1. How iCal synchronisation works
An iCal URL from Airbnb or Booking.com is an ICS feed listing bookings, blocks and cancellations. Import it into another calendar to mirror availability automatically.
- Airbnb generates one URL per listing via Calendar > Availability > Sync.
- Booking.com provides export/import links in Rates & Availability > Calendar sync.
- Your own site or PMS must be able to import/export ICS feeds.
Important: iCal sync is not instant. Expect 15 minutes to several hours depending on the platform. Centralise feeds in BNB Pilot to keep an eye on delays.
2. Configure Airbnb, Booking.com and your site step by step
Step 1 — Export the master calendar
- Copy the Airbnb iCal URL for your main listing.
- Export the Booking.com calendar to an ICS file.
- Import these URLs into your site or Google Calendar to visualise everything.
Step 2 — Import secondary feeds
- Paste the Airbnb URL into Booking.com (Calendar sync > Add calendar).
- Paste the Booking.com URL into Airbnb (Availability > Sync > Import calendar).
- Add your direct booking feed (from BNB Pilot or your site) into both platforms.
Step 3 — Test the setup
- Create a test block (e.g. “Maintenance”) and watch it propagate everywhere.
- Measure delays and adjust buffer time accordingly.
- Store URLs securely — they grant access to your reservation data.
3. Best practices to avoid double bookings
Cadence & buffers
- Keep 2–3 hours between checkout and check-in if sync delays are long.
- Only allow one-night stays when your team can handle the tempo.
- Set a weekly reminder to trigger manual imports where required (Booking.com export).
Monitoring
- Enable conflict alerts inside BNB Pilot to catch overlaps instantly.
- Log cancellations and re-block dates when guests leave early.
- Add reminders to your cleaning calendar (see cleaning checklist guide).
5. Automate monitoring with BNB Pilot
The BNB Pilot agenda consolidates all your feeds and alerts you whenever something changes.
- Add your Airbnb, Booking.com and direct iCal links in Connections. Sync runs nightly on Starter, every 10 minutes on Pro.
- Enable email notifications for new reservations and cancellations.
- Automatically attach cleaning checklists and guest notes to each imported stay.
Not using BNB Pilot yet? Join the open beta, secure your planning and give your team a simple operating system.
Go further
Combine a reliable sync with a spotless turnover process using our Airbnb cleaning checklist, and fine-tune your nightly rates with our pricing guide.