Airbnb guests have raised the bar. It’s no longer enough to offer a clean bed and decent Wi-Fi. Expectations have shifted. In 2025, travellers want comfort, convenience, style and connection all wrapped into one. If you’re not delivering on that, you’re falling behind.

That’s why smart Airbnb property management isn’t just a luxury—it’s the backbone of a five-star stay. Guests notice the little things now more than ever. They expect thoughtful touches, functional spaces, and amenities that feel personal—not just standard.

So what do guests actually want in a modern Airbnb? Let’s break it down.

Comfort Is the New Luxury

Modern travellers want a stay that feels better than home. The moment they walk in, they’re judging the comfort level—and that starts with the furniture and bedding.

A good bed isn’t enough. In 2025, guests expect premium linen, extra pillows, bedside power points, blackout curtains, and adjustable lighting. If there’s a couch, it should feel inviting, not stiff. The same goes for rugs, cushions and throws.

One host in Noosa upgraded their unit with layered textures, blackout blinds and soft lighting. They also added a few framed art pieces from local artists. Review scores jumped, and guests described the place as “relaxing and beautifully put together.”

To create this level of comfort, your property should include the must-have luxury vacation home amenities guests now expect as standard.

Kitchens That Do More Than Look Good

Today’s guests aren’t just tourists—they’re often working remotely, staying longer and cooking more. A pretty kitchen won’t cut it if it doesn’t function.

Guests look for a full-sized fridge, a sharp knife set, enough plates for a family, a toaster that works and a coffee machine they can actually use. Appliances should be intuitive. Basics like olive oil, salt, pepper, cling wrap and baking trays go a long way.

An Airbnb in Brisbane that stocked the pantry with simple breakfast items, herbs and decent cooking gear saw a spike in long-term stays. The cost per booking for these extras was under $30—but the boost in satisfaction was worth far more. Hosts who understand the unexpected benefits of styling your luxury home rentals often end up with happier guests and better reviews.

Family-Focused Features Win Loyalty

Families want to feel safe and stress-free. That means less worry and more convenience—from check-in to bedtime.

Parents appreciate little things like plastic bowls, childproof locks, a high chair and a cot. Add puzzles or books, and they’ll remember your place fondly. Even better, mention these upfront in your listing, so families know what to expect.

In one Sunshine Coast home, a host added a kids’ toy box, a portable bath and a stool in the bathroom. The space started getting longer bookings and multiple five-star reviews from families who appreciated the attention to detail.

Listings that include family-friendly Airbnb features that attract guests tend to perform better in school holidays and receive more return bookings.

Smart Tech Makes Life Easier for Everyone

Smart features no longer feel futuristic—they’re expected. From keyless entry to automated check-in messages, tech makes your guest’s stay smoother.

Top features include smart locks, streaming-enabled TVs, voice-activated assistants and motion lights. USB charging stations next to the bed? Non-negotiable. Also, make sure your Wi-Fi is fast and reliable. Guests travelling for work won’t forgive buffering or dead zones.

One host in the Gold Coast installed smart blinds and temperature controls guests could manage with their phones. Reviews described the stay as “modern and effortless.” This kind of tech doesn’t just add function—it enhances the entire experience.

Cleanliness Is Still King

You can have the best views in town, but if the place isn’t spotless, it won’t matter. Cleanliness isn’t just a standard—it’s the baseline for trust.

Everything from skirting boards to remote controls needs to shine. Bathrooms should feel like a boutique hotel. Sheets must be freshly laundered, and there should never be hair in the drains or crumbs on the counter. Guests won’t forgive it.

Hiring professional cleaners makes all the difference. And if you’re doing it yourself, use a checklist and double-check every corner. Airbnb guests notice.

In fact, one host started leaving a printed “last cleaned” note with a date and initials. Guests mentioned it as a trust-builder. That kind of transparency pays off in peace of mind and repeat bookings.

Outdoor Space Isn’t a Bonus—It’s a Feature

Balconies, courtyards and gardens have become key selling points. Especially after the pandemic years, people want outdoor access without leaving the property.

What works? Comfortable seating, solar lights, shade and a clean BBQ setup. String lights and a hammock cost under $200 but make a huge difference in how a place feels.

On the Gold Coast, a host with a small courtyard added a privacy screen, firepit and herb planter box. Guests loved the atmosphere and shared it in Instagram posts—free marketing with a personal touch.

Well-maintained outdoor areas offer guests more than just air—they provide another experience within the stay.

Safety and Security Create Comfort

Feeling safe is just as important as being safe. Especially for solo travellers or families, visible security measures matter.

Smoke detectors, first aid kits, secure locks and well-lit entrances are must-haves. Smart doorbells and outdoor cameras (in line with Airbnb’s guidelines) add another layer of reassurance. Add emergency contact details near the front door, including the nearest hospital and local police.

