Vacation Rental Inventory Checklist: Must-haves to Impress Guests

Renting your vacation rental properties can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. You want guests to feel at home so they leave glowing reviews, but you don't know what to stock. Visitors expect at least the same comforts they enjoy at home, probably a bit more since they're on holiday. This is where a vacation rental inventory checklist comes in handy.

From essential items like clean linens and towels to basic kitchenware and thoughtful extras, each element contributes to a positive stay. In this guide, we cover must-have supplies to add to your vacation rental inventory to help you impress guests and keep them coming back. Make sure to bookmark this article to return to whenever you need.

Vacation Rental Supplies for a Comfortable Stay

1. Kitchen

The vacation rental kitchen is the heart of the home and where guests spend a lot of time. It's also one of the key differentiators why someone might choose a rental property over a hotel, for the option to cook their own homemade meals. That being said, include the following cooking essentials:

• Cookware: A variety of pots and pans, including non-stick skillets, mixing bowls, cutting boards, and a large stockpot.
• Kitchen utensils: Wooden spoons, spatulas, tongs, and a set of sharp knives are a great start. You can also include a pizza cutter, a cheese grater, a whisk, and an ice cream scooper.
• Appliances: A fridge, oven, microwave, toaster, coffee maker, and blender. If possible, include a dishwasher and an air fryer.
• Tableware: Plates, bowls, water and wine glasses, mugs, and silverware. Make sure there are enough for the maximum number of guests.
• Pantry: Olive oil, salt, pepper, sugar, flour, tea, coffee, and seasonings.
• Cleaning supplies: Dish soap, sponges, dish towels, and a trash can with liners.
• Miscellaneous: Storage containers, oven mitts, bottle opener, tin foil, saran wrap, and napkins.

Vacation rental inventory checklist

2. Bathroom

A tidy and clean bathroom is one of the first things guests notice upon arrival. Make sure it's well-stocked with high-quality products and travel-sized toiletries. Here's what to include in your inventory checklist:

• Basic items: Toilet paper (extra rolls are a must-have), hand towels, face towels, bath towels, and bath mat.
• Toiletries: Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and hand soap. Consider eco-friendly options for added appeal.
• Miscellaneous: Trach can, hairdryer, toilet brush, cotton swabs, shower cap, bathrobes, slippers, washing machine.

Vacation rental inventory checklist

3. Bedroom

After a long day of exploring, guests want to relax in a comfortable environment. You want to create a cozy atmosphere ideal for a good night's rest, so make sure you have:

• Furniture: Bed, bedside tables, dresser.
• Linens: Choose high-quality sheets, pillowcases, blankets, and duvets. For extra cleanliness, consider adding a mattress protector.
• Storage: A closet with hangers and a luggage rack for convenience.
• Miscellaneous: Full-length mirror, SmartTV with streaming services, curtains or blinds, extra throw blankets and comforters, ceiling fan or AC, alarm clock, iron or steamer, lamps.

Inventory for short-term rental

4. Living Room

The living room is where guests unwind, so it should be both comfortable and functional. In fact, you might use this space to accommodate extra guests, so be prepared in advance. Make sure to include:

• Comfortable seating: A sofa and additional chairs that are both stylish and cozy, along with a coffee table.
• Entertainment: A television with streaming capabilities and perhaps board games.
• Decor: Artwork, frames, vases, and a few magazines or candles on the coffee table add a nice touch and make your vacation rental feel like home.
• Miscellaneous: Lamps, side tables, extra throw pillows and blankets, remote controls, speakers.

Vacation rental inventory checklist

5. Dining Room

If your vacation home caters to families, a dedicated space for getting together and eating is a must. The dining area should cater to meals and gatherings, so make sure you have:

• Dining room table and chairs: Enough seating for the maximum number of guests.
• Tableware: Including placemats, napkins, and centerpieces for a polished look.
• Serving dishes: Platters, bowls, and serving utensils.
• High chair or booster seat: For family-friendly rentals who want to accommodate their little guests.

Inventory checklist for vacation rental

6. Outdoor Space

Outdoor areas are a big draw for vacation rentals. In fact, property managers would agree that it's almost as enticing as having a jacuzzi or a game room. Depending on the guest type you want to appeal to, here are some must-haves for your vacation rental inventory checklist:

• Furniture: Comfortable seating like patio chairs, a table, and perhaps a hammock.
• Grill: A barbecue grill with utensils for outdoor cooking.
• Lighting: String lights or lanterns to create a cozy evening ambiance.
• Outdoor games: Consider including items like a frisbee, soccer ball, board games, bicycles, or scooters.
• Lawn care tools: Keep the space tidy with a lawn mower, rake, and possibly some basic gardening tools.
• Miscellaneous: A private swimming pool, a fire pit, hot tubs, and potted plants for the decor can make all the difference to your outdoor space.

Short-term rental inventory checklist

7. Miscellaneous

Don't forget these additional items that can make a big difference in your guests' experience:

• Wi-Fi: Ensure your rental has a reliable internet connection with the network name and password provided.
• First aid kit: For minor emergencies and peace of mind.
• Local information: Provide a house manual or booklet with maps, restaurant recommendations, and emergency contact numbers.
• Welcome pack: A small basket with snacks, a bottle of wine, or local treats can create a welcoming atmosphere.

Vacation rental checklist

Create Memorable Stays for Guests

The key to a successful vacation rental business is investing in the right inventory to make guests feel at home. Our inventory checklist is a great way to start, but if you'd rather enjoy higher occupancy rates, increased revenue, and warmer relationships with guests, we suggest partnering with Houfy for a direct booking solution.

Houfy connects hosts directly with guests without middlemen, eliminating booking fees by third-party platforms. Say goodbye to large profit cuts and the uncertainty of random guests booking your property, and welcome a more personalized and profitable direct booking solution. List your property today and regain control of your short-term rental business.