Amenities You Need to Help You Stand Out
Must Have Items For Your Short-Term Rental
When it comes to short-term rentals, success is all about creating an unforgettable guest experience. Beyond location and decor, the right amenities can make or break a guest’s stay, often being the difference between a glowing review and a missed opportunity. In today’s competitive market, travelers expect more than just a place to sleep they’re looking for comfort, convenience, and those extra touches that elevate their stay.
To help you stand out from the crowd and keep your guests coming back, we’ve curated a list of 20 must-have Airbnb amenities checklist that every short term rental should offer. Whether you're just starting out or looking to upgrade your space, this expanded vacation rental amenities list will ensure your rental feels like a home away from home.
Let’s dive in!
And if you’d like a bit of extra support putting all of this into action, you’ll find step-by-step tools in my Shop & Resources section – including a complete Airbnb hosting handbook, guest welcome books, and cleaning checklists you can download and start using today.
1. Luxury Bedding.
Invest in high thread count linens, soft comforters, and plush pillows. Guests notice the difference between budget bedding and luxury sets, and a good night’s sleep is key to earning rave reviews. Consider adding hypoallergenic options and multiple pillow types. Top it off with stylish, textured throws to create a cozy, inviting space. High quality bedding is one of the best short term rental amenities because it not only improves comfort but also elevates the perceived value of your rental, making guests feel pampered and more likely to leave a 5 Star Review.
For more on how you can ‘Wow’ your guests, read this blog 'Creating a 5-Star Guest Experience
2. Fast Speed Wi-Fi
Fast, reliable Wi-Fi is no longer optional; it's a must have. Guests may need it for streaming, working remotely, or simply staying connected. Aim for at least 100 Mbps for seamless browsing, and consider adding a mesh network for larger properties to ensure there are no dead zones. Mention your Wi-Fi speed in your listing and make the password easy to find ideally displayed in your Airbnb welcome book template.
If you don’t already have a guest guide set up, you can grab one of my editable Guest Welcome Books in the Shop/Resources section. They include dedicated pages for Wi-Fi details, house rules, and local recommendations, so guests never have to chase you for information.
Wi-Fi issues are one of the quickest ways to lose a five-star review, so treat this as a top priority on your Airbnb essentials list.
3. Smart TV’s with Streaming Services.
Gone are the days when a basic cable package was enough. Equip your rental with smart TVs preloaded with popular streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, or Disney+. Make sure to mention that guests can log in to their own accounts or provide a guest login for premium services. Offering this feature is essential for downtime, rainy days, or just unwinding after a long day of exploring.
For maximum guest satisfaction, include instructions in your welcome book so they know how to log in. You could even provide a guest login for premium services. Entertainment upgrades like this are considered unique Airbnb amenities that add major value to your listing.
Read our blog on ‘Tools Every Airbnb Host Should Use: Streamlining Your Hosting Duties’
Inside my Complete Handbook for Successful Airbnb Hosting, I also walk you through exactly what tech tools to set up (and how to explain them clearly to guests), so you’re not constantly troubleshooting TV and Wi-Fi dramas between stays.
4. Coffee Bar
A mini coffee bar with high quality coffee beans, a grinder, and a top notch coffee maker like a Nespresso or French press. Include extras like a milk frother, a variety of sweeteners, syrups, and different types of milk (almond, soy, etc.). Guests appreciate a great coffee experience, and a well stocked coffee bar can easily be a highlight of their stay. Guests often mention coffee bars in reviews, so this is a must on your rental amenities checklist. A thoughtfully presented coffee bar can also photograph beautifully for your listing photos.
Read our Blog on ‘Ideas On What To Leave In a Welcome Basket For Your Guests’
5. Fully Equiped Kitchen
A full kitchen is great, but a fully equipped one takes it to the next level. Stock your kitchen with more than just the basics add high quality knives, a blender, a toaster, measuring cups, mixing bowls, and a variety of spices. For guests who enjoy cooking, having the right tools makes all the difference. Offering premium cookware, glassware, and even gourmet olive oils can turn your rental into a foodie’s dream space.
In my Complete Handbook for Successful Airbnb Hosting, there’s a full section on what to stock in your kitchen, how to build an Airbnb essentials list, and how to keep everything organised between turnovers.
6. Washer & Dryer
Long term guests or families traveling with kids often prioritize having access to laundry facilities. Provide a washer and dryer in your rental along with detergent, dryer sheets, and fabric softener. This convenience allows guests to pack lighter and stay fresh during their trip. If space is limited, even a compact washer-dryer combo or a shared laundry room can add immense value.
Click Here to read our blog on ‘10 Strategies to Maximize Bookings During Slow Seasons’
To make turnovers faster and less stressful, you can grab my printable Cleaning Checklist for Airbnb Hosts in the [Shop/Resources] section. It covers laundry, bathroom, kitchen, and restocking tasks so nothing gets forgotten between guests.
7. Dedicated Work Space
With the rise of remote work, more guests are looking for places where they can be productive. Offer a quiet, comfortable workspace with a desk, ergonomic chair, and reliable Wi-Fi. A few extras like a desk lamp, power strips with USB ports, and a whiteboard can help make your property more attractive to business travelers and digital nomads. A well-designed workspace is a high end Airbnb amenity that can help you capture a growing market.
