The Ultimate Guide to Vacation Rental Must-Haves for 2025

In a competitive market, simply offering a place to sleep isn't enough. The difference between a good vacation rental and a great one lies in the details—those thoughtful touches and standout amenities that turn a simple stay into a memorable experience. These are the vacation rental must haves that not only earn 5-star reviews but also drive repeat bookings and word-of-mouth referrals. For hosts aiming to elevate their property, this guide is your roadmap to creating an unforgettable guest experience.

If you're looking for a Nashville rental that already checks every box, properties like Underwood Manor set the gold standard. Perfect for bachelorette parties, birthdays, or girls’ weekends, it’s a prime example for owners wondering what truly matters to guests. In this listicle, we'll break down the essential items that transform a standard rental into a top-tier destination. We will cover everything from kitchen necessities and high-tech entertainment to luxurious bedding and creating an Insta-worthy outdoor oasis.

To ensure your rental is fully equipped from day one, consulting an ultimate furniture checklist for a new home can provide a stress-free, comprehensive guide to every essential item. This guide will provide actionable insights, specific product ideas, and practical tips to implement these must-haves effectively. Let's explore the secrets that will make your rental the go-to choice for travelers, ensuring it’s consistently booked and beloved.

1. Underwood Manor – A Glam-Ready Group Stay Just 5 Minutes from Broadway

If you're looking for a place that checks every box, look no further than [Underwood Manor](https://underwoodmanor.com/). This one's made for groups that want comfort and character. It’s a masterclass in curating an experience that anticipates guest needs and exceeds expectations, making it a perfect blueprint for what a modern, guest-centric vacation rental should be. For hosts wondering what vacation rental must haves actually drive bookings and rave reviews, this property provides a definitive answer. It masterfully blends high-demand amenities with thoughtful, localized touches that create a memorable, five-star stay.

Underwood Manor stands out by creating distinct zones for both relaxation and entertainment, a key strategy for appealing to diverse groups. As a top-tier bachelorette party house in Nashville, it demonstrates a keen understanding of its target audience by providing amenities tailored to their specific desires. This approach transforms the property from simple lodging into a destination in itself.

Key Strengths & Standout Features

What makes Underwood Manor an exemplary model is its focus on high-impact, value-based features. Instead of offering a generic list of amenities, it provides curated experiences that guests actively seek out.

• Exceptional Outdoor Entertainment: The backyard is a core strength. It features a 7-person luxury hot tub, a smokeless fire pit with unlimited firewood, and enchanting bistro lights. This combination creates an inviting, all-season social hub perfect for any vacation rental with a fire pit in Nashville.

• Photo-Ready, Themed Interiors: Recognizing the power of social media, the interior is stylishly designed with Nashville-themed décor, a dedicated "glam mirror" area, and other Insta-worthy spots. This encourages guests to share their experience, providing powerful user-generated marketing.

• Luxury Comforts & Tech: Premium mattresses, spa-like bathrooms, and a vinyl record player cater to guests seeking comfort and character. For modern travelers, high-speed WiFi and Smart TVs are non-negotiable vacation rental must haves.

• Thoughtful Conveniences: Small touches make a huge difference. Providing unlimited Nespresso, a fully equipped kitchen, in-unit laundry, and complimentary toiletries removes common travel hassles and signals a commitment to guest comfort. These details are essential for any host aiming to provide a seamless stay.

Practical Application & User Experience

The Underwood Manor website offers a direct booking option, providing guests with discounts of up to 15% compared to third-party platforms. This is a savvy business model that builds a direct relationship with guests while offering them tangible value. The site is user-friendly, with a gallery that effectively showcases the property's unique selling points and an easy-to-navigate booking system. For those planning a group trip, exploring properties like this can provide valuable insights into what makes a rental truly special. For more inspiration, you can learn more about finding the perfect group rental on Underwood Manor's blog.

Why It's a Top Choice

Underwood Manor is a premier example because it strategically invests in the amenities that matter most to today's travelers. It proves that success lies in a balanced combination of location, high-demand features like a hot tub and fire pit, and meticulous attention to detail.

