Transient
Definition
Individual, non-group, non-contracted bookings — typically 1–9 rooms booked one reservation at a time. The opposite of group and contract business. Sub-segments include transient business, transient leisure, and transient occasion (honeymoon, anniversary, special occasion).
What it tells you
Transient is usually the highest-yield, most flexible demand a hotel has: it books closer in, pays public rates, and can be repriced dynamically day-by-day. A healthy transient share gives the revenue manager the most levers to pull.
How to track it
Segment transient separately from group and contract in the PMS, then split by purpose (business vs. leisure) and by channel (OTA vs. direct). Watch its share of total room nights and its ADR against the contracted segments.
Where it fits
Transient is the segment a revenue manager actively shapes through pricing and restrictions. Growing the transient share — especially direct leisure — is a common strategic goal.