7 min. read
Ensuring that your vacation home amenities stand out from the competition is crucial for attracting potential guests and maximizing rental income while minimizing vacancies. In today’s market, guests are increasingly discerning and expect top-notch amenities that can make their stay truly memorable. To ensure that your vacation rental meets these expectations, offering popular amenities travelers seek is important. These can range from comfortable furnishings to modern conveniences and should be included in your vacation rental checklist. By providing the most sought-after vacation rental amenities, you’ll increase your chances of securing more bookings, and ensuring a positive guest experience.
Technology-enabling rental property amenities for the modern guest
It’s no surprise that vacation rentals need to keep up with the technology needs of their guests and provide smart home devices. Make sure your vacation home has a high-speed Wi-Fi connection, a smart TV with Netflix or Hulu, and enough plug sockets for all devices. Several studies show these as the top two things that occupy nomads over other basic, rental amenities. Providing access to these services is also increasingly important in vacation rental amenities and can be a great way to set your vacation home apart from competitors.
Fast and Convenient WiFi
Fast and convenient WiFi is a must for many guests, especially those who rely heavily on their digital devices. Many people use their vacation time to work, play online games, or stream movies. Vacation rental owners should ensure that the internet connection in their properties is reliable and robust enough to satisfy the needs of all guests. Additionally, be prepared to offer technical support if needed – having someone nearby who can help with any internet or device issues can provide excellent service and make the guests’ stay much smoother.
Cable TV or Streaming Services
Most guests expect vacation rentals to have access to cable TV or streaming services. This can include basic cable or a smart TV with Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, YouTubeTV, and HBO. These amenities provide entertainment options and can be a great way to make your vacation rental stand out from the competition.
24-Hour Check-In
Having a 24-hour check-in process with smart locks is one of the most important top checklist for vacation rentals and home amenities for guests. This allows guests to arrive at their convenience without worrying about being stuck outside after hours if their flight or train is delayed. Since COVID, this has become a preferable alternative to checking in guests, and many still expect this contactless option. Featuring it on your listings will make your vacation rental stand out.
Electrical Adapters and Chargers
Providing electrical adapters and chargers for guests is also important. Travelers often come from other countries, so having adapters compatible with their devices can be a lifesaver. Additionally, providing charging cords and wall plugs makes it easy for guests to stay connected while they’re away.
Multi-Functional Space in Vacation Rentals
When it comes to vacation rental amenities, a multi-functional space can be a game-changer. It provides guests with a room that can be used for entertaining or as a workspace and gives them the extra space they crave. In fact, many guests choose vacation rentals over hotels because they offer more room to spread out and relax. To make your vacation rental amenities stand out, be sure to highlight this feature in your listing. Additionally, consider including family-friendly games, such as table tennis or a basketball hoop, as these can be some of the best amenities for guests traveling with children. By offering a multi-functional space and fun activities, you’ll ensure that your rental is the perfect home away from home for guests of all ages.
Desk Area
Having a desk area in the vacation rental is also important for guests who need to work remotely. A comfortable space dedicated to working and studying can make their stay much more enjoyable. Providing all the necessary items, such as an office chair, a good quality laptop stand, and plenty of storage space, can help create an efficient workspace for your guests. Providing this amenity can help your vacation home stand out from the competition and make it more appealing to business travelers.
Gym Accessibility
Many are on vacation to relax and unwind but may still want to maintain their fitness routine and often look for vacation rentals with gym access. Giving access to a gym can be a great way to meet this need. Additionally, if gym access is not an option providing a space with enough room to stretch and exercise would go a long way.
Bedrooms
Guests often look for vacation rentals that have bedroom amenities. A must-have is a comfortable mattress, foam pillows, and bedding sheets that will improve the guest experience. Guests also appreciate blackout curtains or shutters to get much-needed rest after a long trip. Including an extra cozy master bedroom will go a long way.
Closet Space
Closet space is also necessary for guests. Whether it’s a large walk-in closet or just enough shelves to hang their clothing, guests appreciate having space for their belongings. With closet space hangers, an iron and an ironing board are also must-haves.
Bathrooms
Guests often look for vacation homes with bathrooms with full-service showers and bathtubs. Plenty of towels and toiletries can also make guests feel more at home. This can include extra toilet, paper, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. If you have a beach house rental property or a private pool, this will be the best location to advertise with extra beach towels on display.
Living Room
The living room is usually the largest in a family home. Providing a comfortable and inviting living room is also essential for guests. Make your vacation rental an absolute home with amenities like a welcoming, comfy couch. Guests appreciate a vacation rental with living rooms that are comfortable and inviting. It could be as simple as having plenty of seating for everyone to enjoy or adding amenities like board games, puzzles, or books for guests to borrow during their stay. Additionally, having an indoor fireplace can be a great way to provide guests with a cozy atmosphere. Blankets or throws can also give the space an extra comfort layer.
Kitchen Amenities checklist for vacation rentals
A vacation rental home is not complete without a fully-equipped kitchen for preparing meals, and it’s one of the top amenities. Guests will expect to find everything they need, from pots and pans to knives, cutting boards, cooking utensils, and cleaning supplies, when booking a vacation rental home. Adding wine glasses and other items guests expect, such as mugs, will be a plus.
Stainless Steal Appliances
Stainless steel appliances can be a great addition to your vacation rental. Guests appreciate having access to modern appliances that are easy to clean and maintain. These are aesthetically pleasing and can make guests feel like they’re staying in a luxurious environment.