Pros:

• Outstanding outdoor amenities designed for group entertainment.

• Stylishly curated with unique, photo-worthy Nashville décor.

• Blends luxury comforts with essential tech for work and leisure.

• Prime location just minutes from downtown Nashville with free parking.

• Direct booking offers significant savings and a better guest experience.

Cons:

• The 7-person hot tub capacity might be a limitation for the largest groups.

• Being close to a vibrant downtown area means some ambient city noise is possible.

2. Amazon

For hosts aiming to efficiently stock their properties with a vast array of items, Amazon is an indispensable one-stop shop. It stands out for its sheer volume and variety, offering everything from high-end kitchen appliances to budget-friendly bedding, making it a foundational resource for sourcing vacation rental must haves. Whether you're furnishing a property from scratch or just topping up on guest essentials, Amazon provides an unmatched level of convenience and choice.

The platform excels at helping hosts make informed decisions. Its powerful search and filter functions allow you to narrow down products by brand, price, features, and even specific materials. More importantly, the extensive user review and rating system provides real-world feedback, helping you avoid low-quality items and find durable, guest-approved products that will stand the test of time.

Pro Tip: Create a private "Wish List" for each of your properties. This allows you to organize potential purchases, track price changes, and easily reorder essentials like coffee pods, toiletries, or linens without having to search for them every time.

Why It’s a Go-To for Hosts

Amazon’s primary advantage is its logistical efficiency. With Prime membership, fast and often free shipping removes the hassle of multiple trips to different stores. This is particularly useful for last-minute needs, like replacing a broken coffee maker or restocking towels between guest turnovers.

• Product Selection: The inventory is nearly limitless. You can find niche decor items, smart home technology, safety equipment like fire extinguishers, and bulk supplies all in one place.

• Amazon Basics: This in-house brand is a goldmine for hosts, offering reliable and affordable essentials like microfiber sheets, kitchen utensils, and bath towels that provide excellent value without compromising on quality.

• User Experience: While the sheer number of options can be overwhelming, the site's filtering tools and customer Q&A sections make it manageable. Reading through recent reviews is key to ensuring product quality hasn't declined.

Sourcing everything from a new Nespresso machine to a durable outdoor grill is simple, making it easier than ever to add those special touches that guests love. For more ideas on what to stock up on, you can explore this detailed weekend getaway checklist to make sure you have all the essentials covered.

Feature	Details
Pricing	Highly competitive, with frequent sales and "Today's Deals."
Shipping	Prime offers free two-day, one-day, or even same-day delivery in many areas.
Pros	Massive selection, competitive pricing, extensive user reviews for vetting products.
Cons	Quality can vary significantly between third-party sellers; some items require assembly.

Website: https://www.amazon.com

3. Bed Bath & Beyond

For hosts who appreciate a more curated shopping experience, Bed Bath & Beyond is the perfect destination for sourcing high-quality home goods. While it doesn't have the endless digital aisles of Amazon, its strength lies in its carefully selected inventory of trusted brands for bedding, bath, and kitchen essentials. This makes it a fantastic resource for finding premium vacation rental must haves that feel less generic and more like part of a thoughtfully designed home.

The platform shines for hosts looking to elevate their property with specific, high-caliber items. Its focus on home goods means you can find coordinated towel sets, durable cookware, and stylish small appliances without sifting through unrelated product categories. The combination of an online store and physical locations allows you to see and feel the quality of products like sheets and pillows before committing, a crucial advantage when guest comfort is a top priority.

Pro Tip: Sign up for their loyalty program and email list before making any large purchases. Bed Bath & Beyond is famous for its generous coupons (like 20% off a single item or $15 off a $50 purchase), which can significantly reduce the cost of outfitting a room.

Why It’s a Go-To for Hosts

Bed Bath & Beyond bridges the gap between online convenience and in-person quality checks. Visiting a store lets you talk to knowledgeable staff who can guide you toward durable, guest-friendly products, helping you make smarter long-term investments for your rental. This is especially helpful when choosing items like mattresses or knife sets where feel and weight are important.

