What’s the best bed configuration for your vacation rental?

As guests search for a vacation home, there are some vital questions they’ll ask: Where will we sleep? Can my group fit comfortably?

The answers come down to how you configure your bedrooms. Which size bed is best for each room? Different bedroom setups appeal to different types of travelers. And, which bed you decide to place in each bedroom can lead a guest to choose (or not choose) your vacation rental over another.

Let’s take a look at how to decide on the best bed configurations for your vacation rental property and your guests.

How to choose bed configurations

Before you start shopping for your Airbnb or Vrbo beds, here are some things to consider:

Layout of your vacation rental

Every short-term rental is different. Consider your number of bedrooms and their sizes, then follow these tips:

• Use conventional room set-ups that guests expect. For instance, guests are accustomed to having a king bed in the master bedroom, not 2 queen beds.
• Maximize the available space in each bedroom by choosing the appropriate bed size that fits comfortably.
• Arrange the furniture and beds to create a balanced and visually appealing layout.
• 1-bedroom homes usually attract couples. Offer a king or queen in the bedroom.
• 2-bedroom vacation rentals often attract small families, so a common configuration is one king bed in one bedroom and 2 twin beds in the other.
• 3-bedrooms often feature a king or queen in the master bedroom, 1 queen bed in the second room, and 2 twin beds in the third.
• Have more than 4 bedrooms and multiple bathrooms? You can offer a mixture of king, queen, and twin beds.

Your average guests

Are you currently setting up your new Airbnb? Look at other vacation rentals in the area to see what your competition is doing. Want to upgrade your current bedroom setup? Take a look at your past guest history to get an idea of who typically books your home and what would best suit them.

For example: Does your destination draw a lot of families? Include a room with two twin beds or bunk beds. However, keep in mind that the same layout would likely turn off a group of couples who will be seeking beds big enough for two adults.

Beds that offer flexibility

Standard king, queen, full, and twin beds aren’t your only options. Here are some alternatives that can keep your home feeling comfortable, while also leaving room for accommodating 1-2 extra guests. These include:

• Bunk beds
• Sofa beds
• Futons

Trying to boost occupancy with more beds

Resist the urge to pack in extra beds simply to attract bigger groups (and bigger rental rates). Cramming in beds for 20 people, yet only offering two bathrooms, will only lead to complaints and bad reviews.

The solution: Find a balance. Maximize the space in your rooms, while also sustaining a spacious and comfortable feel.

Optimizing for the guest experience

When guests choose who will sleep where, they’re thinking more than just the bed size. Here are other things they’ll be looking for and how to deliver them.

Comfort

Some tips to ensure your guests’ relaxation:

• Opt for high-quality mattresses that provide good support and comfort, such as a memory foam mattress or a hybrid mattress.
• Consider who fits in each bed size. A king bed offers the most comfort for 2 adults, while a queen or full-size bed may be more suitable for single travelers or couples.
• Ensure the bedding is soft, breathable, and of hotel quality to enhance the sleeping experience.

Privacy

Not everyone is comfortable sharing beds—or even rooms for that matter. Here’s how to offer your guests some privacy in sleeping arrangements:

• Separate bedrooms with individual beds, such as twin or full-size, can provide more privacy for groups or families traveling together.
• Avoid open loft-style layouts with shared sleeping areas, as they can compromise privacy.

Accessibility

No one likes sleeping in tight spaces, especially those who need the extra room to navigate furniture. Some tips to ensure comfort:

• Consider the needs of your guests, such as providing ground-floor bedrooms or rooms with wider doorways for those with mobility issues.
• Ensure there is enough space around the bed for easy access and movement.