How to Design Kid-Friendly Spaces in Your Vacation Rentals

Creating a kid-friendly vacation rental isn’t just a thoughtful touch — it’s a smart business strategy. Families make up a significant portion of short-term rental guests, and designing spaces that cater to children can make your property stand out from the competition. Whether you’re aiming to attract repeat bookings or stellar reviews, incorporating kid-friendly features is a winning move.

In this guide, we’ll explore practical tips for designing kid-friendly vacation rentals. From safety considerations to entertainment options, this article will equip you with actionable strategies to transform your rental into a family favorite.

Why Design Kid-Friendly Vacation Rentals?

Families often seek out vacation rentals over hotels for the comfort and space they provide. By positioning your rental as kid-friendly, you’re not only meeting a market demand, but also building trust with parents looking for a safe, enjoyable experience for their children. Here are some compelling reasons to design with kids in mind:

• Increased Bookings: A kid-friendly property attracts a broader audience, including families planning extended stays.
• Positive Reviews: Families are more likely to leave glowing reviews if their needs are met.
• Higher Retention: Parents who find a reliable, kid-friendly rental are more likely to book again.

Safety First: Kid-Proofing Your Rental

Safety is the cornerstone of any family-friendly rental. Parents will be scanning your property for potential hazards, so make their decision easier by addressing common concerns:

• Secure Furniture: Anchor heavy furniture like bookshelves and TVs to the wall to prevent tipping accidents.
• Cord Management: Use cord organizers or clips to keep electrical cords out of reach.
• Baby Gates: Provide adjustable gates for staircases or rooms you’d like to limit access to.
• Childproof Outlets: Install outlet covers to eliminate electrical hazards.
• Pool Safety: If your rental includes a pool, ensure it’s fenced and includes a locking gate. Consider providing life vests or floatation devices.

Kid-Friendly Amenities to Include

Families often prioritize properties that offer convenience and entertainment for their little ones. Including thoughtful amenities can make your rental more appealing:

Sleeping Arrangements

• Provide bunk beds or twin beds with playful bedding to make sleeping fun for kids.
• Include a portable crib or pack-and-play for families traveling with infants.
• Offer blackout curtains to help kids stick to their bedtime routines.

Dining Essentials

• Stock child-sized utensils, plates, and cups.
• Include a highchair or booster seat for mealtime convenience.
• Ensure your kitchen is equipped for quick, family-friendly meals (e.g., a microwave, toaster, and blender).

Entertainment Options

• Set up a small play area with toys, books, and board games.
• Install a streaming service with a family-friendly movie collection.
• Provide outdoor toys like balls, frisbees, or chalk for properties with yards.

Bathroom Basics

• Supply a step stool to help kids reach the sink.
• Include non-slip mats in the bathtub.
• Offer kid-friendly toiletries, like tear-free shampoo and fun soap dispensers.

Creating Spaces Kids Love

Designing spaces that kids can enjoy and parents can appreciate involves balancing fun and functionality. Here are some ideas:

A Dedicated Play Zone

Set aside a corner or a small room as a play area. Decorate it with soft rugs or foam mats for safe play, storage bins for easy cleanup, and wall decals or art with playful themes.

Themed Bedrooms

A themed bedroom can make your rental memorable for families. Popular ideas include animal safari, space exploration, and under-the-sea adventures. Keep it simple with themed bedding and a few matching decorative items.

Outdoor Adventures

If your rental has a yard or outdoor space, make it kid-friendly by adding a swing set or slide, a sandbox with toys, or a small garden where kids can explore.

Welcome the Parents, Too

While your focus is on creating a kid-friendly environment, don’t forget the parents. Ensure your rental caters to their needs as well by offering a comfortable seating area for supervision, fast and reliable Wi-Fi, a guidebook with family-friendly local attractions, restaurants, and parks, and flexible check-in and check-out options to accommodate family schedules.

Marketing Your Kid-Friendly Rental

Once your rental is designed with kids in mind, it’s time to market it effectively. Highlight your kid-friendly features in your listing descriptions and photos. Use phrases like “perfect for families” or “kid-approved amenities” to attract attention, and showcase photos of the play area, themed bedrooms, and outdoor spaces. Finally, mention safety features prominently to reassure parents.

The ROI of Family-Focused Design

Investing in kid-friendly features doesn’t just enhance your guests’ experience; it also boosts your bottom line. Families are often willing to pay a premium for properties that offer convenience, safety, and entertainment tailored to their needs. Plus, word-of-mouth referrals and repeat bookings can further increase your revenue.

Designing a kid-friendly vacation rental is an opportunity to stand out in a competitive market while delivering a memorable experience for families. By prioritizing safety, offering thoughtful amenities, and creating fun, engaging spaces, you can ensure your rental becomes a top choice for parents planning their next getaway.

At Safely, we understand the unique challenges of managing short-term rentals. From guest screening to short-term rental insurance, we provide the tools and expertise you need to protect your property and maximize your bookings. Ready to elevate your vacation rental business? Explore our blog or contact us today to learn more.