20 Small Hotel Management Software Of 2024
10 Best Small Hotel Management Software Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 20 tools reviewed.
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Picture this: it’s peak season, and you’re juggling guest check-ins, tracking room availability, and updating pricing—all while managing your property’s online presence. Managing a small hotel can feel like an endless juggling act.
When I managed a boutique property, we struggled with double bookings and inefficient manual updates. Switching to an integrated property management solution eliminated those issues, freeing up hours each day and boosting our direct bookings significantly. The small hotel management software I’ve reviewed offers the same kind of transformation—helping you streamline your operations and enhance the guest experience.
Let’s dive into the options that can do the same for your property.
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What Is a PMS for Small Hotels?
A small hotel PMS (property management system) is a simple software that helps hotel owners and staff manage day-to-day tasks like booking rooms, checking guests in and out, tracking room availability, and handling payments. Sometimes called hotel management software, it keeps everything organized in one place, so you don’t have to use paper or multiple programs to run your hotel. It’s made to be easy to use, even for smaller hotels with fewer rooms and staff.
Best Small Hotel Management Software Summary
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| innQuest | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Cloudbeds | From $20/user/month | Website |
| RMS | From $125/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
| Little Hotelier | Pricing upon request | Website |
| WebRezPro | From $5/user/month, (billed annually). | Website |
| Lodgify | From $36/month (billed annually) | Website |
| innRoad | From $150/user/month | Website |
| HotelFriend | From $150/user/month | Website |
| SiteMinder | From $40/user/month | Website |
| Hotel Runner | From $8/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareBest Small Hotel Management Software Reviews
innQuest
Best for integrating website and OTA bookings into one platform
roomMaster HMS by innQuest is an all-in-one hotel management system designed to help hotels of all sizes, including small hotels, manage their daily operations efficiently. It offers a range of tools to assist in running your property, from handling guest reservations and billing to reporting.
Why I Picked roomMaster HMS
roomMaster HMS is a great fit for small hotels because it includes essential features that simplify operations, allowing you to focus on enhancing the guest experience. Its easy-to-use property management system (PMS) helps you track reservations, room availability, and guest check-ins and check-outs, which is perfect for smaller teams. You can also automate basic accounting tasks like billing and invoicing, freeing up more time to handle other day-to-day duties. roomMaster also supports both direct bookings on your website and through OTAs.
What Do You Get for Free?
roomMaster HMS doesn't offer a free plan or a free trial. However, you can get a free demo to check out its features.
Standout Features and Integrations:
Other features include its channel manager which connects with over 155 OTAs for real-time inventory updates, reducing the risk of overbooking. Additionally, its automated guest communication enhances guest engagement through personalized pre- and post-stay communications. Integrations include AdriaScan, Amadeus, Flip.to, H&L, Sage, Triptease, Windcave, Airbnb, Booking.com, Expedia, QuickBooks, Alpharooms, Bookeasy, and Hotwire.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Easy integration with OTAs and direct website booking
- Prevents overbooking through channel management
- Mobile access gives staff flexibility in daily operations
Cons:
- Initial setup can be complex
- While customizable, some users still find limitations in how much they can tailor the software
Best for unified management of reservations, operations, and distribution channels
Cloudbeds is a cloud-based property management software that integrates property management, customer relationship management, and channel management into one unified platform. This integrated solution provides a convenient, efficient way to manage reservations, operations, and distribution channels, making it ideal for businesses looking to streamline their operations.
Why I Picked Cloudbeds:
Cloudbeds stood out to me for its unified, all-in-one solution that eliminates the need for multiple disparate systems. I chose this tool because it offers an integrated approach to managing reservations, operations, and distribution channels, which is rare. Cloudbeds perfectly fits the 'best for' category due to its ability to streamline these three critical aspects of hotel management into a single platform.
What Do You Get for Free?
Cloudbeds does not offer a free plan, but they provide a free demonstration upon request so potential users can experience the platform before deciding to invest.
Standout Features and Integrations:
Cloudbeds offers robust features such as online booking management, reservations and availability management, and revenue optimization tools. The platform also integrates with a multitude of third-party mobile app including Expedia, Booking.com, Airbnb, and Stripe, supporting a seamless operational flow.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Robust set of features that support revenue optimization and operational efficiency
- Wide range of integrations with major platforms and payment processors
- Offers a unified platform for managing reservations, operations, and distribution
Cons:
- The starting price may be high for smaller establishments
- The full feature set may be overwhelming for new users
- No free tier, only a demo version
RMS offers a cloud-based property management solution aimed at streamlining operations and enhancing revenue. It does so by employing a dynamic pricing model, which can adapt to market conditions and optimize your pricing strategy.
