Picture this: Your Airbnb decked out with cozy, seasonal touches — a crackling fire (or a tiny electric version), twinkling lights, and a welcoming splash of wintery greenery by the door. It’s a warm, inviting scene that transforms any property into a mini holiday escape.
Decorating your Airbnb for the holiday season not only creates a memorable stay for your guests but can also help you stand out from other listings. With the right Airbnb decor this holiday season, you’ll capture the magic while keeping things welcoming for every kind of traveler. Here’s a rundown on tasteful, budget-friendly ways to decorate and make your rental the ultimate holiday hideaway.
Should You Decorate Your Airbnb for Christmas?
We say yes! Holiday decor is a simple way to make guests feel like they’ve arrived somewhere special and memorable.
That said, how much holiday spirit you should add depends on:
- Your property type
- Location
- The preferences of your typical guests
A mountain cabin, for example, may lend itself naturally to holiday decor, while an urban apartment in Miami may only need a subtle nod to the season.
Decor can help listings stand out to guests specifically searching for a festive stay. Some guests are hunting for that cozy Christmas escape in the mountains, complete with a snow-filled view and twinkling lights. Adding a tasteful dose of holiday decor can help make your listing memorable, capture more holiday bookings, and set the stage for positive reviews. Just remember to keep things non-denominational to appeal to the broadest range of guests.
10 Ways to Decorate Your Airbnb for Christmas and the Holidays
Ready to bring a little holiday charm to your rental? Here’s how to do it tastefully, without overloading on tinsel and without breaking the bank.
Avoid Blatant Denominational Decor, Like a Christmas Tree
While a Christmas tree or menorah might be festive, they can also be too specific for a wide audience. Instead, choose more neutral decor that brings a cozy, seasonal vibe without focusing on any one tradition. Think of evergreen garlands, wintery colors, or metallic accents that evoke the season without putting guests off.
Products featured above:
Hang Garland and Wreaths
Nothing says winter quite like some lush greenery. Hang garlands along mantels, stair railings, or doorways for an instant holiday vibe. A simple wreath on the front door sets a festive tone from the moment guests arrive.
When shopping for garlands and wreaths, keep in mind that you can opt for live or faux. Live greenery will add an extra-special touch, but faux will give you more bang for your buck since you can reuse it year after year.
Live orange and cinnamon wreath
Decorate with Greenery
Sprigs of holly, pine cones, and small evergreen branches can bring a wintery feel to your decor. Place them in vases around the home or on shelves to add subtle, natural touches. Just keep it simple — sometimes less is more.
Lighted faux mixed assortment swag
Hang String Lights
Fairy lights or soft white string lights can instantly elevate the cozy factor. Drape them around windows, mirrors, or even along the bedframe for a magical, soft glow. Consider adding lights outside too, around trees and shrubbery or strung over the patio. Just remember to keep things subtle—think twinkling, not flashing.
Twinkle Gold 30' Outdoor String Lights
84" Christmas Cluster Lighted Garland, Brown
Electric Firecracker LED Fairy String Lights
Add Wintery Throw Pillows and Blankets
Nothing invites relaxation like a cozy throw or a festive pillow. Swap out everyday decor with a few winter-inspired pillows in plaid, cream, or deep green, and add plush throws that guests can snuggle up with after a day out in the cold.
Snowflake Kilim 20"x20" Camel Tan and Arctic Ivory Throw Pillow Cover
Sweater Knit 70"x55" Verte Green Throw Blanket
Stock the Kitchen with Supplies for Holiday Treats
A thoughtful kitchen setup can be a delightful surprise. Consider stocking the kitchen with all the fixings needed for guests to prepare sweet holiday treats like hot cocoa and cookies.
Hot cocoa supplies
- Mix packets or cocoa powder
- Marshmallows
- Festive holiday mugs
- Candy canes
Cookie baking supplies
- Baking sheet
- Cookie cutters
- Decorating icing
A well-stocked kitchen shows you’ve gone the extra mile to give your guests an extra-special stay.
Winter Forest 12.75-oz. White Mug
Classic Dark Hot Chocolate Mix
Add a “Happy Holidays” Sign
A “Happy Holidays” sign by the entryway or in the living room is an easy way to set the mood. It’s non-denominational, inviting, and instantly festive without being overwhelming.
Decorate with Faux Candles
Faux candles are perfect for adding a cozy ambiance without the risk of open flames. Place them in windows, on side tables, or around the dining area to create a warm, holiday glow. Battery-operated candles can even flicker like the real thing, creating that warm, seasonal feel without any of the hazards.
Mikasa Set Of 5 Realistic Wax Pillar Candles, White
Unscented Flameless Pillar Candle
Unscented Flameless Taper Candle
Unscented Flameless Candle with Plastic Holder
Use a Holiday-Scented Plug-In
Scent is a powerful memory trigger, so adding a subtle holiday scent can make your property feel even more festive. Choose scents like evergreen, gingerbread, or vanilla for a warm and cozy aroma. Plug-ins are a safer alternative to candles and allow guests to enjoy a worry-free holiday fragrance.
Leave Behind Holiday-Themed Welcome Baskets
Surprise your guests with a holiday-themed welcome basket that includes seasonal treats.
Great ideas for a holiday welcome basket include:
- Mulled wine spices
- Hot cocoa packets
- Chocolates
- Homemade cookies
- Cookie cutters
- Local souvenirs that have been gift-wrapped
- Fuzzy socks or slippers
- Candy canes
- Gingerbread men
- Holiday scented hand cream or lip balm
- Candles in holiday scents
A thoughtful touch like this can make a world of difference in guest experience and encourage a glowing review.
Ritual S'mores 70% Cacao Dark Chocolate Bar
Tate's Bake Shop Chocolate Chip Cookies
How to Prepare Your Airbnb for the Holiday Season
The holiday season is a peak time in the travel and hospitality industries, bringing a surge in bookings and potentially higher guest expectations.
As a host, this period offers a prime opportunity to adjust your listing to attract more bookings and maximize your income. Making a few strategic changes to your Airbnb can help you stand out from the competition, boost visibility, and increase revenue during this high-demand season.
Below, we explore tips on adjusting your pricing and updating your listing title and description to make the most of holiday travel trends.
Adjust Your Pricing
With travel demand typically soaring around the holiday season — especially near Christmas and New Year’s — it’s common for short-term rentals and hotels to raise rates to reflect the season’s premium value. Many families plan vacations during this time to take advantage of time off work and school, so competition can be intense.
To stay competitive and profitable, consider monitoring local competitors’ pricing and adjusting your rates accordingly. Analyze nearby accommodations, peak season rates, and availability to set an appealing yet lucrative price point. Seasonal pricing adjustments can help you make the most of this high-demand period while staying in line with other properties.
Update Your Listing Title & Description
Attract holiday travelers by weaving seasonal appeal into your Airbnb listing title and description. Small tweaks, like adding “Cozy Holiday Getaway” or “Perfect Spot for a Festive Retreat,” can help draw guests searching specifically for holiday accommodations.
Highlight your unique selling points in a holiday-friendly way. For example, if your Airbnb is near a bustling Christmas market or in a snowy, remote area ideal for a quiet winter retreat, mention these perks to capture attention. Tailoring your description to the season makes your listing more engaging and can help it stand out among holiday travelers looking for the perfect winter escape.
Minoan Can Help You Decorate for the Holidays
Decorating your Airbnb for the holidays doesn’t have to be a major undertaking or a big budget drain. By shopping through Minoan, you can access curated holiday decor and essentials at unbeatable prices to bring your Airbnb’s holiday vision to life.