What amenities should an Airbnb have? Going the extra mile helps you impress guests and delight them with your property.
With these top 32 essential Airbnb amenities ideas, you can win 5-star reviews and provide an unforgettable stay for all the right reasons.
Airbnb must haves: how to choose the right amenities
Guest satisfaction drives the success of any short-term rental host. So, how do you market your property to satisfy your guests’ needs?
First, do your market research. You need to know your local area, your guest demographics, the types of travelers you attract, your high and low seasons, and your local competitors. Don’t be shy about checking out your competitors’ listings to see what amenities they’re offering.
Second, think about your guests’ needs ahead of time. Know what amenities they’re looking for and try to exceed their expectations. When you do, you’ll stand out from the competition, attract more guests, and boost your bookings.
A consumer survey commissioned by Airbnb found 97% of US travelers said that available amenities would impact their overall experience. Airbnb amenities were considered a top priority for a great trip and could be a deal-breaker for your next guest.
We’ve gathered 32 must-have Airbnb amenities, from basic essentials you can’t host without to extra touches for an elevated guest experience. This way, you can invest in the most sought-after Airbnb amenities and exceed guest expectations every time.
Top 10 Airbnb amenities guests want
When searching for the right vacation rental, search filters will be used to find suitable properties with the amenities guests want. Below are 10 popular search filters used by guests:
1. WiFi
High-speed and reliable WiFi is one of the Airbnb necessities for many guests and has even been rated as ‘very important’ when it comes to choosing an Airbnb. This must-have feature is paramount if you’re looking to target digital nomads and highlight your dedicated workspace to guests.
Why not check out StayFi’s vacation rental WiFi marketing solution?
2. Smart locks for self-check-in
Guests love the flexibility of a 24-hour self-check-in option. There’s a reason why it’s one of the most popular search filters for Airbnb amenities. So, how do you monitor self-check-ins as a host when you’re not present? You need to invest in smart lock technology.
Automated systems, keyless entries, or even lock box codes will keep guests happy and provide an independent check-in process.
Consider adding such Airbnb must-haves as Dack, EnsoConnect, and Operto for seamless guest journeys and keyless entry options.
3. Pet-friendly Airbnb amenities checklist
Opening up your home to pets will help you attract more guests who love to bring their companions. Be sure to offer and make pet-friendly amenities available in your listing, including:
- Food and water bowls
- Designated pet towels for cleaning paws
- Litter trays
- Pet toys for entertainment
- Pet beds
- Pet-friendly cleaning supplies
- Bad smell/stain-removing cleaning supplies
- Vacuum cleaner
- Outdoor shower
- Emergency vet clinic number
4. A fully equipped kitchen
A well-equipped kitchen is a must to fulfil self-catering needs and is one of the main reasons guests opt for short-term rentals over hotel accommodation.
According to TripAdvisor, 83% of guests consider a fully equipped kitchen a top priority.
Organise your kitchen logically and use a kitchen Airbnb essentials list to help guests and cleaners return items to their correct places. Essential kitchen items include:
- Fridge
- Freezer
- Oven
- Hob
- Grill
- Microwave
- Kettle
- Coffee maker and coffee pods
- Cookware (pots, pans, baking dishes, cutting boards)
- Utensils (multi-purpose knives, turner, spoons, soup ladle, pasta server, cooking tweezers, bottle and tin openers)
- Crockery and cutlery (plates big and small, salad bowl, soup bowls, cups, mugs)
- Glassware (for water, wine, champagne)
- Dishwasher
- Water filter
- Bin liners
- Trash can (paper, glass, plastic, organic)
- Dishwashing soap
- Dishwasher tablets
- Sponges
- Paper towels
5. Hot tub or jacuzzi for luxury Airbnb amenities
Another most filtered search for vacation rentals includes ‘private hot tubs’ and jacuzzis. If your listing has one, highlight it, as this is an attractive amenity to many guests. It even adds value to your property as you can increase your nightly rate too.
6. Free parking
Guests and travelers don’t want to leave their vehicles where they are not safe, and racking up a bill in hefty parking fees is something they’d wish to avoid. If you have free parking, state this on your listing. It’s an attractive and useful added feature.
Try to provide affordable solutions and alternatives if free parking isn’t available at your listing. Guests will thank you.
