10 Airbnb Upgrades That Actually Increase Revenue

Not All Upgrades Deliver the Same Return on Investment

When Airbnb hosts think about improving their properties, it's easy to assume that bigger investments automatically lead to higher profits.

However, that's not always the case.

Many hosts spend thousands of dollars on renovations that have little impact on bookings, while others make strategic upgrades that significantly increase occupancy rates, nightly rates, and guest satisfaction.

The key is understanding which improvements guests actually value.

In today's competitive short term rental market, travelers are looking for comfort, convenience, memorable experiences, and amenities that enhance their stay. The right upgrades can help your property stand out, generate better reviews, and ultimately increase revenue.

Let's explore ten Airbnb upgrades that consistently deliver results for hosts.

1. Invest in High Quality Mattresses and Bedding

If there's one area hosts should never cut corners, it's sleep quality.

Guests may forget your furniture, but they'll remember a bad night's sleep.

Comfortable mattresses and premium bedding often lead to better reviews, repeat bookings, and higher guest satisfaction scores.

Why It Increases Revenue

• Better guest reviews

• Higher overall ratings

• Increased repeat bookings

• Improved guest satisfaction

  
  

Many successful hosts view mattresses as one of the highest return investments they can make.

After all, guests are booking a place to sleep.

2. Create an Instagram Worthy Feature

Travelers increasingly choose accommodations that offer unique experiences.

A standout design feature can make your property instantly recognizable and more shareable on social media.

Examples include:

• Custom murals

• Accent walls

• Statement lighting

• Unique artwork

• Themed spaces

  
  

Why It Increases Revenue

Properties with memorable visual elements often receive more clicks, more shares, and more bookings.

In crowded markets, standing out matters.

3. Upgrade Your Wi Fi and Workspace

Remote work has permanently changed travel behavior.

Many guests now work while traveling and actively search for properties that support productivity.

A strong internet connection is no longer a luxury—it's an expectation.

Consider Adding

• High speed internet

• Ergonomic desk

• Comfortable office chair

• Additional charging stations

• Task lighting

  
  

Why It Increases Revenue

Appealing to remote workers can expand your guest pool and increase occupancy throughout the year.

4. Install Smart Home Technology

Smart technology improves convenience for both guests and hosts.

Popular upgrades include:

• Smart locks

• Smart thermostats

• Noise monitoring devices

• Smart lighting

• Security systems

  
  

Why It Increases Revenue

Smart features can:

• Improve guest experiences

• Reduce operational costs

• Simplify property management

• Increase efficiency

  
  

Many travelers now expect keyless entry and other modern conveniences.

5. Upgrade Outdoor Spaces

Outdoor amenities often have a major impact on booking decisions.

Even small outdoor areas can become valuable guest attractions when designed thoughtfully.

Popular Outdoor Upgrades

• Fire pits

• Outdoor dining areas

• Lounge seating

• String lighting

• Grills

• Hot tubs

  
  

Why It Increases Revenue

Outdoor spaces create additional usable living areas and enhance the overall guest experience.

They also photograph exceptionally well in listings.

6. Improve Kitchen Functionality

Guests increasingly prefer accommodations that allow them to prepare meals during their stay.

A well equipped kitchen can become a major selling point.

Consider Adding

• Quality cookware

• Sharp knives

• Coffee station

• Air fryer

• Blender

• Matching dishware

  
  

Why It Increases Revenue

Functional kitchens improve guest satisfaction and appeal to families, extended stay travelers, and budget-conscious guests.

7. Add Hotel Style Amenities

One of the most effective ways to elevate a guest experience is by borrowing ideas from the hospitality industry.

Simple upgrades can create a more premium feel.

Popular Additions

• Luxury towels

• Blackout curtains

• Premium toiletries

• Luggage racks

• Full length mirrors

• Robes

  
  

Why It Increases Revenue

These details contribute to a more comfortable stay and often generate positive guest feedback.

Small touches can create a lasting impression.

Minoan gives vacation rental hosts access to exclusive pricing on premium furniture, linens, décor, kitchen essentials, and hospitality products from trusted brands. It's an easy way to elevate your guest experience while keeping upgrade costs under control. Check out Minoan here. https://minoan.com/join-us?referral_code=S3S1U8LW8049&aid=I0L2U9

8. Improve Lighting Throughout the Property

Lighting influences both guest experiences and listing performance.

Dark spaces often appear smaller and less inviting in photos.

Effective Lighting Upgrades

• LED fixtures

• Bedside lamps

• Accent lighting

• Outdoor lighting

• Smart lighting controls

  
  

Why It Increases Revenue

Better lighting improves listing photos, enhances ambiance, and increases perceived value.

A brighter property often feels cleaner and more welcoming.

9. Create Family Friendly Features

Families represent a significant segment of the short term rental market.

Making your property more family friendly can attract additional bookings.

Popular Family Amenities

• High chairs

• Pack and play cribs

• Board games

• Children's books

• Safety gates

• Kid friendly dinnerware

  
  

Why It Increases Revenue

Family travelers often prioritize convenience and may choose one property over another based on available amenities.

Small investments can influence major booking decisions.

10. Upgrade Your Photography

Many hosts focus heavily on property upgrades while overlooking one of the most important investments of all: professional photography.

Your photos create the first impression.

No matter how beautiful your property is, poor photography can reduce clicks and bookings.

What Professional Photos Improve

• Click through rates

• Guest confidence

• Listing visibility

• Booking conversions

  
  

Why It Increases Revenue

Better photos help showcase every improvement you've made and maximize the impact of your listing.

In many cases, professional photography delivers one of the highest returns on investment available to hosts.

Focus on Revenue Generating Improvements

The most successful Airbnb hosts don't simply spend money on upgrades.

They invest strategically.

Before making improvements, ask yourself:

• Will this improve guest satisfaction?

• Will this increase bookings?

• Will this help my property stand out?

• Will guests notice and appreciate it?

  
  

The best upgrades create measurable value for both guests and property owners.

Quality Over Quantity

It's easy to get caught up in adding more amenities and features.

However, a few high quality upgrades often outperform dozens of average ones.

Guests typically remember:

• Great sleep

• Exceptional cleanliness

• Memorable experiences

• Thoughtful design

• Outstanding hospitality

  
  

Focusing on these fundamentals can produce stronger long term results than chasing every new trend.

Final Thoughts

Increasing Airbnb revenue isn't always about making massive renovations or spending large amounts of money.

Often, the most effective upgrades are the ones that directly improve guest comfort, convenience, and overall experience.

From premium mattresses and smart technology to outdoor spaces and professional photography, strategic investments can help properties stand out, generate better reviews, and command higher nightly rates.

As competition continues to grow, hosts who focus on meaningful improvements will be better positioned to attract guests, increase occupancy, and maximize profitability.

At CoStay Solutions, we help short term rental owners identify high-impact improvements that enhance guest experiences and drive stronger financial performance. Whether you're upgrading a single property or scaling a portfolio, investing in the right areas can help unlock long-term success.

Until next time, Happy hosting!