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Managing a cozy cabin in the mountains or a modern beachfront condo gets easier with this amenities checklist for vacation rentals designed to create memorable experiences for your guests.
One of the most effective ways to do that is by offering thoughtful, well-selected amenities that add value and comfort to every stay.
Travelers seek vacation rentals that offer a comfortable place to sleep while also creating an atmosphere that feels welcoming, practical, and thoughtfully tailored to their needs. The experience begins with the details, those small touches that show you’ve planned with care.
When your vacation rental includes the right features, it naturally becomes more appealing. Guests feel at home, leave positive reviews, and often return for future visits.
This article provides a comprehensive checklist of essential and bonus amenities that can elevate your vacation rental, enhance guest satisfaction, and ultimately lead to more bookings, better reviews, and increased revenue.
Why amenities matter in vacation rentals
Amenities have the power to transform a simple stay into a thoughtful and enjoyable experience that guests remember and often share with others. They influence how guests feel in your space and contribute to their overall satisfaction. The right features serve two purposes:
- They enhance the guest experience, making stays more comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable.
- They make your listing more attractive online, especially on platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com where users filter results based on available features.
Vacationers often choose one property over another based on small details, like having a coffee machine, a workspace, or beach gear available. Providing the right amenities not only meets expectations but can exceed them, resulting in better reviews and higher occupancy rates.
Essential amenities every vacation rental should have
Every great guest experience starts with the essentials. These are the features that travelers naturally expect when they book a vacation rental, forming the foundation for comfort, convenience, and trust. These are the basics, non-negotiables that today’s travelers expect in any modern vacation rental:
1. Wi-Fi
Fast and reliable internet is at the top of nearly every guest’s list. Whether they’re remote workers, social media users, or families streaming Netflix, Wi-Fi is essential.
2. Comfortable bedding
High-quality mattresses, clean linens, and plenty of pillows go a long way in ensuring a good night’s sleep. Always invest in comfort.
3. Fully equipped kitchen
Guests often book vacation rentals instead of hotels because they want the flexibility to cook their own meals in a fully equipped kitchen. Include:
- Pots, pans, and utensils
- Plates, bowls, glasses, and mugs
- Coffee maker or espresso machine
- Microwave, toaster, and oven
- Basic spices, oil, and condiments
4. Heating and cooling
Depending on your location, heating and/or air conditioning is a must. Even ceiling fans can make a difference in guest comfort.
5. Clean towels and toiletries
Provide fresh towels, hand towels, and washcloths. Add soap, shampoo, conditioner, and even toothpaste to create a hotel-like experience.
6. Smart TV or streaming access
Cable isn’t necessary anymore, but access to Netflix, Prime Video, or a smart TV is expected by most travelers.
7. Washer and dryer
Especially important for longer stays or families with kids. If you don’t have a dryer, provide a drying rack.
8. Parking space
Clearly mention if parking is free or paid, whether it’s on the street or private. Lack of parking can easily be a dealbreaker for many guests.
9. Hair dryer, iron, and ironing board
They don’t take up much space but offer convenience and can be a pleasant surprise for guests.
Safety amenities: Protect your guests and your property
Safety is a key consideration in every vacation rental, helping to ensure both the well-being of your guests and the security of your property.
Guests value a secure environment where they can relax and enjoy their time, and providing essential safety amenities shows that you take their safety seriously. These are the safety features that every vacation rental should include:
- Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Fire extinguisher
- First aid kit
- Secure locks (preferably keyless entry)
- Exterior lighting
Adding these gives your guests peace of mind and helps you meet local regulations and platform requirements.
Tech & smart features: Modern comforts guests love
1. Keyless entry
Smart locks allow self check-in and reduce the need for physical key exchanges. Many guests prefer contactless entry.
2. USB charging stations
Nightstands with built-in USB ports or strategically placed charging hubs are always appreciated.
3. Smart thermostats
Give guests the ability to control the temperature easily and increase energy efficiency when the home is vacant.
4. Voice assistants (like Alexa or Google Nest)
These can control music, answer questions, and even help guests find local restaurants.
Family-friendly amenities
Attracting families with children to your vacation rental requires thoughtful touches that cater to both kids and parents. These small additions can significantly enhance the experience for families, making their stay more enjoyable and stress-free.
By providing amenities designed for younger guests, you create a welcoming environment that encourages families to choose your property for their next getaway. These small additions can make a big difference:
- Crib or Pack ‘n Play
- High chair
- Children’s books and toys
- Child-safe dinnerware
- Baby gate or outlet covers
Pet-friendly amenities
With many travelers choosing to bring their pets along, offering pet-friendly amenities can set your vacation rental apart.
Pet owners often search specifically for properties that welcome their furry companions, so providing the right features can make a big difference.
If you allow pets, consider offering these thoughtful amenities to ensure both pets and their owners have a comfortable stay.
