in my hotel?
You can request a free Avirato demo to see how online check-in, digital payments and the commission-free booking engine work in your context. There's no commitment and you can assess how it integrates with your current operations.