Picture this: A group of excited travelers walks into your vacation rental, ready for a stress-free getaway. They drop their bags, take in the beautiful space, and then… they can’t find a wine opener. Or enough towels. Or instructions for the thermostat that seems to have a mind of its own.
That’s the kind of experience that can turn a five-star stay into a frustrating one.
As a vacation rental owner, ensuring your home is stocked and ready for guests isn’t just about providing the basics—it’s about anticipating needs before they arise. That’s where we come in. At GoodNight Stay, we’ve perfected our vacation rental checklist based on real guest feedback and industry expertise. Whether you’re managing your property yourself or considering professional vacation rental management, this guide will ensure your home is guest-ready.
The best way to prep your short-term rental is to simply step into your guests’ shoes. Walk through each room as if you were the guest. Imagine what they’ll need from the moment they arrive to check-out.
Kitchen: More Than Just a Coffee Maker
A well-equipped kitchen is a must-have for any vacation rental. Guests will likely want the option to whip up a quick breakfast, cook a full dinner, or even host a small gathering. Make sure there are enough plates, glasses, and cutlery for the maximum occupancy—plus a few extras. Stock essential appliances like a coffee maker, toaster, blender, and microwave, along with cooking basics like pots, pans, baking sheets, and utensils. A well-organized spice rack is always appreciated, and having a wine opener on hand can prevent unnecessary frustration. After all, no one wants to wrestle with a cork and a shoe!
Here is our breakdown of full kitchen recommendations:
Dinnerware & Drinkware
- Dinner plates
- Salad plates
- Cereal bowls
- Water glasses
- Wine glasses
- Coffee cups
- Plastic drinking & wine glasses (for outdoor use)
Appliances & Kitchen Tools
- Microwave
- Coffee maker
- Coffee grinder
- Coffee filters
- Blender
- Toaster or toaster oven
- Tea kettle
Cookware & Bakeware
- Stainless steel pots, saucepans, and frying pans
- Large roasting pan
- 2 baking sheets
- 3 oven-to-table casserole dishes
Utensils & Kitchen Gadgets
- Silverware set
- Cutlery knife block (variety of sizes)
- Serving spoons
- Spatula
- Tongs
- Whisk
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Can, bottle, and wine opener
Food Prep & Storage
- 2 cutting boards
- Mixing bowls (various sizes)
- Colander
- Various-sized serving bowls
Kitchen Essentials & Accessories
- 2 oven mitts or pot holders
- 10 new, clean dish towels
- Paper towel holder
- If fridge does not have a water filter – Brita pitcher
- Ice trays (2)
- Trash can
Bedrooms: A Sleep Sanctuary
A restful night’s sleep is non-negotiable, and comfort is key when it comes to short-term rental success. High-quality linens, extra pillows, and blackout curtains help create a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere. Guests also appreciate thoughtful touches like nightstands with charging ports, full-length mirrors, and ample storage space for their belongings. Make sure the linen closet is stocked with extra bedding, because unexpected spills and accidents happen. Small details like these make a big difference in how guests rate their stay.
Here is our breakdown of bedroom recommendations:
Bedding & Pillows
- 4 pillows per King, Queen, or Full bed
- 2 pillows per Twin bed
- 2 additional replacement pillows (stored in closet)
- 2 sets of sheets and pillowcases per bed
- 2 washable duvet covers & 2 duvet inserts per bed
- 1 bed skirt or box spring cover
- Decorative pillows per bed
- 1 mattress protector per bed
- 1 pillow protector per pillow
- 1 blanket per bed
Furniture & Storage
- 2 nightstands per bedroom (1 if single bed)
- Dresser or storage space for clothing
- 10 hangers per closet
Other Essentials
- 1 lamp per nightstand
- Blinds or window coverings for all bedrooms
- 1 portable fan (if no ceiling fan)
- Air mattress
- Smart TV
Bathrooms: Stocked & Spotless
Nobody wants to realize they don’t have enough towels when reaching for one after a shower. Each bathroom should be fully stocked with fresh towels, a hair dryer, a wastebasket, and essential toiletries such as soap, shampoo, and conditioner—at least enough for the first night. Providing extras like makeup remover wipes and cotton swabs can elevate the guest experience. A plunger and a toilet brush might not be glamorous, but they are necessary. Keeping everything clean, organized, and well-stocked helps guests feel comfortable and taken care of.
