Vacation Rental Amenities & Services Guide

Emily Hancock
Emily Hancock

June 24, 2020

Hotel and vacation rental inventories have converged over the past decade, and big travel brands are crossing segments. Travelers are shopping more fluidly between segments and expect the same quality experience whether they stay in a vacation home or a hotel. In response, professional managers have elevated their offerings to adapt to the influx of new-age guests, which has helped transform what was once considered a 'cottage industry' into hospitality's fastest growing segment. 

We all know that an amazing first impression is one of the biggest keys to delivering a five-star experience. But 'wowing' every vacation rental guest that walks through the door is no easy task, especially with everything going on in today's travel climate. Stocking your rentals with professional-level supplies, appliances, and amenities helps ensure guests have a comfortable stay, and positions your vacation rental business for stellar reviews and repeat bookings. We looked at over 50,000 homes on our platform and determined the property items in each room that separate the 'hobby vacation rental owner' from the 'professional operator'.

AdobeStock_209124760-2

These expectations have translated into several non-negotiable's for guests staying at a vacation rental property: strong WiFi connection, central air conditioning, IoT devices, new appliances, and modern design. Gone are the days of providing the bare minimum, and leaving guests to pick up the slack. Each property should be thoroughly stocked to anticipate the needs of each guest.

General

'The Hobbyist'  

  • Landline
  • Printouts for Local Activities 
  • Outdated Decor & Furnishings 
  • Pictures of Owner's Family
  • Basic Amenities 
  • Clothesline 

'The Professional'

  • Strong WiFi Connection
  • Welcome Tablet 
  • Smart Thermostat 
  • Central Air Conditioning 
  • Modern Entertainment 
  • Washer & Dryer 

Property Exterior

'The Hobbyist'

  • Plastic Table & Chairs
  • Hammock
  • Creaky Deck & Patio
  • Old Bikes 
  • Picnic Table
  • Fire Pit 

'The Professional'

  • Private Pool & Hot Tub
  • Landscaping
  • Modern Patio Set
  • Screened-In Porch
  • Barbecue 
  • Outdoor Fireplace 

Kitchen

'The Hobbyist'

  • Basic Cooking Items
  • Mismatched Dish Sets 
  • Plastic Dinnerware 
  • Diner-Style Coffee Maker 
  • Outdated Appliances 
  • Old Tablecloths 

'The Professional'

  • Specialized Cookware
  • Matching Dinnerware
  • Nespresso & Keurig Machine
  • Smart Appliances 
  • Water & Ice Dispenser 
  • Granite Countertop

Living Area

'The Hobbyist'

  • Hand-Me-Down Furniture
  • Basic Cable
  • Deck of Cards
  • Old Board Games
  • DVD Player
  • Limited Seating

'The Professional'

  • Smart TV
  • Cable & Streaming Services
  • Fireplace
  • Gaming Console
  • Extra Pillows & Blankets
  • Variety of Games 

Bathroom

'The Hobbyist'

  • Bar Soap 
  • Old Shower Curtain
  • Low Water Pressure 
  • Worn-Down Linens 
  • Stained Tub
  • Limited Storage

'The Professional'

  • Heated Towel Rack
  • Luxury Walk-In Shower
  • Waterfall Shower Head
  • Jacuzzi Tub
  • Premium Toiletries
  • En Suite Bathroom

Bedroom

'The Hobbyist'

  • Inherited Mattress
  • Outdated Decor & Bedding
  • Alarm Clock & Radio
  • Wire Clothes Hangers
  • Stained Carpet 
  • Bulky TV

'The Professional'

  • New Mattress 
  • Hotel-Grade Linens
  • SmartTV
  • Smart Home Device
  • Black Out Curtains
  • Hypoallergenic Pillows

Review our full amenities guide here, and as always feel free to drop us a line with any questions.