For female travellers in particular, touches like a secondary lock, sensor lights and quiet-entry keypads build confidence. A Brisbane host who added these saw a noticeable uptick in solo traveller bookings.

Your listing should clearly highlight what makes the space secure—because safety sells.

Local Personality Brings Heart to the Space

Guests don’t want to feel like they’re staying in a hotel. They want a taste of the local lifestyle. That’s where your personal touches come in.

A handwritten welcome card, a few snacks from local shops or a guide to hidden gems in the area go a long way. Use neutral décor but add accents that reflect your location—art from local creatives, books on regional history, or even a scent that captures the vibe.

In one Noosa home, the host left a small jar of local honey as a thank-you gift. It showed care and character—and earned a glowing review in return.

Airbnbs with personality don’t just get better ratings—they get remembered.

Guests Care About Sustainability More Than Ever

Eco-conscious guests are everywhere now. They don’t just want comfort—they want to know their stay isn’t costing the earth.

Refillable bulk toiletries, energy-efficient lights, compost bins and natural cleaning products help you stand out. Add solar garden lighting and indoor plants, and your space instantly feels more ethical and inviting.

A host in Maleny began offering filtered water and reusable glass bottles. They also shared a sustainability checklist in the listing. Their bookings with younger travellers spiked—proof that sustainability now equals marketability.

FAQs

1) What are the must-have amenities in 2025 for Airbnb guests?
In 2025, guests expect much more than a basic bed and Wi-Fi. A queen or king-sized bed with quality sheets, high-speed internet, a smart TV, heating and cooling are all standard. Add functional extras like USB chargers next to the bed, a full kitchen with cooking tools, blackout curtains and secure entry. Bathroom details matter too—refillable toiletries, extra towels and hooks make a big difference. A place that ticks all these boxes gets higher reviews and more repeat stays. Guests want to feel like you’ve already thought of everything before they even ask.

2) How can I attract families to my Airbnb?
Families want peace of mind. If you want to attract them, make sure your space offers practical features like a high chair, cot, plastic dinnerware and a safe outdoor area. Offer board games, Netflix access and step stools in the bathroom. Let parents know upfront that they don’t need to overpack. Include these items in your listing description and show them clearly in your photos. The more convenient and stress-free your space feels, the more likely parents will leave great reviews and come back. It’s not about over-the-top extras—it’s about solving real needs.

3) What kind of technology impresses Airbnb guests in 2025?
Guests expect smart tech that works. That means keyless locks for contactless check-in, high-speed Wi-Fi for streaming and working, and devices like Google Nest or Alexa that enhance convenience. USB ports in bedrooms, smart lights and a smart thermostat also add value. If the space feels modern and easy to use, it builds trust. Even small things—like automated welcome messages or a digital house manual—make the experience smoother. When guests don’t have to ask questions or hunt for instructions, it sets a tone of professionalism and thoughtfulness.

4) Why do local touches matter in an Airbnb?
Local touches add heart to your space. They remind guests that they’re not staying in a hotel—they’re staying somewhere personal. A handwritten note, a fridge magnet from a local shop, or a list of your favourite takeaway spots builds connection. These extras don’t cost much but they create warmth. In a world of templated listings, personalisation makes you memorable. Guests who feel a genuine connection are more likely to write positive reviews, tag your property on social media and come back. It’s the easiest way to stand out without spending big.

5) How can I make my Airbnb more eco-friendly?
Start small. Use bulk, refillable toiletries instead of throwaway minis. Add a compost bin, use recycled toilet paper, and switch to natural cleaning products. Swap light bulbs for LEDs and choose energy-efficient appliances where you can. If you’ve got outdoor space, install solar lights. Make it easy for guests to recycle with labelled bins. Then, talk about it—mention your efforts in your listing. Guests who care about sustainability will notice. You don’t need to go full off-grid. Just show that you’re trying to reduce your footprint, and guests will respect that.

The Stays That Stick Are Built on the Right Details

What guests want in 2025 isn’t complicated—but it is intentional. They’re drawn to spaces that feel thoughtful, welcoming and easy. Every touchpoint matters, from the way the sheets are folded to the way the kitchen is stocked. Smart tech, clean design, family-readiness and sustainability aren’t bonus points anymore—they’re baseline expectations.

As someone who’s worked with hundreds of short-term rental owners, I’ve seen firsthand that it’s the small upgrades and the genuine care that lead to the biggest returns. When guests feel considered, they leave better reviews, stay longer and come back. That’s not just good hospitality—it’s smart business.

If you want to create those kinds of memorable stays without the stress of managing it all yourself, BNB Booking helps you get there. With expert local knowledge and hands-on support, they take care of the details so you can focus on what matters most—offering a place your guests will never forget.

Please call us today on 1300 421 029 to learn more or leave an enquiry and we will get back to you as soon as possible.