• Product Selection: The focus is on quality over quantity. You'll find reputable brands like UGG Home, Cuisinart, and OXO, ensuring the products you buy are built to withstand frequent use by guests.

• Curated Experience: The selection is intentionally focused on home life, making it simple to find everything you need for a 5-star kitchen or a spa-like bathroom without getting distracted. Think plush bathrobes, high-thread-count sheets, and matching dinnerware sets.

• User Experience: Both the website and the physical stores are well-organized and easy to navigate. The online store offers robust filtering options, and the in-store experience provides the invaluable opportunity to assess product quality firsthand.

Whether you're looking for that perfect set of wine glasses or upgrading to hotel-quality towels, Bed Bath & Beyond provides the reliable, quality-focused items that create a premium guest experience. If you’re styling a property like [Underwood Manor](https://www.underwoodmanor.com), sourcing these kinds of upscale amenities can make a huge difference in guest reviews.

Feature	Details
Pricing	Mid-to-high range, but frequent coupons and sales offer significant savings.
Shipping	Offers standard shipping, same-day delivery in some areas, and free store pickup.
Pros	High-quality, trusted brands; ability to see items in-store; curated selection simplifies shopping.
Cons	Generally higher price point than mass-market retailers; store inventory can vary by location.

Website: https://www.bedbathandbeyond.com

4. IKEA

For hosts looking to achieve a modern, cohesive aesthetic without breaking the bank, IKEA is a game-changer. It's renowned for its stylish, Scandinavian-inspired designs that make any space feel clean, functional, and inviting. IKEA offers an end-to-end solution for furnishing a vacation rental, from major furniture pieces like beds and sofas to the small details like kitchenware and textiles that elevate the guest experience.

The platform’s strength lies in its ability to inspire. The in-person showrooms and online galleries are expertly staged, allowing hosts to visualize complete room setups and discover how different pieces work together. This makes it incredibly easy to create a polished, Instagram-worthy look that feels professionally designed. This is a crucial step in sourcing vacation rental must haves that not only function well but also attract bookings with their visual appeal.

Pro Tip: Use IKEA's online planning tools to design your rental's layout. You can map out a kitchen or wardrobe system to exact measurements, ensuring every piece fits perfectly before you buy. Save your designs for future reference or easy reordering.

Why It’s a Go-To for Hosts

IKEA's core advantage is providing style at an accessible price point. You can furnish an entire property with a consistent, modern theme for a fraction of what it might cost elsewhere. This is especially beneficial for hosts managing multiple properties or those just starting out. The modularity of many product lines, like the KALLAX shelving or PAX wardrobe systems, allows for custom solutions tailored to your specific space and needs.

• Design & Functionality: IKEA excels at smart, space-saving designs. You’ll find everything from sofa beds and extendable dining tables to clever storage solutions that maximize every square foot of your property.

• Affordable Essentials: The marketplace section is perfect for stocking up on durable and inexpensive kitchen essentials, including glassware, plates, and cutlery. Their 365+ series is specifically designed for everyday, heavy-duty use.

• User Experience: While assembly is part of the deal, the instructions are famously visual and easy to follow. The website allows you to check stock at your local store, and their delivery and assembly services can save you valuable time.

From sturdy bed frames that can withstand high turnover to chic decor that makes a property feel special, IKEA provides the tools to create a memorable stay. The blend of affordability and contemporary design makes it an essential resource for hosts aiming for five-star reviews.

Feature	Details
Pricing	Highly affordable, with options for every budget. The "As-Is" section in stores offers even deeper discounts.
Shipping	Offers home delivery for a fee, or you can opt for in-store pickup.
Pros	Stylish and modern designs at low prices, modular systems for customization, one-stop shop for home goods.
Cons	Most items require assembly which can be time-consuming; durability can be a concern for some lower-priced items.

