Top Airbnb Amenities to Boost Bookings & Revenue

As guest expectations rise, hosts face pressure to deliver exceptional experiences while maximizing ROI. The difference between a fully booked calendar with premium rates and a property struggling to attract guests comes down to one critical factor: amenities.

This guide outlines the best short-term rental amenities that impact guest satisfaction, review scores, and revenue. We help you prioritize investments for your Airbnb or vacation rental property, from essentials to standout features that justify higher rates.

At STR Cribs, the team specialize in data-driven design and renovation for short-term rentals. Their expertise in identifying the amenities and design elements that drive bookings allows them to offer these Airbnb hosting tips—because they've seen what works across hundreds of successful properties nationwide.

Why Amenities Matter More Than Ever in the STR Market

Recently, the Short-Term Rental (STR) market has evolved dramatically. With millions of listings worldwide, guests can be selective, comparing numerous properties before booking. In this environment, your amenities determine your success.

Strategic selection of amenities delivers tangible benefits:

• Higher Occupancy Rates: Properties with the right amenities attract more initial bookings and fill calendar gaps more effectively.
• Increased Average Daily Rate (ADR): Well-chosen amenities justify premium pricing, allowing higher rates than comparable properties.
• Positive Reviews & Ratings: Amenities that enhance comfort and convenience lead to enthusiastic reviews, helping you achieve Superhost status and improved search visibility.
• Repeat Bookings & Referrals: Memorable amenities create loyal guests who return and recommend your property.
• Competitive Advantage: The right amenities differentiate your listing from similar properties.
• Enhanced Guest Experience: Thoughtful amenities show guests you care about their comfort, creating a positive emotional connection to your property.

Understanding which amenities boost Airbnb bookings and revenue requires strategic thinking and market awareness. Let's explore the amenities that deliver the greatest impact.

Foundational Amenities: The Non-Negotiable Essentials

These Airbnb essentials are the baseline expectations for any short-term rental. They won't wow your guests, but their absence will lead to negative reviews. Consider these as your property's foundation—they're not exciting, but everything else depends on getting them right.

Reliable High-Speed Wi-Fi

• Why it matters: Today's travelers need reliable internet for work, entertainment, and planning. Poor connection speeds or unreliable service rank among the top guest complaints.
• Tip: Regularly test your Wi-Fi speed and consider upgrading if it falls below 50 Mbps. Display your network name and password prominently in your welcome materials and ensure coverage extends throughout your property.

Spotless Cleanliness

• Why it matters: While impeccable cleanliness is not an amenity, guests perceive it as one—and it's non-negotiable.
• Tip: Invest in professional cleaning between stays and have a quality control process to ensure nothing is missed. Pay attention to bathrooms, kitchens, and bedding.

Comfortable Bed & Quality Linens

• Why it matters: Sleep quality significantly impacts the guest experience. An uncomfortable bed guarantees negative reviews.
• Tip: Invest in a quality medium-firm mattress for most preferences. Provide at least two pillows per guest with varying firmness. Use white or light-colored linens (minimum 300 thread count) that can be bleached.

Basic Kitchenware & Essentials

• Why it matters: Many guests choose STRs for kitchen access, making this a core expectation.
• Tip: Stock functional essentials like pots, pans, sharp knives, a cutting board, mixing bowls, measuring cups, a colander, a baking sheet, dishes and utensils for double your max guest count, a wine opener, a can opener, a coffee maker, a microwave, a toaster, and basic supplies (olive oil, salt, pepper, coffee, tea).

Sufficient Towels

• Why it matters: This necessity becomes a major irritation when inadequate.
• Tip: Provide at least two bath towels, two hand towels, and two washcloths per guest. Include extra kitchen towels and add beach/pool towels if relevant.

Essential Toiletries

• Why it matters: These small items offer major convenience for travelers.
• Tip: Provide soap, shampoo, conditioner, and toilet paper. Add body lotion, makeup remover wipes, and shower caps. Quality dispensers look more upscale than single-use bottles and are more environmentally friendly.

