So much content out there is about “more, more, more” when looking for Airbnb amenities. There are many Airbnb amenities out there that are worth it, that is 100% true. However, with so much out there, it can feel overwhelming. We’re here to break down a few “popular” Airbnb amenities that you might not actually need, and how you can save a few pennies while still providing a 5-star experience to your guests.

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Don’t overspend on Airbnb amenities

We get it. There’s a loud call to action for “luxury” amenities in short-term rentals. It’s important to have high-quality and top-tier items in your home. That said, when trying to compete with luxury properties, more amenities don’t always signal higher quality. Instead, you’ll want to focus on top-notch communication, extreme cleanliness, and making your guests feel at home.

Airbnb amenities that are less important than you think

While the following amenities are super cool, they aren’t deal breakers for your home.

1. Fancy coffee makers

Having a coffee maker is a must in your short-term rental. However, you don’t need to splurge on that $1,000 espresso suite. Instead, shoot for something more in the middle of the pack. Having a coffee station that has a steamer is a luxury, but you can find these high-quality options for much less than $1,000. Alternatively, investing in a really strong standard coffee maker is also a great option.

2. Over-the-top smart home features

In this day and age, having smart home features is important. We love smart TVs, smart locks, etc. However, we don’t need to take it too crazy. For example, smart blinds, mirrors, and virtual assistants, while cool, could potentially confuse less tech-savvy guests. While they sound cool in theory, these types of smart home devices aren’t a must-do.

3. Game rooms

Game rooms are cool. They’re a fun novelty and often provide a pretty cool photo for your listing. That said, they typically don’t get used by a ton of your guests. This is an item that can be fun if you have the time and money, but it isn’t an amenity you should prioritize. Pool tables are particularly challenging.

4. Excessive kitchen appliances

Having a fully stocked kitchen is a must. That said, you don’t need to go overboard with bread makers, fondue sets, panini presses, etc. Focus on appliances that one would normally use in their day-to-day life rather than novelties.

5. A whirlpool tub

While once a popular amenity, more folks are searching for outdoor hot tubs than a warm bath. Skip the bathroom luxury and install an outdoor hot tub or sauna.

Final thoughts

At the end of the day, guests rarely remember how many flashy amenities your Airbnb had. What they do remember is whether the property was clean, comfortable, easy to use, and accurately represented in the listing. While luxury add-ons can occasionally help a property stand out, they aren’t always worth the investment, especially if they add unnecessary maintenance, confusion, or costs. Instead of trying to include every trendy amenity possible, focus on creating a reliable and welcoming experience that makes guests feel at home. Sometimes, the simplest upgrades deliver the biggest return.

Host Tools provides an automated, unified calendar for short-term rental hosts, allowing you to seamlessly list on all major channels. Start your free trial today!