20 Most Commonly Forgotten Things to Pack: Items to Have for Guests (2024)

As a short-term rental host, you want your guests to have everything they need during their stay. But sometimes, guests forget to pack essential items for their trip. To help you out, we've compiled a list of the most commonly forgotten things to pack – from toiletries to travel adapters. Going the extra mile for guests is exactly what being a superhost is all about! Next time you're getting your rental ready for guests, be sure to check this list!

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1. Toothbrush & Toothpaste

Nothing is worse than realizing you forgot your toothbrush. Include some extra unopened toothbrushes and toothpaste to spare your guests from the hassle.

2. Hair Brushes

Believe it or not, hair brushes are one of the most commonly forgotten things to pack, especially when it comes to longer trips. For most guests, a hairbrush is essential for proper hygiene and styling their hair. Have a few unopened travel-size combs and hairbrushes in the bathroom.

3. Travel Adapters & Chargers

Different countries use different plugs, so it's important to be sure your guests can charge their devices. Providing a travel adapter and USB charging port is a great way to ensure they can keep their devices powered up while they're away from home.

4. First Aid Kit

No one wants to think about emergencies, but it's always better to be prepared. A basic first aid kit with band-aids, disinfectant, and other items can help your guests stay safe while they're in your rental and get that nasty paper cut while working from home.

5. Hair Dryer & Iron

Some guests may forget to bring their own hair dryer or iron, so it's a good idea to provide these items for them. If you don't want to buy dedicated hair dryers and irons for your rental, most stores sell inexpensive travel versions that are perfect for short-term rentals.

6. Umbrella

Rainy days can put a damper on any vacation. Providing an umbrella for your guests will help them stay dry during their stay in your rental and save you from any potential damages caused by wet weather.

7. Books & Games

Providing a few books and games in your rental will help keep guests entertained if they didn’t bring anything with them for downtime. Board games, cards, and magazines are all great additions that your guests will appreciate.

8. Snacks

While you don't need to go overboard, providing some snacks and drinks for your guests is a great gesture. This can be something as simple as coffee, tea, and granola bars - little things that will make your rental feel more like home. Plus, if they arrive after a long drive and are "hangry," this will boost their mood.

9. Reusable Water Bottle

Making sure your guests have access to fresh, clean water is a must. Providing reusable water bottles can not only help cut down on plastic waste but also make it easy for guests to stay hydrated during their stay in your rental.

10. Contact Solution

This one is easy to forget, but many guests may need contact solution during their stay. It's always a good idea to have solution and some extra contact cases on hand - just in case.

11. Make-up Remover

For many folks, the makeup remover is an essential item during their stay in a short-term rental. Don't forget to pack some facial wipes or a bottle of makeup remover for your guests! This will help prevent guests from staining your bath towels with makeup.

12. Lip Balm

Cold, dry air in most places can wreak havoc on your guests' lips, so provide them with a few tubes of chapstick or lip balm to keep their lips hydrated during their stay.

13. Razors

Providing disposable razors and shaving cream is a great way to help your guests stay well-groomed during their stay at your rental. These items are one of the most commonly forgotten things to pack and your guests will appreciate your thoughtfulness.

14. Shampoo, Conditioner & Body wash

Providing guests with basic items like shampoo, conditioner, and body wash is a great way to make your rental feel more welcoming. Plus, it saves them from having to run to the store and pick them up after a long travel day.

15. Hand Sanitizer

Now more than ever, travel-size hand sanitizer is an essential item to have on hand. Stocking your rental with some travel-sized bottles of hand sanitizer can help keep your guests and yourself safe during their stay. Plus, the extra thoughtfulness will help inspire a five-star review.

16. Bottle Opener

Providing a bottle opener in your rental is a small yet thoughtful touch that most guests will appreciate. This way, they can enjoy their favorite drinks without having to worry about finding an opener. Plus, this is an excellent opportunity to create branded bottle openers that guests can take with them and market your short-term rental.

17. Sunscreen

If your rental is in a sunny area, providing sunscreen will help guests stay safe while they're enjoying the outdoors. Plus, most sunscreens come in travel-safe bottles that won't take up too much space.

18. Bug spray

Bug bites can ruin a vacation, so providing insect repellent is essential if you're in an area that's prone to bugs. This way, guests can enjoy their stay without having to worry about pesky insects.

19. Tide-Stain Pen

Providing a Tide-stain pen is a very thoughtful touch that most guests will appreciate. This way, they can quickly remove any embarrassing stains from their clothing without having to worry about ruining it.

20. Matches

We always think we have them – until we don't. Matches are one of the most commonly forgotten things to pack. Provide your guests with some matches in case they need to light a candle, BBQ, or just start a fire in the fire pit.

The most commonly forgotten things to pack can easily be remedied and make your rental feel homier for your guests. Providing items like snacks, reusable water bottles, contact solution, hand sanitizer, bug spray, matches, and a Tide-Stain pen are all thoughtful touches that will make their stay more enjoyable. Remembering these items will help your guests feel taken care of and make their stay more memorable.