Here is our breakdown of bathroom recommendations:
- Bath towels (2x the max occupancy)
- Hand towels (2x the max occupancy)
- Washcloths (2x the max occupancy)
- Pool towels (2x the max occupancy)
- Plungers (1 per bathroom)
- Hair dryer (1 in each full bathroom)
- Toilet bowl brushes (1 per bathroom)
- Waste baskets with liners (1 per bathroom)
- Hand soap (1 per bathroom)
- Shower curtain, rod, rings, and liner for shower-tub combos
- Toilet paper (at least 2 rolls per bathroom to start)
- Shower mat
Living Spaces: Comfort & Entertainment
A great vacation rental should feel both inviting and functional. Thoughtfully arranged seating, a smart TV with streaming options, and a collection of board games or books can transform downtime into a memorable part of the stay. If your home includes an outdoor space, ensure the furniture is clean and well-maintained. Have a pool? Stock up on floats or toys for added fun, so guests can take full advantage of the amenity. Outdoor amenities like BBQ grills, yard games, and lighting should be in top condition to enhance the overall experience. The goal is to create a space that encourages home-like relaxation and vacation-mode entertainment.
Here is our breakdown of living and outdoor spaces recommendations:
Furniture & Electronics
- Comfortable, up-to-date furniture
- Smart TV
Outdoor Amenities
- BBQ grill
- BBQ grill cover
- BBQ grill tools (spatula, scrub brush, etc.)
- Propane tank for grill (and one backup, also used for fireplaces if needed)
- Lounge chairs for outdoor pool area or deck
- Outdoor dining table & chairs
Games & Entertainment
- Indoor or outdoor games: cornhole, cards, Jenga, Connect 4, board games
- Pool toys or floats (with storage for pool toys)
Additional Items
- Extra blankets for couches
- Basket or containers for remotes, fobs, and garage remotes
- High chair & Pack N Play
Safety & Essentials: Peace of Mind
A safe vacation rental is a successful vacation rental. Functioning smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, a fully stocked first aid kit, and a flashlight with extra batteries provide peace of mind for guests. Surge protectors are another small but valuable addition, offering convenience and protection for guests using multiple electronic devices. When guests feel secure, they can fully relax and enjoy their stay.
Here is our breakdown of safety and essentials recommendations:
- Fire extinguisher
- Smoke detectors & carbon monoxide detectors
- Extra batteries for detectors
- Extra light bulbs for replacements
- First aid kit
- Flashlight
- Safety signs (for pools or activities where guests might be at risk—check local laws for requirements)
- Plumbing signs (for flushing restrictions)
The Not-So-Fun But Totally Necessary Stuff
Even the best-stocked rental won’t succeed if utilities and maintenance aren’t handled properly. Double-check that all utility payments, including electricity, water, and internet, are set up correctly to avoid any service interruptions. WiFi and smart home devices should be tested before guests arrive to ensure everything is working smoothly. Routine maintenance for HVAC systems, plumbing, and appliances is also crucial in preventing last-minute emergencies. If handling these details feels overwhelming, partnering with a professional vacation rental management company like GoodNight Stay can take the stress off your plate.
Here is our breakdown of cleaning and maintenance recommendations:
- HVAC replacement filters
- Broom & dustpan
- Vacuum
- Cleaning spray & wipes
- Iron & ironing board
Instructions & FAQs: Make It Foolproof
Even the most intuitive home can leave guests with questions. A simple welcome guide can make all the difference. Include WiFi login details, step-by-step instructions for using the thermostat, stove, and any smart home devices, as well as local recommendations and emergency contacts. Some guests may not be familiar with U.S. appliances, so clear instructions can prevent unnecessary confusion. The easier you make things for your guests, the more likely they are to leave a positive review.
Let GoodNight Stay Handle the Heavy Lifting
Not sure if you’ve covered all the bases? That’s where we come in.
At GoodNight Stay, we’ve built a tried-and-true inventory checklist based on years of hosting experience. Our Owner Success Managers work closely with property owners to ensure their rentals are not only stocked but optimized for maximum guest satisfaction and revenue. From the onboarding process to ongoing guest feedback analysis, we provide expert guidance to elevate your vacation rental.
Because at the end of the day, a well-prepared home isn’t just about keeping guests happy—it’s about making your vacation rental investment thrive.
Whether you’re just starting or looking to take your rental to the next level, having the right inventory is key. Want a team that makes sure your property is stocked, managed, and performing at its best? Contact us today to see how we can help you succeed!
