Understanding Airbnb Guest Expectations for 4th of July Stays
During the 4th of July, many Airbnb guests seek a festive and patriotic atmosphere. They look forward to more than just fireworks shows and local parades; they want a fun and memorable stay at your Airbnb.
Help guests plan their holiday activities by providing information on local events, such as concerts and fireworks displays. Be sure this information is easily accessible, such as in your welcome guide or a special summer booklet.
Clear and proactive guest communication is also key. Each guest will have different requests and expectations, from early check-in and late check-out times to recommendations for local attractions and dining. By communicating promptly, you can address their needs and enhance their stay, which can lead to positive reviews.
Guests also appreciate a variety of activities and unique experiences at your property. Offer summer favorites like a barbecue grill, outdoor seating, and festive decorations. Additionally, providing games, books, and streaming services can keep guests entertained during downtime.
Cultivating a well-rounded experience for your guests will ensure a memorable 4th of July stay. Thoughtful touches, attention to detail, and excellent communication can make your Airbnb a top choice for holiday travelers.
7 Ways to Prepare Your Airbnb for 4th of July Gatherings
While parties at an Airbnb are prohibited, there are still ways to ensure your guests can celebrate special events like Independence Day. Here are some fun holiday ideas to enhance the guest experience while maintaining a safe space during the 4th of July.
1. Offer Guests Additional Seasonal Services
Encourage guests to make the most of their stay at your vacation rental on the 4th of July by providing additional summer services. These options help elevate their stay and build a more memorable vacation. Whether you’re hosting couples, friends, or families during the holiday, offering additional services will differentiate your Airbnb.
Services to offer Airbnb guests for their 4th of July getaways:
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- Shuttle to nearby fireworks shows
- Tour guide to local attractions or historical landmarks
- Grocery delivery to make barbeque planning and set-up easy
- Mid-stay cleaning to refresh your property
Does your property have a prime location near a waterfront like a beach, lake, or river? Offer booked excursions or adventures out on the water. Speed boat rides or jetski rentals are a great way to keep guests entertained before and after the July 4th celebrations!
2. Provide Festive 4th of July Themed Favors
Help your guests create lasting memories while celebrating together. Package a 4th of July festivities basket and include:
- Handheld American flags (ideally one per guest)
- Red, white, and blue decorations like pinwheels
- Patriotic candy, snacks, and popcorn
- Traditional and star-shaped sparklers
- Poppers or Whipper Snappers
Don’t forget to communicate safety rules and tips for using the sparklers and poppers. Remind guests to be mindful of neighbors and maintain a respectful noise level. Review Airbnb’s party policy for summer holidays to ensure you comply with their rules while providing guests an opportunity to celebrate Independence Day at your property.
3. Curate a Patriotic Theme
Take the festivities to the next level by outfitting your property with patriotic-themed home decor and more. Airbnb themes offer a chance to market your home to guests looking for a specific and authentic experience. Capitalize on the 4th of July holiday by curating an unforgettable space.
Switch out your everyday throw pillows and blankets for ones with red, white, and blue designs or motifs. Look for stars, stripes, and flag patterns. These small changes can make a big impact and instantly give your space a festive feel.
Upgrade your basic offerings to include thoughtful summer amenities like sunscreen, aloe vera, and insect repellent. Spruce up these items by making them patriotic. For example, provide sunscreen bottles wrapped in red, white, and blue labels. Offer extra pool or beach towels with American flag designs and shades or hats with patriotic themes for guests to use and take home.
4. Prepare Your Outdoor Areas
Don’t forget to decorate the outside of your property too. Hang an American flag at the entrance or add smaller flags along the pathway or in the garden. Use red, white, and blue fairy lights to brighten your patio or front door. This creates a welcoming atmosphere for guests arriving at night.
Also, set up a cozy outdoor seating area with weather-resistant decorations in patriotic colors. If you have a fire pit, provide ingredients for s’mores. This gives guests a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the evening festivities.
If your Airbnb has a pool or hot tub, ensure it is properly cleaned and serviced before guests arrive. Consider providing guests with inflatable toys and floaties. Make sure guests also have shaded areas to protect them from the midday heat and sun.
5. Fire Up the Grill
In addition to preparing the overall outdoor experience, be sure your grill is ready for guests.
Barbequing is a staple for celebrating Independence Day. If your property has a grill and outdoor table, make sure they’re cleaned and set up. Provide guests with a list of favorite 4th of July recipes and consider stocking the fridge with popular condiments like ketchup, mustard, and pickle relish to make it easier for your guests to celebrate with classic American treats like grilled hot dogs and burgers. Don’t forget refreshing drinks like lemonade, iced tea, and adult beverage mixers.
After the holiday, request that your Airbnb cleaner spend extra time cleaning the grill and other outdoor areas. Chances are the grill was heavily used and likely needs extra attention. Let your cleaners know before their scheduled cleaning that they’ll need to allocate enough time to complete traditional tasks in addition to cleaning the grill. It’s quick and easy to pay your cleaner for any extra time required using Turno’s manual payment option.
6. Enhance Guest Comfort
Summer weather can be hot, especially during the 4th of July. Make sure your air conditioning is in good working order. Check your systems before guests arrive and replace HVAC filters as needed. If your property doesn’t have air conditioning, provide fans or portable air coolers. Encourage guests to keep the window shades or blinds closed during the day to keep the heat out.
To best optimize guest comfort, install a smart thermostat. These devices are easy to use and allow you to control the temperature remotely. You can adjust the settings to ensure the property is cool when guests arrive and make any necessary adjustments during their stay. Smart thermostats can also generate energy savings by optimizing cooling schedules.
7. Establish Guest Safety Measures and Rules
Ensuring the safety of your guests is one of the most important responsibilities of an Airbnb host. Here are some essential safety measures to implement to make your property safe and secure for your guests, during the July 4th holiday and throughout the entire year:
- Test or replace batteries in smoke detectors in every bedroom, kitchen, and common area
- Make sure fire extinguishers are easily accessible in the kitchen and near the outdoor grill; document where to find them and how to use them
- Keep a well-stocked first aid kit in an easily accessible location; have your Airbnb cleaner restock bandages and antiseptic wipes as needed
- Provide a list of emergency contacts, including local police, fire department, and medical services; include your contact information in case guests need to reach you
- If your property has a pool, ensure it is securely fenced with a gate; provide life vests and clear pool rules for all guests to follow
If you do not allow your guests to light fireworks, explicitly state so on your listing and in your Airbnb guest guidebook. If you provide festive items like sparklers and poppers, provide clear expectations and instructions on their safe usage. Keep all safety reminders and rules documented, easily accessible, and visible to guests.
Happy Independence Day, From Turno
By preparing your vacation rental to help guests celebrate Independence Day while complying with Airbnb party rules, you’re building a safer Airbnb community.
For more hosting tips and ways to make sure your property is always in tip-top shape, check out our other resources on the Turno blog.
