Property Management

What is a Premium Amenity in a Vacation Rental?

Updated 2026-05-28

A premium amenity is a high-value item, feature, or service offered at a vacation rental that goes beyond standard guest expectations. Unlike essential amenities such as Wi-Fi or basic kitchenware, premium features are luxury add-ons designed to create a more memorable, comfortable, and unique stay.

Offering these can significantly increase a property's appeal, justify higher pricing, and attract a specific guest demographic seeking luxury or differentiated experiences.

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How it works

Hosts first identify their target audience and research which features would appeal most to them and add value in their specific market. They then invest in these amenities, such as a private pool, sauna, gourmet kitchen with high-end appliances, or a dedicated game room.

These features are then prominently highlighted in listing photos and descriptions to attract bookings. The cost of the amenity and its maintenance are factored into the nightly rate, often allowing the host to command a higher price and increase revenue over time.

Why it matters

Premium amenities are a key differentiator in a competitive market, helping a property stand out from similar listings. They directly contribute to a superior guest experience, leading to better reviews, repeat bookings, and positive word-of-mouth marketing.

By justifying a higher average daily rate (ADR), these features can significantly boost a property's overall revenue and return on investment. For practical guidance, see Lodgify’s Airbnb Essentials: The Ultimate Amenities Checklist.

Examples

  • A host of a mountain cabin invests in a high-end hot tub and an outdoor fire pit, marketing the property as a 'Luxury Alpine Retreat.' They increase their nightly rate by $75 and see a 20% increase in off-season bookings.
  • The owner of a beachfront condo installs a professional-grade espresso machine and offers a complimentary local coffee bean selection. They mention this 'Gourmet Coffee Bar' in their listings, attracting coffee-loving guests and receiving specific mentions in 5-star reviews.
  • A property manager in a family-friendly destination converts a spare room into a game room with an arcade machine, a large-screen TV with gaming consoles, and board games. This attracts families with children and allows the property to charge more than comparable rentals that lack this feature.
  • An urban apartment rental provides guests with access to a Peloton bike and a set of weights, appealing to fitness-conscious travelers and business guests who want to maintain their workout routine.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between an essential and a premium amenity?+
Essential amenities are the basic items guests expect for a comfortable stay, like Wi-Fi, fresh linens, towels, and soap. Premium amenities are non-essential, luxury features like a private pool, home cinema, or sauna that enhance the experience and justify a higher price point.
Should I charge extra for premium amenities?+
Generally, the cost of fixed premium amenities is built into the overall nightly rate rather than charged as a separate fee. A property with a hot tub will command a higher base price than one without. However, some services like a private chef or mid-stay cleanings can be offered as optional, paid add-ons through upselling.
How do I decide which premium amenities to add to my rental?+
Analyze your target guest persona, local market, and competition. A hot tub is popular for mountain or ski properties, while a high-end grill and outdoor kitchen might be better for a summer beach house. Research what similar top-performing properties in your area offer to stay competitive.
How do I market my property's premium amenities effectively?+
Effectively marketing premium amenities involves using high-quality photos and videos in your listing. Mention them in your listing title and description, and create a dedicated section on your direct booking website, which can be built using tools like the Lodgify website builder, to highlight these special features.
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