Why I Picked RMS:
I chose RMS for its unique approach to boosting revenue through dynamic pricing. This feature sets it apart from many other tools that often stick to more traditional pricing methods. I believe RMS is 'Best for' businesses that want to maximize their profits by dynamically adapting their pricing strategies to meet changing market demands.
What Do You Get for Free?
RMS does not offer a free plan, but they do provide a free demo. This allows potential customers to understand the software's capabilities, specifically its dynamic pricing function, before committing to a purchase.
Standout Features and Integrations:
RMS's key features include centralized reservation management, online booking, and a yield management tool that assists in setting dynamic pricing and upselling revenue. It also integrates well with various third-party platforms such as TripAdvisor, Expedia, and Booking.com.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Robust integrations with key third-party platforms
- Comprehensive reservation management system
- Unique dynamic pricing feature for revenue optimization
Cons:
- Some users may find the dynamic pricing feature complex to navigate
- No free plan available
- Higher starting price compared to other options
Little Hotelier is a property management system (PMS) specifically designed for small hotels, bed and breakfasts, boutique hotels, hostels, inns, guesthouses, and other small lodging establishments. It aims to simplify operations, boost revenue, and free up time for small property owners, aligning well with its promise of being 'Best for small properties with big ambitions.'
Why I Picked Little Hotelier:
I selected Little Hotelier for this list due to its focus on serving smaller properties, a niche that often gets overlooked in the broader hotel management industry. Its streamlined operations and user-friendly interface make it ideal for small establishments wanting to expand. The tool stands out in its potential to empower small properties to have 'big ambitions' by providing them with a comprehensive and efficient hotel PMS.
What Do You Get for Free?
Little Hotelier does not offer a free plan or trial. However, they do provide a free demo for potential users to explore the platform and understand its capabilities before purchasing.
Standout Features and Integrations:
Key features of Little Hotelier include reservation management, messaging, front desk operations, invoicing, and extensive reporting. In terms of integrations, Little Hotelier connects with a range of distribution channels, online travel agencies (OTAs), and global distribution systems (GDS), enabling small properties to widen their reach.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Wide range of integrations with distribution channels
- Comprehensive and user-friendly PMS
- Designed specifically for small properties
Cons:
- Some users may find the system complex initially
- Can be expensive for very small businesses
- No free plan or trial, only a free demo
WebRezPro offers a comprehensive property management system that caters to a diverse range of accommodation types. This versatility enables it to support everything from B&Bs, motels, to large hotels, thereby making it an excellent choice for businesses with varied lodging options.
Why I Picked WebRezPro:
I chose WebRezPro due to its unique ability to adapt to different types of lodging. This makes it distinct from other tools on the list, as it provides flexibility not often found in traditional property management systems. As a result, it fits best for businesses that manage a variety of lodging types and need a tool that can effortlessly adjust to their diverse needs.
What Do You Get for Free?
WebRezPro does not offer a free tier, but it does provide a free demo for potential users to explore the tool's features and ascertain its flexibility and adaptability.
Standout Features and Integrations:
WebRezPro features a range of tools including reservation management, online bookings, and customer relationship management. Additionally, it offers integrations with key platforms like Expedia and Booking.com, which can help businesses extend their reach.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Affordable pricing model
- Key integrations with major booking platforms
- Highly adaptable to a variety of lodging types
Cons:
- The interface might feel outdated to some users
- Additional costs for optional modules and integrations
- No free tier available
Lodgify is a comprehensive hotel management solution with a special focus on creating personalized websites for properties. It aims to increase direct bookings by providing hotels with a distinctive online presence.
Why I Picked Lodgify:
I picked Lodgify because of its ability to create personalized websites for hotels, a feature that is not common in other hotel management tools. It's my opinion that Lodgify is 'Best for' establishments that want to encourage direct bookings and increase visibility through a personalized and appealing website.
What Do You Get for Free?
Lodgify doesn't offer a free plan, but they do provide a free 7-day trial. This trial period gives users the opportunity to test out their website creation and management tools before deciding on a plan.