Drinking glasses
Adding wine glasses, mugs, and different sizes of drinking cups will make your guests feel right at home.
Tea Kettle & Tea Kettle
Providing a tea kettle and tea sets can also be a great amenity. Many guests appreciate being able to make their hot drinks in the morning or evening, and having access to a tea kettle and tea sets can help them do so.
Coffee Maker
Having a coffee maker can make guests feel right at home. Whether it’s a traditional coffee maker, Keurig, or pour-over, guests will appreciate the convenience of being able to make their coffee in the morning. Additionally, offering a welcome basket with snacks, coffee and tea supplies, or other items your guests might need will also be appreciated. It can help create a positive experience for them. This warm welcome will ensure that guests will return to your vacation home in the future.
Blender/Juicer
Having a blender or juicer can also be a great amenity to offer. Guests can enjoy making smoothies or juices for breakfast or snacks throughout the day. Additionally, offering small appliances like blenders and juicers shows that you care about providing your guests with all their needs. It is significant for guests looking to eat healthier when away from home. It will make them feel cared for and appreciated during their stay.
Salt, Black Pepper, Oil
Having basic condiments available in a vacation rental kitchen is a must. These can help guests make delicious meals without purchasing all the ingredients themselves.
Vacation Rental Amenities That Go The Extra Mile
You can upsell guests on a variety of great vacation rental amenities. These will be all the small but significant essentials that will bring more bookings. It is usually the small things that make it count. Going above and beyond and offering additional must-haves will make your property stand out. The following items will increase your guest experience.
Air Conditioning
While this may seem like a no-brainer, it is an essential feature that needs to be mentioned in your vacation rental amenities checklist with any outdoor, hot location properties such as a cabin or a beach rental. Providing air conditioning can make a vacation home feel much more comfortable, especially in warm climate vacation rentals. Guests appreciate having the option to cool down during hot summer days without worrying about additional expenses.
Additional Linens and Bath Towels
Although these may seem like basic items, offering additional linens and bath towels is an upsell that can provide your guests with greater comfort. It will show them you care about providing them with the best experience possible. Extra bedding is especially important for longer stays or if more than one guest stays in a vacation rental. Providing plush, high-quality towels will also show that you care about your guests’ needs. Additionally, offering additional toiletries like toilet paper, shampoo, and body wash can help create a more luxurious experience for them. This can make their stay more enjoyable and give them a positive impression of your rental property.
Mid Stay Cleaning
Providing mid-stay cleaning services for longer-term lodging can be a great way to give guests the extra attention they deserve during their stay. A cleaning service throughout their stay offers guests a fresh and clean space, allowing them to enjoy their vacation more stress-free. This service also benefits owners, as it helps ensure that all the essentials of properties are well-maintained and cared for. It can be a great way to make your guests feel special and welcome in their vacation homes.
Cleaning Supplies
One of the most important aspects of owning a vacation rental is ensuring that it is clean and well-maintained for each new guest. While you likely hire a cleaning crew to prepare the space between stays, it can be helpful also to include cleaning supplies for guests to use during their stay. This includes items like a broom, dustpan, vacuum cleaner, and disinfectant wipes. Providing these basic supplies allows guests to tidy up after themselves, which can help to prevent messes from accumulating during their stay. It also gives them the opportunity to sanitize high-touch surfaces and maintain their own level of cleanliness while in the rental. Ultimately, including cleaning supplies shows that you care about the well-being of your guests and want to provide them with a comfortable and healthy space to enjoy their vacation.
Washer and Dryer
A washer and dryer in your vacation rental properties is also a great amenity. Guests appreciate having the option to do their laundry while on vacation, which helps them save time and money. Offering detergent can make it even easier for guests to take care of their needs without purchasing supplies themselves.
Free Parking
Parking space is also an essential amenity for vacation rentals. Guests arrive at their destination without worrying about additional parking or transportation costs. Having free parking, and easy access to a parking spot when guest arrives on your vacation rental can make all the difference between a stressful and enjoyable trip. Additionally, it will save guests money when they do not have to pay extra fees for parking.
Outdoor Furniture
Patio furniture is great for guests who want to make the most of their vacation rentals outside. Offering seating, lounging, and dining options help guests enjoy the outdoors comfortably. It could be anything from a patio set or hammock to lawn chairs and umbrellas. Providing guests with even fold-up chairs can allow them to enjoy the beautiful local scenery. To enhance your outdoor space, consider adding a swimming pool, hot tub, or jacuzzi to make it even more inviting. It can be especially helpful for families and larger groups looking for a relaxing space to unwind and have fun. Hot tubs provide additional luxury amenities that help guests feel more pampered and special, which can help boost your rental property’s appeal.
Furry friends essentials
If you are marketing your vacation rental as pet-friendly, it’s important to make sure that you provide all the necessary items for guests traveling with pets. One of the most basic items is a set of pet bowls for food and water. Providing this simple amenity shows your guests that you’ve thought ahead and are committed to making their stay as comfortable as possible. Traveling with pets can be stressful for both the pets and their pet owners sometimes, so by providing these necessary items, you can help alleviate some of that stress and make your rental stand out among other pet-friendly options.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, these vacation rental amenities can help you attract guests and provide a memorable stay. Providing basic item vacation rental amenities and upsells will make them feel welcome, cared for, and special.
A combination of these certain amenities will help make your property a modern vacation rental and an ideal vacation spot. Consider these and other amenities to increase your bookings and rental income when preparing your vacation rental property. With a bit of planning and thoughtfulness, you can give your guests an unforgettable experience they won’t forget.