If you’re renting a vacation house for the first time it can be very overwhelming. Most vacation rentals supply basic amenities while guests are required to bring everything else. After years of family trips to Cape Cod, we’ve learned the hard way what not to forget. I’ve put together a list of What to Bring to a Vacation Rental so we never forget anything.
What to Bring to a Vacation Rental
Planning a trip to a vacation rental like an Airbnb, VRBO, or Del Mar Luxury Cape Cod house? One of the biggest challenges travelers face is knowing exactly what to pack. Unlike hotels, vacation rentals often vary in what’s provided, from towels to kitchen gear. That’s why I created this ultimate vacation rental packing list for families, couples, and solo travelers—to help you feel prepared and at home wherever you go.
The first thing you need to do when renting a home for a vacation is to look at the amenities. Make sure to review the rental agreement BEFORE you begin packing so you know what’s available in the rental home. Make lists of what you need to bring to the vacation rental home ahead of time in case purchases must be made. THESE BAGS are essential for packing everything in your car. We use the large industrial plastic zipper bags to organize vacation items for the bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, etc.
Vacation Rental Basics
Cross check this list of essential items for a rental home with what you already own. Things like linens, paper goods, and laundry detergent can easily be brought with you instead of purchasing just for the trip.
LINENS: My family has stayed in a variety of beach cottages – some rentals have linens and towels while others do not. We pack the linens in these bags. Check the rental agreement twice before you leave home without sheets, pillows, and bath towels.
PAPER GOODS: Toilet paper, paper towels, napkins, etc.
LAUNDRY DETERGENT: I actually enjoy doing laundry on vacation, so we unpack clean clothes when we get home. Don’t forget softener and dryer sheets.
Pillow & Blanket: My daughters prefer a personal pillow and blanket, so we always bring our own.
Dirty Laundry Bag: Even if there is a washer and dryer on site, you’ll still need a way to transport dirty items home. This is my favorite bag for dirty laundry.
TIP: Shop these must have items for your vacation rental home.
Kitchen Essentials for a Vacation Rental
Not all vacation rentals come stocked with the basics. If you’re planning to cook during your stay, pack essential kitchen supplies like cooking oil, your favorite spices, and reusable food containers. I always bring a small cutting board and a sharp knife—because rental kitchens aren’t always well-equipped. Need a list of family friendly vacation meals?
Condiments — Bring your own condiments (ketchup, mustard, mayo).
Spices and seasonings – For cooking and grilling, plus salt and pepper.
Corkscrew – I never leave home without one!
Cereal or other breakfast foods
Trash bags
Food storage bags – for leftovers or beach snacks
Aluminum foil and plastic wrap
Coffee – THIS IS A BIG ONE! Also, don’t forget your favorite coffee creamer.
Dish Soap & Sponge
Fruit Fly Catcher – I know it seems weird to bring this, but if you have one at home – don’t leave without it. Vacation rentals can be in the woods and more prone to bugs – this catches every single one of them.
What to Leave at Home: Mini appliances (unless you love your blender and there isn’t one at the house), toaster, coffeemaker, dishes, silverware, etc. Always check with the rental host for a list of what’s available!
Bathroom and Toilet Supplies
Toiletries: Don’t assume all rentals provide toiletries. Pack your preferred shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and hand soap. A small toiletry bag with these essentials ensures you’re not caught off guard.
Medication (for adults and children)
Toothpaste
Shampoo & Conditioner
Blow-Dryer – not every vacation rental will have a blow dryer so pack yours or a travel blow dryer
Toilet Paper – even if there is a roll or two when you arrive, it won’t last a week with a full house. We always BYOTP!
Sunscreen & Aloe – it can be more expensive in tourist-y towns
First Aid Kit
Cleaning Supplies for a Vacation Rental Home
Even if cleaning fees are included, I recommend bringing your own cleaning wipes, hand soap, dishwashing pods, and paper towels. Some rentals supply these in small quantities, but it’s always smart to have backups—especially for longer stays.
More Things to Bring to a Vacation Rental Home
Clothing Hangers – there are NEVER enough provided
Portable Speaker – play music anywhere (beach, house, deck, etc)
Beach Chairs – even if they’re provided, sometimes beach chairs can be old/damaged
Bug Repellant
Beach Blanket
Beach Toys – some beach rental owners have a collection of beach toys for guests, but it’s best to be prepared with your own sand toys
Beach Umbrella or Beach Tent
Baby Gate – if you have a wandering baby in a big house, come prepared to close off stairs or doorways
Stroller
Beach Baby Must Haves – Bringing a baby or a toddler to the beach? Read this post!
If you NEED items for your vacation rental, but have limited space in your vehicle – use a local rental service!
Every year we use a local rental service in Cape Cod to request the following items: Crib, Pack-n-Play, Beach Umbrella, Beach Cart, High Chair. Most of what is listed is too big to bring from home. It costs less to rent these items than to buy them once we reach our destination.
Looking for a CHECKLIST to use while packing for your vacation rental? Download and print the Packing for a Vacation Rental Checklist below!
Frequently Asked Questions About What to Bring to a Vacation Rental
Not always. Many rentals expect guests to bring their own towels and sheets, especially beach houses or remote cabins. Always check the listing details or ask the host directly to confirm.
Yes, it’s a good idea to bring disinfectant wipes, paper towels, trash bags, dishwashing detergent, and hand soap. Even if cleaning is included, most rentals provide limited supplies.
Pack kid-friendly snacks, toys, books, a travel crib, portable high chair, and any comfort items your child needs to sleep well. Don’t forget baby monitor, outlet covers, or travel blackout curtains for better rest.
Great tips for any age!
this is SUCH a helpful post! definitely going to use this check list for our vacation at the end of the month!
xx rebecca // thecrystalpress.com/blog
Such a good list! You definitely included things I never would have thought of.
XO
https://www.moosmusing.com
This was so helpful! I’ll have to pin it and come back to your checklist the next time I plan a vacation! Thanks so much for sharing!
By Grace & Gingham | https://www.graceandgingham.com
So many essential products on your list. I’ve never done a long enough vacation to need all of these items, but they’re important to remember if you have an extended stay somewhere! Thanks for sharing.
Such a great post! I always bring a laundry bag and pillow case. Also loveee bringing home clean clothes! Saving this for my next trip!
Lizzie
http://www.lizzieinlace.com
This is super helpful, as I never know what to pack when we’re doing an air bnb or a vacation rental since it is not the same as a hotel. All amenities and shampoos/conditioners may not necessarily be there!
Such a great post! It never fails that when we travel we forget SOMETHING!
Such a great list and checklist! I’ve never stayed in a rental long term like this but I’m saving this for when I do!
This is super helpful! Thank you for sharing! Xx.
Many essential items that you should have on your wish list of items. I’ve never taken an extended vacation long enough to require all of these things however they are important to keep in mind if you’re planning an extended stay in a place! Thank you for sharing this information.