Airbnb must-haves can make or break your hosting success. If you’ve ever wondered why some listings get constant five-star reviews while others struggle, the answer often lies in the details. Guests expect more than just a place to sleep—they’re looking for comfort, convenience, and a seamless experience.

From stocking the right essentials to streamlining operations, this guide covers the Airbnb must-haves that will keep guests happy, improve ratings, and help you stand out as a host in 2025.

1. Airbnb Must-Haves: Stock the Absolute Basics

Before you get fancy, make sure you’ve nailed the fundamentals. Airbnb recommends that every host provides:

• Toilet paper

• Hand and body soap

• One towel and one pillow per guest

• Fresh bed linens for each bed

These basics may seem simple, but they’re non-negotiable. Guests often filter their searches for listings that include them. Missing even one of these essentials could mean fewer bookings.

👉 Check Airbnb’s official hosting essentials list.

2. Offer Convenience with Popular Amenities

Guests often filter for amenities that make their stay more comfortable. Some of the top Airbnb must-haves include:

• Fast Wi-Fi

• Kitchen access

• A/C or heating

• Washer and dryer

• Free parking

• Self-check-in (smart locks are a win!)

• Dedicated workspace (great for digital nomads)

Don’t forget about safety—Airbnb strongly encourages hosts to provide:

• Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms

• Fire extinguisher

• Emergency plan with local contacts

• First aid kit

3. Go Beyond the Basics with Thoughtful Extras

Once the essentials are covered, thoughtful extras can turn a good stay into a memorable one. Consider adding:

• Ultra-comfy, hotel-grade linens (durable and photo-worthy)

• Bulk toiletries in refillable bottles (eco-friendly and classy)

You can also tailor extras depending on your guests:

• Pet-friendly stays: bowls, towels, and cleaning solutions

• Families: night lights, childproofing, and toys

• Remote workers: laptop-ready desk, extra chargers, and bright lighting

4. Automate Hosting to Save Time

Hosting can be time-consuming, but automation helps you scale without stress. Use tools like Hospitable to streamline your operations:

• Guest messaging: automated replies for common questions

• Unified inbox: manage all guest communication in one place

• Dynamic pricing: adjust rates automatically based on demand

• Cleaning & task notifications: keep your team updated in real time

Automation ensures guests get quick responses while you reclaim your time.

5. Keep Operations Polished and Professional

At the end of the day, Airbnb must-haves aren’t just about what’s in the guest room—they’re about how smooth your operation feels. The winning formula is:

• Clarity: Guests see everything clearly listed in your profile.

• Comfort: From basics to thoughtful touches, you meet their needs.

• Consistency: Automation and systems keep everything running smoothly.

Happy guests leave glowing reviews, which means more visibility, more bookings, and ultimately, more income for you.

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even great hosts slip up by forgetting these Airbnb must-haves:

• Not listing all amenities clearly in your profile

• Skipping safety equipment (which can lower trust)

• Over-promising extras but under-delivering

• Forgetting to restock basics (toilet paper is the #1 complaint!)

Airbnb Must-Haves = Guest Happiness

Running an Airbnb isn’t just about renting a space—it’s about curating an experience. Nail the fundamentals, sprinkle in thoughtful extras, and lean on automation to run things smoothly.

When you focus on Airbnb must-haves, you’ll see higher ratings, repeat guests, and a hosting journey that feels less stressful and more rewarding.