12 High-ROI Airbnb Amenities to Elevate Guest Experience and Revenue

1. High-Speed Wi-Fi and Work-Friendly Space

In today’s connected world, fast, reliable internet is practically a must-have for any rental. Guests expect to stream, video-call, and work remotely without hiccups. Nearly 81% of travelers say Wi-Fi is “essential” or “very important” on vacation, and 64% consider internet speed when booking a rental. Moreover, almost 90% would avoid a listing with reviews complaining of bad Wi-Fi​. Providing excellent Wi-Fi not only prevents bad reviews, it actively attracts more bookings – especially from the growing remote-work traveler segment.

With the rise of digital nomads, many guests now seek a comfortable workspace at their Airbnb. In fact, long-term stays (28+ nights) have surged to account for about 20% of all nights booked on Airbnb​, driven by remote workers “living anywhere.” By equipping your rental with a dedicated work area (desk, ergonomic chair, good lighting) and advertising high-speed Wi-Fi, you can tap into this trend. Properties that cater to work-from-anywhere guests enjoy longer stays and higher occupancy.

• Performance Boost: Listings with fast Wi-Fi see significantly higher demand – data shows reliable internet can boost RevPAR by ~18% and bump occupancy rates by 16%​.
• Action Tip: Offer at least 50–100 Mbps speed (or higher if available) and share the tested speed in your listing. Provide a desk or multipurpose table and a comfortable chair to create a mini home office. Even adding touches like a monitor, keyboard, or charging station can set your place apart for remote workers.
• Guest Satisfaction: Guests will appreciate being able to video conference or stream Netflix without buffering. You’ll attract positive reviews from business travelers, students, and anyone who needs to stay connected.

In short, investing in great Wi-Fi and a work-friendly setup is a low-cost, high-reward upgrade. It expands your pool of potential guests to include telecommuters and longer-term stayers who often pay premium rates for a comfortable “office away from office.”

2. Smart Locks and Contactless Self Check-In

Today’s travelers value convenience and safety, and nothing exemplifies that more than a seamless, contactless check-in. Installing a smart lock or keyless entry system allows guests to self check-in at any hour using a code or smartphone – no need to coordinate meet-ups or worry about lost keys. This tech-focused amenity has gone from a perk to an expectation, especially since 2020. By 2024, about 66% of vacation rental hosts use PIN code smart locks and another 9% use lockboxes, whereas only 24% still greet guests in person​. In other words, the majority of successful rentals have embraced self check-in, because guests prefer it.

From a ROI perspective, smart locks are relatively inexpensive yet can boost your bookings and ratings. A Deloitte study found ~60% of travelers are more likely to choose lodging with contactless check-in options. Guests appreciate the flexibility to arrive late at night and the peace of mind of not worrying about a physical key. Especially for international travelers with unpredictable arrival times, or families with kids and luggage in tow, a keyless entry is a major convenience factor that can tip the decision in your favor.

• Better Guest Experience: Self check-in means guests can drive straight to your property anytime and enter with a code, no stress if a flight is delayed. It also enhances privacy – some guests feel more at ease not having to meet the host for keys. This ease often translates into positive reviews mentioning “easy check-in” and “secure access.”
• Operational Benefits: You eliminate the logistics of key hand-off and can manage access remotely. Many smart locks allow you to generate unique codes for each guest (improving security) and monitor entries. If you use cleaning or maintenance crews, you can assign them temporary codes too.
• Health & Safety Appeal: In a post-pandemic world, contactless solutions reassure guests. Even beyond health concerns, solo travelers and those arriving at night often feel safer with a discreet self-entry.



Overall, a smart lock is a professional touch that signals your rental is modern and well-managed. For a few hundred dollars or less, you streamline operations and likely see higher occupancy from the growing cohort of travelers specifically filtering for “self check-in” amenities. As one industry summary put it, contactless tech in rentals has been “propelled forward” and is now a standard that hosts ignore at their peril​

3. Luxury Bedding and a Five-Star Sleep Experience

One amenity category that consistently pays off is anything that improves the guest’s sleep quality. At the end of the day, travelers want a good night’s rest – and they will remember if your property delivered it. Investing in premium bedding, mattresses, and bedroom comforts can turn an average stay into a hotel-quality experience.

