Providing a range of amenities at your vacation rental is key to attracting guests. It can also help reduce complaints, encourage positive reviews and increase return bookings.

There are some basic facilities that every vacation rental property should provide such as wi-fi, efficient heating/cooling and a TV. However, to really stand out from other vacation rentals, you need to go above and beyond with your amenities. Here are 10 examples of amenities to consider in your vacation rental in order to impress guests.

 

Super-fast wi-fi

While your guests expect wi-fi, they may not expect you to provide super-fast wi-fi. This is classed as any broadband speed faster than 30Mbps. While such an internet connection may cost you more, it will reduce any complaints regarding wi-fi. It could also be a selling point when marketing to travelling professionals who may need the internet to carry out work, as well as families who may use it for streaming or gaming. Make sure that the wi-fi also has enough range to cover the entire building and has a secure password.

 

Tourist information booklet

Many vacation rental properties provide a welcome pack which offers information about the property. However, some properties also include a tourist information booklet that provides details on local attractions and things to do. While some guests may already have plans as to how to spend their stay, others may be in need of inspiration - and your information booklet could be a great help. Consider the type of location and the things guests are looking for. When creating a booklet for a remote property in Yellowstone park, you could consider detailing local hiking trails or prime times for seeing local wildlife. When creating a booklet for a property in Manhattan, you could consider providing information on local taxi services or luggage storage in NYC to allow guests to continue exploring the city after they check out.

 

Local drinks/food

Some vacation rental properties will leave a bottle of wine out for guests or provide a snack basket for kids. This could be personalized depending on the type of guest you're expecting. You could also consider using these complimentary drinks and snacks as a chance to promote local flavors. Many guests will be eager to try local cuisine. Consider options like locally brewed craft beers, local cheeses, locally made honey or locally made jelly. Ask about dietary requirements ahead to provide the right food and drinks.

 

Streaming apps and video games

Many vacation rentals are now providing smart TVs with streaming apps like Netflix and Hulu on top of traditional cable networks. This allows guests to continue watching their favorite shows while on vacation. It could also give guests access to a range of movies to watch. You could also consider providing games consoles with video games downloaded onto them to play. Kids are certain to love this.

 

Books and board games

Some guests may be looking for an escape from modern media. An alternative could be to keep things old-skool (and possibly make this a selling point of your property). Instead of offering video games and streaming apps, you could instead offer a range of board games to play and books to read. This could get people off of their screens. You may already own board games and books that you can keep here. Alternatively, you could consider buying a selection of second hand board games and books.

 

Spa facilities

Hot tubs have become one of the most highly sought out amenities at vacation rentals. However, it's possible to go further than this and also offer facilities like a sauna or a steam room. Such private spa facilities will help guests to truly relax. If your property is too small or unsuited to such facilities (such as an apartment), consider whether you can still add a touch of spa-like opulence to your property's bathroom. This could include features like a whirlpool bath, rain shower, luxury toiletries, plush towels, towel robes, underfloor heating and a heated towel rail.

 

Luxury bedding

It's important that guests get a good night's sleep. Consider investing in high quality mattresses for your bedrooms (check out this guide to mattresses used by hotels). When choosing bed sheet materials, consider the local climate. Egyptian cotton and bamboo sheets are known to be very breathable and could be well suited to properties in warm climates. Flannel bed sheets meanwhile provide insulation and are better suited to properties in cold climates. Make sure to also invest in decent pillows and duvets.

 

Specialist kitchen utensils

Vacation rentals allow guests to prepare their own meals. However, the kitchen utensils provided by some of these properties can often be quite limited. Go the extra mile by considering the specialist utensils that other properties forget. This includes coffee makers, kettles, pasta strainers, bottle openers, can openers, meat thermometers, pizza cutters, vegetable peelers and measuring cups. Even if many guests don't use them, they'll be wowed that you went to the effort of considering them.

 

Baby and pet equipment

Some vacation rental owners are reluctant to rent out to guests with young children or pets, however there is a huge market for these guests - as many of these guests typically don't want to stay in a hotel. Consider embracing these guests by not only allowing them to stay at your property, but providing useful equipment that they may find difficult to bring. Useful baby equipment could include a crib, a high-chair, a changing mat, a potty and a baby bath. Useful pet equipment to provide could include a dog bed, feeding bowls and a litter tray.

 

Free bicycles

If cycling is popular in your local area, consider whether it could be beneficial to supply free bicycles for guests to use. Many guests won't have been able to bring their bicycles from back home and may appreciate the option of being able to borrow a bike. Consider providing a selection of bicycles for families to use. Make sure these are well maintained.