As a vacation rental host, you want to do everything you can to make your guests feel at home. One way to do that is by providing them with freebies when they check in to your property. These freebies, I guarantee, will leave a lasting impression in the eyes of every guest.
The best part is you don’t have to spend a lot of money on this. Below, you’ll find what I believe are the best freebies you can provide for your guests and how to figure out which ones are best for the uniqueness of your property.
The Five Best Freebies
High-speed internet
Whether for work, socializing, or entertainment, staying constantly connected is an important part of our lives. Offering free high-speed Wi-Fi in your short-term rental is a great way to make your guests feel at home and provide them with the opportunity to stay connected during their vacation.
The key word here is high speed. I pay for the highest speed I can get, then I advertise that on my listing on online travel sites. This is by far the most expensive part of the freebie package, but it is also the most important, as it can affect your bottom line.
Invest in good Wi-Fi!
Local maps and guides
Help your guests make the most of their vacation by providing them with maps and guides of the local area.
One of the most important decisions when planning a vacation is choosing where to stay. For many travelers, choosing a short-term or vacation rental is the best option, as it allows them to enjoy some much-needed privacy and flexibility. However, if you are running a short-term rental business, it can be helpful to provide your guests with local maps and guides that feature information on attractions and activities near your property. This way, they will not only be able to find their way around more easily but also have some recommendations for great places to explore during their stay.
With the right recommendations, you can help make your guests’ vacations even more memorable and enjoyable! You can find these guides and maps at your local city tourism office for free.
Discounts to local attractions
Another great way to help your guests make the most of their vacation is by offering them discounts on local attractions.
This can be done in several different ways. For example, you could create a list of recommended outings with information on discounted prices or membership rates at museums, theaters, and other popular tourist spots.
You could also give your guests coupons or vouchers to use at those same venues you happen to have, or even better, you can ask different businesses for special discounts that you can offer exclusively.
Whatever approach you choose, providing discounts to local attractions is sure to be appreciated.
Breakfast items
Start your guests’ day off right by providing them with a good breakfast. This could be anything from coffee and muffins to cereal and milk.
It’s a small gesture that will go a long way in making your guests feel welcome and comfortable. A hearty breakfast is a perfect way to show them that you care and want them to feel welcome and comfortable during their stay.
Welcome packet
Last but not least, make sure you provide your guests with a welcome packet upon their arrival.
This packet should include details about the rental property itself, such as its layout, finishes, amenities, and features. In addition, it should include information about the local area and attractions, along with any other pertinent information that might be helpful to your guests.
Whether you decide to provide a printed welcome packet or put together an online version that they can open with a QR code, taking care of all the details in advance will help make your guests’ stay a relaxing and enjoyable one. One of my favorite ways to do this is to use a digital guidebook instead of a physical welcome packet or a combination of both.
How to Figure Out Which Freebies You Should Provide
To start, choose freebies that reflect the local area. If you’re located in a tourist destination, offer freebies that reflect that. This can include local snacks, discounts, or coupons to local attractions and businesses.
Then, choose freebies that are useful. Think shampoo, soap, cups, plates, and maybe even a Brita water filter.
Then, choose freebies that are fun and seasonal. For Thanksgiving, provide board games. For Christmas, give them a chance to decorate a tree in the unit by providing ornaments and a tree. Leave eggs and a coloring set out during Easter.
Anything easy to do that goes the extra mile will make you the best host in town. Show your guests that you care, and they’ll keep coming back.
Conclusion
As a vacation rental host, your goal is to ensure your guests have the best possible experience. By offering some or all of these items, you make sure your guests feel right at home.
Do you have any favorite freebies that you offer your guests? Share them in the comments below!
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Note By BiggerPockets: These are opinions written by the author and do not necessarily represent the opinions of BiggerPockets.