Vacation Rental Essentials: A Room-by-Room Checklist
A practical, room-by-room checklist of what a holiday rental needs: bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and living area essentials, plus the details that make guests feel at home.
By Admin Published Updated 2 min read
Getting a holiday rental ready means thinking about everything a guest might need from the moment they arrive. Missing basics are easily noticed, while thoughtful extras make a property memorable. Use this room-by-room checklist as a starting point and adapt it to your property and your guests.
Bedroom
- A comfortable mattress with a protector on every bed
- Two sets of quality bedding per bed, so one can be washed while the other is used
- Two pillows per guest, plus spare pillows and a blanket
- Blackout curtains or blinds
- Bedside tables, lamps and accessible sockets or charging points on both sides
- Hangers, a luggage stand or space to open a suitcase, and a mirror
Bathroom
- Two bath towels and a hand towel per guest, plus bath mats
- Hand soap, shampoo, conditioner and shower gel
- Toilet paper with spares in an easy-to-find place
- A hairdryer, hooks for towels and robes, and somewhere to put toiletries
- Good lighting at the mirror
Kitchen
- Enough plates, bowls, glasses, mugs and cutlery for the maximum number of guests, plus a few spares
- Basic pans, a sharp knife, chopping board, utensils and baking tray
- A kettle, toaster and coffee maker suited to your guests
- Washing-up liquid, sponges, tea towels and bin bags
- A few basics such as salt, pepper, oil, tea and coffee
Living area
- Comfortable seating for every guest the property sleeps
- Layered lighting with lamps as well as ceiling lights
- Clear Wi-Fi details and simple instructions for the TV and heating
- A few books, games or a guidebook to the local area
- Durable, washable throws and cushions
Safety and practicalities
- Working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and a fire extinguisher or fire blanket as required
- A first aid kit and clear emergency information
- Secure, simple check-in arrangements
- Check local regulations for short-term rentals in your area
Tip: Keep a labelled, locked owner’s cupboard with spare linen, toiletries, light bulbs and batteries. It makes changeovers faster and prevents small problems from spoiling a stay.
Finishing touches
Fresh plants, artwork with a local connection and a handwritten welcome note make guests feel looked after. Photograph each room once it is styled, and use the photos as a reset guide for cleaners.
For styling advice, read how to style an Airbnb guests will love. Our Airbnb and vacation rental styling service can source, furnish and style your property.
