Shop the Vacation Rental Checklist

Welcome — this page is my go-to shopping list for stocking a vacation rental with intention. Everything here is practical, guest-friendly, and easy to maintain (with a simple owner-closet system so turnovers stay smooth).

Disclosure: Some links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission at no cost to you.

My hosting approach:

  • Stock enough for comfort, not excess
  • Keep flip-ready backups in the owner closet
  • Prioritize what guests notice most: sleep, towels, kitchen basics, and convenience

Quick rules I use:

  • Plates/cups/silverware = 2× max occupancy
  • Towels = ~1.5 bath towels per guest + 1 washcloth per guest
  • Beds = 1 set on + 1 backup set per bed
  • Protectors = mattress + pillows + box spring encasement

Start Here: The 5 Essentials I’d Buy First

If you’re stocking a rental from scratch, you do not need to buy everything at once. I’d start with the items guests notice quickly and the things that make turnovers easier.

These are the first five essentials I would prioritize:

  1. Mattress protectors
    Protect every bed before the first guest stay. This is one of the easiest ways to avoid expensive bedding and mattress issues.
  2. White sheet sets
    White sheets are easy to bleach, replace, and reset between stays. I keep backup sets so turnovers are not stressful.
  3. Extra towel sets
    Guests notice towels quickly. I like having enough for comfort plus backups for same-day flips.
  4. Bathroom refill basics
    Hand soap, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toilet paper, trash liners, and makeup cloths are small items that prevent a lot of guest messages.
  5. Kitchen reset basics
    Trash bags, paper towels, dish soap, sponges, coffee supplies, and dish towels help keep the kitchen guest-ready without overstocking.

Once those basics are covered, build out the rest of the home room by room below.

Jump to a room below:
Kitchen | Bedroom | Bathroom | Whole Home | Owner Closet

Kitchen Essentials

Shop the Complete Kitchen Essentials List on Amazon →

Dinnerware Set

Best for: Stocking enough plates and bowls without overcomplicating the kitchen.

I like stocking around 2× the max guest count so guests are not constantly running the dishwasher, but the cabinets still stay manageable.

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Bedroom Essentials (Don’t Skip Protectors)

Shop the Complete Bedroom Essentials List on Amazon →

Mattress Protector

Best for: Protecting every bed before guests ever sleep on it.

This is one of the first things I add to a vacation rental bed. It helps protect the mattress from spills, sweat, and accidents, which makes replacement much less likely.

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Bathroom Essentials

Shop the Complete Bathroom Essentials List on Amazon →

White Towel Bundle

Best for: Guest bathrooms, cleaner resets, and simple replacements.

White towels are my go-to for vacation rentals because they feel fresh, match almost any bathroom, and make it easier to spot stains during turnover.

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Whole Home Essentials

Shop the Complete Whole Home Essentials List on Amazon →

First Aid Kit

Best for: Giving guests access to basic supplies for small cuts, scrapes, or minor issues.

A simple first aid kit is one of those whole-home basics I like to have available in every vacation rental. It is practical, affordable, and helps guests feel taken care of.

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Owner Closet System

Shop the Complete Owner Closet Essentials List on Amazon →

Labeled Storage Bins

Best for: Keeping backups organized for cleaners, co-hosts, or owner stays.

An owner closet system makes turnovers easier because extra supplies are easy to find without leaving everything out for guests.

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Backup Essentials

These are the refills I like to keep stocked behind the scenes so cleaners, co-hosts, or owners are not scrambling between stays.

Hosting Notes (What I’ve learned)

  • Fresh sponge: For less than $0.50 per flip, I like leaving a new sponge—it’s a small touch guests notice.
  • Backup essentials: I keep one backup set of key items (bulbs, batteries, coffee, and refills) so turnovers are easy.
  • Trash bags: Lightly scented bags can help the kitchen feel fresh (subtle is best).
  • Storage containers: Plastic stacks best and saves space; glass feels nicer but is more likely to “walk off” with leftovers.
  • Jewelry trinket dish: A small detail that makes guests feel thought of.
  • Dishes: I like a mix of porcelain + durable outdoor-friendly dishes for kids, grilling, and patio meals.