Standout Features and Integrations:
The main feature of Lodgify is its website builder which is designed to make the creation of a unique, professional, and fully functional hotel website straightforward. It also offers integrations with many leading vacation rental websites and OTAs such as Airbnb, Booking.com, and Expedia.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Extensive OTA integrations
- Simplified direct bookings
- Unique focus on personalized website creation
Cons:
- The website builder may have a learning curve for some users
- More advanced features can be expensive
- No free plan, only a 7-day trial
innRoad
Best for cloud-based management with a comprehensive tool suite
innRoad is a cloud-based property management system designed to support independent hotels. With a comprehensive tool suite that includes booking management, global distribution, and a property management system, innRoad stands as an ideal choice for 'cloud-based management with a comprehensive tool suite.'
Why I Picked innRoad:
When it came to selecting the most suitable tool for this list, innRoad grabbed my attention because of its ability to provide a broad range of services within a single, cloud-based platform. I chose it due to its comprehensive functionality and the flexibility of its cloud-based setup, which allows users to manage operations from anywhere.
innRoad is ideal for cloud-based management due to its robust tool suite, encompassing a multitude of operations from hotel booking to global distribution.
What Do You Get for Free?
innRoad does not offer a free plan but provides a free demo to allow potential customers to explore their suite of tools and understand how the system can benefit their business.
Standout Features and Integrations:
innRoad's comprehensive feature set includes an online booking engine, a global distribution system, property management, and reporting. Noteworthy integrations include travel agencies like Expedia and Booking.com, as well as payment processing and accounting systems.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Provides a robust tool suite for hotel management
- Integrates with popular travel agencies and financial systems
- Comprehensive, cloud-based management system
Cons:
- Some users may find the range of features overwhelming
- Pricing is billed annually, which might not be suitable for all businesses
- Does not offer a free tier, only a demo
HotelFriend is a powerful tool that marries operational automation with an enhanced digital guest experience. By enabling an unprecedented level of interaction between guests and the hotel, it perfectly aligns with the assertion that it's best for delivering a seamless digital guest experience.
Why I Picked HotelFriend:
I chose HotelFriend for this list because it excels in combining operational efficiency with a truly engaging guest interface. In the realm of small hotel management software, it's unique in the way it keeps the guest experience at the forefront while automating core operations.
This dual focus makes it an ideal choice for those seeking both operational automation and an enhanced guest experience, justifying its 'best for' tagline.
What do you get for free?
HotelFriend offers a free trial so potential users can test drive the software before deciding to purchase. However, they do not provide a permanent free version of their software.
Standout Features and Integrations:
HotelFriend's standout features include a comprehensive property management system, a direct booking engine, and a dedicated guest portal for in-house services. These elements combine to create a 360-degree solution for small hotels.
Among its integrations, HotelFriend connects with key OTAs, debit/credit card payment gateways, and point-of-sale systems. This ensures you have all the necessary tools in your arsenal to manage your hotel effectively and provide a superior guest experience.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Useful integrations with OTAs and payment gateways
- Comprehensive set of features for hotel management
- Strong focus on enhancing guest experience
Cons:
- The platform may be complex for users only needing basic functionalities
- Starting price could be high for very small hotels
- No permanent free version of the software
SiteMinder is a cloud-based platform offering software solutions designed to increase online visibility and occupancy for hotels. It provides hotel chains of all sizes a way to reach guests globally, manage bookings efficiently, and maximize revenue, which aligns with its designation as 'Best for maximizing online visibility and occupancy.'
Why I Picked SiteMinder:
I chose SiteMinder for this compilation because of its robust distribution and direct booking capabilities that cater to a wide array of hotel sizes and types. What sets it apart is its wide-reaching connectivity with hundreds of distribution channels, which is crucial for boosting online visibility and occupancy. This, in my judgment, is what makes SiteMinder the best for this specific use case.
What Do You Get for Free?
SiteMinder does not offer a free plan but they do provide a 14-day free trial, allowing potential users to try out its features and see firsthand the impact it can have on their operations.
