The Ultimate Guide to Family-Friendly Airbnb Furnishings: Boost Bookings and Revenue

As veteran Airbnb hosts with over a decade of experience, we've seen it all when it comes to family travel. Our team has personally navigated the challenges of vacationing with kids of all ages, and understands firsthand what makes a short-term rental truly family-friendly.

​We're passionate about creating spaces that don't just accommodate families – they welcome them with open arms and we're sharing our hard-earned wisdom to help you transform your Airbnb into a haven for traveling families.  By implementing these tried-and-true tips, you'll not only make life easier for your guests but also boost your bookings, increase your revenue, and garner those coveted five-star reviews. 

Essentials for Infants and Toddlers

• Safe Sleeping Spaces - A portable crib or Pack 'n Play can be a lifesaver for parents traveling with infants. While the staple is a pack and play for most rentals, we love a full size portable crib to best accommodate a larger age range. It’s still small enough to store away in a closet or to put in your car if you choose to keep it off site. Make sure to provide clean sheets and a comfortable mattress.
  • Portable Crib  and Mattress
  • Crib Mattress Encasement
  • Pack and Play
  • Pack and Play Mattress Cover and Sheet 
• High Chairs - A high chair or booster seat for mealtime can make dining much easier for parents and safer for young children. Pro tip - steer clear of high chairs with fabric seats.  The clean up is so much easier and your chair will in turn, last years longer. 
  • ​High Chair 
  • Bonus points for a splat mat
• ​Changing Table Supplies - Don't worry about providing diapers or wipes to your guests - between sizing and brand loyalty, it just isn't worth it!  That said, what is often forgotten about in a rental home is a place to dispose of those old diapers. Consider purchasing a diaper pail to keep your room odor-free and safe from little wandering hands. 
  • ​Diaper Pail
  • Disposable Bags
• Baby Monitor - Even the most well packed baby monitor can be broken on a long trip (we know firsthand) and there’s nothing better than knowing there’s one waiting for us on the other side.  There are dozens on the market that are connected to smartphone apps, however, for short term rentals, we love the tried and true monitors that are an easy set up and go for parents!
  • ​Baby Monitor
• Children's Dinnerware - You don’t know how wonderful having a few pieces of child-size dinnerware is until you don’t have it on vacation.  Spill proof cups and ergonomic silverware can make or break a peaceful dinner experience.  We opt for the silicone–unbreakable, microwave and dishwasher friendly, and will suction to the table or high chair with ease!
  • ​Plates and Bowls 
  • Silverware
  • Baby Cups and Big Kid Cups​​

Essentials for Young Children 

• Safety Gates - If your home has stairs, safety gates are an incredible value add for parents.  Make sure to purchase enough to cover the top and bottom of each staircase.  We recommend gates that have doors for easy accessibility for the family.  We love this one for its ability to fit most wide hallways and the Y-mount for those stairs with banisters.
  • ​Safety Gate
• Toys and Books - A small selection of toys and books can keep young children entertained. Consider items that can easily be washed and don’t have pieces that are integral to have all of them to enjoy (here’s looking at you, puzzles)
  • ​Magnetic Tiles
  • Toy Cars and Track Mat
  • Foam Blocks 

As you prepare to outfit your Airbnb with these family-friendly essentials, be sure to explore our Amazon storefront for a curated list of recommended items. From portable cribs to safety gates, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to create a welcoming environment for families.

​And if the process feels overwhelming, we’d love to help you outfit your home or even manage it directly! Click here to start chatting with us today and make your hosting experience easier than ever. Happy hosting!

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