Looking for an edge in the hyper-competitive world of short-term rentals? Ratings can make or break your Airbnb business. Sure, cleanliness, accurate listings, and prompt communication are essential, but let’s face it—your guests are craving something a little extra. They want to be entertained, wowed, or even just given an excuse to cozy up with some awesome games for Airbnb.
Have you ever thought about offering your guests some fantastic games to level up their stay?
Hold that eye-roll. We’re not talking Candy Land and Tic-Tac-Toe. Nope. We’re talking about games that can amp up the fun, and in turn, hike up those ratings.
Why Games? Seriously, Why?
Alright, you might be wondering, “Why should I bother with games when I have Wi-Fi and Netflix?” That’s a fair point, but have you ever had one of those rainy vacation days where all you want to do is stay in? That’s when games become more than just a pastime—they become a lifeline to an unforgettable stay.
And here’s the kicker: games are an exceptional social lubricant. A well-chosen game can forge connections, incite laughter, and create memories. Those cherished moments? They translate into raving reviews and repeat bookings. That’s what we’re gunning for.
Boosting Airbnb ratings with games can complement hotel SOPs aimed at enhancing guest service.
The Money Aspect: Is It Worth the Investment?
Now, before you jump on the bandwagon, you’re probably thinking about costs. “Is it worth splurging on fancy board games or gaming consoles?” Well, there’s a wide array of options that don’t require breaking the bank. You can offer a mix of classics and modern gems without putting a dent in your pocket. What you invest in a decent game collection can pay dividends in positive ratings and word-of-mouth recommendations. So yeah, it’s more than just a sunk cost—it’s an investment in guest happiness.
The Aesthetics: Don’t Overlook the Instagram Factor
Think about this: A strategically placed artisanal chess set or a sleek modern tabletop game not only entertains but also elevates your listing’s aesthetics. In our Instagram-obsessed culture, your rental becomes a backdrop for envy-inducing snapshots. Guests are likely to tag your place, sharing it with their followers. It’s free advertising, folks!
So, What Games Should You Consider?
This is where the real fun begins. You have options. Loads of them. And we’re not just talking any random game. No siree! These are games that resonate with different types of guests—be it families with kiddos, couples looking for a romantic getaway, or friends on an adventure. You can opt for universally adored classics, or venture into the world of indie games that are making waves.
For the remainder of this guide, we’ll delve into specific games tailored to your target guest demographics. We’ll also tackle tips for creating a dedicated game nook, managing and maintaining your game collection, and how to showcase this unique amenity in your listing.
But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Stick around. This is just getting good.
Boosting your Airbnb rating with games can also contribute to creating memorable guest experiences.
Tailoring Your Game Selection: It’s Not One-Size-Fits-All
Alright, let’s get to the meat and potatoes: picking the games.
You can’t just throw in a battered deck of cards and call it a day. Nah, you’ve got to be more tactical than that. Who’s rolling through your place? Families with young kids? Couples? Solo travelers on business? Knowing your audience helps you pick games that’ll actually get played—and talked about in those coveted five-star reviews.
The Family Fling
Got a family-friendly setup? Good on ya! Families adore spaces that keep their little tykes engaged. Think classics like “Connect Four” or “Guess Who?”. These are quick to set up, easy to understand, and pack in lots of fun for all ages. If you want to go the extra mile, invest in a board game with universal appeal like “Catan” or “Ticket to Ride.” These are bit more complex but worth every penny. Trust us; parents will be thanking you for keeping their kids off screens, even if just for an hour or two.
The Romantic Retreat
Hosting couples? Ooh la la. In that case, your game selection should lean toward two-player games that can spark a little competitive fire or—let’s not kid ourselves—even a bit of romance. Games like “Codenames: Duet” or “Jaipur” are hot choices. They’re easy to grasp, quick to play, and the interaction is intense. Add a note in your listing that your place is perfect for couples looking to “up their game,” pun totally intended.
The Friendly Fray
If your Airbnb often attracts groups of friends looking for a cool weekend hangout, your game arsenal should encourage lots of interaction and, yes, some good-natured trash talk. “Cards Against Humanity” and “Exploding Kittens” are modern classics that can get a whole room laughing. These games don’t just kill time; they make time fly by.