Website: https://www.ikea.com/us/en/

5. The Home Depot

For hosts who need to tackle everything from minor repairs to major furnishing projects, The Home Depot is a powerhouse resource. It’s the go-to destination for durable goods that can withstand the rigors of high guest turnover, offering a vast selection of appliances, outdoor furniture, safety equipment, and maintenance supplies. This makes it an essential stop for ensuring your property is not only beautiful but also functional and secure.

The platform shines when it comes to durability and practicality. You can source a sturdy new BBQ grill, replace a finicky shower head, or stock up on long-lasting LED light bulbs all in one trip or online order. The ability to see, touch, and compare items in-store provides a level of confidence that is hard to replicate online, ensuring the quality of your purchases.

Pro Tip: Use The Home Depot’s "Buy Online, Pick Up In Store" option to save time. You can order small essentials like new smoke detector batteries or a replacement coffee pot online and have them waiting at the customer service desk, avoiding a lengthy search through the aisles during a tight guest turnover.

Why It’s a Go-To for Hosts

The Home Depot’s main advantage is its blend of retail and service. Beyond just selling products, they offer professional installation for major appliances, assembly services for furniture, and even tool rentals for DIY projects. This integrated approach is a lifesaver for hosts who may not have the time or expertise to handle every task themselves.

• Product Selection: The inventory is perfectly curated for property upkeep and enhancement. Find everything from robust patio sets and smart locks to commercial-grade cleaning supplies and essential safety gear like fire extinguishers and first-aid kits.

• Durability and Value: Products are generally built to last, a key consideration for high-traffic rentals. Brands like Ryobi and Behr offer reliable performance, ensuring your investments hold up over time. Frequent sales and the Pro Xtra loyalty program provide excellent opportunities for savings.

• User Experience: The website and mobile app make it easy to check local store inventory, read project guides, and schedule deliveries. In-store staff are often knowledgeable and can provide practical advice for specific maintenance challenges, making it a reliable partner in property management.

From upgrading the backyard with a new smokeless fire pit to ensuring every room has the right safety features, The Home Depot provides the core vacation rental must haves for creating a safe, comfortable, and appealing space. For a property like [Underwood Manor](https://www.underwoodmanor.com), sourcing a durable grill for group cookouts or string lights for the patio becomes a simple, one-stop task.

Feature	Details
Pricing	Competitive, with frequent sales, seasonal promotions, and a robust loyalty program.
Shipping	Offers home delivery, scheduled freight delivery for large items, and free in-store or curbside pickup.
Pros	One-stop shop for both furnishings and maintenance supplies; installation and assembly services available; durable, high-quality products.
Cons	Style options for decor and furniture can be more traditional; some products are aimed at DIY-savvy customers.

Website: https://www.homedepot.com

6. Wayfair

When your goal is to create a specific vibe or aesthetic for your vacation rental, Wayfair is the go-to destination for hosts. Specializing in home goods, furniture, and décor, it offers a massive online catalog that makes it easy to find pieces that perfectly match your property’s theme, whether you're aiming for modern chic, rustic charm, or Nashville glam. It's an essential resource for sourcing those statement pieces and cohesive decor sets that are a vacation rental must have.

The platform is designed to inspire. Its user-friendly website allows you to filter by style, color, size, and material, helping you quickly hone in on the exact items you need. The customer reviews, complete with photos from real buyers, provide invaluable insight into the quality, color accuracy, and overall feel of a product before you commit. This feature is particularly useful for ensuring new furniture or decor will meet guest expectations.

Pro Tip: Use Wayfair's "Shop the Look" feature. It often showcases professionally designed rooms and allows you to buy the exact items or find similar alternatives. This is a fantastic shortcut for creating a polished, cohesive look without hiring an interior designer.

Why It’s a Go-To for Hosts

Wayfair's main advantage lies in its style-centric approach to home goods. Unlike broader marketplaces, its focus is squarely on creating beautiful living spaces, making it a goldmine for hosts looking to elevate their property’s appeal. You can furnish an entire room, from the sofa down to the throw pillows, all within a single, consistent aesthetic. This is crucial for creating an "Insta-worthy" property that attracts bachelorette parties and groups.

