How to Pack for Your Next Airbnb
I’ve been excited to write about this topic for a while now. I love Airbnbs. It’s not a secret, but not many people are as comfortable as I am, in them. In fact, I’ve only had one negative experience with Airbnb and it wasn’t my host’s fault. It was a situation with a neighboring property and their smoke alarms. So, I’m well versed and very prepared to share: What to Pack For Your Next Airbnb Stay.
How to Pack for Your Next Airbnb
I originally started writing this post about the essentials and luxuries of each Airbnb… until I realized, that’s probably not what you’re looking for. You’re looking for airbnb packing essentials based on a time constraint. Let’s be real, less is more when you’re traveling and you really want each airbnb to have the amenities and necessities you will need during your stay.
So, this post is sectioned out based on how long your stay is, not on the different types of unique airbnbs you can get without the baseline for resources (example, camp grounds, rvs, etc). The first part of each section will start with that amenities that I, personally, look for in my stay. Then my core packing list from there.
Let’s get into it!
Less than 48 Hours
I love a quick 48 hours in an airbnb because you don’t need a lot. It’s very easy to dine out so you don’t even need a half/full kitchen. A coffee maker is usually enough, however, I highly recommend packing an extra set of door locks (especially if you’re traveling alone) and also a noise machine. I know, it sounds insane, but sometimes too much quiet can actually be very loud. If you’re not into it, check out an app. I never leave home without both of these extra items. Well, that and my vitamins! 🌿
Amenities to look for: The Basics.
- Bed
- Coffee Maker
- TV
- Wifi
What to Pack: The Essentials.
- Clothes
- Phone Charger
- Medications
- Reusable Water Bottle
- Wallet/Extra Cash
- Toiletry Bag
- Extra Locks
- Noise Machine
2 to 7 Days
Staying anywhere longer than 48 hours is when you start itching for your normal daily routine. You’ll probably want the basics of home life for your own personal healthy habits. Generally if I’m staying anywhere for more than 2 days, I’m going to start looking for the amenities of a studio apartment (like a mini kitchen with a fridge, cooktop and/or an oven). You want to feel like you could settle in. I will say that often times a fridge and microwave is enough but it totally depends what you are looking for and what you can get away with for a week.
Amenities to look for: Basic Daily Routine.
- The Basics (see “less than 48 hours” above)
- Half Kitchen w/ Mini Fridge
- Dishes
- Comfortable Couch
- Natural Light
- Grocery Store Nearby
What to Pack: A Little More.
- The Essentials (see “less than 48 hours” above)
- Extra Clothes (bathing suit, date night, outdoor)
- Extra Shoes
- Entertainment (Books, Video Streaming)
- Hair Tech
Two Weeks to One Month
I want an apartment or a houseeeee. Haha! If I’m staying anywhere for 2+ weeks, I want my homemade morning tea, eggs and a side of avocado toast. Just like I have, every day, when I wake up. I want to meal prep and I need all the features of a home away from home. I, likewise, want to keep up with my daily fitness routine (see Free Ways to Workout at Home or Traveling post). 🏋️♀️
At this point, I’m also looking for bonus details like an outdoor space to work or have a nice glass of wine outside.
Amenities to look for: Everyday Daily Routine
- Full Kitchen
- AC/Heat
- Washer/Dryer
- Wifi
- TV
- Workspace and/or Desk with Monitor
- Outdoor Space
- Beach Towels
- Tupperware
What to Pack: A Little More.
- Instant Pot or Air Fryer
- Outdoor Recreation Equipment (Paddle board, life vest, walking sticks, etc)
This is how I assess and strategize how I’m going to be packing for every airbnb stay. YES, I have actually packed my Instant Pot. My sister requested ribs for the weekend and it’s often less expensive to make your own meals when you’re out in the middle of no where at a cabin in the woods. Also, YES, I have packed my yoga mat and weight bands. You never know when you find a great studio.
I’d love to know if you’ve brought anything out of the ordinary on your aibnb trips and where’s your planning to go to next!
Other posts you might enjoy:
- 3 Hour Pit Stop in Santa Barbara – if you’re headed up the 101!
- 7 Unique Farms to Visit this Year – when you want a unique day trip.
- 6 Washington State Airbnbs to Book for Spring 2021 – if you need last minute ideas!