Best Board Games for Short-Term Rentals (Airbnb, Vrbo & Vacation Homes)
Adding board games to your short-term rental is a simple, affordable way to increase guest satisfaction, encourage more extended stays, and earn better reviews. Whether you host families, couples, or business travelers, the right games create memorable moments—especially on rainy evenings or during downtime between outings.
This guide covers the best board games for short-term rentals, why they work, and how to choose games that are guest-friendly, durable, and easy to manage.
Level Up Your Guest Experience is a practical, host-friendly PDF presentation designed to help short-term rental owners create unforgettable stays using one of the simplest amenities available: board games.
This guide shows you how curated board game collections can transform rainy days, quiet evenings, and family downtime into meaningful moments your guests remember—and mention in 5-star reviews. Whether you host families, couples, or business travelers, this presentation walks you through selecting the right games that are easy to manage, guest-approved, and perfectly suited for Airbnb, Vrbo, and vacation rentals.
Inside the PDF, you’ll discover:
Why board games consistently improve guest satisfaction
Which games work best for different property sizes and guest types
How to avoid common mistakes hosts make with games
Simple setup, storage, and maintenance tips
How thoughtful amenities lead to better reviews and repeat bookings
Written for busy hosts and property managers, this presentation focuses on practical, low-cost upgrades that make a big impact—without adding cleaning headaches or ongoing maintenance.
Perfect for new hosts, seasoned operators, and anyone serious about earning more 5-star reviews through thoughtful design and guest-focused amenities.
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Why Board Games Are a Must-Have for Short-Term Rentals
Board games elevate the guest experience without adding cleaning complexity or ongoing costs. Guests often mention thoughtful amenities in reviews, and games help your listing feel more welcoming and complete.
Benefits for hosts:
Encourages family bonding and group fun
Keeps guests entertained without screens
Adds value without increasing nightly rates
Frequently mentioned in 5-star reviews
What Makes a Board Game Ideal for Airbnb & STR Guests
When choosing games for a rental, simplicity and durability matter more than depth.
Look for games that are:
Easy to learn in under 10 minutes
Durable with minimal pieces
Suitable for multiple age groups
Compact and easy to store
Best Classic Board Games for Short-Term Rentals
🎲 Monopoly (Classic Edition)
A timeless favorite for families and longer stays. Guests already know the rules, making it easy to jump in.
🔗 Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01MU8KZQJ
Why it works:
Familiar to most guests
Great for families and teens
Ideal for multi-night stays
🔤 Scrabble
Perfect for relaxed evenings and adult travelers.
🔗 Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IL5XY9K
Why it works:
Encourages friendly competition
Compact storage
Appeals to couples and older guests
♟ Chess / Checkers Combo Set
A classic two-in-one option with universal appeal.
🔗 Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07Q2XJ8Z9
Why it works:
Minimal pieces
Elegant and durable
Great for all ages
Best Card Games for Airbnb Guests
🃏 UNO
One of the most rental-friendly games ever made.
🔗 Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00004TZY8
Why it works:
Easy to learn
Durable cards
Fun for kids and adults
🂡 Standard Deck of Playing Cards
A must-have for any rental.
🔗 Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00000IV35
Why it works:
Endless game options
Takes almost no space
Inexpensive and replaceable
Best Party & Group Games for Short-Term Rentals
🎉 Connect Four
Fast-paced and perfect for families.
🔗 Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00D8STBHY
Why it works:
No reading required
Durable plastic pieces
Quick games = less wear
🤣 Guess Who?
A favorite for kids and nostalgic adults.
🔗 Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DN7R9BZ
Why it works:
Easy setup
Highly interactive
Great for short play sessions
Best Compact Games for Small Apartments & Condos
If your rental is a studio or apartment, stick to small-box or card-based games:
UNO
Playing cards
Travel-size chess
Magnetic board games
These store easily and won’t clutter cabinets.
Board Games to Avoid in Short-Term Rentals
Not all games are rental-friendly. Avoid:
Games with dozens of tiny pieces
Complex strategy games with long rulebooks
Expensive collector editions
Games requiring intense setup or teardown
How Many Board Games Should an Airbnb Have?
Studio / 1-bedroom: 2–3 games
2–3 bedrooms: 4–6 games
Large homes: 6–8 games
Quality matters more than quantity.
Storage & Presentation Tips
Use a visible shelf or basket
Label games clearly
Include a short “Game Night” note in your house guide
Do Board Games Improve Airbnb Reviews?
Yes. Guests frequently mention games as a “thoughtful touch,” especially families and longer stays. Small details often lead to better reviews and repeat bookings.
Final Tips for Hosts
Check games between turnovers
Replace missing pieces proactively
Wipe boxes and cards occasionally
Choose universally loved classics
Board games are one of the easiest amenities to add—and one of the most appreciated.
