As a dedicated autumn lover, there’s nothing like the season’s cozy charm—the cool, crisp air, the vibrant leaves, and that irresistible urge to curl up with a warm drink. It’s my absolute favorite time of year, and as both a frequent traveler and an advisor to Airbnb hosts, I’ve learned a lot about how to make a space truly autumn-ready. Whether you’re looking to attract fall enthusiasts or simply want to give your Airbnb a seasonal makeover, I’ve got you covered. With just a few thoughtful touches, you can transform your Airbnb into a cozy haven that guests won’t want to leave.
But here's the best part: preparing your Airbnb for the autumn season doesn’t have to break the bank. It’s all about creating an inviting atmosphere through small, budget-friendly changes. And don’t forget, many of these seasonal updates can be reused next year, maximizing their value!
In this article, I'll share how to make your Airbnb cool and unique for autumn, tips to get longer bookings, ways to add a homey touch to your space, and how to incorporate Halloween fun without going overboard. Plus, I’ll dive into the idea of creating a year-round autumn-themed Airbnb and whether it’s worth it. Spoiler: it could be a game-changer!
1. Make Your Airbnb Cozy and Autumn-Ready
The key to attracting autumn-loving guests is creating a cozy, welcoming space that reflects the season’s warmth. Autumn is all about comfort, so start by focusing on the basics:
Warm and Inviting Textiles
One of the simplest ways to create a cozy atmosphere is by layering textiles. Use throws, blankets, and pillows in rich autumn tones—think deep oranges, burgundies, browns, and even mustard yellows. Guests love having something soft to snuggle into after a day of exploring, and these accents make your Airbnb feel like home.
Pro tip: Include plush robes or slippers as an extra touch of luxury, especially if your Airbnb is located in a cooler climate.
Seasonal Scents
Autumn isn’t just about what you see; it’s about what you smell. Incorporate scents that evoke the season, such as pumpkin spice, apple cinnamon, or even earthy cedarwood. Scented candles, wax melts, or even a reed diffuser can work wonders. Not only do they make the space smell great, but they also help guests associate your property with fond autumn memories.
Bonus tip: Place a welcome basket with small seasonal goodies—think spiced teas or hot chocolate mixes. This little touch goes a long way toward making guests feel cared for and appreciated.
Soft and Ambient Lighting
Lighting is everything when it comes to creating atmosphere. Ditch the harsh, bright lights and opt for soft, warm-toned lighting. Battery-operated candles, string lights, and dimmable lamps can create a magical autumn glow in your space. These additions are not only cost-effective but also provide an added layer of coziness, perfect for those autumn evenings spent indoors.
Small, Simple Decor
You don’t have to go overboard with decorations. A few well-placed pumpkins, pinecones, or even a rustic wreath on the door can give your Airbnb that autumnal charm without overwhelming the space. Sometimes, less is more—especially when you want to avoid a cluttered look.
2. DIY Decor Ideas for an Autumn Makeover
To make your Airbnb even more attractive without breaking the bank, consider these 10 budget-friendly DIY decor ideas:
- Autumn Wreath: Use dried leaves, twigs, and seasonal flowers to create a stunning front door wreath.
- Mason Jar Lanterns: Fill mason jars with string lights or candles for a cozy glow on tables or outdoor spaces.
- Pumpkin Centerpieces: Paint small pumpkins in different colors and arrange them on dining tables or mantels.
- Leaf Garland: String together dried leaves to create a garland that can be hung on mantels or walls.
- Photo Wall: Create a dedicated autumn photo wall with prints of stunning fall landscapes or local autumn activities.
- Flannel Pillow Covers: Sew or buy flannel pillow covers in plaid or warm tones to instantly add a cozy vibe.
- Dried Flower Bouquets: Use dried flowers in vases as a low-maintenance yet beautiful decor piece.
- Seasonal Quotes: Create printable wall art with inspirational autumn quotes or messages to hang around your space.
- Nature Table: Set up a small table with pinecones, acorns, and other natural elements to bring the outdoors inside.
- Upcycled Decor: Repurpose old wooden crates or pallets into rustic shelving for an authentic autumn touch.
3. How to Get Longer Bookings on Airbnb
Every Airbnb host dreams of getting longer bookings, especially as the busy autumn season approaches. To encourage guests to stay longer, you need to offer more than just a bed to sleep in. It's about crafting an experience they won’t want to cut short.
Curated Autumn Experiences
A great way to lengthen bookings is by offering autumn-themed experiences unique to your location. Whether it’s apple picking, scenic drives through vibrant foliage, or visiting local harvest festivals, providing a curated list of seasonal activities shows your dedication to guest experience. You can even partner with local businesses to offer discounts or recommendations.
Pro tip: Leave a handwritten note with personalized recommendations. Guests will appreciate the extra effort, and it adds a homey touch that encourages them to extend their stay.
