Today, offering a bed to sleep in is no longer enough to capture the attention—or the wallets—of discerning travelers. Guests are now seeking more—and are willing to pay for it. Insights from a recent Booking.com report reveal that travelers are increasingly willing to pay a premium for thoughtful amenities that elevate their stay. From wellness services and private outdoor spaces to practical conveniences like airport transfers, these extras have shifted from luxuries to expectations in an intensely competitive space.

So, what do these trends mean for professional property managers? These add-ons aren’t just nice-to-haves—they’re revenue-generating essentials that can set your property apart in an oversaturated market. For savvy managers, this is an opportunity to elevate the guest experience and boost margins in an industry evolving at breakneck speed.

The Amenities Guests Will Pay More For in 2024

Booking.com’s 2024 Travel Trends survey, which gathered insights from 32,300 respondents across 32 markets, paints a clear picture of traveler preferences. Here are the key takeaways:

1. Breakfast Offerings: Nearly 45% of travelers said they’d happily pay more for breakfast. Simple yet highly requested, breakfast is a low-effort, high-reward add-on that can significantly boost revenue.
2. Tours and Activities: Over 26% of guests, especially from France, Belgium, and Colombia, are willing to pay extra for local tours and activities. Partnering with local businesses to provide these experiences can increase guest satisfaction and diversify income streams.
3. Spa and Wellness Services: A quarter of global travelers are open to spending more on relaxation therapies like massages and beauty treatments. Even without on-site spa facilities, offering partnerships with local providers can deliver the high-end experiences guests crave.
4. Shuttle Services: 24% of guests are willing to pay for convenient transportation, particularly to airports or city centers. If you can’t offer this service yourself, forming partnerships with local transport services adds value.
5. Flexible Check-Out: 23% of travelers are happy to pay for a late check-out, offering a chance to boost revenue with minimal effort. Consider offering early check-ins, too, particularly for travelers from Australia and Ireland.
6. Parking Availability: Nearly a quarter of global travelers would pay extra for secure, convenient parking. Even if your property lacks on-site parking, helping guests find safe alternatives can significantly improve their experience.

Surviving Saturation: The Value of Differentiation in a Crowded Market

With platforms like Airbnb now hosting over 8 million listings worldwide, guests are faced with an overwhelming number of choices. The short-term rental market is more saturated than ever, and growth is beginning to slow. For property managers, standing out in this sea of options is critical to attracting bookings, maintaining occupancy, and maximizing revenue. 

The Power of Being Unique

Differentiation goes beyond simply offering a bed to sleep in. Guests today are seeking memorable experiences, whether it’s the coziness of a well-designed space, the convenience of thoughtful amenities, or the added value of local experiences. Offering something distinctive—whether it’s a luxurious spa-like bathroom, curated local tours, or eco-friendly accommodations—gives guests a reason to choose your property over another.

More than that, differentiated properties often command higher rates. Travelers are willing to pay more for personalized, high-quality stays that cater to their specific needs. As shown in the recent Booking.com report, amenities like wellness services, convenient add-ons, and tech-friendly spaces are in high demand, with guests willing to spend extra for these touches.

Differentiation Drives Loyalty—and Profit

When property managers focus on creating a unique offering, it’s not just a matter of attracting guests for one booking. A truly standout property leaves a lasting impression, leading to better reviews, repeat guests, and organic word-of-mouth referrals. These are the building blocks of long-term success in the rental market.

As discussed by François Gouelo of Enso Connect and William Parry of Joivy during their presentation at the Knowledge Stage at the Scale conference in Barcelona, short-term rental managers currently capture less than 5% of their guests’ total travel budget. By incorporating upselling strategies—offering personalized experiences or exclusive partnerships with local businesses—managers can increase that figure by 10% or more. On a €2000 booking, adding just €200 in extra services can significantly boost margins without the need for costly upgrades.

The Art of Differentiation: Know Your Guests, Curate Their Experience

Before you invest in new amenities or market add-ons, the first step in differentiation is understanding who your guests are—and more importantly, who you want them to be. Not all travelers are created equal, and tailoring your property’s offerings to the right audience is the key to standing out in a saturated market.

Who’s Choosing You—And Who Do You Want to Attract?

To start, it’s essential to dig deep into guest profiles. Are you in a bustling urban center with business travelers and weekend city explorers? Or are you managing a quiet, nature-focused retreat perfect for adventurers and families seeking tranquility? Knowing the type of traveler who frequents your locale is crucial to making smart decisions about the amenities you offer. 

