Amenities can make or break an Airbnb—but not always in the way owners expect.
More Isn’t Always Better
Many owners believe adding more features automatically increases bookings. In reality, each amenity adds:
The question isn’t “Can we add this?”—it’s “Does this add real value?”
Simple Amenities Win More Often
Guests want things that are:
- Easy to use
- Reliable
- Familiar
Examples:
- Simple drip coffee makers instead of complex espresso machines
- Roku TVs instead of complicated systems
- Durable furniture instead of luxury finishes
Complex amenities often lead to:
- Confusion
- Complaints
- Lower reviews
The Hidden Cost of “Nice-to-Have” Features
Every additional appliance creates operational overhead:
- Someone must check it
- Someone must fix it
- Someone must replace it
If an amenity doesn’t increase nightly rates or occupancy, it’s often not worth the effort.
Hot Tubs, Pools & ROI Reality
Some amenities do add value—but they come with tradeoffs:
- Hot tubs require weekly maintenance and increasing regulation
- Pools cost thousands annually to open, close, and service
In today’s market, many guests are choosing lower-cost homes without luxury extras to save money.
What Guests Actually Search For
Guests often filter by:
- Price
- Location
- Pet-friendly
- Family-friendly
Low-cost, high-impact features like pack-and-plays, high chairs, pet accommodations, and game tables often outperform flashy upgrades.
The Smart Amenity Strategy
The best-performing Airbnbs balance:
- Comfort
- Durability
- Ease of use
Amenities should simplify the guest experience—not complicate it.
