What to Put in an Airbnb: How to Design With Intention and Spend Money Where It Matters

In the world of short-term rentals, design isn’t decoration—it’s strategy. A thoughtfully equipped Airbnb drives higher occupancy, better reviews, and more repeat bookings. But that doesn’t mean spending lavishly on everything. It means investing intentionally in the areas that shape guest experience and durability.

Here’s a guide to curating an Airbnb that looks great, functions effortlessly, and delights guests—without wasting a penny.

1. Start With the Essentials: Comfort, Cleanliness, and Practicality

No design choice can compensate for poor comfort. Research in hospitality consistently shows that sleep quality is one of the strongest predictors of guest satisfaction. Prioritize:

✔ A hotel-grade mattress

You don’t need a luxury brand, but you do need a supportive, medium-firm mattress. This is the single most impactful investment you’ll make.

✔ High-quality pillows & bedding

Think breathable cotton sheets (300–400 thread count), a duvet that works for all seasons, and pillows that don’t flatten out after two stays.

✔ Blackout curtains

Guests travel from different time zones. Proper light control immediately improves their rest.

✔ A durable sofa

Choose performance fabrics—easy to clean, fade-resistant, pet-friendly if allowed. Aim for neutral tones with pops of texture.

These choices aren’t flashy, but they quietly do the heavy lifting.

2. Equip the Kitchen Properly—Airbnb design that People Notice

Even if only 30–40% of guests cook, a well-equipped kitchen dramatically improves perceived value. According to guest reviews across major booking platforms, kitchens are one of the top three commented-on amenities.

The must-haves:

• Full set of pots and pans

• Sharp knives (a rarity in rentals and a huge differentiator)

• Cutting boards

• Basic spices & cooking oil

• Dishwasher pods, paper towels, trash bags

• A good coffee setup (drip + French press or Nespresso)

Spend intentionally on:

• Quality cookware (mid-range, durable, not bargain-bin sets)

• A solid toaster and blender

Skip the overly specialized gadgets. Guests want reliability, not clutter.

3. Create a Living Room That Invites People to Stay Longer

Guests want a place to unwind that feels intentional, not generic.

Non-negotiables:

• A sturdy coffee table

• Soft lighting (lamps—not just overhead lights)

• A smart TV logged out and ready to go

• A small library of board games or locally inspired books

Where to invest:

• A rug that anchors the space

• Warm, layered lighting

• Art that’s meaningful, not mass-produced

Consider supporting local artists—guests remember authenticity.

4. Bathrooms: Make Cleanliness the Design

A thoughtfully stocked bathroom boosts guest trust immediately.

Must-haves:

• Ample towels (two full sets per guest)

• Full-size shampoo, conditioner, and body wash

• A hairdryer that actually works

• Extra toilet paper in plain sight

Where spending matters:

• High-quality towels that don’t pill

• A shower head with good pressure

• Bright, flattering lighting

Guests associate bathroom quality with overall cleanliness.

5. Tech & Convenience: Quietly Powerful Upgrades

You should absolutely include:

• Fast, reliable Wi-Fi

• A visible, simple check-in guide

• A smart lock (no key exchanges)

• Multiple charging stations

Invest in:

• A mesh Wi-Fi system for strong coverage

• Noise-monitoring devices (privacy-safe, legally compliant)

• Surge-protected power strips near beds and sofas

These upgrades reduce host headaches while improving guest comfort.

6. Intentional Design: Less Furniture, Better Furniture

When it comes to decor, purpose beats abundance. A well-edited airbnb design feels calming and curated.

Design principles worth following:

• Choose a clear color palette—2–3 tones + natural textures

• Buy fewer, higher-quality pieces that withstand use

• Add plants (real or good faux) to bring life to the room

• Incorporate local touches to make the space memorable

Airbnbs with cohesive visual identity consistently earn higher click-through rates on booking platforms.

7. Add the Small Touches That Make a Big Difference

These low-cost, high-impact additions consistently appear in 5-star reviews:

• A welcome note or a local snack

• Labeled cupboards

• Extra blankets

• An umbrella or two

• A simple first-aid kit

• Refillable water bottles or filtered water

These touches build emotional connection—something money alone can’t buy.

Final Thought: Be Intentional, Not Extravagant

A great Airbnb isn’t created by spending more—it’s created by spending wisely. Focus your investment on the areas guests truly experience: the bed they sleep in, the kitchen they cook in, the lighting they unwind under, and the small thoughtful gestures that make them feel cared for.

Design with purpose, equip with quality, and let your space tell a story guests want to be part of.