Thanksgiving Travel Trends: What Guests Look for in Short-Term Rentals
Thanksgiving has become one of the most popular holidays for travel, and more guests than ever are choosing short-term rentals over traditional hotels. Whether they’re gathering with family, taking a peaceful getaway, or hosting their own holiday meal in a cozy home-away-from-home, travelers want spaces that feel comfortable, functional, and memorable.
Here are the top Thanksgiving travel trends and what guests are looking for when booking an STR during the holiday season:
🍽️ 1. Fully Equipped Kitchens for Holiday Cooking
Thanksgiving is all about food, and guests want a kitchen that can handle the feast.
Travelers look for STRs with:
Ample counter space
Quality pots and pans
Roasting pans & baking sheets
Sharp knives
Basic spices & cooking oils
Enough dinnerware for groups
A kitchen that feels “ready for Thanksgiving” is a major booking magnet.
🛋️ 2. Comfortable, Homey Spaces for Gathering
Holiday trips are about connection, so guests gravitate toward rentals with:
Spacious living rooms
Cozy seating
A warm, inviting atmosphere (think throw blankets, soft lighting, seasonal touches)
Properties that feel like “home for the holidays” stand out.
🏡 3. Family-Friendly Amenities
Thanksgiving often means multi-generational travel. Guests appreciate:
Multiple sleeping options
Pack & play / high chair
Extra blankets & pillows
Board games and puzzles
Smart TVs for movie marathons
Little touches that make hosting loved ones easier go a long way.
🌲 4. Seasonal Décor—Not Overwhelming, Just Welcoming
Guests love when an STR adds subtle, tasteful seasonal décor such as:
Fall wreaths
Cozy throw pillows
Neutral autumn accents
Pumpkin-scented candles or diffusers
It creates a festive, Instagram-worthy experience without feeling overdone.
🚗 5. Convenient Location Near Holiday Activities
Travelers prioritize rentals close to:
Grocery stores (for last-minute ingredients!)
Restaurants that offer Thanksgiving specials
Local holiday events
Scenic spots for fall photos
Easy access makes the stay smoother and stress-free.
🔥 6. Amenities That Make the Stay Special
Guests appreciate small “holiday perks,” such as:
Fireplaces or fire pits
Hot tubs
Outdoor seating with blankets
Welcome baskets with fall-themed snacks
These touches elevate the holiday experience and help hosts stand out.
📱 7. Clear Communication & Holiday-Specific Info
Guests want hosts who are:
Responsive
Organized
Clear about check-in/check-out
Providing helpful holiday notes (trash pickup delays, store hours, etc.)
Smooth communication = happier guests and better reviews.
🧳 Final Thoughts
Thanksgiving continues to be a high-demand season for short-term rentals—and today’s travelers expect spaces that are warm, practical, and holiday-ready. By understanding what guests value most during Thanksgiving trips, hosts can create meaningful stays that keep guests coming back year after year.
If you want to boost your property’s performance for the holidays and elevate your guest experience, reach out to us—we’re here to help you maximize your STR for the season and beyond. 🧡🏡