How to Prepare Your Short-Term Rental for the Holiday Season

The holiday season is one of the busiest times for short-term rentals. With families travelling to visit loved ones, couples looking for romantic getaways, and solo travellers seeking a festive retreat, demand for accommodations surges.

As a host, preparing your short-term rental for the holiday season can set your listing apart, attract more guests, and maximize your revenue.

To create a cosy, welcoming, and holiday-ready space, you need to optimize your listing, decorate tastefully, offer thoughtful amenities, and ensure comfort and convenience for your guests.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to do to prepare your short-term rental for the holidays, helping you increase bookings and earn glowing reviews.

1. Optimize Your Listing for Holiday Travelers

Your online listing is the first impression potential guests will have of your rental. Updating it for the holiday season can make it more appealing to travellers looking for a festive stay.

Update Your Listing Description

Use holiday-themed keywords such as “Christmas getaway,” “festive retreat,” “winter wonderland,” or “New Year escape.”
Highlight any seasonal perks you offer, such as a decorated tree, fireplace, or holiday treat.
Emphasize family-friendly or pet-friendly features if applicable, as many guests travel with loved ones during the holidays.

Refresh Your Photos

Take new, high-quality photos of your rental with subtle holiday décor.
Show cozy elements like a warm-lit living room, fluffy blankets, and a festive dining setup.
Capture special amenities such as a hot tub, fireplace, or a scenic winter view.

Highlight Holiday-Specific Amenities

If you provide extra bedding, heating options, or holiday decorations, mention them in your listing.
Let potential guests know if you have board games, holiday movies, or books available.
Promote special touches like a complimentary holiday drink station or a gift basket.

Read This: How to Furnish Your Short-Term Rental on a Budget

2. Decorate Your Space for a Cozy & Festive Vibe

A tastefully decorated rental can create a warm and inviting atmosphere, making guests feel at home. However, it’s essential to strike the right balance, too much décor can feel cluttered or overwhelming.

Choose Subtle and Elegant Holiday Décor

Use neutral, winter-themed decorations like white lights, pinecones, garlands, and candles.
Incorporate festive colors such as red, green, gold, or silver in accent pieces like cushions or table runners.
Avoid excessive or religious decorations that may not appeal to all guests.

Create a Cozy Ambience

Add soft throw blankets and plush cushions to your seating areas.
Use warm lighting with string lights or candles to create a soft glow.
Provide a mini Christmas tree or a decorative wreath for a festive touch.

Consider Cultural Sensitivity

Keep decorations inclusive and non-denominational to cater to diverse guests.
Offer a mix of holiday decorations that celebrate the winter season rather than a specific holiday.

3. Offer Holiday-Themed Amenities & Treats

Guests appreciate thoughtful gestures that make their stay special. Adding holiday-themed amenities can elevate their experience and earn you great reviews.

Provide Seasonal Drinks & Snacks

Set up a hot beverage station with hot chocolate, tea, and coffee.
Offer festive treats like gingerbread cookies, candy canes, or spiced nuts.
Leave a complimentary bottle of wine or sparkling cider for guests celebrating a special occasion.

Enhance the Sleeping & Lounge Areas

Provide warm duvets and extra blankets for chilly nights.
Add festive-scented candles or essential oil diffusers with cinnamon, pine, or vanilla scents.
Stock up on cozy slippers or robes for guests to use during their stay.

4. Prepare for Winter Weather & Comfort

If your rental is in a colder region, ensuring guest comfort in winter conditions is crucial.

Check & Maintain Heating Systems

Ensure that your central heating system, space heaters, or fireplace is working properly.
Provide clear instructions on how to use heating appliances.

Stock Up on Extra Bedding & Winter Necessities

Supply thick duvets, extra pillows, and heated blankets.
Provide an extra set of towels, especially for guests staying longer.

Winter-Proof Outdoor Areas

If your rental has a driveway or outdoor paths, ensure they are free of ice and snow.
Provide a snow shovel, ice melt, or an umbrella stand if necessary.
Ensure that outdoor seating areas have weatherproof cushions and warm throws.

See This: The Importance of High-Quality Photos in Short-Term Rental Listings

5. Create a Local Holiday Guide for Guests

Many guests look for fun activities and dining options during their stay. A local holiday guide can help them make the most of their visit.

Include Local Events & Attractions

List nearby Christmas markets, holiday fairs, or winter festivals.
Recommend popular ice-skating rinks, scenic winter walks, or sledding spots.
Mention special holiday concerts, performances, or light displays.

Suggest Restaurants & Takeout Options

Provide a list of restaurants offering holiday menus or Christmas Eve/Day meals.
Include local bakeries or cafés with seasonal treats.
Recommend grocery stores with ready-made holiday meal options for guests who prefer to dine in.

Offer Transportation & Travel Tips

If public transportation is available, provide schedules and routes.
Suggest local taxi services, ride-sharing apps, or car rental options.
If applicable, highlight any holiday parking restrictions in the area.

6. Adjust Your Pricing & Promotions

The holiday season is a peak travel period, making it the perfect time to optimize your pricing strategy.

Set Competitive Pricing

Research similar listings in your area and adjust your rates accordingly.
Implement dynamic pricing to automatically adjust rates based on demand.
Charge a premium for peak holiday dates while offering discounts for extended stays.

Offer Special Promotions

Provide early-bird discounts for guests booking in advance.
Offer package deals, such as a complimentary extra night for stays longer than five days.
Give returning guests a holiday discount as a token of appreciation.

7. Prepare for High Turnover & Extra Cleaning Needs

With more bookings during the holiday season, it’s crucial to stay on top of cleaning and maintenance.

Increase Cleaning Frequency

Schedule thorough cleanings between guest stays.
Pay special attention to high-touch areas like doorknobs, remote controls, and kitchen appliances.
Ensure fresh linens, towels, and toiletries are stocked up.

Streamline Check-In & Check-Out

Provide self-check-in options with clear instructions.
Send automated messages with check-in and check-out guidelines.
Allow for flexible check-in/check-out times when possible to accommodate guests’ travel schedules.

Stock Up on Essentials

Keep extra toilet paper, toiletries, and dish soap on hand.
Have additional sets of linens and towels ready for quick turnovers.
Provide a small holiday gift for guests, such as a handwritten note or a festive snack.

Read This: How Much Does It Cost to Start a Short-Term Rental Business in Nigeria?

Conclusion

Preparing your short-term rental for the holiday season can enhance your guests’ experience, increase your booking rate, and boost your earnings.

By optimizing your listing, decorating tastefully, offering thoughtful amenities, and ensuring guest comfort, you create a welcoming space that guests will love.

The extra effort you put into making your rental festive and cosy will pay off in positive reviews, repeat bookings, and word-of-mouth referrals. Start preparing today and make this holiday season your most successful one yet.

Are you ready to give your short-term rental a holiday makeover? Start now and create an unforgettable experience for your guests.