7. Washing machine or dryer
If you have a washer and dryer available, make it clear you’re happy for guests to use the appliances. Leave how-to instructions and even stock some laundry detergent to really go the extra mile for your guests.
If guests are booking a longer stay, this access could be the deciding factor in whether they book with you or a competitor.
8. Work-from-home space
Flexible hybrid and remote work have increased demand for dedicated workspaces in rentals. Ensure you have a dedicated workspace with:
- Laptop-friendly desks
- Comfortable chair
- High-speed and reliable WiFi
- Plug sockets and adapters
- Good lighting
- A little added decor or indoor plants
9. A pool
Depending on your location, budget, and style of short-term rental you are offering, a pool is a good choice when looking at the Airbnb amenities guests want. Pools are popular in the search filters and are one of the best Airbnb features that will attract more guests.
10. Air conditioning and heating
Having air conditioning or even access to a fan will improve guest comfort during the warmer months, especially if they’re not used to the heat.
The same goes for ensuring you can provide heating to your short-term rental property, especially if your listing is a naturally cold space.
Airbnb must haves: essential amenities every property needs
When running a vacation rental, there are a few essentials that should not be overlooked. Guests expect to see these basic items at the property they have booked in order for them to have a comfortable stay.
Quantities of each item will depend on the number of guests staying and the length of their stay.
Essential amenities include:
11. Hot water
Although not a requirement for Airbnb’s essential checklist, hot water is very much an expected amenity by guests and is used for bathing, showering, heating, and washing up.
12. Toilet paper
Ensure there is enough for the duration of each stay by including extra rolls in each of the bathrooms.
14. Pillows
Again, one pillow per guest is the recommended minimum; however, many guests prefer sleeping with more than one, so it is a good idea to offer additional pillows. These can also be stored in cupboards and used by guests as and when needed.
15. Bed linen
Guests acknowledge cleanliness, and linens are a huge part of this; therefore, fresh linens should be readily available for every booking. Extra blankets are also a bonus.
16. Toiletries
Hand and body soaps are basic items for personal hygiene, so ensure you’re vacation rental is fully stocked. Why not go the extra mile and provide further toiletries such as
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
- Toothpaste
- Mouthwash
- Body wash
- Hand soap
These don’t have to be full-size; in fact, miniatures are recommended for individual use, and you can restock these after each booking.
17. Clothes hangers
Guests may find it a nuisance if no clothes hangers are available, especially when they are traveling with luggage and staying for a few days. These inexpensive additions help create a home-away-from-home feeling.
18. Cleaning supplies
Guests want the ability to clean during their stay. We don’t mean deep cleaning; instead, everyday cleaning items that will help guests maintain a comfortable and clean environment during their stay. Think about a broom and a dustpan, vacuum cleaner, good washing machine, and tumble dryer, along with other basics like:
- Multi-surface cleaner
- Antibacterial wipes
- Detergent
- Scourers, sponges and microfiber cloth
- Paper towels
- Bleach
- Rubber gloves
- Dishwashing soap
- Dishwasher tablets
19. Iron and ironing board
Clothes will often become creased when stowed in luggage, so it is a great idea to offer the facilities for guests to iron their clothes safely during their stay.
20. Bin liners and garbage can
Ensure you are providing bin liners and bins so that guests can appropriately throw their waste away. If you have strict waste management requirements in your local area, ensure you have clear instructions in your home that guests can easily follow.
Many guests sort their garbage, which means it’s a good idea to supply a variety of bags for different types of waste:
- Organic
- Plastic
- Glass
- Paper
Safety-focused Airbnb must haves for guest protection
21. Smoke alarm
Basic safety precautions will allow guests to feel safe within your property. Including a smoke detector can help protect your guests and your home in the event of a fire. So don’t wait and add them to your list of Airbnb amenities.
22. Carbon monoxide alarm
Unlike smoke, carbon monoxide is colorless, tasteless, and odorless. Consider including a carbon monoxide detector within your property to help keep guests safe during their stay.
