Ten essential amenities that turn an okay vacation rental into a great one—from wifi to pools.
By Siti Noraini, Marketing Director, HomeAway
Photo by Patrick Perkins on Unsplash
Making guests feel at home is table stakes. But if you want to really boost satisfaction, you need a few well-chosen amenities. HomeAway has identified the features that move the needle—here's what matters most.
1. WiFi / Internet
Non-negotiable. People need to post vacation pics on Instagram and Twitter. So yes, you need fast WiFi. And post the password somewhere obvious—no one wants to text the host at 11 PM.
NOTE
– Use WiFi extenders so coverage reaches every room.
– Keep your bill paid. Check speed and range. Most ISPs will fix performance issues for free if you call support.
2. Air Conditioning
If you're in a place with actual seasons (like Korea), AC is essential. Before summer hits: clean the filters, test the remote, make sure it doesn't smell weird, and leave the remote somewhere guests can find it.
NOTE
– A universal remote that controls multiple units is clutch.
– Keep spare batteries on hand.
3. Kitchen
A well-equipped kitchen is the reason travelers pick vacation rentals over hotels. Stock it: dishwasher, kettle, coffee maker, dishes, wine glasses, microwave, fridge. If you've got a BBQ setup, mention it in your listing.
NOTE
– Leave shelf-stable staples: coffee, tea, sugar, salt, pepper. If you stock perishables, check expiration dates religiously.
– Provide trash bags and disposal instructions. Let guests know if tap water is drinkable.
4. TV
The most ubiquitous appliance on the planet. Put one in the living room. It just makes sense.
NOTE
– If you can swing it, add a smaller TV in the bedroom—group travelers won't fight over the remote.
– Include a user manual and HDMI/USB cables for external devices.
5. Washing Machine
Clean clothes = happy guests. A washer and dryer are huge. Add a drying rack and laundry basket, too.
NOTE
– Iron and ironing board = bonus points.
– Label the controls. Leave detergent and fabric softener nearby.
6. Family-Friendly Amenities
HomeAway attracts families. Your place should welcome kids. Toys, board games, video games—list them. Parents will book on that alone.
NOTE
– Small touches matter: high chair, door stoppers, corner guards.
– Check for hazards: standing water, sharp edges, accessible outlets.
7. Heating
In a four-season country like Korea, heating is as critical as AC. Here's the thing: Korea's ondol (underfloor heating) takes time to warm up but holds heat for hours. International guests used to instant radiators will crank it to max, then end up turning on the AC because it's too hot. Leave detailed instructions.
NOTE
– Central heating is ideal. Always include a manual.
– If you use space heaters, get auto-shutoff models for fire safety. With boilers, schedule regular maintenance checks.
8. Parking
Outside Seoul, most guests drive. You need at least one parking spot. If you don't have one, tell guests where the nearest public lot is.
NOTE
– Got motorcycle or bike parking? Mention it.
– If parking costs extra, disclose it upfront in your listing.
9. Cable / Streaming
Vacation = binge-watching. Cable TV, IPTV, Netflix—list it. Make sure the remote works. Check that your subscription is active.
NOTE
– Got a PS4 or Xbox? Huge selling point.
– If the interface is Korean-only, leave an English instruction sheet.
10. Private Pool
Not essential (and impossible in Seoul), but if you have one, shout it from the rooftops. Pools are a booking magnet. If you've got goggles, floaties, or pool toys, mention those too.
NOTE
– Call out details: heated? depth? sauna nearby?
– Maintain it religiously. A green pool kills bookings.
"These aren't big deals, though."
Wrong. These small details separate "fine" properties from "I'm telling everyone about this place" properties. Get them right, and guests don't just stay—they come back and bring friends. That's how you turn amenities into revenue.
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