• Diverse Styles: Whether you need a velvet headboard, a mid-century modern coffee table, or a durable outdoor dining set, the selection is vast and well-organized.

• Frequent Sales: Wayfair is known for its major sales events like "Way Day," which offer significant discounts on big-ticket items. This makes it possible to furnish your rental with high-quality pieces at a more accessible price point.

• User Experience: The website's powerful search, detailed product descriptions, and customer-submitted photos make online furniture shopping less of a gamble. You can confidently find what you're looking for.

From sourcing a luxurious outdoor sectional to finding the perfect hot tub accessories, Wayfair helps hosts add those impressive touches that lead to five-star reviews. To get ideas on creating a standout amenity space, you can explore these top vacation rental with hot tub ideas for memorable getaways.

Feature	Details
Pricing	Caters to all budgets, from affordable basics to high-end designer pieces. Regular sales provide great value.
Shipping	Free shipping is offered on most orders over a certain threshold (typically $35).
Pros	Huge selection of styles, frequent sales events, and a user-friendly site with helpful visual aids.
Cons	No physical stores to see items first; returns on large items can sometimes be inconvenient.

Website: https://www.wayfair.com

7. Lowe's

For vacation rental hosts who need to tackle both big upgrades and small finishing touches, Lowe's is a home improvement powerhouse. It’s an ideal resource for sourcing durable goods, from major appliances and outdoor furniture to the specific hardware needed for a quick repair. Lowe's bridges the gap between contractor-grade supplies and stylish home décor, making it a crucial stop for ensuring your property is not only beautiful but also built to last.

The platform shines with its blend of in-store expertise and online convenience. You can browse online to plan your purchases and then visit a physical location to see items firsthand, which is invaluable when choosing paint colors, flooring, or large fixtures. This hands-on approach, combined with knowledgeable in-store staff, helps you make confident investments in your property's long-term appeal and functionality.

Pro Tip: Use the "Lowe's For Pros" loyalty program even if you only manage one or two properties. It offers personalized offers, purchase tracking for easier expense management, and discounted delivery, which is a significant saving when purchasing bulky items like a new grill or patio set.

Why It’s a Go-To for Hosts

Lowe's primary advantage lies in its focus on home improvement, making it the perfect place to find high-quality, durable vacation rental must haves. Whether you need to replace a faulty faucet, upgrade your outdoor lighting, or buy a reliable smokeless fire pit, Lowe's has vetted options designed for heavy use. Their installation services for appliances and fixtures can also be a lifesaver for busy hosts.

• Product Selection: Excellent for appliances, tools, outdoor living (grills, patio furniture), paint, and smart home devices like keyless entry locks and thermostats.

• DIY Support: The website and in-store experts provide extensive guides and workshops, empowering hosts to handle minor repairs and upgrades themselves, saving time and money.

• User Experience: The website is well-organized, allowing you to check in-store inventory before you go. Customer reviews are helpful, though typically less numerous than on Amazon.

From securing a new washer and dryer to finding the perfect string lights for a photo-ready backyard, Lowe's provides reliable products that enhance guest safety and comfort. It's an essential resource for hosts committed to maintaining a top-tier, problem-free property.

Feature	Details
Pricing	Competitive, with a Price Promise guarantee to match identical in-stock items from other retailers.
Shipping	Offers in-store pickup, local delivery for large items, and standard shipping for online orders.
Pros	Access to expert advice in-store, installation services, high-quality durable goods.
Cons	Decor and soft furnishing selection is more limited than competitors; inventory can vary between stores.

