When you’re new to the world of online bookings, it can be confusing to sort through terms like OTAs, iCal, and channel managers. This guide will walk you through these concepts, compare the pros and cons, and show you how to use them in Mangobeds—so you can decide what’s best for your property.
What Are OTAs / Channels?
OTAs (Online Travel Agencies) are online platforms (like Airbnb, Booking.com, Expedia, etc.) where travelers can book accommodations. In Mangobeds, we often refer to these platforms simply as “channels.”
- Why List on OTAs?
OTAs can boost your visibility and bring in more bookings. However, managing availability, pricing, and reservations on multiple OTAs by hand can be time-consuming. - Channel Connectors / Direct Integrations
Some OTAs can be connected directly to Mangobeds through a paid integration (channel manager). This allows Mangobeds to automatically send rates and availability to the OTA and retrieve complete booking details (guest name, payment info, etc.).
What Is iCal?
iCal (short for iCalendar) is a simple calendar file format used to share calendar data between different apps. In the context of accommodations:
- How It Works
- Each calendar (e.g., your unit’s availability) is shared via a unique iCal URL.
- Other platforms (like Airbnb, Booking.com, Google Calendar, or Mangobeds) can import this URL to see if certain dates are blocked or available.
- The sync is typically not instant; most OTAs refresh iCal links at intervals (e.g., every few hours).
- iCal Pros
- Free and widely supported by many platforms.
- Simple to set up.
- Great for blocking out rooms or dates quickly.
- iCal Cons
- Limited Data: It usually only syncs basic information like dates. It won’t import detailed guest or payment data into Mangobeds.
- Less Frequent Updates: Because it’s a simple calendar export, it may not refresh as quickly as a direct channel manager connection, increasing the risk of double-bookings if your property is very busy.
Learn how to use iCal in Mangobeds →
What Is a Channel Manager?
A channel manager is a service (or app) that connects your property management system (PMS) directly to OTAs.
- How It Works
- The channel manager acts as a bridge between Mangobeds and the OTA, syncing everything in real time.
- When a room is booked, the channel manager sends all details—guest info, payment status, etc.—to Mangobeds automatically, and also adjusts your availability on all other connected OTAs immediately.
- Channel Manager Pros
- Real-Time Updates: Reduces the chance of double-booking.
- Complete Data Sync: Brings over guest details, payments, and more into Mangobeds.
- Easier Management: Update rates and availability in one place (Mangobeds), and the changes are sent to every connected OTA.
- Channel Manager Cons
- Cost: These integrations often come with fees.
- Learning Curve: Setting up and understanding how it works can take time, though Mangobeds aims to keep it simple.
In Mangobeds, we integrate with:
- Booking.com
- Airbnb
- More coming soon
iCal vs. Channel Managers: Quick Comparison
| Feature | iCal | Channel Manager |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free or minimal | Often paid / subscription |
| Data Synced | Dates only (blocks rooms) | Dates, rates, guest details, payments |
| Update Frequency | Periodic (not real-time) | Real-time |
| Complexity | Simple setup | More advanced setup |
| Best for | Small properties, few channels | Larger operations, multiple OTA connections |
Working with iCal and Channel Managers in Mangobeds
- iCal Integration
- If you prefer a simpler, no-cost option or only have one or two channels to worry about, you can use Mangobeds to export or import iCal.
- When a booking is made on an OTA, it will appear in Mangobeds as a gray blocked date. You can then create a manual booking to fill in guest details if needed.
- Channel Manager Integration
- If you want a fully automated experience, consider using our official apps for direct connections.
- For Booking.com or Airbnb, Mangobeds will send availability and rates to those OTAs and receive complete booking info when a reservation is made.
- This approach reduces your workload and provides a more seamless experience for both you and your guests.
- Choosing the Right Approach
- Small / Single OTA: iCal might be enough.
- Multiple Channels / Busy Calendar: A channel manager integration is ideal for instant updates and detailed guest information.
Conclusion
Understanding the differences between iCal and a channel manager can save you time, reduce booking errors, and help your property run smoothly. If you’re just getting started or manage fewer OTA connections, iCal provides a quick, free solution. If you operate across multiple channels and want real-time updates with rich booking data, a direct channel manager connection is the way to go.
No matter which approach you pick, Mangobeds aims to make it simple and painless to manage your coliving, retreat, or pop-up events.
Have questions or need help setting things up? Reach out to our support team—we’re here to help you get the most out of Mangobeds!