Creating a Memorable First Impression With Welcome Gifts for Guests

As a property owner or manager, you might think that leaving welcome gifts for rental guests doesn’t make a difference. But you’d be wise to think again. In 2023, over 32,000 Airbnb reviews mentioned receiving a welcome basket, and 94% of those reviews were five-star ratings. 

In other words, a rental welcome basket is an excellent way to make a first impression, especially if you can’t be there in person to greet your guests. A welcome basket is more than just a kind gesture too. It can change the way guests view your property and may make them more inclined to recommend one of your short-term rentals to others. 

Welcome basket ideas don’t have to be expensive, either. It makes sense to adjust the extravagance of a welcome basket to different rental costs, but thoughtful gifts can be far more meaningful than costly ones. 

Additionally, offering guests extras like travel insurance from Safely is a smart way to extend your welcome before they even leave home. Contact Safely today to learn how you can protect your guests and your properties with Safely services. 

Tips for Creating a Rental Welcome Basket

There’s no need to reinvent the wheel every time you need to put together a welcome basket. Follow these tips to streamline the process and keep costs down:

• Choose sustainable gift items and presentation items whenever possible
• Buy in bulk to stay within budget
• Check all items for expiration dates
• Limit the quantity of perishable items to amounts that can be used during a single stay
• Practice your presentation to reduce the time spent on each basket
• Include vital details, like the Wi-Fi password, in a welcome note
• Include local postcards in every basket

Additionally, keep track of items that go unused or unopened after each guest’s stay. If certain gifts appear to be unpopular, it may be best to replace them with something else. 

Ideas for Creating Welcome Gifts for Rental Guests

There is no shortage of welcome basket ideas for rental guests. A few of the most worthwhile include the following:

All About The Amenities

When thinking about what to put in welcome baskets, think about the reason your guest chose your rental property in the first place. Perhaps they were attracted to the beautiful natural surroundings, the nearby theme parks, or the hometown appeal. Use that information to craft a themed welcome basket they’re sure to appreciate.

A basket brimming with all the ingredients needed for s’mores is ideal for homes with a backyard fire pit. Include some kid-sized goggles, dive toys, and a bottle of sunscreen in the welcome basket if you’re renting to a family who is excited about your swimming pool.  

Family Fun

On the subject of families, a kid-friendly welcome basket will impress parents as much as children. Your basket can include coloring books and crayons, portable travel games, and a list of nearby parks and other kid-friendly activities. Food sensitivities are always a concern with children, but including some basics like organic graham crackers and tangerines should be appreciated. 

In a similar sense, a family with small children would probably see plenty of value in having some grab-and-go snacks ready. To keep things simple, invest in some basic containers like wicker baskets or large decorative boxes that can be used time and again. You can dress up simple containers for each season or holiday with a bow, colored tissue, or other embellishments. 

Keeping It Local

Local goods help guests get to know their temporary home a little better. Include a selection of local fruits or interesting foods that are made in the area, perhaps jerky or candy. You can even consider teaming up with a nearby eatery that is willing to offer a discount coupon. 

Including travel-sized soaps or other bath products from local makers is a nice way to support small businesses in your area. And information for public transportation, local museums, independent bookstores, and coffee shops are also thoughtful additions. 

The Classic Snack Basket

It doesn’t cost much to load up a rental welcome basket with basics like chocolates, nuts, crackers, and a small wheel of good cheese. Including muffins and a small bag of ground coffee can be effective ways of getting your guests’ first morning on vacation off to a good start. 

Strive For Luxury

An up-scale property deserves an up-scale gift basket. Pair a bottle of local wine or sparkling cider with a small but luxurious selection of gourmet chocolates, cheeses, and other treats. You could also skip the food and provide guests with robes, slippers, or “at home” spa items like facial products and massage oils. 

Going Green

Eco-tourists and nature lovers will appreciate a gift basket that’s in keeping with their aesthetic. Welcome them with locally sourced organic snacks, organic toiletries made from green materials (like bamboo toothbrushes), and reusable travel mugs. If you really want to spoil them, throw in a cozy pair of organic cotton slipper socks for each guest. 

The Virtual Welcome

Virtual gift baskets are a convenient alternative for guests who prefer to travel light. They are also a super-easy way for hosts with multiple properties to provide gifts without the need for any shopping, wrapping, or delivering. Virtual baskets can include items like discount codes for local businesses, digital gift cards, and links to online experiences. 

Wrapping Up the Topic of Gift Baskets

Managing short-term rental properties requires a substantial amount of multi-tasking and skill-building. Making sure your properties are well-maintained and protected is a big part of the job, but providing guests with a great experience is equally important.  

Personalization is key to crafting a meaningful welcome basket. Take the time to customize the gifts, container, and presentation style to your locale, the property, and your guests’ preferences. You’ll know you’re successful when you see mentions of appreciation in guest reviews. 

Superior hosts need strong allies like the team at Safely. Selecting items for a stellar gift basket is your job, but we’re here to support your enterprise by offering short-term rental protection, guest screening, and travel insurance. Call us today to learn more about our services.