For example, a luxury traveler might crave in-room spa services, premium bedding, and seamless tech integration—like smart home devices and keyless entry—while budget-conscious guests could prioritize practical amenities such as flexible check-ins, kitchen access, or complimentary breakfasts. But beyond the data on who is booking your property, it’s just as important to consider who you want to attract. Curating the right experience for your ideal guest can reshape your rental’s identity and appeal, elevating it beyond a one-size-fits-all accommodation.

Aligning Amenities with Guest Intentions

Your location and target audience should dictate the kinds of experiences you offer. Urban rentals, for instance, could benefit from offering local food delivery partnerships, curated city tours, or tickets to nearby events. These small touches give city dwellers the convenience and flavor of the locale, without them having to venture too far.

For properties located in more rural or nature-oriented settings, consider upselling adventure packages. Kayaking, hiking, guided tours—these can turn a simple weekend getaway into an immersive experience. And if your property skews toward romance-seeking couples or niche markets, there’s ample opportunity to explore themed experiences. At a recent conference attended by Rental Scale-Up founder Thibault Masson, “love rooms” were highlighted as a growing trend—offering intimate, tailored experiences that go far beyond traditional accommodations. Whether it’s through mood lighting, private hot tubs, or curated romantic experiences, tapping into niche desires like these can significantly drive bookings and guest satisfaction.

Personalization is the New Luxury

What modern guests truly seek is a stay that resonates with their travel intentions. They want more than just a place to sleep—they crave an experience. Personalized amenities, whether thematic or indulgent, are what make the difference between a one-time booking and a loyal, repeat customer. This is especially important as travelers increasingly seek meaning and connection in their stays. The property that manages to make them feel understood and catered to will always have the upper hand.

Investing in Amenities: Smart Additions vs. Maximizing What You Have

When it comes to tapping into traveler demand, adding new amenities doesn’t always mean breaking the bank with expensive renovations or large-scale purchases. If you have the budget for upgrades, fantastic—services like STR Cribs in the U.S. can even handle the logistics for you, saving you the headache of overseeing major renovations. But for those with tighter budgets, there are effective, creative alternatives to elevate the guest experience without overextending your resources.

Partnering Locally for Richer Guest Experiences

Even without deep pockets, you can create value by building partnerships with local businesses and tapping into your community. Whether it’s arranging guided tours, securing reservations at popular restaurants, or collaborating with local adventure companies, these partnerships can add significant appeal to your property. For example, offering curated lists of the best local eateries or activities not only enhances the guest experience but also connects visitors to the heartbeat of your locale—a feature that many modern travelers seek.

This approach isn’t just beneficial for guests. These collaborations can also be a win-win for property managers. Not only do you provide more memorable experiences, but you can also negotiate commissions or fees for bookings made through your referrals. It’s a strategy that can improve both guest satisfaction and your bottom line without the need for major capital investments.

Marketing Your Amenities: Turning Hidden Gems into Booking Magnets

Simply having great amenities is not enough—knowing how to market them is just as crucial. Too many property managers overlook the potential of their existing features, allowing valuable amenities to remain hidden in the background. Remember, the right amenities can transform a guest’s stay from functional to unforgettable, but only if they know about them.

The key is making your amenities a prominent part of your marketing efforts. Whether through high-quality listing photos, detailed descriptions, or spotlighting them in guest communications and social media posts, your amenities should shine. If your property offers perks like high-speed Wi-Fi, in-room coffee machines, or local adventure packages, these need to be front and center. Even if you don’t have luxury pools or private chefs, highlighting simple conveniences—like a well-stocked kitchen or free parking—can sway potential guests.

Leveraging the Power of Community and Unique Experiences

Beyond marketing physical amenities, it’s essential to market the experiences tied to them. Travelers today are looking for more than just a place to stay—they want to immerse themselves in the local culture. So, if your property is located near a scenic hiking trail or popular local attraction, make that a part of your narrative. Showcase how staying at your rental connects guests to those experiences, and your property will naturally stand out.

It’s also important to be creative in promoting what may seem like everyday amenities. A simple backyard becomes a “private urban oasis” with the right description. A basic kitchen transforms into “ideal for home-cooked meals after a day of adventure.” It’s all about how you frame what you have.

Related Read: Safeguard Your Short-Term Rental Margins Through Upselling: A Practical Guide

Conclusion

In a saturated market, standing out requires smart investments—not always in new amenities, but in understanding your guests, maximizing what you have, and creatively marketing your offerings. By focusing on both the physical and experiential aspects of your property, you can differentiate your rental, build stronger relationships with your community, and capture the attention of the modern traveler.