Booking.com cuts affiliate ties: Key takeaways for travel bloggers

Booking.com shocked travel bloggers by ending affiliate partnerships for smaller creators (under €1000/month) effective June 20, 2025 – right before peak travel season.

Implications:

• Existing links stop earning after June 20.
• Seasonal content loses revenue potential.
• Bloggers must scramble to update links.

Industry challenges:

• Falling commission rates.
• Algorithm shifts and AI competition.
• Tracking/payment delays.

Smart moves now:

1. Audit and update high-traffic content first.
2. Diversify with multiple affiliate networks.
3. Build direct hotel partnerships.
4. Create evergreen, platform-agnostic content.

The lesson: Over-reliance on one platform is risky. Diversification ensures long-term stability.

Conclusion: While disruptive, this push toward multiple income streams could leave bloggers more resilient than before. Adapt quickly – those who do often emerge stronger.