According to J.D. Power research in the hotel industry, the comfort of the bed is the #1 contributor to guest satisfaction with the room​. Guests who get better-than-expected sleep are far more likely to give high overall ratings and become repeat customers. In that study, hotel guests who had an exceptionally good sleep were 78% “definitely willing” to return to that property​– showing the enormous loyalty impact of a comfortable bed.

For Airbnb hosts, the ROI on upgrading bedroom amenities is reflected in both higher nightly rates and stronger reviews. Travelers are willing to pay a bit more for a listing that promises a “heavenly bed” or “plush bedding.” And unlike some amenities, great sleep benefits every type of guest – whether on vacation or business, young or old. A few actionable upgrades in this area include:

• High-Quality Mattress: Don’t skimp on the mattress – a medium-firm, supportive mattress (memory foam or hybrid) that’s less than ~5-7 years old is ideal. Many hosts advertise their mattress brand or type if it’s a selling point (e.g., “Tuft & Needle queen mattress for restful sleep”).
• Premium Linens and Pillows: Provide soft, high-thread-count cotton sheets (typically 100% cotton percale or sateen with 300+ thread count or linen bedding) and an assortment of pillows (some down/feather, some hypoallergenic) so guests can choose their comfort. Luxury hotels often use all-white bedding because it looks crisp and clean; adopting the same can subconsciously signal quality to guests.
• Bedroom Comforts: Blackout curtains or eye-masks, ear plugs, and a white-noise machine can help light sleepers. Bedside lamps on both sides, extra blankets, and good climate control (ceiling fan or thermostat access) also make a difference. Small touches like an alarm clock, bedside charging station, or even robes and slippers add to that five-star feel.

By curating a sleep sanctuary, you increase the likelihood of 5-star reviews. Guests often specifically mention “super comfortable bed” or “best sleep we had on our trip” in reviews, which in turn attracts future bookings. 

And while you can’t directly measure the revenue from one nice mattress, the boost in guest satisfaction translates to higher demand and justified premium pricing. As a lodging magazine noted, delivering a superior sleep experience is a “huge opportunity” to earn goodwill​– one that many rentals overlook. Don’t be one of them; make your beds a bragging point of your listing.

6. EV Charger and Eco-Friendly Touches

Eco-friendly amenities are increasingly moving from “nice-to-have” to “must-have” for many travelers. One of the most impactful green upgrades for a rental today is installing an EV (electric vehicle) charger. 

With millions of electric cars on the road and climbing gas prices, EV owners actively seek accommodations where they can charge their car overnight. In fact, Airbnb’s data shows more than 78,000 listings now offer EV charging as an amenity​, and that number is growing rapidly. 

Hosts who added EV chargers have seen tangible ROI: one analysis found short-term rentals with an EV charger earn 19% higher rental income on average compared to those without​. For a relatively small investment (often $1,000–$2,000 for equipment and installation, sometimes with local rebates available), you not only future-proof your property but also tap into a high-income guest segment (EV owners tend to be professionals on road trips, willing to pay a premium for convenience).

Beyond EV chargers, showing a commitment to sustainability can enhance your brand and appeal. A whopping 76% of travelers say they want to travel more sustainably in the coming year​, and 43% are willing to pay more for accommodations with proven eco-friendly practices​. Here are some eco-friendly amenities and practices that can boost guest satisfaction (and sometimes reduce your costs too):

