Winter activities for your vacation rental guests

Marketing tips

Make your winter vacation rental unforgettable with simple activities

20 Nov 2024

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By Sophie Eminson

Winter is the time of year when the world transforms into a snowy wonderland and families gather for festive cheer. If you’re a vacation rental host keeping your bookings open over the festive period, you’re in for a treat. Winter vacation activities can add a delightful touch to your guests' experience, and as an Airbnb host or holiday home owner, these small gestures can make a big difference. Let's explore some fun, easy-to-implement activities that can turn a chilly stay into a warm memory.

Why winter activities matter for your guests

When it comes to the festive season, travellers are searching for more than just a place to stay. They're looking for experiences, warmth, and hospitality. Winter vacation activities are the extra sparkle that makes your rental stand out. They’re not just about filling time—they’re about creating memories.

Guests may also find their planned adventures thwarted by an unexpected winter storm. This is where your thoughtful preparation can save the day. By offering engaging indoor entertainment, you’ll ensure their holiday is memorable, come rain or shine, or snow!

Download festive movies for your holiday home guests

Festive films for snug evenings

What’s better than cozying up with a good movie when it’s frosty outside? Not much! Having a selection of festive films ready can be a lifesaver for those nights when your guests just want to snuggle on the couch.

Pick a variety of films to cater to different tastes. From modern classics like "Elf" to timeless favourites like "It’s a Wonderful Life," there’s something for everyone. Go the extra mile by offering a mix of DVDs, or set up your Smart TV with streaming services to download these titles in advance.

Leave crafting activities for your Airbnb guests

Crafty fun for all ages

When the outdoors is too chilly, why not bring out the crafts? This is a fantastic way to keep both kids and adults entertained while fostering creativity and bonding. Fill a basket with coloured papers, scissors, glue, and festive templates of snowmen, reindeer, and Christmas trees. Step-by-step guides for making DIY baubles can be a great hit, especially when you throw in some glitter, sequins, and fun stickers. Encourage guests to work together on projects, creating ornaments they can cherish. This not only entertains but also gives families the chance to create lasting memories.

Give your guests festive cookie recipes

Baking bliss in your kitchen

There’s something magical about baking cookies or cakes during the winter. It's comforting, fills the home with wonderful aromas, and, of course, ends with delicious treats to enjoy. Print off recipes that use basic ingredients found in your kitchen. Think classic sugar cookies or simple cupcakes. Include fun extras like edible glitter and food colouring to make baking more exciting for little ones. Make sure your kitchen is well-stocked with essential baking supplies. This includes measuring cups, mixing bowls, baking trays, and cookie cutters in festive shapes.

Encourage guests to submit photos of their baked creations for a small prize or feature on your rental’s social media page. This adds a fun competitive element to their stay.

Keep board games in for families to play

Board game bonanza

Board games are a timeless way to bring people together. They’re perfect for those cozy afternoons when going outside seems less appealing. Include a range of family-friendly games, from quick and easy ones like Hungry Hippos to longer strategic games like Monopoly. Don't forget jigsaw puzzles for those who love a good challenge. 

Blanket and pillow forts can be warm fun for the whole family

Building blanket forts for endless fun

Never underestimate the power of a good blanket fort! It’s a fun, imaginative activity that delights children and adults alike. Offer a generous supply of blankets, sheets, and pillows for fort-building. Encourage guests to use furniture creatively to construct their forts. Leave instructions or ideas for different types of forts. Whether it’s a castle or a spaceship, the possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

Winter may bring cold weather, but with a little creativity, it can also bring warmth and joy to your vacation rental. By offering these winter vacation activities, you provide your guests with not just a place to stay, but a memorable experience filled with fun and laughter. For more tips on how to enhance your guest experience, join our community of hosts dedicated to exceptional hospitality.

Winter activities for your vacation rental guests

Start, promote, and manage your rental property with Travelnest

  • Global exposure

  • Guest messaging

  • Payment processing

  • Smart pricing

  • Calendar sync

  • Travelnest Direct

  • On-hand support

  • Management dashboard

Start, promote, and manage your rental property with Travelnest

  • Global exposure

  • Guest messaging

  • Payment processing

  • Smart pricing

  • Calendar sync

  • Travelnest Direct

  • On-hand support

  • Management dashboard

Start, promote, and manage your rental property with Travelnest

  • Global exposure

  • Guest messaging

  • Payment processing

  • Smart pricing

  • Calendar sync

  • Travelnest Direct

  • On-hand support

  • Management dashboard

Start, promote, and manage your rental property with Travelnest

  • Global exposure

  • Guest messaging

  • Payment processing

  • Smart pricing

  • Calendar sync

  • Travelnest Direct

  • On-hand support

  • Management dashboard