1. Prepare for the Texas Heat
Texas summers are famously hot, often climbing above 100°F. Keep your guests comfortable and safe with a few thoughtful touches:
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Cooling Options: Make sure your A/C is serviced and functioning. Add fans in bedrooms for extra airflow.
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Cold Drinks: Stock the fridge with water, lemonade, and iced tea. Consider adding local Texas favorites like Topo Chico.
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Sun Protection: Provide complimentary sunscreen, sunglasses, and wide-brim hats. You can even include a small bottle of SPF in their welcome basket.
Want more tips for staying cool in Texas? Check out Texas Monthly’s survival guide to summer heat.
2. Curate a Texas-Themed Welcome Basket
Give your guests a taste of Texas the moment they arrive:
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Local Treats: Include goodies like Lammes Candies’ Longhorns, jalapeño peanuts, or Whataburger spicy ketchup packets.
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Souvenirs: Add a Texas keychain, mini cowboy boots, or a branded drink koozie.
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Visitor Guides: Provide printed maps and brochures. You can order free guides from Tour Texas.
3. Plan Outdoor Activities
Summer is a great time to experience the natural beauty of Texas. Here are a few ideas:
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River Tubing: Book a float trip on the Comal or Guadalupe Rivers.
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Beach Day: Visit Galveston Island or South Padre.
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Hiking: Explore unique trails like Enchanted Rock or Palo Duro Canyon.
Make sure to plan early morning or late afternoon excursions to beat the heat!
4. Get Guest Spaces Vacation-Ready
Ensure your home feels like a retreat:
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Bedding: Provide fresh sheets, fluffy pillows, and lightweight blankets.
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Toiletries: Stock up on essentials—think travel-size shampoo, conditioner, soap, and fresh towels.
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Closet Space: Clear space for guests to hang clothes and stow luggage.
For helpful checklists, visit Life with Lovebugs’ guide to prepping for summer guests.
5. Share Dining Recommendations
Texas cuisine is a must. Offer your guests suggestions:
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Tex-Mex: Try Ninfa’s Original on Navigation in Houston.
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Sweet Treats: Introduce them to Blue Bell Ice Cream.
To help guests plan meals out, include menus or QR codes to nearby restaurants.
6. Entertainment for Downtime
Help guests relax between adventures:
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Games: Stock board games or Texas-themed card games.
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Streaming Access: Ensure your TV is set up with Netflix, Hulu, or Disney+.
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Local Events: Check the local calendar on Eventbrite or Do512 (Houston-specific) and print it out or send links ahead of time.
7. Safety & House Guidelines
Ensure peace of mind for both you and your guests:
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Emergency Contacts: List local hospitals, urgent care, and emergency services.
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First Aid Kit: Have one visible and stocked.
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Wi-Fi Info & House Rules: Post network details, instructions for appliances, and any quiet hours.
Pro tip: Use a digital welcome book service like Hostfully for a sleek, shareable guide.
8. Encourage Feedback
After the visit, ask guests how you did. Feedback helps you improve, and it also shows that you care about their experience. Tools like Google Forms or a simple email request work great.
Wrapping It Up
With a little planning and Texas-sized hospitality, you’ll create a stay your guests will never forget. Whether you’re hosting friends, family, or vacation rental visitors, these summer-ready tips will make all the difference.
Want more travel inspiration or free Texas trip guides? Visit the official tourism website: TravelTexas.com
Want to learn how to position your property as a top vacation rental destination? CLICK HERE