The Business Bound
Solo business travelers might not be your go-to clientele for game nights, but don’t rule it out. A simple and elegant game like chess or even a high-quality puzzle can provide some much-needed relaxation after a day of meetings. And if they’re into something digital, a Nintendo Switch with single-player games can be an unexpected and appreciated touch.
The Game Nook: More Than Just a Corner
Once you’ve got your game selection down pat, it’s time to think about presentation. Yeah, you heard that right. Don’t just shove these gems in a closet and expect guests to discover them. Create a dedicated “Game Nook” that draws people in. Think comfy chairs, good lighting, and maybe even a dedicated table. Put some thought into how this space integrates with the rest of your property. Is it near the living area for easy access or tucked away for more focused, quiet play? Your call.
Keeping Things Fresh: Rotate, Update, Curate
Lastly, games can get old. And I mean that in two ways: they can physically wear out, and people can get bored of the same old options. Make a habit of checking the condition of your games. Missing pieces? Time to replace or fix. Also, keep an eye on new releases or trending games and consider adding them to your collection. It’s all part of the game—of ratings, that is.
See what we’re getting at?
Games aren’t just child’s play; they’re serious business when it comes to enhancing your Airbnb experience. It’s a nuanced but game-changing (pun intended, again) way to elevate your hosting game. Ready to roll the dice?
Best board games for Airbnb:
Alright, folks, this is it—the cherry on top. You’ve tailored your game selection, designed your cozy game nook, and now it’s time to populate it with absolute winners. Whether you’re looking to invest big or start small, here are some top-tier board games that should be on your radar.
1. Catan: The Crowd Pleaser
This is like the “Friends” of board games—just about everyone loves it. “Catan” brings people together with its perfect blend of strategy, luck, and sweet, sweet trading action. It’s versatile, engaging, and seriously addictive. Plus, it’s got expansions galore for future game nights.
2. Codenames: The Quick Fix
If you’re strapped for time and want a fast-paced game that delivers, “Codenames” is your go-to. It’s a word-based party game that’s as much about intuition as it is about vocabulary. Plus, it takes like two minutes to set up. What’s not to love?
3. Ticket to Ride: The All-Ager
“Ticket to Ride” hits the sweet spot between strategy and simplicity. It’s accessible for board game newbies and intriguing enough for veterans. It’s also great for a wide age range. Bonus points for teaching your guests a bit about geography!
4. Carcassonne: The Strategist’s Delight
Tiles, farms, knights, roads—this game has it all but in a deceptively simple package. “Carcassonne” rewards strategy but also offers enough luck for those “aha” moments. Plus, it looks darn pretty on a tabletop.
5. Exploding Kittens: The Laugh Generator
Look, this game’s a hoot. It’s quirky, it’s weird, and yes, it involves kittens that explode (not literally, chill). It’s the kind of game that brings out the fun banter and easy laughs that make any stay memorable.
6. Azul: The Instagram Star
Azul isn’t just a game; it’s a vibe. With its stunning design and tactile pieces, this is a game that’ll make your guests reach for their cameras before they even start playing. Plus, it’s a great strategy game to boot.
7. Pandemic: The Team Builder
In an era where we’re all too familiar with global pandemics, this cooperative game can be surprisingly uplifting. Instead of competing against each other, players work together to save the world. It’s a feel-good option for those wanting a break from cutthroat competition.
8. Dominion: The Game for Game Lovers
If you’ve got a set of guests who live and breathe board games, “Dominion” should be on your shelf. It’s a deck-building card game that offers endless variations and strategies, ideal for those looking to sink their teeth into something meaty.
9. Uno: The Classic
Don’t knock it till you’ve tried it with a group of grown-ups. “Uno” is nostalgic, simple, and a ton of fun. Plus, it’s the kind of game that you can hold a drink in one hand while playing, and who doesn’t love that?
10. Sushi Go!: The Family Charmer
Easy to learn and visually adorable, “Sushi Go!” is perfect for families with young kids or groups looking for a light but engaging game. Plus, it comes in a small tin, making it easy to store.
So there you have it—board games that’ll elevate your guests’ experience from “yeah, it was good” to “can we book it again next weekend?”.
All that’s left is to invite your future guests to come play, rate, and repeat.
Game on, folks!