• Level 2 EV Charging Station: Advertise it clearly if you have one (many EV travelers filter specifically for this). Mention the connector type (e.g., J1772 or Tesla adapter) and if charging is free. This amenity can be a deciding factor for EV-driving guests, turning your off-the-beaten-path cabin into a viable option for them.
• Solar Panels or Renewable Energy: While not visible to guests, noting that your property runs on solar power or 100% green electricity can be a selling point. Some eco-conscious guests will choose a rental with solar panels over another, all else equal. Plus, solar can lower your utility bills in the long run – a financial win-win.
• Energy-Efficient Appliances & Smart Thermostats: Upgrade to LED lighting, Energy Star appliances, and a smart thermostat. Guests appreciate consistent comfort and some will notice and commend your modern, efficient fixtures in reviews. A smart thermostat also lets you manage heating/cooling between stays to save energy.
• Recycling, Composting, and Amenities Recycling: Provide clearly labeled recycling bins (and compost if applicable) for guest use. Little things like stocking reusable shopping bags, recycling bags, and even biodegradable trash bags signal that you care about reducing waste.
• Eco Toiletries and Supplies: Consider supplying eco-friendly toiletries (natural soap, shampoo bars, etc.) or bulk dispensers instead of single-use mini bottles. Use green cleaning products. These touches appeal to the environmentally conscious guest and can be mentioned in your listing.

From an occupancy and revenue standpoint, going green can broaden your appeal. You’ll attract guests who specifically filter for “EV charger” or look for words like “solar-powered” or “eco-friendly” in descriptions. Also, business travelers and younger travelers often prefer accommodations that align with their values. A Booking.com survey noted 74% of people said sustainable travel is important to them​, yet many feel there aren’t enough options. By marketing your eco-features, you can capture that demand.

In summary, eco-friendly amenities like EV chargers offer both immediate ROI (through higher rates and occupancy) and long-term benefits (energy savings, brand loyalty). As the shift to electric vehicles and sustainable travel accelerates, early-adopter hosts who invest in these features position themselves ahead of the curve – appealing to a growing market while doing good for the planet.

7. Family-Friendly Gear and Kid Amenities

To maximize occupancy, it’s wise to make your rental welcoming to families with children. Family travel is a huge segment of the short-term rental market – and unlike hotel rooms, a key reason parents choose vacation rentals is for the home-like conveniences. In a large survey, 64% of travelers said access to a kitchen was a top reason to book a vacation rental over a hotel​, and having space for everyone was another. By extension, providing family-oriented amenities can significantly increase your bookings and allow you to charge a higher rate because you’re catering to a larger group size.

Consider that a family with a baby or toddler faces a lot of packing and logistics. If your Airbnb can lighten that load, it will stand out. Some high-ROI family amenities include:

• Crib and High Chair: Offering a portable crib (Pack ’n Play) and a high chair is a game changer for parents. If you advertise “crib and high chair available,” you open your listing to families with infants and toddlers – a group that often searches specifically for these items. The cost (~$100–$150 each) is low compared to the increased booking potential. Many family travelers will book one of the few listings in a destination that can accommodate their little one’s sleep needs comfortably.
• Child-Safety Items: Depending on your property, consider small investments like outlet covers, a baby gate for stairs, and cabinet latches. You can mention “child-safe features” in your listing, which reassures parents. While it’s impossible to baby-proof completely, a generally kid-friendly space (no sharp glass coffee tables, fragile decor within toddler reach, etc.) will get better feedback from families.
• Toys, Games, and Books: A basket of toys or building blocks, a few children’s books or coloring books, and some board games can really delight families. Imagine a rainy day on vacation – if you provide puzzles and games, parents will be grateful. These don’t have to be new; even second-hand in good condition is fine. Highlighting “games and puzzles for family fun” in your amenities list shows you welcome kids.
• Outdoor Play & Gear: If you have a yard, consider adding a simple swing set, sandbox, or outdoor games (like a soccer ball, frisbee, or cornhole set). For properties near beaches, providing beach toys or a wagon can set you apart. Even offering toddler sleds at a ski cabin, or a baby carrier for hiking, can be a thoughtful touch that wins bookings.
• Sleeping Arrangements for Kids: Bunk beds or twin beds in a second bedroom can appeal to families (siblings love bunk beds – it can make your place the kids’ favorite). Make sure to list the bed configurations clearly, so a family of five can see that you have, say, a queen bed, two twins, and a sofa-bed – plenty of space for all.

The ROI here comes from increased occupancy and longer stays. Families often travel during school holidays and for longer stretches (a week or more). If your rental is known as family-friendly, you’ll capture peak season demand. Also, families are often willing to pay a bit more for the convenience of not hauling a crib or a suitcase of toys on vacation. 