- Pet bed
- Food and water bowls
- Waste bags
- Towels for dirty paws
- A list of nearby pet-friendly parks or cafes
Pet owners are more likely to book and leave positive reviews when their furry friends are welcomed thoughtfully.
Outdoor amenities that add value
Outdoor space is a highly desirable feature for vacation rentals, providing guests with a place to unwind and enjoy the surroundings. Whether it’s a private patio or a small balcony, well-equipped outdoor areas can elevate the overall guest experience.
Thoughtful additions can turn even the smallest space into an inviting area, offering guests the perfect spot to relax or entertain.
- Outdoor seating: Chairs, tables, or even a hammock can turn a patio into a relaxing retreat.
- Grill or BBQ: Perfect for summer stays or family gatherings.
- Hot tub or pool: Luxury amenities like these can significantly boost bookings, especially for romantic or family trips.
- Fire pit: Great for cooler evenings and adds to the overall atmosphere.
- Games & Gear: Consider beach chairs, umbrellas, bicycles, or snow gear depending on your location. These extras are often the tipping point for guests choosing your place over another.
Work-from-home essentials
With the rise of remote work, many digital nomads are now seeking vacation rentals that offer a comfortable and productive environment. These travelers are looking for a space that supports both their work needs and their desire to relax.
To attract this growing market, it’s essential to provide work-from-home amenities that allow your guests to be productive while also enjoying their stay:
- Dedicated workspace or desk
- Comfortable chair
- Desk lamp and power strips
- Reliable high-speed internet (fiber, if possible)
Market your property as remote-work friendly and watch your mid-week and long-term bookings increase.
Cleaning & Hygiene Amenities
Since the pandemic, cleanliness has become a top priority for travelers. Guests want to feel confident that the spaces they stay in are thoroughly cleaned and well-maintained.
Providing the right cleaning and hygiene amenities not only ensures a safe and pleasant environment but also reassures guests that their health and well-being are your top concern.
- Hand sanitizer
- Disinfectant wipes or spray
- Vacuum, mop, and broom for guests to use if needed
- Extra sets of linens and towels
- Clearly communicated cleaning protocols
Bonus amenities that create ‘Wow’ moments
These extra touches go beyond the essentials and are the features that truly impress guests. A luxurious addition or a thoughtful surprise can create unforgettable experiences that guests love to talk about.
These are the details that inspire glowing reviews and encourage guests to return, making your property stand out as a memorable destination.
- Welcome basket or local snacks
- Local guidebook or personalized restaurant recommendations
- Board games and puzzles
- Books, especially local travel books
- Bluetooth speaker or sound system
- Blackout curtains for better sleep
- Espresso machine or specialty coffee options
- Massage chair or foot spa
The key is to align these amenities with your guest persona. A romantic cottage might benefit from candles and a wine opener, while a family beach house should focus on entertainment and gear.
How to showcase your amenities to attract more bookings
Great amenities alone won’t guarantee more bookings; effectively showcasing them is essential. Highlighting your property’s unique features in your listings, on social media, and in direct communications with potential guests can make all the difference.
By emphasizing the amenities that set your rental apart, you create a compelling reason for travelers to choose your property over others.
1. High-quality photos
Show each amenity in action. For example, photograph a set breakfast table, a cozy corner with books, or the outdoor firepit lit at dusk.
2. Clear listing descriptions
Use bullet points for easy scanning. List all available amenities under relevant sections (kitchen, family, outdoors, tech, etc.).
3. Guest reviews
Encourage guests to mention specific amenities in their reviews. This adds credibility to your listing.
4. Update regularly
If you add new features, update your listings immediately and promote them on social media or email newsletters.
Invest in comfort, reap the rewards
The vacation rental market is thriving, but it’s also fiercely competitive. Standing out requires more than a good location, it demands thoughtful planning and attention to detail.
By offering a well-rounded selection of amenities tailored to your audience, you increase the perceived value of your property and encourage repeat bookings.
In the end, guests remember how you made them feel. Whether it’s the cozy robe after a long day of hiking, the fast Wi-Fi that allowed them to Zoom without stress, or the s’mores by the firepit, they’ll come back for that experience.
At Veranda Interiors, we understand how the right amenities and thoughtful design can elevate the guest experience in vacation rentals. Our team specializes in curating spaces that blend comfort, style, and functionality, making sure your property stands out.
Quick amenities checklist
Must-haves:
- Wi-Fi
- Bedding & Linens
- Kitchen essentials
- AC/Heating
- Towels & Toiletries
- Washer & Dryer
- Smart TV
- Parking
- Hair dryer, iron
Safety:
- Smoke & CO detectors
- First aid kit
- Secure locks
Extras that boost bookings:
- Keyless entry
- USB chargers
- Smart thermostat
- Workspace
- Pet gear
- BBQ/Firepit
- Welcome basket
- Streaming services