23. First aid kit
Accidents happen. A basic first-aid kit can include:
- Plasters of varying sizes, shapes, and even colour
- Sterile gauze dressings
- Sterile eye dressings
- Bandages
- Safety pins
- Scissors
- Sticky tape
- Alcohol-free cleansing wipes
- Distilled water for cleansing wounds
- Eyewash
24. Fire extinguishers or fire blankets
These are designed to help extinguish small starting fires. A good safety option if your short-term rental offers cooking utilities such as ovens and barbeques.
25. Emergency exit plan
Guest safety is paramount. If an incident does occur, you should provide emergency plans to help guests get to safety. Depending on the climate your rental is in, this could also include what to do in the event of a:
- Hurricane
- Tornado
- Forest fire
- Earthquake
- Tsunami
It’s also important to provide local emergency numbers.
Added extras guests will appreciate
One of the best top tips an Airbnb coach will tell you when starting up your vacation rental is to go and stay at your listing. Know the needs of your guests by being the first guest to stay.
Many hosts soon notice the little things they’re missing that would make their stay more comfortable and truly elevate the guest experience.
26. Cooking condiments and basics
Stock your cupboards with cooking essentials and long-life condiments that would help guests make their favorite recipes, such as:
- Salt
- Pepper
- Herbs and spices
- Oil
- Pots and pans
27. Coffee machine
Add a splash of luxury to your short-term rental. Your choice of coffee machine would depend on your target market, but there are a plethora of options available, including:
- Drip coffee machines
- Pump coffee machines
- Coffee capsules
- French press (plunger)
Remember to provide detailed instructions on how to use the machine in your welcome manual.
28. Entertainment
Why not look at adding the following entertainment systems to your listing:
- TV
- Streaming services (Netflix, Disney, Hulu)
- Games consoles
- Bluetooth speakers
- Board games and puzzles
Entertainment facilities for guests are great features for rainy days, family-friendly properties, and providing guests with ‘wow’ extras for that home-away-from-home feeling.
29. Designated outdoor seating areas
Who doesn’t love a bit of alfresco dining? This is a popular search filter that helps vacation rentals stand out from the competition and other hotelier accommodation options.
If space allows it, create an outdoor space that is private and offers both sun and shaded areas to guests. Compliment the space with:
- Outdoor dining and seating
- A pergola
- BBQs and grills
- Hammocks
- Loungers
30. Adapters and chargers
With the world of vacation rentals expanding, your guests could be coming from far and wide. Plug sockets are not universal, so providing extra adapters and chargers within your rental will be appreciated by your guests. Especially when their battery is running low. Though they don’t seem to be among the unique Airbnb ideas, travelers feel relieved when they find a suitable adapter and charger.
Accessibility amenities for your Airbnb
Is your Airbnb easy to access? To run a quick check, think if your Airbnb ticks the following boxes:
31. Wide hall clearance and handrails
Your Airbnb can be a place for a family gathering. To accommodate the needs of all members, plan to add these items:
- Step-free access to the home
- Handrails
- Accessible height furniture
- Elevator
- Accessible shower and toilet
32. Airbnb amenities for children
As a rule, families bring their own items of comfort, but it wouldn’t hurt to make sure your listing has:
- Functioning door and window locks
- Corner guards
- Stair gate
- Cradle
- Feeding chair
- Child cutlery
- Child-proof locks
- Protected balcony
- First aid kit
- Emergency hospital and police station phones
Getting your Airbnb amenities right: the key to 5-star reviews
Choosing the right amenities can make or break your Airbnb’s success. From essential basics like reliable WiFi and fully equipped kitchens to luxury additions like hot tubs and dedicated workspaces, the amenities you offer directly impact guest satisfaction and booking rates.
The 32 amenities we’ve covered aren’t just nice-to-haves — they’re strategic investments in your property’s performance. Start with the essentials that guests expect, then add targeted amenities based on your specific guest demographic and local market. Business travelers need workspaces and fast internet, families want safety features and entertainment options, and luxury seekers appreciate premium touches like outdoor dining areas and high-end coffee machines.
Remember that 97% of travelers say amenities impact their overall experience. By thoughtfully selecting and maintaining quality amenities, you’re not just meeting expectations — you’re creating the memorable experiences that earn 5-star reviews and repeat bookings. And while Airbnb is the most popular platform, don’t limit yourself to just one listing site. Check out these Airbnb alternatives to maximize your property’s exposure and bookings.
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