Standout Features and Integrations:
SiteMinder's standout features include channel management, a direct booking engine, and a global distribution system (GDS). Its platform integrates with numerous property management systems (PMS), revenue management systems, and CRM systems, providing a wide ecosystem to support hotel industry operations.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Suitable for a wide range of hotel sizes and types
- Broad range of integrations
- Strong distribution and booking capabilities
Cons:
- Setup can be complex for some users
- May be expensive for smaller properties
- No free plan, only a 14-day free trial
Hotel Runner offers a powerful and reliable platform that links small hotels directly to leading travel agencies worldwide. Its comprehensive connectivity features make it the go-to tool for properties looking to enhance their online presence and reach.
Why I Picked Hotel Runner:
I selected Hotel Runner for this list due to its impressive array of connections with global travel agencies. This platform stands out from others because it offers an unparalleled bridge between small hotels and significant travel marketplaces. Therefore, I believe it's best for those aiming to maximize their visibility across multiple popular booking platforms.
What Do You Get for Free?
Hotel Runner offers a 14-day free trial where potential users can explore its vast range of features and evaluate its global connectivity benefits. However, ongoing use of the software requires a subscription.
Standout Features and Integrations:
Hotel Runner boasts a suite of features including a channel manager, a direct booking engine, and a central reservation system. The platform stands out because of its integration with leading travel agencies such as Expedia, Booking.com, and Airbnb.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Supports boosting online presence
- Comprehensive suite of hotel management features
- Extensive connectivity with leading travel agencies
Cons:
- May have a steep learning curve for those new to hotel management software
- Requires commitment to annual billing for the starting price
- No permanent free tier available
Other Small Hotel Management Software
Below is a list of additional small hotel management software that we shortlisted, but did not make it to the top 10. Definitely worth checking them out.
- RoomRaccoon
Best for intuitive property management with a fully integrated booking engine
- Mini Hotel
Best for affordability without compromising rich features
- Seven Rooms
Best for personalized guest experiences through data-driven insights
- eZee Absolute
Good for comprehensive hotel management features
- Sirvoy
Good for ease of use and affordability
- Frontdesk Anywhere
Good for on-the-go hotel management
- Hotello
Good for streamlining operations with a user-friendly interface
- GuestRez
Good for robust guest relationship management
- Operto
Good for improving guest experience with smart technology
- Hotelogix
Good for cloud-based, scalable hotel operations management
Popular Hotel Software
Here are some other lists of popular hotel software for you to check out.
Selection Criteria For Small Hotel Management Software
In my quest to identify the best small hotel management software, I delved into more than 30 different tools, scrutinizing each for their core functionalities, key hotel management tool features, and usability. I tested each one of these tools to understand how they align with the specific requirements of small hotels.
Core Functionality
For small hotel management software, the core functionality should include:
- Reservation Management: The tool should enable users to handle bookings efficiently, track availability, and manage overbookings or cancellations.
- Front Office Operations: Check-in, check-out, and guest relationship management functionalities are crucial.
- Housekeeping Management: An effective tool will help manage room status, task assignment, and inventory.
- Reporting: Essential for tracking hotel performance, occupancy rates, revenue, and other metrics.
Key Features
I identified these key features as important for small hotel management software:
- Cloud-Based: A cloud-based tool offers flexibility, accessibility from anywhere, and usually has better data security.
- Channel Manager: This feature allows the hotel to distribute its inventory to multiple Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) from a single platform.
- Integrated Payment Processing: Simplifies transactions by integrating with various payment gateways.
- Multi-language Support: Helps cater to international guests.
- Mobile-Friendly: A mobile-friendly design allows hotel staff to manage operations on the go.
Usability
Usability for this type of software should focus on:
- Intuitive User Interface: Small hotels often don't have dedicated IT staff, so the software should be easy to understand and navigate without extensive training.
- Responsive Customer Support: Access to prompt and helpful support when issues arise can be critical.
- Reliable Performance: The software must work smoothly without frequent bugs or crashes, as any downtime can significantly disrupt hotel operations.
- Onboarding and Training: Ideally, the software provider should offer comprehensive onboarding and training resources to help hotel staff get up to speed quickly.
Small Hotel FAQ
Here are a few popular questions I wanted to answer.
Can I Outsource My Hotel Management?
Other Small Hotel Software for You
Here are some other useful tools for running a small hotel or motel.
What Next?
Selecting the right type of hotel management software is crucial for streamlining operations, boosting efficiency, and ultimately enhancing guest satisfaction. Focusing on "small hotel" solutions is great for if you are just starting out or manage a small property.
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