8. Outdoor Seating Area
A comfortable outdoor seating area, whether it's a cozy balcony or a spacious backyard, can be a huge selling point. Invest in weatherproof furniture, soft cushions, and add cozy touches like string lights or a fire pit. Guests love to relax outside, especially if you’re located in a scenic area. Offering blankets for chilly evenings or providing a BBQ grill for summer cookouts enhances the appeal even more
9. A jacuzzi or hot tub
These are luxury amenities that can set your property apart, especially in colder climates. It’s the perfect addition for guests looking to relax and unwind after a long day of exploring. Be sure to provide clear instructions on how to use it and keep the water clean. A well maintained hot tub can turn your rental into a romantic or rejuvenating retreat, boosting your nightly rates in the process.
10. Pet Friendly
More travelers are bringing their pets along for the trip, so offering a pet-friendly rental can open you up to a wider audience. Go beyond just allowing pets provide amenities like pet beds, bowls, toys, and treats. Having a fenced yard or nearby pet-friendly parks is an added bonus. It’s one of the best short term rental amenities for attracting repeat bookings.
Read our blog on ‘How to Pet Friendly Your Airbnb’
11. Board Games & Entertainment
Offering a selection of board games, puzzles, or card games adds a fun element to your rental. This is particularly appreciated by families or groups looking to unwind after a day of activities. Include a variety of games for different age groups and interests, and consider adding a deck of cards, puzzles, or even a video game console. These small touches can create lasting memories for guests and make your space feel more personal.
12. Local Guidebook
Curate a personalised guidebook with recommendations for local restaurants, attractions, hidden gems, and activities. Include tips for transportation, parking, and even local customs or etiquette. Guests love feeling like they have insider knowledge, and this simple amenity can dramatically enhance their experience. Include both printed and digital versions, and keep it updated with the latest hotspots and events.
Don’t want to start from a blank page? My Guest Welcome Books come with pre-made sections for local recommendations, maps, and “insider tips,” plus 30 themed covers you can swap out for weddings, wine weekends, cosy winter escapes and more. You can find them in the [Shop/Resources] section.
13. Rain Shower
A luxurious rain shower head can make an ordinary bathroom feel like a high end spa. Consider upgrading your shower experience by adding quality fixtures like a rainfall or dual shower head. It’s an affordable improvement that adds an extra layer of relaxation to your rental. Complement it with high end bath products, fluffy towels, and robes for the ultimate pampering experience.
14. Fitness Equipment
For health conscious guests, offering fitness equipment can be a huge draw. Stock your rental with essentials like yoga mats, resistance bands, and dumbbells. If you have the space, consider adding a stationary bike or treadmill. Include a list of local running trails or nearby gyms for guests who want to stay active during their stay. Offering this amenity caters to the growing trend of fitness focused travelers.
15. Bikes & Scooters
Provide guests with complimentary bikes or scooters to explore the local area. This adds convenience and a sense of adventure to their stay. Include helmets, locks, and a map of bike friendly routes. If your property is located in a city with bike sharing services, provide information on how guests can access them. This amenity is particularly appealing for properties located near scenic trails or in urban areas.
16. Fire Pit
A fire pit adds a cozy, communal atmosphere to outdoor spaces. Whether guests are roasting marshmallows or sharing stories, a fire pit can be the highlight of their stay. Make sure to provide seating around it, safety instructions, and a supply of firewood or propane. A well maintained fire pit creates a memorable experience, especially for guests traveling with family or friends, and makes the outdoor area a prime gathering spot.
17. Blockout Curtains
For guests who value their sleep, blackout curtains are a lifesaver. Whether they're jet lagged or just light sleepers, being able to block out the sun can greatly improve their stay. Install high quality, stylish blackout curtains in all bedrooms to ensure a dark, restful environment. This small investment can lead to better sleep for your guests and better reviews for you.
18. Eco-Friendly Amenities
Guests are increasingly environmentally conscious, so offering eco-friendly amenities can make your rental more attractive. Provide recycling bins, energy efficient appliances, and eco-friendly toiletries. You can also install solar panels or promote the use of reusable bags, water bottles, and eco-friendly cleaning products. Guests will appreciate your commitment to sustainability, and it can be a unique selling point for your property.
Read our Blog on ‘How to Create a Sustainable Rental’
19. Well Stocked Fridge
Offering a complimentary mini-fridge stocked with beverages like water, juice, soda, or even local craft beer can be a nice touch. Add a few snacks like chips, fruit, or cookies. It’s a small gesture that adds convenience and shows thoughtfulness. A stocked fridge creates a welcoming vibe for guests when they arrive, especially after a long journey.
20. Smart Home Features
Integrating smart home features like keyless entry, voice activated assistants (Amazon Alexa or Google Home), and smart thermostats can make your rental feel high tech and convenient. Guests appreciate the ease of self check in and the ability to control the temperature or lighting with a simple command. Include instructions for using these features and highlight them in your listing to appeal to tech savvy travelers.
Read our Related Blog on ‘Tech Tools Every Airbnb Host Should Use’
If tech feels overwhelming, don’t worry – inside my Complete Hosting Handbook and Guest Communication Templates (in the Shop/Resources section), I show you exactly how to use smart locks, automated messages, and simple systems to save time while still giving guests a personal experience.
Creating the perfect guest experience isn’t just about having a stylish space it’s about offering the right Airbnb essentials for guests that blend comfort, convenience, and delight. From luxury bedding to eco-friendly options, this Airbnb amenities checklist covers the essentials and beyond, helping you stand out in a crowded market.
Happy Hosting!