As an Airbnb host, especially in the charming, wintry Northeast, one of the best ways to elevate the guest experience is by helping them feel prepared and excited about their holiday stay.
Your guests typically know to expect the usuals – like driving directions, parking information, and general details of the Airbnb. But taking things a step further, like with a seasonal packing list, can truly elevate the experience for them before they ever even leave their home!
Keep reading for an ultimate guide on how to create a practical, cozy, and festive checklist for your guests, ensuring they come ready for everything your property and the local area have to offer.
7 Key Things To Include On Your Holiday Packing Checklist for Your Airbnb Guests
1. Cold Weather Essentials
Guests may not always anticipate just how chilly the Northeast can get. A quick reminder about warm clothing and essentials will help them come prepared, ensuring a comfortable stay without last-minute shopping trips.
Highlight Winter Essentials: Recommend guests bring a cozy, water-resistant coat, along with scarves, gloves, and hats to stay warm during their winter stay. If your property is close to snowy trails, suggest packing waterproof boots with good traction for winter hikes. To make packing easier, we’ve put together a curated winter packing list with our top gear picks, so guests can be fully prepared for their mountain adventure!
Layering Advice: Encourage guests to pack thermal layers and cozy sweaters to adjust between indoor and outdoor temperatures.
A warm reminder about Northeast weather shows guests you care about their comfort, plus it adds a thoughtful touch that makes your rental stand out.
2. Cozy Entertainment for Quiet Nights In
Winter holidays are perfect for cozying up indoors, and many guests look forward to relaxed, comfortable evenings. Here are a few suggestions to enhance their experience:
Cozy Up with Movies, Books, and Games: Encourage guests to bring holiday movies, favorite books, or puzzles to enjoy during their stay. Consider stocking your rental with a few cozy classics as well. For an extra touch, set up your streaming service with a curated “My List” of holiday favorites, so guests can jump right into a festive movie night—no endless scrolling needed!
Personal Comforts: Mention how a favorite blanket or throw can make the experience even better. If you already provide cozy blankets, let guests know there will be one waiting for them.
Fireplace or Fire Pit Details: If your Airbnb allows indoor fires in the fireplace or outdoor fires in a fire pit, let guests know whether you provide firewood, matches, lighters, or fire starters. If not, inform them ahead of time so they can plan accordingly and purchase these items before arriving.
These thoughtful touches make your Airbnb feel welcoming and well-prepared, inviting guests to fully relax and enjoy their holiday escape.
3. Winter Personal Care Essentials
The Northeast winter air can be dry and chilly, especially for guests traveling from warmer climates. Including a few personal care recommendations adds a caring, thoughtful touch.
Moisturizer and Lip Balm: Encourage guests to pack items to keep their skin and lips hydrated.
Hand Warmers: Suggesting these is great if your area has outdoor winter activities.
Travel Humidifier: A small, portable humidifier can be a great idea if your property’s air is dry, especially helpful for families with small children.
Including personal care tips shows you’ve considered their comfort, making guests feel valued and cared for.
4. Essentials for Exploring the Local Area
The Northeast is brimming with enchanting holiday lights, quaint towns, and seasonal activities that make for perfect day trips. As an Airbnb host, you are the most knowledgeable person in the area for your guests—use this to your advantage! Share your favorite hidden gems and must-see spots to make their experience even more special.
Help guests make the most of their stay by suggesting a few essentials to enhance their local adventures:
Portable Chargers & Camera Gear: Remind guests to bring these items to capture the local sights without worrying about battery life.
Thermos and Water Bottle: Staying warm and hydrated is key on chilly outings, so a thermos for hot drinks and a water bottle for longer adventures are great to have on hand.
Tote or Backpack: Suggest bringing a reusable bag or small backpack for visits to local shops or holiday markets—perfect for stashing any treasures they find.
Local Activities Guide: To add extra value to their stay, create a one-page flyer featuring 5-8 recommended activities or local events for each winter month. Guests can quickly flip through for inspiration and find something fun to experience in the area, from seasonal festivals to nearby hiking trails and scenic winter drives.
Guests love a great Instagram photo op! If you know of any must-see spots that make for stunning photos, be sure to share the inside scoop. Whether it’s a hidden viewpoint, a beautifully decorated local café, or a scenic trail with perfect lighting, your tips can help them capture unforgettable moments and share the best of their trip.
