There’s something magical about the holiday season that makes us all crave cozy spaces, twinkling lights, and the smell of pine trees. For vacation rental hosts, Christmas is the perfect opportunity to sprinkle some festive charm into their property. But how do you deck the halls without going overboard? Don’t worry; we’ve got your back. Here are some simple ways to give your rental a festive glow that guests will adore.
How to prepare your vacation rental for a festive Christmas
1. Sprinkle in festive decorations
There is no need to turn your space into a holiday extravaganza—sometimes, less really is more. A small, tastefully decorated Christmas tree can work wonders. Stick to classic, neutral ornaments like gold, silver, or white, which appeal to almost everyone. Beyond the tree, try a wreath on the front door, garlands along the staircase, or holiday-themed pillows on the couch. These small touches will create a cozy, welcoming vibe without making the place feel cluttered.
2. Set the mood with lighting
Twinkling lights are a holiday staple, and they’re as budget-friendly as they are magical. Drape fairy lights around windows, mirrors, or the Christmas tree. Want something unique? Pop some fairy lights into mason jars or vases for charming, glowing centerpieces. If you have outdoor space, string solar-powered lights along fences or trees to make your rental sparkle from the outside in. Bonus: they double as cozy nightlights!
3. Bring on the comfort with cozy essentials
What’s better than snuggling under a warm blanket on a chilly evening? Stock your rental with soft throws and plush pillows in festive shades like red, green, or plaid. Scatter them in the living room and bedrooms to create that irresistibly cozy holiday feel. Your guests will love curling up after a day out, whether they’re sipping hot cocoa or reading by the fire.
4. Wow guests with a holiday welcome basket
Nothing says “Merry Christmas” like a thoughtful surprise! A festive welcome basket with treats like hot cocoa mix, gingerbread cookies, candy canes, or even a mini bottle of mulled wine is a surefire way to impress your guests. Add a handwritten note wishing them a happy holiday, and decorate the basket with pinecones, sprigs of evergreen, or a bit of ribbon. It’s a small effort that leaves a big impression.
5. Infuse the space with holiday scents
Few things bring on the holiday spirit faster than the scent of cinnamon, pine, or vanilla. Usediffusers, candles (in safe areas), or wax melts to spread festive aromas throughout your rental. For an extra special touch, provide guests with a simmer pot recipe using orange slices, cloves, and cinnamon sticks. It’s a fun, budget-friendly way to make your space smell like Christmas.
6. Elevate the dining area
Holiday meals are the heart of the season, so give your dining area a little extra flair. Swap out plain tableware for festive napkins or placemats, and create a simple centerpiece using pinecones, baubles, or a bit of greenery. Want to go the extra mile? Leave a holiday recipe book or festive drink ideas for your guests to enjoy. Guests might get inspired to whip up something seasonal, turning their stay into a memory they’ll cherish (and maybe recreate next Christmas!).
7. Decorate with natural greenery
Nothing says festive like natural elements! Fresh plants, pinecones, and twigs can transform your space without overwhelming your budget. Create garlands for the mantels or wreaths for the doors to bring the outdoors in. For a bit of flair, you can lightly spray pinecones with metallic paint or dust them with faux snow for a frosty finish. Greenery woven into the staircase or arranged as a simple table display adds that Pinterest-worthy vibe to your property.
8. Offer holiday entertainment
Make sure your guests never run out of ways to enjoy the season. Stock your space with holiday classics like Home Alone or The Grinch, along with some family-friendly board games or a Spotify playlist of festive tunes. Add a cozy basket of winter reads for those who love a quiet night in. Hosting families? A cookie-decorating kit or some DIY holiday crafts for kids can go a long way in creating those extra-special memories. These activities create lasting memories your guests will associate with your rental for years to come.
9. Create a cozy focal point
If you’ve got a fireplace, make it the star of the show! Clean it up, stock some firewood, and dress the mantel with garlands, stockings, or candles. There’s nothing more inviting than a roaring fire on a cold winter night. No fireplace? No problem. You can create a “cozy corner” instead. Arrange an armchair with holiday-themed throw pillows, a side table for hot cocoa, and some twinkling fairy lights. It’s an irresistible spot for guests to curl up and unwind after a day of festive fun.
10. Highlight local holiday events
Be the host who goes above and beyond by sharing the best local holiday experiences. Whether it’s Christmas markets, tree-lighting ceremonies, or seasonal dining spots, your guests will appreciate the insider tips. You can even partner with nearby businesses to offer discounts or perks. A voucher for free hot cocoa from a local café, for instance, is a small gesture that could make a big impression and might even encourage guests to come back next year.
11. Set up a festive photo spot
Who doesn’t love a holiday selfie? Create a small photo corner in your rental with twinkling lights, a mini tree, or a cheerful holiday backdrop. Even a chalkboard with a fun, festive message can do the trick! Encourage guests to snap photos and share them online, tagging your property. Include a custom hashtag like #HolidaysAt[YourRentalName] to make it easy to boost your property’s visibility while giving your guests a fun memory to take home.
12. Add a holiday guestbook
Why not add a personal, festive twist to your vacation rental with a holiday-themed guestbook? Set up a cozy corner with a beautifully bound book where guests can share their favorite holiday memories, write heartfelt wishes, or even leave a family photo. To make it more engaging, include colorful pens, holiday stickers, and maybe a small Polaroid camera for guests to snap pictures of their stay. You can decorate the guestbook station with mini string lights, a few sprigs of pine, or a bowl of candy canes to tie it into the festive decor.
Time to prepare your rental for Christmas
Hopefully, these tips will help you transform your vacation rental into a warm sanctuary for the Christmas holiday season and have guests returning for more. To make hosting even easier this holiday season, let Hosthub handle the behind-the-scenes work.
With features like a unified inbox and synchronized calendars across all booking platforms, Hosthub simplifies property management so you can focus on spreading holiday cheer. It’s the perfect partner for a stress-free and successful Christmas rental season! Start today with a free trial, or request a demo.
