Whether you’re setting up a brand new short-term rental property or looking to improve your current one, providing the right amenities can make or break your guest experience. Today’s travelers expect a lot from their Airbnb and vacation rentals, and to meet those expectations, you need to offer more than just a place to sleep. To increase your rental rates, improve your ratings, and ensure guests leave with a positive impression, it’s essential to provide amenities that go beyond the basics.
In this blog, we’ll break down the top essentials, must-haves, and unique amenities for different areas of your property. We’ll also explore how these touches can help your property stand out, boost guest satisfaction, and improve your short-term rental business.
1. The Basics: Must-Have Essentials for Your Property
No matter the size or type of your property, certain guest amenities are non-negotiable. These are the essentials that every guest expects to have access to during their stay.
Comfortable Bedding
The bed is the focal point of any rental property, and providing high-quality, comfortable bedding is essential for a positive guest experience. Invest in quality mattresses, pillows, and linens. A good night’s sleep is often the deciding factor for guests when booking a property, and it can influence their review and return business. Make sure to provide fresh sheets, pillowcases, and blankets for every guest.
Clean Towels & Toiletries
Cleanliness is paramount. Providing fresh, clean towels and a selection of toiletries helps ensure guests feel comfortable and pampered. Essentials like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, hand soap, and body lotion are a must. For that extra touch, you can include makeup remover wipes, cotton swabs, and a hairdryer. Offering high-end toiletries or locally sourced products can help your property stand out as a luxurious, thoughtful space.
Fully Equipped Kitchen
Many travelers choose short-term rentals because they offer the flexibility to cook their own meals. A well-stocked kitchen allows your guests to enjoy their stay without the added expense of eating out. Ensure that your kitchen has all the essentials, including:
- Pots and pans
- Cutlery and utensils
- Plates, bowls, and glasses
- Coffee maker and kettle
- Microwave, toaster, and blender
Adding basic cooking essentials like salt, pepper, and cooking oil will make your guests feel even more at home.
Reliable Wi-Fi & Entertainment
In today’s digital age, reliable, high-speed Wi-Fi is a must-have in any vacation rental. Whether your guests are working remotely or simply enjoying some downtime, good internet is non-negotiable. Consider offering a smart TV with streaming options, and don’t forget traditional entertainment like board games, cards, and books for guests who want to unplug.
2. Creating a Unique Guest Experience
While the basics are essential, it’s the unique touches that can take your property from average to exceptional. These thoughtful additions can help your property stand out and improve the overall guest experience.
Welcome Basket
A simple yet thoughtful gesture like a welcome basket can leave a lasting impression on your guests. Include local treats, snacks, or drinks – think wine, chocolate or even a small selection of fruits. This extra touch shows guests you’ve thought about their comfort from the moment they walk in.
Personalized Communication
Ensure your guests feel cared for with personalized communication. Leave a welcome note that includes tips about the property, local attractions, and restaurant recommendations. You can even provide a list of emergency contacts or a guide to the area for guests to reference during their stay.
Exclusive Local Partnerships
One way to elevate your guest experience is by partnering with local businesses. Offer discounts at nearby restaurants, coffee shops or activity centers. If you’re in a location with specific cultural offerings, consider arranging unique experiences such as a local cooking class, vineyard tour, or outdoor adventure.
3. Top Amenities for Different Rooms: From Bedrooms to Living Spaces
Every room in your short-term rental should be designed to cater to the comfort and needs of your guests. Here’s a breakdown of the top amenities to include in specific areas of your property:
Living Room: Comfort & Entertainment
The living room is often where guests will spend their downtime. Make sure the space is comfortable with plush seating options, such as a couch and armchairs. Add personal touches like throw pillows, blankets and artwork that reflect the personality of the area or your property. For entertainment, a smart TV with streaming services, board games, and a Bluetooth speaker for music will enhance the guest experience.
ALSO READ: Legal Guide to Short-Term Rentals in Florida
Bedrooms: Comfort & Ambiance
Your bedroom should be a haven for relaxation. In addition to high-quality bedding, consider adding thoughtful touches like a nightlight, charging stations for electronics, and extra pillows or blankets. If your rental has multiple bedrooms, ensure that each room has its own set of fresh towels and an adequate amount of storage space, like hangers or dressers.
Bathrooms: Cleanliness & Convenience
The bathroom is one of the most used spaces in your rental. Apart from basic toiletries, consider adding amenities like high-quality bath mats, a good shower curtain, and non-slip rugs. Providing extra toiletries, such as toothpaste, hair ties, and shaving cream, will make your bathroom feel more luxurious. You could even include an aromatherapy diffuser to create a relaxing environment for your guests.
Outdoor Areas: Relaxation & Entertainment
If your rental includes outdoor space like a patio, balcony, or backyard, make sure it’s furnished with comfortable seating, lighting, and entertainment options. Outdoor dining areas, BBQ grills, or even a hammock can turn a simple backyard into an inviting and fun space for guests to unwind. Consider providing outdoor games like cornhole, a frisbee or a set of lawn chairs for relaxation.
4. Must-Have Safety Features
A safe and secure environment is crucial for any short-term rental. Guests want to know they are safe in their accommodations, so investing in the right safety amenities is a must.
- Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: These should be installed in key areas, such as the kitchen and bedrooms.
- First-Aid Kit: Always have a well-stocked first-aid kit available for emergencies.
- Security Features: A smart lock, deadbolt and exterior lighting can provide extra peace of mind. A safe or lockbox for storing valuables is also a great addition.
Wrapping up
Providing the right amenities in your short-term rental can elevate the overall experience for your guests, leading to positive reviews, repeat bookings, and a more successful rental business. By focusing on the essentials, adding unique personal touches, and ensuring each room is well-equipped and comfortable, you’ll create a memorable stay that guests will appreciate.
At MRMVR, our goal is to help property owners create an exceptional guest experience, ensuring both comfort and satisfaction. Providing a good mix of the best amenities plays a huge role in all our properties. With a focus on quality amenities and seamless management, we have helped owners enhance their properties, maximize revenue, and stand out in the competitive short-term rental market.
Remember, the key to standing out in a competitive rental market is attention to detail. By investing in quality amenities and thoughtful extras, you’ll set your property up for success and ensure your guests leave with a smile. Whether it’s the basics like clean towels and reliable Wi-Fi or unique touches like a welcome basket or local experiences, every little effort counts when it comes to creating an unforgettable stay.
