Guests who stay at your vacation rental in the winter are more likely to spend more nights in than other parts of the year. Colder weather and shorter days make cozying up next to the fireplace, or fireplace alternative, more appealing on vacation.
Preparing your vacation rental for the winter includes more than helping guests stay warm. Your vacation rental should have plenty to do so nights in are memorable. Creating a home-theater experience can give guests something to look forward to every night.
Hosting movie night at your vacation rental is about creating an ambiance that makes guests feel like they’re not just “watching TV.” They could do that at home. Guests should feel like they’re watching a movie on the big screen. Here’s what you can provide to help capture that feeling.
Equipment
At the very least, movie night requires a bigger-than-your-average television. Look into affordable smart TV options so guests can stream their favorite movies.
Most of your guests are likely to be between 31 and 35 years old. The second most prevalent age group that stays at vacation rentals is 26 to 30. We say this so you know it’s likely your guests will be savvy with streaming platforms like:
● HBO Max
● Netflix
● Disney+
● Amazon Prime Video
● And several others!
Signing up for a subscription isn’t necessary. Just make sure you have them available so guests can log in and watch their favorite movies.
Concessions
The big screen isn’t the only thing that makes watching a movie on the big screen an experience. Goodies being available can make them feel like the theater came to them. But they don’t want to worry about going to the grocery store to get their favorite movie-watching snacks on vacation! That’s your job. Below are some go-to’s you can provide.
Popcorn
The movie theater is likely the number one place where eating a bucket of popcorn is the norm. It makes every movie better, and it’s not really movie night without popcorn.
Microwaveable popcorn is one of the greatest inventions ever, but imagine if your guests had access to a popcorn maker. A popcorn maker can increase your vacation rental’s appeal. It may sound like a hefty investment, but there are affordable options that can earn you more five-star reviews!
Candy
Savory and sweet are necessary when hosting movie night. Essentials like M&M’s and Sour Patch Kids are a must, but also leave some sweets from a local candy store. What a great way to support local business and enhance the guest experience!
Ice Cream
Candy doesn’t satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth. That’s why options are important, like having candy and ice cream.
A couple scoops of ice cream and a good movie. Who says staying in is boring?
Wine
As we said above, Modern Innkeeper learned most vacation rental guests are 31 to 35 years old. Additionally, close to 60 percent travel with children under 18. That tells you most guests are of drinking age and have children. Therefore, wine’s likely to be a must.
A glass or three of wine and a movie makes for a relaxing evening. Just make sure they have a way to open the bottle.
Furniture
Lastly, your vacation rental will need the right furniture for guests to embrace movie night. They need to feel the vibe in your vacation rental’s makeshift movie theater. And remember, comfort is key:
● Continental seating (three attached chairs)
● Reclining chairs and sofa
● Sectional couch
● Six to eight-foot bean bag chair
If none of these are possible, just make sure the couch is extra cozy.
Ending Credits
Hosting movie night can make your vacation rental your guests’ go-to destination. Plus, it’s a great selling point to drive more bookings during winter. It’s a creative way to enhance the guest experience year-round.
Want more tips on how you can enhance the guest experience? Unlock your hosting potential by signing up for Modern Innkeeper’s newsletter today!