You might also find that family groups treat the home respectfully (parents have a vested interest in a clean, safe environment), leading to lower damage and steady repeat customers as their kids grow.

Market data supports that pet- and family-friendly rentals perform better: in one analysis, family-sized rentals with kid amenities enjoyed higher occupancy and repeat booking rates, as they fill a crucial niche in many markets​. 

By being proactive and truly welcoming families (and communicating that in your listing title and description) – e.g. “Perfect Family Getaway – crib, high chair, toys provided” – you differentiate your property. The result can be a calendar filled with grateful families and robust rental income for you.

8. Pet-Friendly Accommodation

Over the past few years, more and more travelers are bringing their furry family members along on vacation. Catering to this trend by allowing pets (and equipping your rental for them) can significantly boost your revenue. Pet-friendly rentals often achieve higher occupancy and revenue than their no-pets counterparts. For example, in 2022 U.S. data, pet-friendly vacation rentals had an average occupancy of 54%, compared to 48% for non-pet-friendly – and their average daily rate was 9% higher​.

Thanks to both higher rates and more bookings, the average revenue per available night (RevPAR) was 24% greater for pet-friendly listings than for those that don’t allow pets​. Those are hard numbers to ignore.

Why the uplift? Simply put, you’re tapping into a large market with limited supply. Pet owners often struggle to find quality accommodations that welcome their dogs or cats. If your Airbnb throws out the welcome mat for pets, you become one of relatively few options, especially in certain areas. (Airbnb notes that around 27% of its U.S. listings are pet-friendly​, so three out of four don’t allow pets – a gap you can exploit.) Here’s how to make pet-friendly a high-ROI amenity:

• Pet Amenities: Equip your place with a few pet basics. This could include food and water bowls, an absorbent door mat for muddy paws, pet waste bags, and perhaps a small treat or toy as a welcome gift. A cheap dog bed or throw blanket designated for pets can also be useful (to protect your sofa while giving pets a comfy spot). These touches cost very little but make pet owners feel truly welcome – leading to great reviews (“they even had goodies for our dog!”).
• Pet Fee: Many hosts charge a pet fee (e.g. $50-$100 per stay or a small nightly amount). Guests are generally willing to pay it, since boarding a pet or using pet hotels would cost much more. This fee can offset additional cleaning or wear-and-tear, effectively increasing your income per booking. Some hosts incorporate it into the nightly rate for simplicity, while others collect it separately – decide what works best for you and aligns with Airbnb’s policies.
• House Rules & Setup: Make sure to have clear house rules for pets to prevent issues. For example, rules might include no pets on furniture (or use provided covers), crating pets if left alone, and cleaning up after them outdoors. Provide easy tools for compliance – like a poop scoop or bags and info on nearby dog parks or vet clinics. If your yard is fenced, prominently mention that – a fenced yard is a huge draw for dog owners and can justify a higher rate by itself. Ensure your cleaning team does a thorough job to remove pet hair between guests (to avoid upsetting non-pet guests who come next).
• Marketing Boost: Include “pet-friendly” right in your listing title or at least in the first line of the description. Pet owners will often filter by pet-friendly and also scan titles. You can say “Pets welcome!” or mention the fenced yard or nearby dog-friendly trails. By making it obvious, you’ll capture those bookings.

Allowing pets does come with considerations: some extra cleaning, the potential for occasional damage or allergies. But many hosts find the trade-off well worth it. As long as you charge a pet fee and set expectations, the financial upside is strong. An internal Airbnb study suggested that hosts who allow pets often see increased search visibility and booking rates​. In fact, one experiment with 21,000 listings showed simply adding “pets allowed” led to a 28% increase in listing views on Airbnb​– which ultimately means more bookings.

In summary, becoming pet-friendly can significantly widen your guest pool and boost loyalty. Pet owners are a dedicated bunch – if they find a rental that warmly welcomes their dog, they’re likely to return year after year and recommend you to friends. By investing in a few pet amenities and solid cleaning practices, you can fetch substantially higher ROI and wagging tails at your Airbnb.

