Creating the Ultimate Airbnb or VRBO Experience: Must-Have Amenities and Tips for Hosts
As an Airbnb or VRBO host, your goal is to create an unforgettable experience for your guests—one that feels luxurious, homey, and utterly seamless. Thoughtful details and smart design choices not only earn glowing reviews but also justify premium pricing. Below, I’ll walk you through essential items to include in your rental, tips for enhancing the guest experience, and the psychology behind creating a space that truly feels like a getaway.
Essentials Every Short-Term Rental Needs
Let’s start with the basics that make your rental functional and inviting:
- Kitchen Must-Haves
- Tupperware: Guests often have leftovers and no way to store them. Stocking sturdy, reusable Tupperware solves this problem.
- Pizza Cutter & Cooking stone: Perfect for families or anyone wanting a cozy night in.
- Scrub Brush: Easier to sanitize than dishcloths and more practical for quick cleaning.
- Cleaning Supplies: Dish soap, dishwasher pods, laundry detergent, and counter cleaner are non-negotiables.
- Bathroom Staples
- Extra Towels & Washcloths: Always have more than guests will likely need.
- Feminine Products: Stock these alongside toilet paper for added thoughtfulness.
- Kleenex: A small touch that shows you’ve thought of everything.
- Comfort & Convenience
- Throw Blankets & Extra Blankets: Cozy up your space while keeping guests comfortable on chilly evenings.
- Guidebook: Include a printed booklet with restaurant recommendations, local attractions, and a few personal touches
- Coffee & Tea Station: Offer a selection of tea (a variety box is best) and have coffee mugs right by the machine for easy access.
- Entertainment
- Games: Display a few board games or card decks for rainy days or quiet evenings.
- Streaming Apps: Set up profiles labeled “Rental Property” so guests can stream without hassle.
- The Welcome Moment
- Little Snacks: Greet your guests with a small basket of granola bars, nuts, or chocolates. After a long trip, they’ll appreciate the gesture and the energy boost.
Live in Your Rental First
The best way to identify what your guests will need is to experience your rental yourself. Spend 2–3 nights there, ideally with friends or family, and take notes on what’s missing. Do you have enough mugs? Is the lighting adequate for reading? Testing it firsthand ensures no detail is overlooked.
The Power of Design: Make It Memorable
While functionality is crucial, the look and feel of your Airbnb are just as important. A well-designed space can turn a good stay into an unforgettable one.
- Instagram-Worthy Walls
Consider adding a bold wallpaper to one wall for a pop of personality. Not only does it make the space more visually interesting, but it also encourages guests to take photos and tag your property online. - Support Local Artists
Decorate with artwork by local creators or small business artist to highlight the charm and talent of your area. Make the art shoppable by providing details on how guests can purchase a piece right off the wall as a keepsake from their trip. - Comfort Meets Luxury
Invest in high-quality linens, plush throw pillows, and stylish furnishings, that can still endure the wear and tear of being a rental. These touches create a sense of indulgence and help guests feel pampered during their stay.
The Psychology of a Beautiful Space
Staying in a thoughtfully designed rental doesn’t just look nice—it feels grounding. The right environment offers a break from the chaos of daily life and gives guests the peace they crave. For owners, the benefits are just as impactful. When guests feel nurtured and relaxed, their reviews reflect that, leading to more bookings and higher rates.
I’ve written more about how design impacts our psychology in my Substack post When Chaos Comes Home. Renovating and curating my own space completely shifted how I felt about coming home. The same principle applies to your rental. You’re not just offering a place to sleep—you’re creating a refuge, an experience.
Details Matter
Whether it’s the softness of the blankets, the variety in the tea box, or the handwritten note in the guidebook, the details in your rental set the tone for your guests’ stay. Build a space that feels like home, but elevated—a space that invites relaxation and exploration. By focusing on the essentials, design, and psychology, you’ll create a rental experience that leaves guests raving and coming back for more.
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