Website: https://www.lowes.com

Vacation Rental Must-Haves: 7-Source Comparison

Item	🔄 Implementation Complexity	⚡ Resource Requirements	📊 Expected Outcomes	💡 Ideal Use Cases	⭐ Key Advantages
Underwood Manor(Blueprint)	Moderate - setup and maintenance of amenities	High - luxury furnishings, premium tech	High guest satisfaction with unique comfort and ambiance	Group getaways, bachelorette parties, remote work seekers	Unique luxury experience, outdoor amenities, prime location
Amazon	Low - simple online ordering	Low - wide variety of affordable products	Variable - depends on product choice and seller quality	Hosts needing quick, diverse vacation rental supplies	Vast selection, reviews for informed buying
Bed Bath & Beyond	Low to moderate - online & in-store	Moderate - brand-quality home goods	Reliable quality and aesthetic upgrade to rentals	Quality-focused furnishing and décor shopping	Reputable brands, in-store product experience
IKEA	Moderate - assembly often required	Moderate - budget-friendly bulk furnishing	Good functional and modern furnishing at low cost	Furnishing large spaces economically	Stylish, modular furniture; affordable pricing
The Home Depot	Moderate - some assembly/install	Moderate to high - appliances and fixtures	Comprehensive home improvement and maintenance support	Hosts needing furnishings plus upkeep supplies	One-stop for furnishing and maintenance; installation services
Wayfair	Low - online ordering only	Low to moderate - wide price range	Good variety in style and price, convenience	Online-only furnishing, budget variety	Vast selection, frequent sales, customer reviews
Lowe’s	Moderate - instore & online options	Moderate - includes installation services	Good support for both furnishing and DIY maintenance	Hosts needing expert advice, installation support	Knowledgeable staff, price matching, installation options

Creating an Unforgettable Stay

Transforming a standard property into a top-tier vacation rental is less about a single secret ingredient and more about a thoughtful combination of amenities, comforts, and experiences. As we've explored, the journey from a good rental to a great one is paved with intentional choices. The tools and retailers we've covered provide the building blocks, but the true art lies in how you assemble those pieces to cater to your ideal guest.

The core takeaway is this: success in the competitive rental market hinges on anticipating guest needs before they even arrive. It’s about creating an environment so seamless, comfortable, and fun that visitors can focus entirely on making memories. This means going beyond the basics. A bed is a necessity, but a plush mattress with high-quality linens is an experience. A kitchen is standard, but one stocked with unlimited Nespresso shows you care. These are the vacation rental must haves that generate five-star reviews.

🏡 Why Stay at Underwood Manor? ✔ Sleeps 10 ✔ Hot tub + fire pit ✔ 5 minutes to Broadway ✔ Glam space, games, Insta-ready backyard ✔ Unlimited Nespresso, record player & more 👉 View the full property

Key Takeaways for Elevating Your Rental

First, define your niche and cater to it relentlessly. Are you targeting bachelorette parties in Nashville? Then a glam mirror station, photo-worthy backdrops, and a killer sound system are non-negotiable.

Second, invest in high-impact amenities that command a premium. While initial costs for items like a hot tub or a smokeless fire pit may seem high, they deliver a significant return on investment. These are features guests actively search for and are willing to pay more for. To truly make a stay unforgettable, consider luxurious additions such as Hot Tubs for Holiday Cottages, which are increasingly sought after by guests.

Finally, don't underestimate the power of small, thoughtful details.

• A Welcome Guide: Provide a guide with Wi-Fi details, instructions for electronics, and local recommendations.

• Generous Consumables: Don't skimp on coffee pods, tea bags, or quality toilet paper.

• The "Wow" Moment: Create one or two "Instagrammable" spots like a neon sign or a beautifully decorated outdoor space.

Whether you're planning a Nashville bachelorette, a birthday trip, or a relaxing weekend with friends, Underwood Manor delivers comfort, style, and location in one unforgettable stay. With room for 10 and amenities designed for group fun, it’s one of the best vacation rentals in Nashville with a hot tub — hands down. By prioritizing guest experience and thoughtfully curating your space, you're not just offering a place to stay; you're providing the backdrop for an unforgettable trip.

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Ready to see what a five-star stay looks like? Underwood Manor is the perfect example of how the right amenities and thoughtful design create an unforgettable Nashville experience for groups. Explore Underwood Manor and get inspired to create your own top-tier vacation rental.