Staying in a vacation rental property is the hottest travel trend in 2022. Since the start of COVID-19, more and more travelers have been searching for private homes to stay in instead of hotels. Not only does this offer them more space and amenities while on vacation—families especially appreciate having a full kitchen, laundry facilities, and often a backyard or pool—but many also feel safer staying in a private home rather than a crowded hotel.
The good news is, home-sharing companies like VRBO and Airbnb make it simple for travelers to book the private vacation homes they’re seeking.
The bad news is, renters are selective about where they stay. But luckily, for those looking to rent their home, the market is hot, and renters are willing to pay extra for extra amenities.
Standing Out in the Rental Market
Amenities set rentals apart from each other on the market. Airbnb commissioned a survey and found that 97% of U.S. travelers surveyed said amenities affect their travel experience. The extra bells and whistles go a long way to increase the amount you charge per stay while also increasing the likelihood of returning guests.
Following accommodations, those surveyed claimed amenities have the second biggest impact on vacation quality ahead of shopping/dining, location, culture, and family/friends.
The extras don’t have to be fancy — or pricy — to attract renters who are willing to pay top dollar for a safe and clean home. Wireless internet, heating, and television are in the top 10 most searched for amenities on Airbnb.
Here are the ten most searched for amenities on Airbnb:
- Pool
- Kitchen
- Free Parking
- Pet Friendly
- Air Conditioning
- Wireless Internet (A chic frame with the Wi-Fi password so your guests can stay connected is an easy way to make them feel comfortable)
- Washer
- Jacuzzi
- Television
- Heating
15 Vacation Rental Amenities Guests are Willing to Pay Extra for 
You don’t have to go as far as installing an in-ground pool or a jacuzzi to attract top dollar from renters. These 15 simple and cost-effective amenities will give your rental property the wow-factor amenities it needs to stand out to vacationers in 2022 and beyond.
Streaming Services
TV may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think “vacation,” but it is a common requirement for renters. Ideally, the rental would be equipped with cable and a smart TV capable of streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, or Amazon Prime.
Add a Murphy Bed in Your Vacation Rental Property
A good night’s sleep is one of the most thoughtful amenities you can give your guests. The number of beds in a vacation home is a top search for rental seekers. Yes, the number of beds, not bedrooms. A Murphy bed is the ultimate way to offer more sleeping arrangements without a renovation.
If your guest room doesn’t have a bed or is typically reserved for other activities, such as a home office or children’s playroom, you can have the best of both worlds with a Murphy bed. Models like the Lori Bed are easily mounted to the wall and lowered by hand before your guests come. Plus, when it’s not in use, your space can be a blank canvas for activities.
Cards and Family-Friendly Games
Board games or a pool table bring a fun factor to a rental listing. Even something simple like a deck of cards provides value and shows guests they’re welcomed to relax and unwind.
A Porch Swing
A porch swing adds an element of charm that could be the tipping point when a renter chooses where to stay. Porch swings are inviting and nostalgic. Plus, they are a fun place to gather.
Extra Storage
Keep an eye out for space. Guests will need a spot to store their luggage. The Spruce recommends clearing an area on a small table or bench so guests don’t have to bend down to reach their clothes. Leave a couple of dresser drawers free, if possible.
Grooming and Beauty Items
According to Logify, in addition to stocking your bathrooms with basic hygiene supplies, you can also add extras in the vanity. For example, Logify suggests offering shower caps, disposable razors, shaving cream, makeup remover wipes. These bonuses make your guests feel like they booked a spa weekend and upgrade their holiday experience. Toothbrushes are the number one item people forget to pack. So, keeping a few extras on hand will save your guest a trip to the store.
Kitchen Luxuries for Your Vacation Rental Property
A fully functional kitchen is a major amenity. It becomes even more alluring with the addition of small but luxurious extras. Bonus appliances like a blender for making smoothies or an electric wine bottle opener are subtle but attractive add-ons that don’t cost a lot.
Smart Home Features
One recent study showed 60% of guests would pay more for a vacation rental with a smart home feature. Among the leading smart technology on guests’ wish lists include smart TVs, smart home security systems, video-enabled doorbell cameras, app-controlled smart locks.
Coffee Maker
A coffee maker is high on the list of amenities. And you’ll get bonus points for making it easy to make a cuppa Joe. Set out instructions for making coffee. Or, better yet, go the extra mile by putting in a coffee maker with an assortment of flavor pods.
Electrical Adapters and Chargers
Many people go on vacation to unplug, but it’s unlikely they’d purposely leave all their tech behind. Having a basket with extra chargers and wall adapters is a nice touch.
Extra Linens & Toiletries 
You never know what mishaps can happen during a stay away from home! Avoid potential awkwardness for your guests by laying out extra linens, toiletries, and towels. And perhaps your guest is one of those gems who likes to change the sheets before they leave? There is nothing wrong with providing an extra set and accepting the helping hand!
Barbecue or Grill
Grilling outside is practically an American pastime. It is synonymous with leisure. Guests are often willing to pay more for a property with a private barbecue, according to Hostfully. In many cases, a good barbecue can even offset the drawbacks of a property with a small kitchen.
Great Outdoor Spaces
You’re probably not surprised to hear that most people love to time outside during their vacation. Even if the cost of significant landscaping isn’t in the budget, homeowners can appeal to renters by keeping the outdoor place presentable. Weeding, trimming overgrowth, planting flowers, and repairing broken fences can improve the guest’s experience and the bottom line.
Yoga Mat
Amenities like a yoga mat will make guests feel right at home. Visitors can fold up the Murphy bed and stream a relaxing morning yoga routine – the perfect way to start a day..
Bikes & Sports Equipment
Little Touches Go a Long Way for Your Vacation Rental Property
A good rule of thumb for providing guests amenities is to think of small extras you’d love to have handy. Bonus items — especially the ones you’re most likely to forget to pack, such as a phone charger, an alarm clock, spare hangers, and a hairdryer will all earn brownie points and garner extra profit for your vacation rental property.
Renters are looking for value when they choose a place to get away with their friends and family. A Murphy bed offering another space to sleep or a porch swing providing an intangible charm can make all the difference.
Did you learn a lot about upgrading your vacation rental property today?
Try one of these articles next:
