Over the past few years, the Packing Light Movement has completely transformed how people travel. No longer are guests lugging around multiple suitcases stuffed with every conceivable item. Instead, today’s travelers—especially Millennials and Gen Z—are embracing minimalism and intentionality, choosing to pack less and rely more on their accommodations to fill in the gaps.
As a vacation rental host, understanding the Packing Light Movement isn’t just a trendy idea—it’s a business necessity. Travelers now expect homes to be stocked with thoughtful, hotel-like essentials. If you want to attract 5-star reviews and repeat bookings, you need to keep up with what the Packing Light Movement means for your guests.
Here are 9 things modern guests now expect vacation rentals to provide thanks to the Packing Light Movement:
1. Hotel-Quality Toiletries
Travelers who follow the Packing Light Movement expect their rental to provide more than just a bar of soap. Guests are ditching bulky shampoo bottles and TSA-restricted liquids in favor of hosts who supply full-size, eco-conscious toiletries.
What to stock:
-
Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
-
Hand soap and lotion
-
Makeup remover wipes or micellar water
-
Toothpaste and disposable toothbrushes (bonus!)
Brands like Public Goods and Plaine Products offer sustainable, refillable products that align beautifully with the Packing Light Movement.
2. Hair Dryers, Styling Tools & Mirrors
Gone are the days when guests would risk damaging their flat irons or curling wands in foreign outlets or overload their carry-on bags. Because of the Packing Light Movement, guests now expect:
-
Hair dryers with diffuser attachments
-
Flat irons or curling irons
-
Lighted vanity or magnifying mirrors
If your rental caters to weddings or special events, these extras are essential.
3. Kitchen Staples (Not Just Utensils)
The rise of the Packing Light Movement means travelers expect a well-stocked kitchen—not just pots and pans, but also:
-
Olive oil, salt, pepper, and spices
-
Coffee, tea, sugar, and creamer
-
Reusable or paper coffee filters
-
Ziploc bags or food storage containers
Today’s guests often choose to cook at home to save money and feel healthier. Platforms like Touch Stay suggest digital guides for local grocery delivery or nearby markets, which is an added bonus.
4. Laundry Essentials & Garment Care
Light packers rewear their outfits. It’s part of the Packing Light Movement mindset. To support that, make sure you offer:
-
Detergent and fabric softener
-
Dryer sheets or reusable dryer balls
-
Iron and ironing board (or a steamer)
This especially matters for families and longer stays. Guests love rentals that help them stay fresh without needing to overpack.
5. Kids & Baby Gear
Parents traveling light rely on hosts to provide baby and kid-friendly gear. Even just one or two of these items can make your listing stand out:
-
Portable crib or pack-n-play
-
High chair and step stool
-
Outlet covers and baby gate
-
Kid-friendly plates, cups, and utensils
Want to go above and beyond? Add a few toys or children’s books. Or refer parents to BabyQuip for rentals they can trust.
6. Tech & Entertainment Options
The Packing Light Movement even extends to entertainment. Guests are leaving books, board games, and HDMI cords behind—expecting you to provide:
-
Smart TV with Netflix, YouTube, or Disney+
-
High-speed WiFi (500 Mbps+ is ideal)
-
Bluetooth speaker
-
Card games and puzzles
According to a 2024 Airbnb trends report, reliable internet and tech-forward features are now standard expectations, not luxuries.
7. Local Recommendations & Area Guides
Guests who pack light also plan light. They often rely on their hosts for personalized local tips. Use a printed folder or digital option like Hostfully to include:
-
Your favorite local coffee shops and restaurants
-
Walking trails, parks, and attractions
-
Emergency clinics and pharmacies
-
Transportation info or Uber codes
The Packing Light Movement has shifted travelers toward spontaneity and curated, local experiences. Help them explore effortlessly.
8. Seasonal or Outdoor Gear
Depending on your location, guests don’t want to haul bulky gear for every season. The Packing Light Movement encourages properties to provide:
-
Umbrellas or ponchos
-
Beach towels, chairs, or coolers (for coastal properties)
-
Sunscreen and bug spray
-
Snow shovels, sleds, or even gloves (for winter rentals)
Having even just a few of these on hand creates a big impression, especially for weekend warriors or last-minute travelers.
9. Reusable Bags & Sustainable Extras
Packing light often goes hand in hand with sustainability. More travelers are eco-conscious, and they expect their host to be, too. Include:
-
Reusable shopping bags
-
Water bottles or travel mugs
-
Recycling and compost instructions
-
Paperless check-in and digital house manuals
These small touches show that you’re tuned in to the values behind the Packing Light Movement, not just the trend.
Final Thoughts: A Little More for Guests, A Lot More in Reviews
The Packing Light Movement isn’t just about reducing luggage—it’s about increasing convenience and reducing friction during travel. Guests are no longer willing to settle for bare-minimum amenities. Instead, they gravitate toward rentals that feel turnkey: stocked, welcoming, and ready for anything.
If you want your short-term rental to stand out, revisit your amenities through the lens of the Packing Light Movement. Not only will your guests appreciate it, but your reviews and bookings will reflect the difference.
