Preparing Your Airbnb for Winter Travelers: Early Planning Tips
As the sunny days of summer start to fade, it’s time to shift your focus to the upcoming winter season. For Airbnb hosts, September is the perfect month to prepare your property for the colder months. Early planning means your Airbnb will be fully ready to welcome guests seeking a cozy escape from the chill.
In this post, we’ll provide essential early planning tips to ensure your Airbnb is not only comfortable and inviting but also equipped to handle the unique challenges of winter. From heating systems to thoughtful seasonal touches, these strategies will help keep your property in top shape and your guests happy throughout the frosty season.
1. Conduct a Full HVAC Check-Up
One of the most critical steps in preparing your Airbnb for winter is ensuring your heating system is working perfectly. A malfunctioning heater can quickly turn a pleasant stay into a nightmare, so it's necessary to schedule an HVAC check-up in September.
Tip: Have a professional inspect and service your HVAC system, clean out ducts, and replace any filters. If your property uses a fireplace or wood stove, ensure they’re properly cleaned and ventilated.
Bonus Tip: Leave clear instructions for guests on how to use the heating system, including any thermostat settings, space heaters, or fireplaces.
2. Check Windows and Doors for Drafts
Good insulation is key to keeping your Airbnb cozy and warm. Drafty windows and doors let cold air in, making it difficult to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and increasing your energy bills.
Tip: Inspect all windows and doors for any gaps or cracks. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal these areas, or consider adding draft stoppers to keep the cold air out.
Bonus Tip: If replacing windows is within budget, consider double-pane options. These options offer better insulation and reduce outside noise, providing a quieter and warmer environment for guests.
3. Stock Up on Winter Essentials
A big part of creating a welcoming winter environment is ensuring guests have everything they need to feel comfortable. Stock your Airbnb with winter essentials to make their stay as cozy as possible.
Ideas to Include:
Extra blankets and throws are especially made of warm materials like fleece or wool.
Thick, plush towels for guests to use after a hot shower.
A variety of hot beverages, such as hot chocolate, herbal teas, and coffee.
Winter emergency items like a flashlight, extra batteries, and an emergency contact list.
Tip: To make their stay feel special, add a few seasonal touches to your welcome basket—think locally made hot cocoa packets, a small jar of cinnamon sticks, or even a winter-themed mug.
4. Create a Warm and Inviting Bedroom
During the colder months, guests will be looking for a cozy, warm retreat to curl up in. Make sure your bedroom exudes comfort by making a few key changes:
Tip: Layer up your bedding with flannel sheets, a heavier duvet, and a few throw blankets. Consider adding an electric blanket or heating pad for an extra touch of luxury.
Bonus Tip: Swap out lighter summer decor for warmer colors and textures, such as velvet cushions and faux fur throws, and deep, rich colors like burgundy or forest green.
5. Ensure Good Lighting Throughout Your Property
Winter days are shorter, and evenings can feel gloomy without the right lighting. Adding warm, ambient lighting can make your space feel more inviting.
Tip: Use warm, soft bulbs in your main lighting fixtures, and add table or floor lamps in reading nooks, bedrooms, and common areas. Consider string lights or flameless candles to create a magical, cozy atmosphere.
Bonus Tip: Leave a few battery-operated lanterns around the property in case of power outages, especially if you host in areas prone to winter storms.
6. Prepare Outdoor Spaces for Cold Weather
Even in winter, guests enjoy a beautiful outdoor space—especially if it’s set up for chilly evenings. Make the most of your property’s outdoor area by making it winter-ready.
Tip: Add a fire pit with comfortable seating, outdoor blankets, and string lights to create a warm, inviting area where guests can gather. If snow is common, provide shovels and ice melt and clear any paths to prevent slippery conditions.
7. Update Your Welcome Book with Seasonal Tips
An updated welcome book is a small but powerful way to show guests that you’re attentive and care about their experience. Include tips for staying warm, using the heating system, and local recommendations for winter activities.
Tip: Include information about nearby skiing spots, snowshoe trails, or the best local cafes for warming up with a hot drink. Guests will appreciate having a curated list of options that align with the season.
8. Offer Winter-Friendly Entertainment
As the temperatures drop, guests may prefer to spend more time indoors, making entertainment options essential for a great stay. Think beyond just TV and Wi-Fi!
Tip: Create a collection of board games, books, and puzzles that guests can enjoy by the fire. Another great way to enhance the guest experience is to host a cozy movie night with popcorn, blankets, and a selection of classic films.
Bonus Tip: If your property has a fireplace, leave a stack of firewood and instructions on how to safely use it. There’s nothing more magical than a crackling fire on a cold winter night.
9. Check for Winter Safety Hazards
Winter weather can pose safety risks that aren’t an issue during other seasons. Before the cold sets in, do a safety check around your property to ensure your guests’ well-being.
Tip: Inspect walkways, stairs, and driveways for cracks or uneven surfaces that could become hazardous when icy. If snowfall is expected, provide a shovel and ice melt for guests to use.
Bonus Tip: Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they function correctly. With the increased use of heating systems and fireplaces, it’s crucial to keep these safety devices in top shape.
10. Highlight Your Property’s Winter Appeal in Listings
Lastly, don’t forget to update your Airbnb listing to reflect the cozy, winter-friendly environment you’ve created! Emphasize features like the fireplace, hot tub, or proximity to winter attractions, and include new photos that showcase the property in its winter splendor.
Tip: Update your description to mention winter-specific amenities like heated blankets, fire pits, or a curated hot cocoa bar. This can help your listing stand out to travelers specifically looking for a winter escape.
FAQs
Q: When should I start preparing my Airbnb for winter?
A: September is the ideal time to start preparing your Airbnb for winter, as it gives you plenty of time to address any maintenance issues and make updates before the cold weather arrives.
Q: Do I need to change all of my decor for winter?
A: Not necessarily! Small changes like switching out lighter fabrics, adding cozy blankets, and introducing a few warm colors can greatly impact without requiring a complete decor overhaul.
Q: How can I keep my guests safe during winter stays?
A: Clear walkways of ice and snow, stock up on winter essentials like shovels and ice melt, and double-check that all heating systems, smoke detectors, and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly.
By taking these early steps to prepare your Airbnb for winter travelers, you’ll ensure a warm, inviting experience for your guests and set your property up for success in the colder months. Remember, it’s the thoughtful details that make all the difference!
If you need help with more tips or ideas for your Airbnb, feel free to reach out. Stay warm, and happy hosting!