What amenities do guests look for in a group holiday rental?

The importance of amenities in group holiday rentals

Published on Jan 27, 2025

When it comes to attracting new bookings for your group rental accommodation, having the right amenities can set your property apart from the competition. Whether it’s a family reunion, a birthday bash, or a weekend getaway with friends, guests expect more than just a place to sleep – they want comfort, convenience that they’d expect at home, plus a little extra fun.

With this in mind, let’s explore the must-have amenities for large group bookings, and some of the more desired items and facilities that will further increase visibility on your rental accommodation.

Essential Amenities for Group Stays

Basic Kitchen Appliances & Cooking – Groups opting to book accommodation with self-catering kitchen facilities expect a basic level of appliances and condiments. This typically includes a microwave, kettle, oven and hob, fridge freezer and toaster. It would be difficult to use these without access to plates, cutlery, pots and pans to cook. We also advise having available some basic condiments including salt, pepper, sugar, tea bags, coffee and even some milk.

Clean & Comfy Linen and Bedding – Guests expect a high standard when it comes to the bedding provided in a group holiday rental. This includes freshly laundered sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers for every bed. Mattresses should be comfortable and supportive, with plenty of pillows and throws available to suit individual preferences. Providing spare sets of linen is always a good idea, especially for longer stays. For added comfort, consider hypoallergenic options to cater to guests with sensitivities, ensuring everyone gets a good night’s sleep.

Flexible Bedroom Configurations –  Groups come in all shapes and sizes and having the flexibility to adapt bedroom setups can make your property a top choice for guests. Offering the option to configure beds as either singles or doubles is a game-changer, catering to families, friends, or mixed groups. For example, zip-and-link beds that can be transformed from a king-size into two singles are a great investment. While it might not always be possible to adapt every room, even having a few flexible options can significantly increase bookings and client satisfaction. Clear communication about these options during the booking process is key to ensuring guests’ needs are met.

High-Speed Wi-Fi – Guests expect to stay connected, whether for streaming, remote work, or sharing their trip online. A strong, reliable Wi-Fi connection is a staple must-have. Stress-test your with as many people connecting as possible to replicate a group staying at your house all trying to connect at the same time. If the Wi-Fi doesn’t hold up, consider improving this.

Parking Facilities – Groups often travel with multiple cars, so convenient parking is a major plus. Offering plenty of parking makes your rental more practical and attractive. If there aren’t designated spaces at your property, offering information pre-stay on how to get to the property or nearby car parks is something our guests appreciate and find helpful.

Little Luxuries That Make a Big Difference in Group Accommodations

Welcome Basket – A thoughtful welcome basket sets a warm tone for the stay and makes guests feel appreciated. It’s a simple touch that can lead to better reviews and return bookings. Guests love being greeted with little surprises upon arrival. Even better if you know why they’re booking so you can personalise this. If it’s a hen or stag group – snacks, a bottle of bubbly or crate of beer with a handwritten card is an excellent way to put a smile on their faces.

Additional kitchen gadgets – Little extras in the kitchen can go a long way in impressing guests and making their stay more enjoyable. Beyond the basics, consider adding popular gadgets like an air fryer for quick and healthy meals, a blender for smoothies and cocktails, and a quality coffee maker to kickstart mornings with a barista-style brew. Other handy additions could include a slow cooker for easy group meals, a waffle maker for fun breakfasts, or even a wine cooler to keep drinks at the perfect temperature.

Washer and Dryer – Having a washer and dryer on-site is a game-changer, especially for attracting longer stays. Guests love the convenience of doing laundry during their trip. This amenity keeps your rental appealing to families and groups. If your house is located in the countryside where muddy walks are aplenty, this becomes an essential.

Large Dining and Living Areas – Spacious common areas make it easier for large groups to spend time together comfortably. Add fluffy cushions and throws in the living area to give it a homely feel and have a large extendable table with extra seating for dining. Many groups will be getting together for the first time in a while, so creating an inviting social area is imperative.

High-Quality Linens and Towels – Comfortable linens and fluffy towels make guests feel pampered. Small luxuries like these lead to happy guests and positive reviews. Quality bedding is an easy way to elevate your rental’s appeal.