11. Outdoor Movie Area – A Show-Stopping Entertainment Feature

A dedicated outdoor movie space can transform an Airbnb into a memorable experience that guests love to share. Whether it's sports fans wanting to watch a big game under the stars or families hosting a movie night, this feature creates a unique and social element that keeps people coming back.

Why It Works:

• High Perceived Value: Even a simple projector setup with cozy seating can make your listing stand out from competitors without significantly raising costs.
• Expands Your Entertainment Offerings: While many rentals focus on indoor amenities, this allows you to extend your living space outdoors, increasing its appeal.
• Great for Groups and Families: It creates a natural gathering space that guests will associate with unforgettable moments, leading to higher ratings and return bookings.

How to Implement:

• Projector & Screen: A weather-resistant projector or a large pull-down screen (or even a blank white wall) makes for a great outdoor theater setup.
• Comfortable Seating: Think cushioned lounge chairs, bean bags, or even picnic blankets to create a cozy atmosphere.
• String Lights & Fire Pit: Proper lighting enhances the ambiance, while a fire pit can encourage guests to stay outside longer.
• Streaming Capabilities: Provide an HDMI connection or Chromecast so guests can easily stream movies or sports from their devices.

ROI Potential:

Outdoor entertainment areas create a premium, Instagram-worthy experience that attracts more bookings and justifies higher rates. Hosts who highlight a well-designed outdoor movie area in their photos often see increased search visibility and engagement on their listings. Since this amenity is relatively low-cost to implement, its impact on revenue makes it a high-ROI investment.

12. Exercise Area (Indoor or Outdoor) – Catering to Health-Conscious Travelers

Fitness is a priority for many travelers, and having a dedicated workout space can differentiate your rental while appealing to health-conscious guests, athletes, and long-term stayers. Whether it’s an indoor gym setup or an outdoor fitness space with nature views, this feature can help increase bookings and attract higher-value guests.

Why It Works:

• Growing Fitness Trend: More travelers prioritize staying active on vacation, and those who do are more likely to choose a rental with fitness amenities over one without.
• Remote Workers & Extended Stays: Business travelers and remote workers often seek accommodations that allow them to maintain their fitness routines.
• Low-Maintenance, High Appeal: A small dedicated workout space requires little upkeep compared to other amenities like pools or hot tubs.

How to Implement:

• Indoor Home Gym Setup: Provide free weights, yoga mats, resistance bands, and a smart TV with workout apps for a convenient fitness experience. A compact treadmill or spin bike can be a great bonus if space allows.
• Outdoor Fitness Space: If your rental has outdoor space, consider a small calisthenics setup, a yoga deck, or even a mini obstacle course. This works exceptionally well for Airbnbs in nature-focused locations.
• Multipurpose Equipment: Foldable workout benches, adjustable dumbbells, and compact machines save space while maximizing utility.

ROI Potential:

Having fitness amenities allows you to charge a premium price, as fitness-focused guests often filter specifically for rentals with workout options. Studies show that listings that include gym amenities see longer bookings and higher guest satisfaction ratings. Plus, with the rise of wellness travel, a fitness area adds an extra selling point that appeals to a broad range of travelers.

Conclusion

Investing in high-ROI amenities can significantly boost your Airbnb’s performance. Features that enhance comfort, convenience, and fun attract more bookings, improve guest experiences, and generate glowing reviews and repeat stays.

The data is clear: luxury perks like hot tubs and pools can increase revenue by 30%+, fast Wi-Fi boosts occupancy by up to 16%, and family/pet-friendly options drive higher demand.

Rather than upgrading everything at once, tailor your strategy to your market. A ski cabin benefits from a hot tub and fireplace, while a downtown apartment may prioritize smart tech and luxe bedding. Balance cost vs. benefit—smaller upgrades like smart locks, quality bedding, or kitchen essentials offer immediate payoffs, whereas big-ticket items require long-term ROI evaluation. Remember, many of these upgrades can qualify as tax deductible expenses, further enhancing your overall financial returns

Prioritize amenities that address gaps and attract your ideal guests. A workspace and upgraded Wi-Fi can draw remote workers, while pet-friendly policies capture more family bookings. Even small touches, like a coffee grinder with premium beans, can create loyal guests.

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