Every vacation rental property is different. That’s part of their charm. You’re catering to people who want something that feels a little more lived-in than a hotel.
But there are some things that most vacation rentals – at least the good ones – have in common, things that make guests feel more at home. Let’s look at some of the things you’ll find at a successful vacation rental property.
1. Guidebooks and maps
Your house might be utterly delightful, but it’s probably not why your guests chose their destination. They’re itching to get out and explore your city. Make things easier on them by stocking the home with maps and guidebooks.
2. Books, games and movies
Not every traveler wants to spend their entire day rock climbing, surfing or exploring. There might be times they want to relax at home, or days when the rain chases them inside to pursue simpler pleasures.
And that could come in the form of a game of Monopoly, a few hours with a beloved novel, or a screening of a movie they’ve never seen. To that end, keep one of your rooms well-stocked with a deck of cards, board games, books and DVDs.
3. Free wi-fi
A must in our plugged-in age. Yes, we know vacation is supposed to be about “getting away from it all.” And yes, we realize many travelers go on vacation precisely because they’re tired of being chained to their computer or their smartphone. But the fact is that people expect the same fast wireless access they’d find at home.
4. Cable/streaming services
Again, we recognize that vacations aren’t meant to be spent staring at screens. But your guests will still hope for some of the comforts of home, and this includes cable or access to streaming services like Netflix or Hulu or Amazon.
5. Stuff for the kids
We don’t just mean Netflix and internet access. Be kid-friendly with your selections of DVDs, books and games (think Candyland as well as chess).
You may even want to include some baby equipment such as a crib, playpen and high chair to make things easier for guests with infant children. It will make packing much easier for them knowing these amenities are waiting.
6. Air conditioning
There are few places in America where summer is bearable without air conditioning. Make sure you have your HVAC system serviced before the start of the season.
7. Kitchen
Your guests obviously won’t be expecting room service, but they will expect your kitchen to have essential items such as a coffee pot, plates, flatware, glasses, and napkins, as well as some cooking essentials like oil and spices. You can go the extra mile by adding small accessories and appliances like kitchen towels, mixing bowls, measuring cups, crockpots and blenders.
8. Bath
Your bathrooms should have fresh, fluffy towels, bathrobes and slippers and basic toiletries such as mouthwash, toothpaste and travel-sized soap, shampoo and conditioner.
9. Bed
We come back to this point again and again: a successful vacation rental property – or hotel, or bed and breakfast – is one that offers a good night’s sleep. That means quality mattresses, fluffy pillows and warm, comforting blankets.
A responsive owner
This is perhaps the most critical factor in having a successful vacation rental property. Most guides we’ve read say that owners need to treat their rental as a business instead of a hobby and to respond promptly to guest questions and concerns in a way that’s friendly and courteous.
Who knows, you might end up making friends with your guests – or at least building a friendly relationship – which could lead to repeat business down the road.
InnStyle can help you attract those guests. We carry a wide range of bedding and bath accessories, all designed to give your visitors a comfortable, memorable stay. Contact our sales team to learn more.