Top Airbnb Must-Haves Every Host Needs for 5-Star Reviews

Marifil Limpahan
Jul 22
4 min read

Airbnb Must-Haves: Essentials Every Host Needs to Wow Guests and Boost Reviews

Want more 5-star reviews? Repeat guests? Higher nightly rates?

It starts with one simple strategy: treat your Airbnb like a boutique hotel, one where every detail has been intentionally designed to make guests feel at home, cared for, and excited to come back.

At BNB Guardians, we’ve coached new and experienced hosts to launch and scale short-term rentals that impress guests and stay booked. In this guide, we’re breaking down the Airbnb Must-Haves every host should provide, so your space stands out in a crowded market.

Whether you’re managing your first unit or scaling to multiple listings, use this Airbnb Must-Haves checklist to elevate your guest experience and grow your business.

Why Airbnb Amenities Matter More Than You Think

Airbnb guests aren’t just looking for a place to crash, they’re booking an experience.

And in a world where travelers compare dozens of listings before booking, the right amenities can make the difference between getting skipped... or getting selected.

Offering thoughtful amenities helps you:

Increase your nightly rate
Improve guest satisfaction and reviews
Get more bookings from the Airbnb algorithm (thanks, Airbnb SEO!)
Build a loyal base of repeat travelers

Inside our Airbnb coaching program, we teach hosts how to design listings that not only look good, but feel good to stay in. Let’s dive into what that looks like.

Airbnb Bedroom Essentials: Create a Sleep Sanctuary

Your guest’s experience starts with the bed. A cozy, restful sleep can make or break your reviews.

Bedroom Must-Haves:

Fresh, high-quality sheets (clean, soft, high-thread-count)
Comfortable mattress (medium-firm works best for most guests)
Pillow variety (offer firm and soft options)
Blackout curtains for light-sensitive sleepers
Bedside lamps and USB chargers for convenience
Extra blankets for comfort or cold nights

BNB Pro Tip: Leave a welcome card on the bed, it adds a warm, personal touch guests remember.

Airbnb Bathroom Essentials: Clean, Stocked, and Spa-Like

A spotless bathroom with hotel-like amenities tells guests you care.

Bathroom Must-Haves:

Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash (travel-size or full-size, bonus if eco-friendly)
2+ towels per guest (bath and hand towels)
Extra toilet paper (never run out!)
Hair dryer and full mirror
Non-slip bath mat
Feminine hygiene products (guests will thank you)

BNB Pro Tip: Add a mini tray with rolled hand towels and mini toiletries, it instantly elevates the vibe.

Airbnb Kitchen Essentials: Win Over Guests Who Love to Cook

One of the biggest Airbnb draws is the ability to cook. A clean, well-stocked kitchen can make your listing feel like home.

Kitchen Must-Haves:

Cookware: Pots, pans, and cooking utensils (don’t forget spatulas and ladles)
Dishware for your guest count: Plates, bowls, mugs, glasses, and cutlery
Appliances: Coffee maker, toaster, microwave
Pantry basics: Cooking oil, salt, pepper, and starter spices
Dishwashing supplies: Sponges, dish soap, drying rack or dishwasher tabs

BNB Pro Tip: Include a local takeout menu or QR code for nearby food options—super helpful for tired travelers.

Airbnb Living Room Essentials: Cozy + Connected

This is where guests unwind. Make it comfortable and inviting.

Living Room Must-Haves:

Comfortable couch or armchairs
Smart TV with streaming services (log out between guests!)
Books, games, or puzzles for rainy days
Stylish decor—think plants, art, and cozy blankets
Wi-Fi info posted clearly (frame it or add to a guestbook)

BNB Pro Tip: A basket with extra blankets gives instant cozy vibes.

Go the Extra Mile: Personal Touches That Wow Guests

If you really want to stand out from other listings, sprinkle in a few memorable extras.

Bonus Amenities We Love:

Welcome basket with local snacks, coffee, or a handwritten thank-you note
Guidebook or printed QR code with local restaurants, attractions, and tips
Eco-friendly touches: Refillable soap dispensers, reusable shopping bags, water bottles, or compostable paper goods

These small extras often get mentioned in reviews, and reviews boost your visibility in Airbnb search results (hello, Airbnb SEO!).

How Guesty Helps Hosts Stay on Top of It All

At BNB Guardians, we use Guesty to streamline our Airbnb management and keep every stay consistent.

With Guesty’s automation tools, you can:

Send scheduled guest messages (like check-in and checkout instructions)
Sync calendars across platforms (Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, etc.)
Automate Airbnb pricing with dynamic rate adjustments
Track cleaning schedules and guest communication in one place

Running a short-term rental business doesn’t mean you have to do everything manually. Guesty helps you systemize and scale, so you can focus on building income and freedom.

Final Thoughts: Turn Your Airbnb Into a Guest Magnet

Creating a successful Airbnb listing is part art, part system.

You need great communication, beautiful design, and must-have amenities that make guests feel right at home.

But more importantly, you need a plan.

At BNB Guardians, we help busy professionals launch, grow, and optimize profitable Airbnb businesses without burnout. From Airbnb listing creation and Airbnb guest communication to automation and team-building, we’ve got your back.