Whether you're hosting an apartment, a mountain cabin, or a beach house, your amenities determine whether guests choose you over the competition. Guests expect more than just a place to sleep—they want a five-star experience.
What amenities do Airbnb guests expect? These include the essential amenities that every guest expects, like fast WiFi and clean linens, plus a few clever extras that set you apart and earn those glowing five-star reviews.
To help you create that winning combination, we've created the ultimate Airbnb amenities list. We’ve compiled a complete Airbnb amenities list in 12 categories, plus a free downloadable vacation rental inventory checklist PDF so you never miss an item.
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The numbers speak for themselves: 97% of USA travelers say amenities impact their experience, according to Airbnb research. Amenities consistently rank as the second most important factor for vacation satisfaction, more crucial than location, dining, or local attractions.
With recent changes to Airbnb's cancellation policy and the new 15.5% host-only fee, as Airbnb shifts its focus more toward guest satisfaction and experience, providing exceptional amenities becomes even more critical for hosts to remain competitive and maintain profitability.
These are the must-have Airbnb amenities that every host needs to provide, regardless of property type. Research shows that 70% of American travelers consider air conditioning essential when booking accommodation. When creating your Airbnb business plan, budget for these essentials first—they're the foundation of guest satisfaction.
Host Tip: Keep a linen rotation system—have at least two complete sets per bed so you're never scrambling between guest turnovers. This ensures your Airbnb amenities list is always guest-ready.
A well-stocked kitchen lets guests cook like they're at home, regardless of size. Research shows that 83% of guests specifically look for well-equipped kitchens when booking, making this one of the most requested amenities. A small, well-equipped kitchen beats a large, empty one every time. Sharp knives, quality pots, and a coffee maker make all the difference for guests and families, turning simple meals into memorable moments together.
Basic prep lets guests actually enjoy cooking during their stay. Quality knives, sturdy mixing bowls, and proper measuring tools make the difference between kitchen chaos and culinary success.
Host tip: A few local cookbooks or recipe cards featuring regional dishes can inspire guests to try cooking something special during their stay.
The right appliances turn a basic kitchen into a functional cooking space. A coffee maker starts mornings right, while a microwave and blender handle quick meals and snacks throughout the day.
Host tip: Keep microwave popcorn on hand—guests love having a quick snack option for movie nights or lazy evenings.
Having enough tableware for everyone prevents awkward moments and lets guests focus on enjoying their meals together.
Host tip: Keep a few takeout menus from local restaurants tucked in a kitchen drawer. Even well-equipped kitchens can't compete with pizza night sometimes.
Sleep quality can make or break a guest's entire stay. A well-planned Airbnb list of amenities, like cozy bedding, ensures a restful experience. Poor sleep leads to negative reviews, while comfortable bedrooms often get specific mentions in five-star feedback. The bedroom should feel like a sanctuary where guests can truly rest and recharge.
Host tip: Test your own mattress—if it's uncomfortable for you, it's uncomfortable for guests.
Clean, well-stocked bathrooms are where guests notice attention to detail most. You'd be surprised how many properties skip basic amenities that guests expect. Focus on essentials that make daily routines comfortable and stress-free.
Host tip: Create an amenity basket with toiletries, cotton swabs, and feminine hygiene products. Guests appreciate having these essentials available without having to ask.
The living room is where guests unwind after long days of exploring. Comfortable seating and simple entertainment options can make the difference between guests who spend evenings out and those who relax at your property. Capturing perfect Airbnb photos that showcase your living space setup can help guests envision themselves relaxing there before they even book.
Host tip: Skip cable TV—guests prefer streaming services they already use. Consider keeping a paid Netflix account logged in for guests, but change the password regularly for security.
Safety isn't optional—it's legally required in most places, mandated by Airbnb. Essential for protecting both guests and your business. With new trends showing guests increasingly exploiting refund policies—such as demanding full refunds for minor issues—hosts must be more vigilant than ever. For detailed compliance requirements, check Airbnb's official hosting guidelines. Skip these basics, and you will risk liability and regulatory issues.
Host tip: Always check local regulations regarding surveillance equipment to ensure compliance with privacy laws and Airbnb’s policies.
Parents book with one priority: keeping their kids safe and comfortable. Simple family amenities can justify higher rates and attract longer stays from traveling families. Even basic family amenities like a high chair and outlet covers can command 15-25% higher nightly rates—families pay extra for properties that accommodate their specific needs.
Host tip: Create a simple "kids' welcome kit" with coloring books, crayons, and a few snacks. It costs under $10, but parents consistently appreciate this thoughtful touch.
Pet-friendly properties have 23% less competition and command higher rates. These pet-friendly Airbnb amenities attract loyal pet owners who often book longer stays, making this a smart business decision. Charge a reasonable pet fee ($25-50/night) to cover extra cleaning costs—most pet owners expect this and will gladly pay for pet-friendly accommodations.
