Families make up a significant portion of the vacation rental market, yet many properties aren’t designed with these renters in mind. If your vacation rental isn’t set up to accommodate families with children, you could be missing out on longer stays, repeat guests and higher occupancy rates. After all, parents want a stress-free vacation, and they’re willing to pay more for a rental that offers convenience, safety, and kid-friendly entertainment.
Whether your home is a Charleston oceanfront rental or a cozy Isle of Palm condo, small upgrades can make a big difference in attracting family bookings. Here’s how to create a kid-friendly vacation rental that stands out.
How does catering to families pay off?
Families are one of the most reliable guest demographics in the vacation rental market. They plan vacations well in advance, often book longer stays and prioritize comfort and convenience over bargain pricing. By making your rental more appealing to families, you can:
- Increase occupancy year-round. Families travel not just during peak summer months, but also for spring break, fall getaways and holiday vacations. A family-friendly rental helps fill your calendar beyond the high season.
- Maximize revenue potential. Parents are willing to pay more for a vacation home that offers safety features, kid-friendly entertainment and the conveniences of home. Small upgrades can justify a higher nightly rate.
- Encourage repeat bookings. If a family finds a rental that makes their trip seamless, they’re more likely to return year after year. They may even recommend your home to friends and extended family.
- Earn better reviews and referrals. Families appreciate when a rental anticipates their needs. A well-equipped, kid-friendly home leads to glowing five-star reviews, which boost your property’s visibility and credibility.
So, what changes make the difference?
A few simple changes can turn your vacation rental into a top choice for families—one that books faster, commands higher rates and keeps guests coming back.
1. Prioritize safety without overcomplicating it.
Safety is a top concern for parents when booking a vacation rental. While you don’t need to childproof your entire home, a few thoughtful additions can make a big difference.
- Outlet covers and corner protectors to reduce common hazards
- Pool fences, alarms or safety covers for properties with a private pool
- Slip-resistant rugs and floors in high-traffic areas
- Stair gates for multi-level homes
- Secure balcony and deck railings
These minor upgrades show parents that your home is designed with families in mind, giving them peace of mind before they even arrive.
2. Offer child-friendly entertainment and play spaces.
A well-equipped vacation rental keeps kids entertained, which means happier parents and better reviews. Consider adding:
- Board games, puzzles, and art supplies
- A smart TV with family-friendly streaming options
- A game console with a few classic games
- A book nook with children’s books
- Outdoor activities like cornhole, kites or a backyard play area
If space allows, creating a designated kids’ zone, such as a bunk room with fun décor, can make your rental even more appealing.
3. Provide beach and outdoor essentials.
Many families book South Carolina beach vacation rentals to enjoy time by the ocean, but packing for a beach trip with kids can be overwhelming. Help make their stay easier by providing:
- Beach toys, buckets, shovels, and boogie boards
- Beach chairs and umbrellas for shade
- A wagon or rolling cart to transport gear
- Bikes or scooters for exploring the neighborhood
- A covered outdoor space so kids can play safely out of the sun
Including these extras not only adds value to your rental but can also justify a higher nightly rate.
4. Make mealtime a breeze for parents.
Some families prefer cooking meals at their rental instead of dining out for every meal. A well-stocked kitchen can be a great selling point when choosing their rental experience.
- Plastic plates, cups, and utensils for kids
- A high chair or booster seat
- Step stools so little ones can reach the sink
- A designated snack area with accessible storage
- A bottle warmer or microwave for quick meal prep
Highlighting these features in your listing helps parents feel confident that your home is equipped for their needs.
5. Create family-friendly sleep spaces.
Families need flexible sleeping arrangements, and having the right setup can make your rental more appealing.
- Bunk beds or twin beds in one room for siblings
- A pack ‘n play or crib for infants
- Blackout curtains and white noise machines to help kids sleep
- Extra blankets and pillows to accommodate different comfort preferences
Adding small details, such as nightlights or a few stuffed animals, can help children feel more comfortable in an unfamiliar space.
6. Advertise your rental as child-friendly.
If your vacation rental is designed with families in mind, make sure your listing reflects that. Use key phrases like:
- “Kid-friendly vacation rental with family essentials”
- “Charleston oceanfront rental with beach toys and bunk beds”
- “South Carolina beach vacation rental perfect for families”
Update your property description to highlight family-friendly features, and include high-quality photos showcasing play spaces, safety features, and entertainment options.
With a few thoughtful upgrades, you can turn your vacation rental into a must-book destination for families—leading to more bookings, better reviews and higher guest satisfaction.
Ready to tap into the family vacation market?
Sweetgrass Properties’ local vacation rental experts are ready to help! Contact our team today to learn more about our owner’s program benefits and how we can elevate your Kiawah Island, Wild Dunes, Seabrook Island and Isle of Palms vacation rental.