Top Amenities International Guests Expect in Airbnbs and STRs
When I first started hosting, I thought I had all the essentials covered: towels, extra sheets, coffee, and a few snacks in the pantry. But one of my early international guests (visiting from England) gave me a lesson I’ll never forget: they asked where the electric kettle was. I sheepishly told them we just heat water in the microwave here, and I could feel their disappointment through the Airbnb app message.
It had simply never occurred to me that something as simple as hot water would be expected in a certain way. I realized then that hosting international guests means looking at your space through a new lens: one that reflects global habits, not just your own.
In this post, I’ll cover what to consider when preparing your short-term rental (STR) for guests from other countries, especially if you’re in a location that regularly attracts international travelers. I’ll also share two curated Amazon lists: one with essentials international travelers expect, and one with thoughtful surprises that can make their stay smoother and more memorable.
Why Think About International Guests?
Even if you don’t live in a major tourist hub, international guests are still booking Airbnbs and VRBOs in surprising places. Whether it’s a European family doing a U.S. national park road trip, a solo traveler working remotely from Mexico, or an Australian couple exploring small-town America, your STR could very well be part of someone’s international itinerary.
Here’s why it matters:
- Cultural comfort creates 5-star reviews. When guests feel at ease, they’re more likely to leave glowing feedback.
- You reduce friction. Eliminating confusion around plugs, appliances, or basic amenities makes everyone’s stay easier.
- It sets you apart. Going the extra mile helps your STR stand out, especially in a saturated market.
The Basics: What International Guests Often Expect
Depending on where they’re from, international guests might come with a certain set of expectations for their lodging. These are not always “must-haves,” but they’re often standard in hotels or homes in other countries, and guests may be surprised or even frustrated if they’re missing.
Here’s a list of commonly expected items:
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International Traveler Essentials
| Item | Why It Matters | Amazon Pick |
|---|---|---|
| Electric Kettle | In Europe and Asia, a kettle is the standard for tea, coffee, or instant noodles. | Electric Stainless Steel Kettle |
| Universal Power Adapter | Outlet types vary wildly. A universal adapter ensures guests can charge their devices. | Universal Travel Adapter |
| Blackout Curtains or Eye Masks | Jet lag is real. Help them sleep, no matter the time zone. | Blackout Curtains |
| Filtered Water Pitcher | Many guests may not feel comfortable drinking tap water. | Brita Water Pitcher with Filter |
| Hair Dryer with Dual Voltage (or Warning Label) | European dryers often won’t work in U.S. outlets. | 1600 Watt Wall-Mount Dryer |
The Wow Factor: Thoughtful Extras That Impress International Guests
These aren’t necessarily expected, and they often generate positive reviews and word-of-mouth praise because they show that you’ve put real thought into the guest experience.
Nice Surprises for International Travelers
| Item | Why It’s Great | Amazon Pick |
|---|---|---|
| Snack Basket with International + Local Treats | Something familiar + something new = a great surprise. | International Assorted Snacks |
| Integrated Night Lights | Guests may wake up disoriented or jet-lagged. | Electrical Receptacle Wall Plate with LED Night Lights and/or Switch Plate With LED Night Lights (I LOVE these!) |
| Language-Friendly House Rules (or QR Code Link) | Google Translate is helpful, but consider printing simple rules in common languages. | QR Code Stand – Wi-Fi & House Info |
| Local Transit or Ride-Share Info | Help guests navigate and learn about every country in the world. A beautiful coffee table book! | The Travel Book: A Complete Guide to Every Country in the World with Expert Travel Tips |
| Extra Toothbrushes and Travel-Sized Toiletries | Jet lag = forgetfulness. These little touches go a long way. | Care Package Basic Toiletry Set |
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I may earn from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you.
Adjusting for Your Location
If you’re in a city like New York, San Francisco, Seattle (like me!), or Miami, chances are you’re already seeing a higher percentage of international travelers. In that case, making these adjustments could have a measurable effect on your guest ratings and repeat bookings.
If you’re in a more rural area or a small town (also like me! I’m about 30 miles outside of Seattle proper), it’s still worth checking your booking history and adjusting accordingly. I’ve hosted international guests from places I didn’t expect (prior to the 2020 pandemic I hosted at least 4 groups from Belgium) and those are often the guests who most appreciate an STR that’s been prepared with them in mind.
Little Things = Big Impact
That electric kettle moment with my British guest was a good reminder that what feels normal to me isn’t necessarily universal. Now, I keep one in a cabinet and make sure guests know it’s there. It cost me less than $40 and I’m sure has helped with earning those 5-star reviews, even from non-international travelers. I have to admit…I might need to buy one for myself :o)
The bottom line? You don’t need to overhaul your rental to accommodate international travelers, but a few thoughtful touches can go a long way. The key is to blend comfort, clarity, and hospitality in a way that makes every guest — no matter where they’re from — feel at home.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re brand new to hosting or 9 years in (like me), international travelers are an opportunity to stand out. They bring cultural richness to your STR, and by showing hospitality that feels tailored to their needs, you build trust, loyalty, and glowing reviews.
Don’t overlook the little things. That kettle might be more than just a kitchen appliance; it might be the reason your guest feels seen and appreciated.
