Top 7 Ways to Prepare Your Vacation Rental for Christmas

There’s no place like home for the holidays, but not everyone has this luxury. As many as 97 million people will be travelling at some point between December 23rd and January 1st, and you’ll need to kick your Airbnb management skills into high gear.

While heavy travel can bode well for your Airbnb business income, it also gives you an opportunity to make your guests’ holidays as warm and inviting as being in their own home.

Start decking your rental’s halls for Christmas with our top Airbnb management ideas for the holidays:

1 — Create a Special Christmas Incentive Package

If you want to boost your Airbnb bookings during the holidays, consider offering a Christmas-themed package with guest incentives. For example, each booking could include a free welcome gift, holiday movies, free hot chocolate, or other small extras that will make your listing stand out.

You can include these holiday bonuses with the rental or allow guests to add a package for an upcharge. Either way, showing your Christmas spirit can be an effective tool in marketing your Airbnb listing.

2 — Add a Christmas Tree and Decorations

Every space needs a little holiday cheer, and it doesn’t have to cost much to provide it. Hang a few stockings from the fireplace. Put up a small artificial tree with some ornaments and garland. Place some faux presents underneath, add a tree skirt, and you’ve got an Airbnb rental fit for Santa Claus.

You don’t have to go over the top with outdoor lights and blow-up lawn decorations to make your Airbnb festive. A few simple touches can completely transform your space and make every guest’s stay more memorable and enjoyable.

3 — Infuse Your Space with the Best Smells of Christmas

Visual elements are beautiful, but smells are unforgettable. Put the power of scent marketing to work in your Airbnb business this holiday season. Fresh pine, sugar cookies, cinnamon, gingerbread, and snow are some of the most common scents people associate with Christmas.

4 — Leave a Little Christmas Gift for Your Guest

Everyone likes to be thanked for their business, so consider leaving your guests a little something as a Thank You.

You don’t have to spend a lot to show you care — all of the following can make a positive impression while showing your appreciation:

a handmade ornament;
locally sourced item from the market;
Christmas candle or decoration;
or a bottle of wine.

5 — Add Cozy Elements

Whether your Airbnb rental sees several feet of snow at Christmas or temperatures never drop below 60 degrees, making your space seem warm and inviting can add to your guests’ holiday spirit.

Plush blankets, stacks of firewood for the fireplace, candles, and soft lighting can all contribute to a cosier atmosphere. Also, interior designers swear by knit materials, layers (e.g. blanket draped on the couch), furs or similar textures, and woodsy elements to instantly warm a room.

6 — Let Them Take Home an Ornament From the Tree

Fill your tree with unique or handmade ornaments, then let your guests choose one to take home with them. They’re taking home a souvenir from your Airbnb rental and can remember the fun times they had there.

It’s a simple gesture that can have a major impact, especially if they need a place to stay in your area in the future.

7 — Share Your Favorite Holiday Recipes

Travelling guests may be at a loss of what to cook away from home, plus nearby restaurants may be closed on Christmas Day.

Make it easy for them to whip up a delicious meal by leaving behind your favourite holiday recipes. Make sure you have all the kitchen utensils they’ll need to cook the meals and treats you suggest.

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Adding a few elements of Christmas cheer can go a long way in creating lasting impressions — and earning positive reviews! Your guests won’t help but notice you went the extra mile to transform your rental space into a festive environment. It might be exactly what they needed to make their holidays feel just as nice as being at home.

For more insight and inspiration on Airbnb management and running a better business, head back to the HostyApp blog.