In today’s world, travelers don’t just scroll for flights—they scroll for vibes. Before they book, they’re checking your hotel’s Instagram. Not just for rates or room types, but for the feeling of staying there.
The truth is, Instagram sells the dream.
If your property doesn’t stop the scroll, you’re missing out on a massive chunk of visibility—and potential revenue.
Here’s how to turn your hotel into a camera-ready destination guests can’t wait to share (and book).
1. Design with Instagram in Mind (Without Being Cheesy)
Your guests are looking for photo ops—give them a few irresistible ones. That doesn’t mean turning your entire lobby into a neon jungle. It means crafting focal points with intention.
Some easy wins:
- A swing or hanging chair with a view
- Statement mural or textured accent wall
- Oversized mirror with moody lighting
- A cozy reading corner or plant-filled nook
- Local artisan touches that feel curated, not mass-produced
The goal? Create spaces that invite guests to say, “Wait—I need a pic here.”
2. Encourage User-Generated Content (UGC)
Guests already have their phones out. The trick is getting them to tag you. Here’s how to make it effortless and rewarding:
- Add a branded hashtag to your welcome sign or in-room guide
- Place subtle prompts like “Tag us to be featured!” near your best photo spots
- Offer small incentives like a coffee voucher or late checkout for sharing a post or story
- Add a photo-worthy drink, breakfast spread, or towel setup to make it too good not to post
Pro Tip: Keep your Wi-Fi password and IG handle front and center. Make it frictionless.
3. Repost Guest Content to Build Trust & Community
Real guests posting real moments = instant credibility. When someone sees someone like them enjoying your space, it does more than any polished brand shoot ever could.
Make it part of your content strategy to:
- Repost tagged stories and posts weekly
- Shout out guests with kind captions
- Save UGC to your highlights or create a “Guest Gallery”
- Ask to use high-quality content on your website or email marketing (with credit!)
This not only builds community—it gives future guests a sense of what staying with you really feels like.
4. Why This All Matters: Visibility = Bookings
You’re not just marketing to this guest—you’re marketing to their entire follower list.
That’s why hotels with strong visual branding and Instagram presence often book more (and charge more). A beautifully staged room, well-lit spa, or dreamy hammock isn’t just decor—it’s strategy.
Want to Make Your Hotel Insta-Ready?
We help boutique hotels, STRs, and hybrid properties level up their brand presence, both online and on the ground. Whether you need a visual audit or want help creating photo ops guests can’t resist—we’ve got you.
📞 Book a visual brand audit or design strategy call at lumoshost.com
📩 Or give us a call at 602-618-7520
Let’s make every corner of your property camera-ready.