Host tip: Keep a list of nearby dog parks, pet stores, and vet clinics in your welcome guide. Pet owners appreciate local recommendations and it shows you understand their needs.*
When the weather's nice, everyone wants to be outside. These vacation home amenities create memorable outdoor experiences that guests love. According to industry research, nearly 30% of guests choose vacation rentals specifically for outdoor amenities, making these spaces crucial for attracting bookings and justifying higher rates.
These work for any property type and climate, turning basic outdoor space into guest magnets. Outdoor amenities can justify 10-20% higher rates, and investments like fire pits ($200-500) often pay for themselves through increased bookings over a season.
Host tip: Adding a hot tub increases booking rates by 13% and increases nightly rates.
For waterfront rentals, convenience and fun extras make a huge difference. According to data, 74% of travelers prefer to spend their vacations on the coast, and 83% prefer vacations near water, making outdoor amenities crucial for competitive positioning.
Host tip: Store water toys in a clearly labeled outdoor bin. Families appreciate easy access, and you'll avoid toys scattered around your property in listing photos.
Recent data shows cabin rentals are trending upward with significant year-over-year growth, and the majority of families now seek outdoor-focused destinations over urban alternatives. Mountain properties attract guests seeking cozy vibes and outdoor adventure.
Host tip: Partner with local outfitters and guides to create discount cards for your guests. Many businesses will give you referral fees, turning guest services into additional revenue
Small investments that enhance guest satisfaction and differentiate your property from competitors
Host tip: Start with one "wow factor" and add others based on guest feedback. Different amenities appeal to different guests—test small additions like welcome baskets or charging stations before investing in expensive tech.
These larger investments create unique selling points and can justify premium pricing for properties targeting groups and families. Entertainment amenities work best for larger properties (4+ guests) and longer stays—a pool table in a 1-bedroom rental takes up valuable space, but in a 6-bedroom house it becomes a major selling point.
Host tip: Check what similar properties in your area offer before investing in expensive entertainment. A unique amenity beats expensive duplicates—if everyone has pool tables, consider foosball or arcade games instead.
Eco-conscious travelers represent a growing market segment willing to pay premium rates for sustainable stays. These upgrades often reduce operating costs while appealing to environmentally minded guests.
Host tip: Properties with EV charging show 12.8% higher booking rates according to industry data. Research local utility rebates before installing—many areas offer significant incentives that can offset installation costs.
Digital nomads and business travelers are a fast-growing segment of the Airbnb market. These Airbnb amenities make your rental a top pick for productivity-focused guests. If your property makes it easy to work remotely, you'll stand out in searches, attract longer stays, and earn repeat guests.
Host tip: Adding remote-work amenities also helps your listing appear in Airbnb's "laptop-friendly workspace" filter, boosting visibility and making your rental the obvious choice for professionals on the go.
Managing all these amenities can feel overwhelming. That’s why our free Airbnb host checklist PDF, a complete vacation rental inventory checklist PDF, helps you stay organized during setup, cleaning, or refreshes.
The difference between an average rental and a five-star Airbnb isn’t luck — it’s preparation. Start with essential amenities, then add targeted upgrades based on your guest demographic and local competition.
Use our free checklist to ensure you're covering the basics, then invest strategically in amenities that justify higher rates and attract repeat bookings. The goal isn't to have everything—it's to have the right things for your market.
Host Tip: Leaving thoughtful guest reviews as a host builds trust and boosts your listing's credibility. When guests see that you engage professionally with past visitors, it signals you're an attentive host who values the guest experience.
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Every guest expects the fundamentals: fast WiFi (non-negotiable), fresh linens, basic toiletries, heating/cooling, and a smart lock for secure entry. A coffee maker or hair dryer elevates your Airbnb amenities list. Check our must-have amenities guide for a full breakdown.
Per Airbnb research, guests prioritize fast WiFi, clean linens, and a comfy mattress. Add a crib or hot tub to stand out. These are the core of any vacation home amenities that drive bookings.
A well-equipped kitchen, blackout curtains, and a quality mattress are review winners. For families, toss in a crib or high chair. Hot tubs or welcome baskets spark rave feedback. Use our Airbnb host checklist pdf to nail the details.
Yes, it’s a hotel-standard expectation now. Soap, shampoo, and conditioner are must-haves for your Airbnb list of amenities. Guests notice when they’re missing, and it can ding your reviews.
A complete vacation rental amenities list helps you stock your property with guest favorites, like WiFi, linens, and kitchen essentials, to boost bookings and reviews. Use our guide above to prioritize must-haves and add wow factors like hot tubs. Download our free vacation rental inventory checklist pdf to streamline setup, track inventory, and ensure every guest stay is five-star ready.
