iCal: syncing rental calendars
Definition : iCal is a calendar format (.ics file) shared through a web address, so other calendars can import the booked dates.
iCal (or iCalendar) is a standard calendar format, with the .ics extension, described by RFC 5545. In short-term rental it is used to exchange booked dates between two tools: one platform publishes a web address, the other reads it regularly and blocks the same dates.
It is the simplest way to link two calendars, and it works with almost every platform.
How it works
In three steps:
- Platform A provides the address (URL) of its iCal calendar
- Platform B saves that address and reads it again at regular intervals
- Dates booked on A become unavailable on B
The limits of iCal
iCal is handy but limited:
- It mostly carries booked or blocked dates, not prices or stay rules
- Updates are not instant: the reading interval depends on each platform and can be several hours
- Between two reads, the same night can be sold twice, a classic cause of double booking
- Each link goes one way: you set up one per platform and per direction
iCal or channel manager?
A channel manager connects directly to the platforms and also sends your prices, minimum stay and closures. iCal remains useful for platforms with no direct connection, or as a complement. In practice: channel manager for the big platforms, iCal for the rest.
Good practice
Test a link after setting it up by blocking a date. Keep a list of active links. Don’t share a calendar address publicly: it gives access to your occupied dates.
iCal in Hosteo
In Hosteo you import the iCal calendar of any other platform: the dates are blocked automatically in your timeline. For Airbnb, Booking.com, Expedia and Vrbo, the built-in channel manager connects directly and also sends your prices and rules.
- iCal dates blocked automatically in the timeline
- Direct connection for Airbnb, Booking.com, Expedia and Vrbo
Frequently asked questions
Does iCal also send my prices?
No, it generally carries booked or blocked dates. Prices and stay rules go through a direct connection, like a channel manager’s.
How often does it update?
It depends on each platform and can range from a few minutes to several hours. That is why iCal alone doesn’t remove the risk of double booking.
Can I use iCal with Airbnb and Booking.com?
Yes, these platforms offer iCal links. With Hosteo you would prefer the channel manager’s direct connection and keep iCal for other platforms.
Is my iCal calendar public?
The address isn’t shown to guests, but anyone who knows it can read your occupied dates: don’t circulate it.
Read next
Sources and official texts
General information, as of the publication date.
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