Complimentary Toiletries and Essentials – Offering the basics like shampoo, conditioner, body wash and soap shows you care about the guests convenience. It’s a small but impactful detail that boosts guest satisfaction.

Black Out Curtains or Blinds – Guests value a good night’s sleep and black-out curtains help ensure they get one. They also provide privacy and light control. It’s also helpful for families whose babies nap during the day.

Air Conditioning or Fan – Air conditioning or fans are a commonly requested applicance for comfort, especially in warm weather.  A well-maintained climate control system can make your rental more desirable year-round.

Fireplace – A cosy fireplace adds ambiance and warmth, perfect for colder months. It creates a homey atmosphere that guests love and many won’t find back at their own homes. A fireplace can make your property stand out in the cooler season.

Children-Friendly Amenities – Families look for rental accommodation with kid-friendly features like high chairs, travel cots and even kid-friendly games. Providing these extras makes your property more attractive to families traveling with children.

Self Check-In Options – Flexible check-in gives guests the freedom to arrive at their convenience without hassle. It adds a layer of privacy and convenience that modern travelers appreciate. Easy access means fewer issues and a smoother guest experience.

Electrical Adapters and Chargers – With guests bringing multiple devices, having adapters and chargers saves them the trouble of packing extras. It’s a small touch that enhances convenience and comfort. Thoughtful extras like this can leave a lasting impression and boost reviews.

Metered EV Charger – With more guests driving electric vehicles, offering a metered EV charger is a thoughtful and practical amenity. It’s a feature that will become increasingly important as electric car ownership grows. This addition shows you’re ahead of the curve and boosts your property’s appeal to eco-conscious travelers.

Fun Stuff to Keep Everyone Entertained During Their Group Stay

Swimming Pool, Hot Tub or Sauna – One of the most searched for features of a holiday letting are swimming pools and hot tubs. These luxury amenities are a major draw for groups looking to enjoy their time together. Although an expensive addition, these can significantly enhance the appeal and visibility of your rental.

Sun Loungers – Sun loungers provide a comfy spot for guests to relax and soak up the sun. They create a laid-back, vacation vibe, perfect for group getaways.

Games Room or Entertainment Center – A games room or entertainment center keeps guests entertained, especially during downtime. Offering fun activities like a pool table or darts board on-site boosts your property’s appeal for all ages.

Outdoor BBQ and Dining Space – An outdoor BBQ and dining area create a social spot for guests to gather and enjoy meals together. It adds to the holiday vibe and is ideal for group dinners. This is an excellent addition to any home with a garden or patio area for increasing summer bookings.

Smart TV with Streaming Services – Smart TVs with streaming services are a must for guests who want entertainment at their fingertips. Most people these days pay for at least one streaming service such as Netflix or Disney. Bonus tip if you have this paid for and available for guests inclusive of their stay.

Smart Speakers – Smart speakers are a fun addition, allowing guests to play music and play games. If noise levels are a consideration, be sure to include guidance on noise curfews in your house rules.

Board Games and Game Consoles – Board games and game consoles are a hit with families and large groups. It is a timeless way to keep guests entertained during the evening or on rainy days. Offering a variety of options adds a cosy, fun touch. Classic favourites include Trivia Pursuit, Scrabble, Cludeo, Monopoly and Connect 4.

Keeping Things Safe and Sound in Your Group Accommodation

Guests want to relax without worrying about safety, so having solid security features is a must. It helps them feel at ease and shows you care about their well-being. Happy, secure guests mean better reviews and more bookings.

Secure Locks and Safe Boxes – Secure locks and safe boxes are important for guests who value privacy and security. They ensure peace of mind when storing valuables or entering the property.

First Aid and Emergency Kits – Having a first aid kit and emergency supplies on hand gives guests peace of mind in case of any surprise accidents. Guests appreciate knowing you’re prepared for any situation.

Thoughtful Touches That Guests Love in a Group Holiday Rental

To sum it up, offering the right amenities for group stays not only enhances the guest experience but also helps boost your bookings. It’s the little things that turn a good stay into a great one.

Thoughtful amenities show guests you’ve considered their needs, making them feel right at home. Ready to attract more guests and get those 5-star reviews? Start upgrading your rental today!

Want to increase your group accommodation’s visibility to big groups? Join the Adventure Connections portfolio for FREE!