Heating & Air Conditioning

• Why it matters: Temperature control is crucial to guest comfort in any climate.
• Tip: Ensure systems are well-maintained and provide clear operating instructions. Smart thermostats prevent energy waste while improving the guest experience.

Safety Features

• Why it matters: They protect guests and your property while meeting legal requirements.
• Tip: Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, fire extinguishers, and a basic first-aid kit. Mark emergency exits and include local emergency numbers in your welcome book.

Guest Comfort Enhancers: Mid-Tier Wins for Great Reviews

These amenities elevate your property above the basic level and contribute to positive review comments. They transform a functional stay into a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Upgraded Coffee Station

• Why it matters: For many travelers, coffee is a morning ritual, and a quality setup gets the day started right.
• Tip: Offer better coffee than basic drip with a Keurig, Nespresso, or French press. Include regular, decaf, flavored coffee, tea, sugar, creamer, and honey. A few quality mugs that match your decor add a nice touch.

Smart TV with Streaming Access

• Why it matters: Entertainment options are essential for longer stays and rainy days.
• Tip: Provide a smart TV with easy access to Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, and other popular streaming services. Include clear login instructions and reset any personal accounts between guests.

Comfortable Living Area Seating

• Why it matters: Guests need a place to relax other than the bed, especially for longer stays.
• Tip: Ensure adequate, comfortable seating for your maximum guest count. Consider the space flow and create conversation areas. A sofa with chaise or sectional offers flexible seating.

Blackout Curtains/Blinds

• Why it matters: These dramatically improve sleep quality and are especially appreciated in bedrooms.
• Tip: Install blackout curtains or blinds in all bedrooms. Consider light-blocking options for living areas with direct morning or afternoon sun.

Full-Length Mirror

• Why it matters: This addition is consistently appreciated, especially by guests at special events.
• Tip: Place at least one full-length mirror in the property, ideally in the master bedroom or near the entry.

Hair Dryer

• Why it matters: This bulky item is expected in accommodations, but it is inconvenient for guests to pack.
• Tip: In each bathroom, provide a mid-range hair dryer with multiple heat and speed settings.

Iron & Ironing Board

• Why it matters: It is essential for business travelers and guests at events or nice dinners.
• Tip: Include a functioning iron and stable ironing board in an accessible location.

Welcome Basket and Local Treats

• Why it matters: It creates a positive first impression and memorable welcome experience.
• Tip: Include local snacks, bottled water, and a personalized welcome note. The thoughtfulness translates into positive reviews.

Experience Elevators: Stand-Out Amenities for Higher ADR & Bookings

These unique Airbnb amenities transform a pleasant stay into a memorable experience. They justify premium pricing, differentiate your listing from competitors, and often become the focal point of glowing reviews.

Hot Tub or Jacuzzi

• Why it matters: It consistently ranks among the most-searched amenities on booking platforms, with proven ability to increase booking rates and ADR.
• Tip: Maintain cleanliness, provide clear usage guidelines, and feature this prominently in your listing photos and description. The investment pays for itself through increased bookings and rates.

Outdoor Space Enhancements

• Why it matters: Outdoor areas extend living space and create social hubs that guests love.
• Tip: Depending on your climate and property, consider a fire pit with seating, a quality grill with tools, a dining area, a hammock, or string lights for ambiance. Well-designed outdoor spaces often appear in guest photos and reviews.

Dedicated Workspace

• Why it matters: With the rise of remote work and digital nomads, a proper workspace has shifted from nice-to-have to essential for many travelers.
• Tip: Include a proper desk (not just a dining table), ergonomic chair, good lighting, accessible outlets, and reliable Wi-Fi in this area. Feature this workspace in your listing to attract remote workers.

Pet-Friendly Amenities

• Why it matters: Pet-friendly properties can tap into a market segment willing to pay premium rates.
• Tip: If allowing pets, go beyond permitting them by providing dedicated amenities. These can include food and water bowls, waste bags, designated pet towels, and perhaps a pet bed or toys. Clear guidelines about permitted areas and cleanup expectations prevent issues.

