Merge fields are codes that pull information from bookings automatically, ensuring personalized and accurate communication in property and booking-dependent templates.(Detailed guide about Message Templates) You can use default and custom merge fields to create tailored messages for guests, homeowners, or teams without coding skills. This guide covers common merge fields, their uses, and best practices.
Quick Tips Before Starting
Custom Merge Fields: Access additional merge fields based on specific integrations (learn more [HERE]).
Category-Specific Merge Fields: Some fields may be categorized (e.g., "Guest First Name" under Main Guest).
Upcoming Enhancements: An improved Merge Field and Message Template tool is in the works for a more intuitive experience.
Common Use Cases & Examples
1. Booking Confirmation & Payment Status:
A confirmation message tailored to provide guests with booking and payment details.
Example Template:
Dear {{ record.main_guest.first_name }}
Your Booking Has Been Confirmed!
You're one step closer to your trip to {{ record.property.address }}
Payment Schedule Currency: {{record.currency.symbol}}
Next payment amount: {{record.next_payment_amount}}
Next payment date: {{record.next_payment_due_date}}
Booking Information {{ record.summary_url }}
Security Deposit Status: {{ record.security_deposit_status }}
Link: {{record.security_deposit_link}}
Property Policies {{record.property.house_rules}}
2.Online Check-in form:
Requesting for completion of the Online Check-in form is beneficial for both security and proper management reasons and the message template can be configured as follows:
Example Template:
Hi {{record.main_guest.first_name}},
There's just one final step to complete your booking. We just need a few further details about your guests and travel details.
Complete guest information: {{record.websites.default.guest_checkin_url}}
Property: {{ record.property.name[locale] }} Booking ID: {{ record.id }}
Check In: {{ date_format(record.checkin, 'M jS, Y') }}
Check Out: {{ date_format(record.checkout, 'M jS, Y') }}
Adults: {{ record.adults }}
Children: {{ record.children }}
3. Internal communication with your homeowners:
Keep Homeowners informed about bookings and payment details.
Example Template:
Dear {{ recipient.name }},
We have confirmed the reservation below:
Guest name: {{record.main_guest.full_name}}
Phone: {{record.main_guest.phone}}
Address: {{record.main_guest.address}}, {{record.main_guest.city}},{{record.main_guest.country}}
Total: {{record.guest.total}}
Guests:
{{record.adults}} adults
{{record.children}} children
{{record.babies}} infants
Property: {{record.property.internal_name}} in {{record.property.city}}
Reservation details:
Check-in: {{ date_format(record.checkin, ' j M, Y (D)') }}
Check-out: {{ date_format(record.checkout, 'j M, Y (D)') }}
({{record.length_of_stay}} nights
We calculate the public rate is {{record.total}}
Our commission is: {{record.total_pm_share}}.
Your net payout is therefore: {{record.accommodation_pm_share}}.
Additional Notes: {{record.concierge_notes}}
Best Practices for Merge Fields
Test Templates: Always preview message templates to ensure merge fields populate correctly.
Combine Fields for Detail: Use multiple merge fields for comprehensive, actionable communication (e.g., booking details, payment breakdown, and property policies).
Stay Organized: Group similar merge fields (e.g., guest details together) for clarity.
Leverage Categories: Use categorized fields to simplify searching and selection.
By mastering merge fields, you can enhance communication efficiency, professionalism, and personalization across your short-term rental business.