12 Travel Essentials Airbnb Guests Always Forget

Being a great host isn’t about overdoing it—it’s about anticipating the small things guests forget until they need them. After years as an Airbnb Superhost, I’ve learned that the difference between a “nice stay” and a five-star review often comes down to the essentials no one remembers to pack, from extra toiletries to everyday comforts that make a place feel instantly livable.

Whether you’re traveling or hosting yourself, stocking a few key items ahead of time goes a long way. These are the 12 travel products guests ask for most—or quietly wish were already there—all available at Amazon.  

Top Airbnb Guest Essentials

Extra Toothpaste

The No. 1 requested item that guests request? Toothpaste. If you’re traveling, don’t forget your toothpaste! If you’re hosting, leave out a tube for your guest to help themselves when their reserves run low. Not a bad idea to also keep a spare toothbrush handy, just in case. I stash toothbrushes from dental checkups for such emergencies, but you can easily stock up on a multi-pack of toothbrushes online.

If you want to really indulge your guests, spring for Italian toothpaste from Marvis. The packaging is exquisite, and the adventurous flavors, like Jasmine-Mint, feel decadent in a guest bathroom.

Shower Essentials

Most bathrooms are stocked with shampoo and body wash, but conditioner is often overlooked. Ensure your toiletry bag has a full routine ready to go. Or, stock your shower with a moisturizing conditioner, shampoo, and body wash, like this minimalist trifecta from Public Goods. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference—especially for guests with longer hair or anyone staying more than a night or two. Bonus: the clean, cohesive packaging also gives your bathroom that subtle, boutique-hotel feel.

Face Wash

Most people these days have a multi-step skincare routine. Don’t force guests to cleanse their faces with body wash or hand soap! Provide a gentle face cleanser that works across all skin types, like this fragrance-free Cetaphil Daily Cleanser. During drier seasons, consider including a facial lotion as well. I used to decant guest products into opaque jars for the aesthetic, but now I don’t bother. After hosting, I found many people prefer to be able to read the ingredient panel on cosmetics. 

Eye Mask

Sleeping while adjusting to an unfamiliar environment can be a challenge. Ensure your guests are well-equipped for the feat and supply an eye mask, like this one from Maxfeel. A quality sleep mask simulates total darkness, which cues the body to rest—perfect for a post-travel nap or regulating across time zones. 

Earplugs

A quality night’s rest can be the difference between a refreshing trip and an exhausting one. For sensitive sleepers, pack earplugs. If you’re hosting, pop a pair on their bedside table—your guests will be grateful when they wake up well-rested. These noise-cancelling earplugs include a carrying case and are perfectly portable for the journey home. 

Extra Charger

Forgetting a charger happens to the best of us. Remember to pack a multi-cable charger, or leave one out for guests. Even if guests pack their own cord, it can be helpful to have a charging cube available—especially for international travellers who may need to adapt their cables. Before your visitors leave, do an outlet check to ensure no cords get left behind. 

Steamer or Iron

When squeezed into a small suitcase, clothes have a tendency to wrinkle. Make sure your guests have access to a steamer, iron, or both to refresh their garments. If visitors are in town for a formal event or wedding, stocking a steamer is especially crucial. Place one in their closet or simply point out where they can find an ironing station upon arrival. 

Reusable Water Bottle

As soon as anyone walks through the door, I like to offer something to drink. For hydration on-the-go, equip your guests with generously-sized water bottles they can take along for the duration of their stay. Beyond that, I want overnight guests to feel empowered to get a glass of water for themselves. To make it easy, stock the room with a bedside carafe of chilled water. Got an extra two minutes? Infuse the water with a sprig of rosemary or a citrus slice for an air of sophistication.

Hair Dryer

If you want to run your hosting operation like a luxury hotel, outfit your guest bathroom with a blow dryer. It doesn’t have to be an expensive one—this one costs just $36. Blow dryers can be cumbersome to pack in a small suitcase, so having one available for your guests is a little convenience that shows you have thought of everything.

Umbrella

Have a rain plan for your overnight guests. Supply an umbrella in the case of a drizzly forecast. I recommend opting for a compact option that can slip into a backpack or purse during a misty day of sightseeing. 

Cozy Slippers

Slippers are a small touch that instantly makes guests feel cared for—especially after a long travel day. These cozy Chantomoo slippers are soft, warm, and easy to slip on, with a cushioned footbed and non-skid sole so guests can move comfortably around the space without hunting for socks. It’s an affordable, hotel-level detail that goes a long way toward five-star reviews.

Guidebook or Local Map

One of the biggest joys of staying with someone is soaking up their recommendations. Make it easy for your guests to live it up like a local and supply an area map (you can often pick these up at the library!) and a guidebook in their room. I’m a big fan of the Wildsam City Guides, which go beyond the curation of local gems to give you a taste of the culture. 

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