The five-star Airbnb checklist
- Spencer
- Oct 31, 2019
- 4 min read
Updated: Dec 5, 2019
Travel is all about exploring, getting out there, meeting people and tasting what the world has to offer! But having a comfortable base to do all that from is really important to me. Particularly if you’re travelling for a while, having a home away from home, with a nice hot shower and comfortable bed, can give you a boost of energy to attack your days.
There are more accommodation options than ever in today’s connected world and so many sites and apps to help you find them. Emily and I have used Airbnb for the majority of our bookings. We just find that it’s so convenient for us – the app is really user friendly and the listings are thorough, which allows you to make informed decisions. We’ve stumbled on some great places – we’ve stayed in condos, tiny houses, annexes and more. We’ve stayed for one night, weeks and even a month in some. Of course we’ve also used other sites along the way, and this post can hopefully be used by everyone.
So based on all of our experiences, here is our list of the things (in no particular order) that we think contribute to the perfect Airbnb (place to stay). We’ve split it out by things for all stays no matter how long, and then additional things for those staying longer (weeks to months)…
ALL STAYS
A comfortable and well-sized bed - if there is one thing to get right, it's the bed! A good night's sleep on a lovely mattress and pillows makes everything better. Size also matters - I'm over six foot and my feet have stuck out of the end of too many beds!
Ceiling height - this might sound like a silly one and I understand that you don't always have a choice in some places, but you shouldn't have to duck down! You’d be surprised how many places have a restricted ceiling.
Private bathroom - travelling is going to test you in many ways! Having private access to clean facilities is a must...trust me!
Powerful shower - travelling/hiking can be dirty/sweaty business and a clean/hot shower is priceless!
Welcoming host - a good host can add a star (if not two) to a rating. Little touches such as welcoming you at the property (if you can), responding quickly and going the extra mile (like, providing a guide to the area) can make a huge difference.
Mirror with accessible plugs (Emily insisted on this one) - OK, I admit, I also care about this one! It's still nice to groom when you're away, and a nice space to get ready and use a hairdryer feels great!
Hair dryer - OK, we might be vainer than most, but this one grooming item is really handy. It can even double up as a quick iron!
Plug sockets on either side of the bed - who doesn't have a phone these days!? A socket at either side of the bed if possible is just really useful.
Security - money, passports, cameras and more! Even a minimalist has things they care about. A safety deposit box is a real bonus, but as a minimum you should make your guests feel safe with adequate locks, maybe even an alarm in some areas.
Privacy - you want to meet lots of people when you're travelling, but you also need a space to yourself at times. Interacting with your host can be a great way to learn about the local area as mentioned above, but you both need to respect each others' privacy. Message/call ahead before dropping in and stick to sociable hours.
WiFi - it's not always possible in amazingly remote areas and sometimes a break from connectivity is welcome, but being connected with a reliable internet connection can be really useful. It will help you to plan your days, communicate with friends and family, and even enjoy a bit of downtime (Netflix etc.).
Free parking - sometimes a hire car is necessary, and being able to drive straight up to your Airbnb is really handy.
Heating and air conditioning - being too hot or too cold is not cool. This should be taken care of no matter where you stay.
Iron - no matter how good you are at packing, things are going to get creased! Access to an iron and ironing board is great.
Essentials (bedding, towels, toilet paper, soap etc.) - plus spares for longer stays!
Hot water and drinking water - come on, it's 2019!
Smoke/carbon monoxide detector - another basic to keep everyone safe.
Shampoo and body wash - most guests will bring this but it feels so nice when they’re already sat there in the shower. It’s the little things remember!
Hangers - even backpackers will bring a couple of nice things. Make your guests feel at home!
LONGER STAYS
Oven - eating out for every meal is not sustainable on most travel budgets. If you’re staying over a week, it’s great to be able to rustle up a hot meal.
Cooking and eating basics (pots, pans, plates) - linked to the above and preferably enough to allow you to cook a full meal.
Dishwasher - OK this is not essential, but places with a dishwasher add so much value for us. You’ll be out and about all day and who wants to wash up at the end of it!?
Refrigerator - keep everything fresh for those longer stays, and maybe a little room for a few beers ;-)
Kettle - it might be the British in us, but the convenience to quickly make a hot cup of tea is great!
Washing machine/dryer - you’re going to have to do laundry if you’re travelling for a longer time. Being able to do that in your Airbnb is a huge bonus. A dryer also stops you having to hang things everywhere.
TV - another luxury, but it just feels comforting during longer stays. A connected TV that allows you to cast your devices to it is also really handy - Chromecasts are so inexpensive these days!
There you have it! Hopefully this can serve as a checklist for travellers booking accommodation, and help new and existing hosts maximise their spaces! What do you think? Have we missed anything vital or are we asking for too much? Let us know!
Safe travels, Spencer
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