Family-Friendly Gear

• Why it matters: Families are a lucrative segment that books longer stays and appreciates conveniences that lighten their packing load.
• Tip: Depending on your target demographic, include a portable crib, high chair, child safety gates, outlet covers, children's dishware, books, and age-appropriate games or toys.

Unique Local Touches

• Why it matters: It creates a sense of place and authenticity that chain accommodations can't match.
• Tip: Incorporate local art, guidebooks with personal recommendations, a "best of the area" binder, and locally sourced welcome items. These touches help guests connect with the destination.

Recreational Items

• Why it matters: Location-appropriate gear adds significant value and activity options.
• Tip: Offer bikes with locks and helmets, beach gear (chairs, umbrella, cooler, toys), hiking guides and daypacks, or snowsports equipment based on your location. These amenities extend the experience beyond your property.

EV Charger

• Why it matters: As electric vehicle adoption grows, this amenity attracts a specific guest segment willing to book for this feature.
• Tip: Installing an EV charging station can be a major differentiator, especially in areas with limited infrastructure.

Tech & Convenience: Streamlining the Guest Stay

Modern technology can enhance the guest experience by removing friction points and adding convenience. These amenities create a seamless, hassle-free stay.

Keyless Entry (Smart Lock)

• Why it matters: It eliminates key exchanges, lockouts, and security concerns from lost keys.
• Tip: Choose a reliable smart lock system with a backup entry method. Before arrival, send clear instructions and have a responsive troubleshooting system.

Smart Home Features

• Why it matters: It adds modern convenience and saves energy.
• Tip: Consider smart thermostats, lighting, and entertainment systems. Keep them user-friendly with clear instructions. Avoid overly complex systems that confuse guests.

USB Charging Ports

• Why it matters: Guests increasingly expect small conveniences.
• Tip: Install USB ports near beds and desks where guests need them. Multi-port charging stations are appreciated.

Bluetooth Speaker

• Why it matters: An easy way for guests to enjoy their own music or podcasts.
• Tip: Provide a simple, quality Bluetooth speaker with clear pairing instructions. Position it in the main living area or kitchen.

How to Choose the Right Amenities for Your STR

While the amenities above have proven value across many properties, strategic thinking is required to select the optimal ones for your short-term rental. Not every amenity is right for every property or budget.

Know Your Target Guest

Your amenity decisions should be driven by understanding your target guests. Business travelers prioritize workspace, fast Wi-Fi, and convenient check-in. Families need child-friendly features and safety. Couples on romantic getaways appreciate privacy and luxury.

Study your current guest demographics or research similar properties in your area to identify likely guest profiles if you're starting.

Analyze Your Market & Competition

Examine successful local listings. What amenities do they highlight? What do guests mention most in their reviews? Look for common amenities and opportunities to differentiate your property by offering something competitors don't.

Consider seasonality. Winter and summer amenities differ.

Budget & ROI

Not all amenities deliver equal ROI. A hot tub might cost thousands, but its impact on booking rates and ADR often justifies the expense. Conversely, expensive kitchen upgrades might not yield returns if most guests eat out.

Prioritize investments based on their potential impact on occupancy rate, average daily rate, and review scores. Start with lower-cost, high-impact amenities and reinvest profits into bigger upgrades over time.

Relying solely on intuition can be risky. A data-driven STR design approach removes guesswork and ensures maximum investment returns.

Conclusion: Invest Wisely, Host Successfully

The best short-term rental amenities meet guest expectations, enhance their experience, and deliver returns on your investment. You can create a property that satisfies guests and outperforms the competition by addressing each tier—from essentials to standout features.

Successful hosting isn't about offering every amenity, but selecting the right ones for your property, location, and target guests. By focusing on valued amenities, you can increase Airbnb bookings and guest satisfaction while maximizing rental income.