Boost Your Airbnb Bookings: The Must-Have Amenities Guests Love
When it comes to running a successful Airbnb, amenities can make or break your listing. While the space itself is important, the little extras are often what help you stand out from the crowd and earn those 5-star reviews. From basic comforts to thoughtful touches, providing the right amenities can turn a one-time guest into a repeat customer. Plus, Airbnb’s algorithm tends to favor listings that are frequently updated and fully equipped, so including the right amenities in your listing/property not only keep guests happy but also improves your ranking.
At Host & Stay, we help Airbnb hosts optimize their listings for maximum bookings and profitability. Below, we’ll dive into the most popular amenities in the North American market, along with tips on what we recommend for hosts to elevate the guest experience. Whether you’re a seasoned host or just starting out, these suggestions will help you stay competitive in the ever-growing short-term rental space!
1. Fast, Reliable Wi-Fi
This is pretty much a non-negotiable in today’s world. Fast internet is the number one amenity guests expect. Whether they're working remotely or streaming Netflix, reliable Wi-Fi is essential. Invest in a high-speed connection, and make sure to list the exact speed in your Airbnb description (the platform will promote this in your listing). Of course, if your property is designed as a peaceful retreat where guests can unplug and reconnect with nature, then fast Wi-Fi might not be necessary! 😆
Pro Tip: Include a backup internet option if your property is in a rural or remote location where outages may occur. A mobile hotspot or secondary provider can save the day!
2. Comfortable, Quality Bedding
As people who appreciate a great night's sleep, we know this is a big deal: Your guests are counting on a restful night, so make it count! Offering high-quality mattresses and cozy linens is essential for comfort. We recommend considering memory foam pillows, extra blankets, and a variety of pillow types to suit different preferences. You don’t need to go overboard and break the bank, but providing a truly comfortable sleep setup will make a huge impression - especially since guests are often traveling and value a good night’s sleep more than ever.
3. Fully Stocked Kitchen
Many guests opt for Airbnb properties over hotels because they value the option to cook their own meals. A well-equipped kitchen is a major selling point, so it’s essential to provide everything they’ll need - from cookware to coffee. If your property has a kitchen, don’t overlook the basics. Guests aren’t bringing their own silverware, pots, or pans, so ensuring your kitchen is stocked is non-negotiable. To truly impress, we recommend going beyond the essentials and adding a few extras to elevate the experience.
Key Items to Stock in Your Kitchen:
Dishes, silverware
Quality pots, pans, and knives
Cutting board, cooking utensils, can opener, wine/bottle opener, measuring cups/spoons
Coffee maker (consider adding a French press or Keurig)
Basic spices like salt, pepper, and olive oil
Wine glasses, kettle, toaster, blender, reusable containers
A well-stocked kitchen not only enhances your guests' stay but also helps your listing stand out in a competitive market.
4. Laundry Facilities
For longer stays, having access to a washer and dryer is a huge advantage. Many guests, especially families, specifically look for Airbnbs with in-unit laundry. Even if your space is small, a stackable or combo washer-dryer can make a world of difference. We’ve lost count of how many times we've booked places while traveling simply because of the convenience of doing laundry - just like guests choose Airbnbs for the kitchen, they also appreciate the ability to wash clothes without the hassle.
5. Outdoor Space and Entertainment
Outdoor amenities are a big win for Airbnb guests, especially in areas where nature and outdoor activities are the main attraction. Whether it’s a cozy patio, a balcony with a view, or a full backyard with a grill, make the most of your outdoor space. Comfortable seating, ambient lighting, a BBQ, or even a fire pit can really level up the guest experience and make your place unforgettable. Guests love having a spot to relax outside, so don’t overlook the power of creating an inviting outdoor space.
6. Thoughtful Extras
It’s the little touches that often turn a good stay into an unforgettable one. Consider offering things like local guides, board games, books about the area, or a welcome basket with snacks and drinks. High-quality essentials like bathroom toiletries or a nice bottle of olive oil in the kitchen can go a long way. Thoughtful gestures like these help create a personal connection and often lead to glowing reviews. Plus, even if something inconvenient happens during their stay, these small touches can keep you in their good books and show that you genuinely care - after all, things happen, but it’s how you respond that counts.
Host & Stay Tip: We always recommend going the extra mile with a handwritten note or personalized welcome message for guests. These small efforts can significantly boost your ratings and overall guest satisfaction. You can even prep a bulk supply of them to keep with your cleaning supplies, making it easy for your cleaner to add one each time they prepare for a new guest.
Why These Amenities Matter for SEO and Your Listing Performance
Not only do these amenities improve the guest experience, but they also make your listing more attractive to Airbnb’s algorithm. Including specific keywords like “fast Wi-Fi,” “pet-friendly,” or “fully stocked kitchen” in your description can help you rank higher in search results.
At Host & Stay, we specialize in optimizing Airbnb listings to drive traffic and increase bookings. From dynamic pricing strategies to listing descriptions packed with SEO-friendly keywords, we ensure your property is positioned for success in competitive markets. Reach out to learn more about how we can help you boost your property’s visibility and overall performance.
