As a vacation rental host, one of the best ways to stand out and get more bookings is by making your property a place for guests to host holiday gatherings, dinners, or celebrations. With the rise of families, groups of friends, and travelers looking for unique stays, guests now want more than just a place to sleep—they want a space where they can entertain comfortably. If you can position your rental as the perfect place to host, you’ll likely see more bookings, positive reviews, and repeat guests.

Here are some creative ways to make your rental a place where guests can truly host and enjoy the seasonal charm.

Stock the kitchen

Many guests are looking for a vacation rental where they can prepare big meals for family and friends. A well-equipped kitchen can make all the difference in their decision to choose your property. Here’s what to include:

• Place settings and serveware: Have extra place settings, serveware, and even cloth napkins and a tablecloth. Provide them with the tools to make their special occasion feel special.‍
• Cutlery and dinnerware: Ensure that your kitchen is stocked with enough plates, bowls, glasses, and cutlery to at minimum match the occupancy of your rental. If your space accommodates six people, there should be at least six of everything, plus a few more.

• Cooking equipment: At minimum, have a nice set of pots and pans, baking sheet, cake pan, glass baking dish, toaster, blender and mixing bowls. The more amenities you have, the more you can check off on Airbnb and VRBO, boosting your search rankings. Want a full checklist of kitchen items? Download our complete vacation rental checklist.
• Pantry: Provide a few staple ingredients like spices, cooking oils, vinegars, flour, sugar, and more. This way, guests don’t have to go shopping for every little thing if they want to cook a meal. If you want to go above and beyond, arrange to have groceries delivered through a service like Instacart.

Enhance ambiance with soft textiles and lighting

Creating the right ambiance is key when guests want to host a dinner or gathering. Thoughtful décor and lighting can turn an average rental into an inviting space.

• Lighting: Make sure the lighting is adjustable so guests can set the tone they want. Install dimmable lights in living and dining areas, and provide lamps or string lights for softer, more intimate lighting. Outdoor spaces should also be well-lit with string lights or lanterns to make evening gatherings special.
• Décor: Add neutral, homey touches like throw blankets, faux candles, or faux flowers and plants.

Inviting common areas

Your guests' hosting experience starts in the common areas. Whether it’s a living room, dining area, or backyard, these spaces need to be functional and inviting.

• Seating for everyone: A cozy living room with a large sectional, additional chairs, or even floor cushions can make gatherings feel more intimate and comfortable. Ensure your dining table seats enough people for the number of guests your rental accommodates.
• Flexible furniture: Offer moveable or modular furniture pieces that allow guests to easily rearrange the space based on their needs. For example, foldable chairs, extendable tables, or nesting coffee tables can help make the room more adaptable for different group sizes. Check out our favorite pieces from West Elm's 2024 fall collection.

Provide indoor and outdoor entertainment

Enhance your guests' experience by providing indoor and outdoor entertainment options.

• Indoor entertainment: Stock your rental with fun options like board games, a smart TV with streaming services, a Bluetooth speaker for playing music, puzzles, and a selection of books to cater to various interests. ‍This will help guests enjoy their time and host their gatherings without worrying about entertainment.
• Cozy outdoor space: If your rental has a patio or backyard, create a cozy outdoor seating area. Provide warm blankets for chilly evenings, set up a seating area around a fire pit, and maybe even offer a supply of marshmallows for roasting. Plus, some twinkle lights never hurt anyone. Encourage guests to step outside and enjoy the crisp air.

Additional things to consider

• Highlight nearby seasonal activities: Be sure to let your guests know about nearby activities and attractions. Whether it's skiing, ice skating, or hiking trails, providing information about these experiences adds value to their stay. Include recommendations for local winter events or festivals, helping guests make the most of their winter getaway.
• Capture seasonal charm in your property listing photos: Photos play a crucial role in attracting potential guests. Showcase the unique beauty of your rental during the different seasons by capturing it against a snowy or autumn landscape. Highlight the warm interiors, perhaps featuring a crackling fire or a fully set table, so guests can imagine themselves hosting there. These images will not only set the right expectations but also entice guests to experience the cozy charm your rental has to offer.

By incorporating these tips, you can transform your vacation rental into a retreat that goes beyond providing a place to sleep. Create an space that encourages guests to host their own memorable experiences, fostering a sense of warmth and connection during the chillier months. Remember, the little touches can make a big difference in ensuring your guests have a delightful and unforgettable stay.