These thoughtful tips help guests feel prepared and excited to explore the best of your local area, adding a personal touch to their stay and encouraging memorable adventures right outside your door.
5. Kitchen Essentials for Holiday Meals
Guests often look forward to cozy, home-cooked meals, especially if your Airbnb offers a fully equipped kitchen. Make their stay feel like home by suggesting a few essentials to bring along:
Favorite Ingredients: Encourage guests to pack any specialty items if they’re planning traditional holiday dishes—they’ll appreciate the reminder!
Reusable Containers: Handy for storing leftovers or packing snacks for day trips, especially if they’re planning outdoor adventures.
Non-Perishable Snacks: If you’re near hiking trails or scenic areas, recommend snacks they can take along for easy, on-the-go energy.
As a host, consider adding a personal touch by sharing one of your family’s favorite winter recipes—a cozy meal perfect for a chilly night. Leave a printed recipe on the counter or include it in your winter ebook guide. Sharing these little touches will leave a lasting impression, helping guests feel welcomed and cared for throughout their stay.
If you're looking to refresh your Airbnb kitchen, check out our curated list of must-have essentials. From durable cookware to stylish serving pieces, these items are perfect for creating a cozy, well-equipped space your guests will love!
6. Gear for Outdoor Adventures
If your Airbnb is near outdoor trails, ski resorts, or other winter activities, help guests plan for a memorable stay by reminding them to pack the right gear and preparing them for the nearby adventure options.
Here are a few essentials to suggest:
Snowshoes or Sleds: If your property is close to trails or sledding hills, highlight these fun winter activities in your listing. Let guests know if you provide snowshoes or sleds—it’s a convenient bonus! If not, inform guests in advance so they can pack or rent. If there’s a nearby rental shop, include those details to make it easy for them to access gear.
Ski Equipment: If a local ski resort is nearby, mention that guests should bring their own ski or snowboard gear, or, if rentals are available locally, provide that information. Many guests appreciate knowing the proximity of ski resorts, skating rinks, and other outdoor activities, as this helps them plan their schedule and travel time.
Flashlight or Headlamp: With shorter winter days, a flashlight or headlamp is helpful for those planning to enjoy evening walks or adventures at dusk.
Additionally, encourage guests to purchase tickets for ski resorts or popular attractions online before their trip. Securing tickets in advance ensures they have a spot reserved and helps them avoid long wait times, making for a smoother and more enjoyable winter getaway.
By sharing these details, you add value to their experience and help them prepare for the Northeast’s winter magic!
7. Adding a Holiday Touch: Decor and Gifts
For guests staying over the holiday season, a few decorative items can make your rental feel extra cozy and festive.
Ornaments or String Lights: For guests interested in adding a cozy, personal touch, suggest bringing along a few small holiday decorations, like string lights or neutral ornaments. Decorating with minimal, tasteful decor can instantly create a festive atmosphere without overwhelming the space. Check out our curated list of neutral holiday decor here for inspiration—perfect for a subtle, seasonal setup!
Holiday Cards or Wrapping Paper: For guests exchanging gifts, these items are a thoughtful reminder.
Even a brief mention in a social media caption of holiday decorations makes your Airbnb feel like a welcoming place for family gatherings or quiet holiday getaways.
A Sample Packing Checklist For Your AirbnbMake packing a breeze for your guests by creating a downloadable or printable checklist to send upon booking or as a friendly reminder before check-in. Here’s a quick summary:
Packing Checklist for Your Holiday Stay:
Winter coat, scarf, gloves, and boots with good traction
Layering essentials (thermal shirts, sweaters)
Moisturizer, lip balm, and hand warmers
Thermos, water bottle, and portable charger
Snacks and reusable containers
Movies, books, games, and cozy blankets
Snowshoes, sled, or flashlight for outdoor fun
Small holiday decorations or wrapping paper (if desired)
For a full list and additional tips, check out our blog post, Winter Cabin Packing List (For a Cozy Getaway) on The Wandering Tourists blog! This curated checklist covers everything guests need to stay warm, cozy, and prepared for their mountain adventure.
With a simple holiday packing checklist, you can help guests prepare for a cozy, memorable stay. This thoughtful gesture goes a long way toward enhancing their experience, adding value to your property and encouraging guests to explore everything the Northeast has to offer during the holiday season.
A little preparation on your end helps your guests create cherished holiday memories. Let them know that everything they need is just a checklist away, and get ready to welcome happy, prepared travelers this season!
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