Cozy Amenities for Cooler Weather
A warm and cozy property can make guests want to stay in for longer stretches of time. If your Airbnb has a fireplace, make sure it’s clean and stocked with firewood. If you have a backyard, consider adding an outdoor fire pit for roasting marshmallows or enjoying a quiet evening by the fire.
A small, thoughtful touch—like providing ingredients for s’mores or a blanket for outdoor use—can turn a simple stay into an unforgettable autumn experience. And when guests have these luxuries to enjoy, they may decide to extend their stay to fully take advantage of everything your property offers.
4. Make Your Airbnb Homey with Simple, Budget-Friendly Tips
One question many Airbnb hosts ask is, "How do I make my Airbnb homey?" The secret is in the details. Creating a welcoming and comfortable space doesn’t require a big budget—just some clever ideas.
Thoughtful Decor Choices
Decorating your Airbnb doesn’t have to mean buying expensive furniture or knick-knacks. You can find budget-friendly pieces at second-hand stores or online marketplaces. Consider investing in multi-seasonal items that can transition from autumn to winter, like cozy blankets, warm-toned curtains, or textured rugs.
You don’t need to fully redecorate each year either. Simple changes—like switching out summer florals for dried flowers or adding a few autumnal accents—can completely change the vibe without costing much.
DIY Touches
A few personal, DIY touches can make your Airbnb feel more like a home. For example, you could create your own autumn wreath to hang on the door or make a centerpiece for the dining table using pinecones, leaves, and candles. These small details are inexpensive and can make a big impact.
5. Don’t Forget the Halloween Fun!
Autumn isn’t just about the changing leaves—it’s also the season for Halloween! Incorporating a few fun, Halloween-themed elements into your Airbnb decor can make the experience even more memorable, especially for families and those who love the holiday.
Subtle Halloween Decor
Rather than going all-out with spooky decorations, keep things tasteful and minimal. Add a few small pumpkins, some faux cobwebs, or a festive wreath to your entryway. The idea is to make it fun without overwhelming guests who may not be as into Halloween.
Pro tip: If you cater to families, leave a small Halloween-themed treat basket in the kitchen. Something as simple as a few pieces of candy can make guests feel welcome and in the spirit of the holiday.
Outdoor Activities
If your Airbnb has outdoor space, take advantage of it! Consider setting up a mini pumpkin patch or leaving a note inviting guests to carve pumpkins (providing them with a pumpkin, of course!). This can be a fun activity that appeals to both children and adults.
Fun Activities for Guests
Here are 10 fun autumn activities you can propose to your guests:
- Pumpkin Picking: Collaborate with a local farm to offer discounts for guests.
- Apple Picking: Provide information on nearby orchards for a day of fruity fun.
- DIY Blanket-Making Workshop: Set up a cozy crafting session with local artists.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte Workshop: Host a fun class on making this seasonal favorite.
- Nature Walks: Offer guided hikes in scenic spots to enjoy the foliage.
- Craft Nights: Plan evenings where guests can create their own autumn decor.
- Bonfire Nights: Organize outdoor gatherings with s'mores and stories.
- Local Harvest Festival: Share details about nearby events celebrating the season.
- Wine Tasting Tours: Connect with local vineyards for a delightful experience.
- Photography Sessions: Partner with local photographers for picturesque autumn shoots.
6. Create an Autumn-Themed Airbnb Year-Round – Should You Do It?
Have you ever considered making autumn the central theme of your Airbnb all year long? It may sound unconventional, but there’s definitely a market for it. Guests who adore autumn—like myself—would jump at the chance to stay in a space that reflects their favorite season.
Pros and Cons
Of course, there are both pros and cons to this idea. On one hand, creating an autumn-themed space can attract a niche audience, resulting in longer bookings during the fall. On the other hand, it might limit your potential market during the rest of the year.
Balancing Act
If you choose to go this route, it’s important to balance your autumn theme with more neutral decor that can appeal to a wider audience year-round. Think cozy textures and colors that evoke a sense of warmth and comfort—elements that work regardless of the season.
In conclusion, transforming your Airbnb into a cozy autumn retreat is all about the little details. From budget-friendly DIY decor to unique activities for guests, you can create a welcoming atmosphere that embraces the spirit of the season.
By thoughtfully preparing your space and tapping into local resources, you can craft memorable experiences that guests will rave about long after their stay. And who knows? Your Airbnb might just become the go-to destination for autumn enthusiasts everywhere!
Bonus: Budget-Friendly Decor Tips for Autumn
Decorating your Airbnb doesn’t have to cost a fortune. In fact, you can find plenty of ideas on Pinterest that are both affordable and easy to recreate. Thrift stores, garage sales, and even dollar stores offer great options for seasonal decor at a fraction of the cost.
Looking for More Airbnb Hosting Tips?
If you're interested in learning more about how to optimize your Airbnb for every season, check out my eBook, Mastering the Art of Hosting: A Host's Guide to Success: How to Run a Successful Airbnb?. This guide is filled with tips from a traveler’s perspective, ensuring you can make the most of your hosting experience, no matter the season!
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