Do I Really Need a Well-Stocked Kitchen in My Vacation Rental? (Spoiler: Yes.)

Let’s talk about one of the most underrated features of a vacation rental: the kitchen.

Sure, photos of hot tubs and scenic views may catch the eye, but for many travelers especially families and groups, a clean, functional, fully stocked kitchen is what seals the deal.

And if you’re a vacation rental owner wondering whether investing in your kitchen setup is worth it, here’s the short answer: yes. Absolutely.

Let’s break down why a kitchen matters more than you think, what guests are really looking for, and how you can turn your rental’s kitchen into one of its most talked-about features.

Why Travelers Actually Use the Kitchen

Contrary to what some hosts might assume, most guests don’t eat every single meal at a restaurant. Whether they’re watching their budget, have dietary restrictions, or simply want to enjoy a quiet meal in pajamas, having access to a kitchen provides flexibility and control.

Here’s what real travelers are using the kitchen for:

• Quick breakfasts before a day of exploring

• Family dinners to save money on eating out

• Heating leftovers from a local restaurant

• Prepping baby food or meals for picky eaters

• Hosting a birthday dinner, holiday brunch, or casual cookout

  
  

When a kitchen is clean, easy to use, and thoughtfully stocked, guests remember and they often leave reviews about it.

Who Cares Most About the Kitchen?

Not every guest will use the stove or bake a lasagna. But certain types of guests are especially influenced by the kitchen when choosing a rental:

Families with Kids

Parents don’t want to wrangle toddlers at a restaurant for every meal. A kitchen gives them breathing room, control over their schedule, and the ability to prep food their kids will actually eat.

Multi-Generational Groups

When grandparents, parents, and kids travel together, it’s often for quality time. Cooking together is part of that experience and a kitchen makes it possible.

Health-Conscious Travelers

Guests with specific dietary needs (gluten-free, vegetarian, etc.) rely on having a kitchen to prepare safe and satisfying meals.

Remote Workers & Longer-Term Guests

For guests staying 5+ nights, the option to cook is often non-negotiable. It helps them settle in and feel more at home.

If your listing targets any of these groups, upgrading your kitchen is more than a nicety, it’s a strategic move.

What Makes a Kitchen Guest-Ready?

It’s not just about having a stove and a sink. Guests are looking for kitchens that are practical, intuitive, and pleasant to use.

Here’s what to focus on:

✅ Appliances That Work Well

• Full-size fridge with ice trays or built-in ice maker

• Microwave, oven, and stovetop

• Toaster and blender

• Coffee maker (bonus if you offer both drip and Keurig-style options)

  
  

Make sure all appliances are easy to operate and clearly labeled.

✅ The Right Cookware

• A full set of pots and pans (including a nonstick skillet)

• Baking sheet, casserole dish, cutting board

• Strainer/colander, measuring cups, and mixing bowls

• Sharp knives and serving utensils

  
  

Guests often plan basic meals. Give them the tools to make that easy.

✅ Dishware That Matches the Guest Count

• Enough plates, bowls, and utensils for your maximum number of guests (plus a few extra)

• Kid-friendly dishes and cups if your rental is family-oriented

• Wine glasses or mugs for that extra touch

  
  

If your property sleeps 6, make sure you have 8 of everything, not 4.

✅ The Often-Forgotten Essentials

• Salt, pepper, cooking oil, and basic spices

• Aluminum foil, plastic wrap, and ziplock bags

• Dish soap, dishwasher pods, paper towels

• Garbage bags and extra trash can liners

  
  

These aren’t glamorous, but guests notice when they’re missing—and they love when they’re thoughtfully included.

Why It’s Worth the Investment

You might be thinking: isn’t this just more stuff to replace if it breaks or goes missing?

Here’s the upside:

• Better reviews. Guests consistently comment on kitchen quality in five-star reviews.

• More bookings. A full kitchen is a filter on most booking platforms. You don’t want to be left out of the search results.

• Longer stays. Guests who cook are more likely to book extended trips.

• Repeat guests. If someone cooked a Thanksgiving meal at your place and everything worked perfectly, they’ll come back next year.

  
  

It’s not about luxury. It’s about usefulness. Even a basic kitchen can be a major win when it’s clean, functional, and ready for real use.

Pro Tips to Level Up Your Listing

Want to make your kitchen stand out even more? Here are a few ideas that guests love:

• Add a spice rack or mini pantry. Guests will appreciate not needing to buy a whole bottle of olive oil for one meal.

• Leave a list of what's included. Guests love knowing what’s stocked before they arrive.

• Include a recipe card. Add a local recipe or a guest-favorite (like s’mores dip or breakfast tacos).

• Feature the kitchen in your listing photos. Show open cabinets, coffee setups, or a fully set table. Help guests picture themselves using it.

  
  

A vacation rental with a functional, well-stocked kitchen isn’t just a nice-to-have. For many guests, it’s the reason they choose a home over a hotel.

So if you’re wondering whether the kitchen in your property really matters—yes. It absolutely does.

It’s where mornings start, families gather, memories are made, and budget is saved. And when you take the time to make it shine, your guests notice.

They cook.

They connect.

They leave glowing reviews.

And they come back.