As travel continues to evolve, vacationers in 2025 are seeking more than just a place to sleep when booking vacation rentals. The right mix of luxury and modern amenities not only enhances the guest experience but can also boost occupancy rates and justify higher rental prices. So whether you own a vacation home in Miami, manage a rental in Seattle or are thinking of listing your apartment in Chicago, here are the top vacation home amenities guests are looking for in 2025.
Vacation home amenities checklist
If you’re planning to list your vacation home or are just curious about current trends, it’s important to make a checklist of accommodations your property already has and those that it would be feasible to add. Josh Smith, managing director of Franklin Airbnb Vacation Rental Property Management by Grand Welcome, shares top amenities that guests look for: “In 2025, renters are prioritizing convenience, technology, and functionality in their stays. Pet-friendly accommodations, in-unit laundry, and onsite parking remain key, but one of the biggest trends we’re seeing is the demand for dedicated remote workspaces.
A comfortable office setup with ample lighting, high-speed Wi-Fi, and even external monitors with an HDMI cable makes a property far more attractive to remote workers and digital nomads. Pairing these features with smart home technology, like keyless entry and automated climate control, ensures a seamless, stress-free experience that keeps guests coming back!” Check out the expert opinions below that elaborate on the above-listed amenities and more below!
Wellness amenities
Guests are increasingly seeking vacation homes that offer amenities that promote relaxation and well-being. In 2025, vacation rentals with wellness-focused features such as home gyms, yoga mats, or even private spas are in high demand. Fitness equipment such as treadmills, weights, or resistance bands is a great addition for health-conscious travelers.
A luxury vacation rental that includes a private sauna or steam room allows guests to unwind after a day of exploring. These house amenities can be especially appealing for those who want to maintain their fitness routine while on vacation or simply recharge in a tranquil setting.
High-speed internet and entertainment options
In the age of remote work and streaming, fast and reliable internet access is no longer a luxury but a necessity for vacation rental guests. High-speed Wi-Fi is one of the most requested amenities, with guests expecting seamless internet connectivity to stay in touch with work, and share vacation memories on social media.
Dusty Winans, Owner of Padearn, stresses the significance of internet access: “High-speed internet has become a pivotal factor for apartment renters, often influencing their leasing decisions. According to the 2024 National Multifamily Housing Council (NMHC) and Grace Hill Renter Preferences Survey Report, 90% of respondents expressed interest in high-speed internet, with many considering it essential. The increasing trend of remote work has made internet speeds more critical than ever, with 52% of renters working remotely at least part-time and 70% doing so multiple days per week.”
Equally important is the availability of entertainment options. Some successful luxury vacation rentals are now equipped with state-of-the-art sound systems and a smart TV or projectors that offer access to streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime.
Fully equipped kitchens and comfortable accommodations
Many guests prefer to cook their own meals while staying at vacation rentals, making a fully equipped kitchen a must-have feature. Having modern, high-end appliances like a top-of-the-line stove, refrigerator, and dishwasher is a significant draw.
Joanne Oh, Marketing Manager of the Hilton Head Island, Breckenridge, and Great Smoky Mountains Airbnb Vacation Rental Properties (managed by Grand Welcome), highlights the importance of practicality and convenience in vacation rentals: “More renters in 2025 are looking for amenities that make life easier and more enjoyable. I’ve noticed that things like in-unit laundry and smart home features, like keyless entry or smart thermostats, are at the top of their search lists on booking channels.”
For guests planning long stays or large family gatherings, the ability to prepare home-cooked meals adds to the overall convenience and cost-effectiveness of the trip. To take it a step further, ensure your kitchen is stocked with the essentials for cooking, such as cookware, utensils, and quality dishware.
Smart home technology
As noted above, guests are increasingly expecting vacation homes to be equipped with smart home features. A luxury condominium or vacation home that integrates various forms of smart tech stands out in 2025. Shara Limoges, Managing Director of Broken Bow Airbnb Vacation Rental Property Management by Grand Welcome, emphasizes the importance of tech-savvy entertainment in vacation rentals:
“A smart TV is an essential amenity for a short-term rental as it provides guests with easy access to streaming services, live TV, and entertainment options, catering to diverse preferences and enhancing their overall experience. Whether kids want to watch cartoons, adults enjoy movies, or sports fans catch a live game, a smart TV ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”
In addition to smart TVs, modern amenities like automated lighting, voice-controlled assistants, and high-tech security systems provide comfort and convenience. This technology allows guests to control everything from their room’s lighting and temperature to entertainment systems with just a few taps or voice commands.
Luxury bath amenities
For many guests, the bathroom is a critical space when selecting a vacation rental. Luxury bath amenities, such as high-quality towels, premium toiletries, and elegant bathroom fixtures, can elevate a stay from good to great. Many travelers appreciate a spa-like atmosphere, so providing a deep soaking tub, rainfall shower, or dual vanity sinks can make all the difference.
In addition to high-end bath products, heated floors and towel racks are small but appreciated touches that guests will remember. A well-appointed bathroom can be a key factor in a guest’s overall satisfaction and likelihood of returning or recommending the property.
Outdoor living and pet-friendly spaces
The demand for outdoor living spaces continues to rise, as travelers increasingly seek environments where they can relax and unwind in nature. Whether it’s a spacious deck with comfortable seating or a private hot tub, outdoor amenities are a great way to attract guests. “Renters are looking for the same thing in a home that most buyers do! Location, views, outdoor spaces, and big kitchens.” shares Brian Brown, Director of Business Development of Palm Springs Airbnb Vacation Rental Property Management by Grand Welcome.
Brian adds that “Once they get past the main things, sometimes it’s the simple stuff that can really add appeal for renters. An air fryer, a fire pit, beach or snow equipment, etc.” Also a proponent of smart technology, Brian notes, “One of the biggest items, which again seems so simple, are actually smart TVs. Guests can travel without impacting their normal routine of watching their favorite shows and movies!”
As more people travel with their pets, pet-friendly vacation homes are becoming a significant selling point. Joanne Oh touches on this growing trend: “Pet-friendly accommodations, such as fenced yards or pet beds, are increasingly popular as travelers want to bring their furry companions along. Outdoor spaces offer guests a chance to relax and enjoy their vacation to the fullest.” Ensuring your vacation rental caters to guests with pets can set your property apart from the competition and increase your bookings.
Personalized vacation rental services
In 2025, guests are looking for vacation home amenities that offer personalized services to make their stay more memorable. From concierge services that help with activity bookings to personalized welcome packages, offering tailored experiences can significantly enhance the overall vacation rental experience.
Offering additional services such as daily housekeeping, private chefs, or pre-arrival grocery shopping ensures that your guests feel pampered and well-cared for. For luxury vacation homes, these added touches can turn a standard stay into an extraordinary one, ensuring repeat bookings and positive reviews.
In a nutshell: Must-have amenities for vacation rentals
As we head deeper into 2025, vacation home amenities are becoming more sophisticated, catering to the modern traveler’s desire for both luxury and convenience. Whether you’re offering a luxury condominium in the city or a tranquil retreat in the mountains, incorporating the right amenities can make your property stand out in a crowded marketplace.
