Could a cold tub or sauna boost your vacation rental bookings?

The way Americans travel has changed a lot over the past few decades. We've gone from road trips and train rides to boarding flights and signing up for TSA PreCheck. But one of the biggest changes might be the 2008 launch of Airbnb, which has allowed people to book unique stays anywhere in the world.

The platform to book vacation rentals has also opened up new income streams for property owners. If you own a vacation rental, you know it takes more than just listing your place to attract guests year-round. It’s about creating an experience that keeps people coming back. 

Sure, upgrades like fancy coffee makers and high-end toiletries might help snag those coveted five-star reviews. However, if you really want your property to stand out, adding wellness amenities like a cold tub or sauna can elevate the guest experience to a whole new level.

Creating a profitable vacation rental 

Airbnbust. It was the word that no one saw being added to the lexicon. But in 2022, a Twitter user coined the term when responding to a social media post that asked, “What’s going on with Airbnb?”

What was going on? In many ways, it was a classic case of supply and demand. There are more than 448 million "nights and experiences" booked annually on Airbnb. The opportunity to generate income from a property you already own — or to start fresh with a new vacation rental — was enticing. But as the platform grew and hot spots became oversaturated with hosts, occupancy rates began to decline. In places like Myrtle Beach, Austin, and Phoenix, revenues have dropped by as much as 50%.

Owners soon realized that simply listing an ordinary space wasn’t enough to guarantee profitability. With more properties competing for attention, the key to staying competitive lies in standing out from the other listings. 

Offer unique amenities

Guests are no longer just looking for a place to sleep. Airbnbs and other vacation rentals are now home to family reunions, milestone celebrations, and memorable getaways with friends. Travelers are seeking rentals that offer entertainment, an escape from the day-to-day, and amenities that elevate their stay. 

Offering wellness amenities such as cold tubs and saunas can attract health-conscious travelers who are willing to pay more for a space that caters to their relaxation and fitness goals. Friends traveling for a destination marathon might be more interested in a space where they can relax before running 26.2 miles and later recover once they have their finisher medals. 

Highlight local attractions

You might have an amazing property, but if travelers don’t know about all the nearby attractions, they might look elsewhere. Promote local activities and unique experiences that guests can enjoy during their stay. Whether it’s hiking trails, vineyards, or local festivals, offering personalized guides or partnerships with area businesses can help you market your property as a one-stop destination.

Upgrade the guest experience

Think about small but impactful ways you can elevate the guest experience. Amenities like high-quality linens, luxury toiletries, or even welcome baskets with local goods can make a lasting impression. Adding tech features like smart locks, streaming services, and high-speed Wi-Fi also appeals to guests seeking comfort and convenience. 

Maximize year-round appeal

It can be easy to fill your rental during peak seasons, but what about the slower months? Adding amenities such as a cold tub or sauna not only enhances the guest experience but also helps extend your booking calendar into fall and winter. Travelers looking for a cozy winter getaway will be drawn to a property that offers a space to relax and recover from cold-weather activities. Market these amenities as part of a seasonal experience — such as “winter wellness retreats” or “post-ski recovery” packages.

Enhance outdoor spaces

Don’t overlook the power of a well-designed outdoor space. Whether it’s a cozy fire pit, outdoor dining area, or relaxing hot tub, giving your guests a place to unwind outside can make a huge difference. Properties with inviting outdoor areas tend to attract more bookings, especially in destinations where guests can enjoy the natural surroundings. 

Gather and leverage guest feedback

Collecting guest feedback and using it to improve your property is key to long-term success. Encourage guests to leave reviews — and pay attention to the suggestions they make. You can make small adjustments that improve their stay, and by regularly updating your property based on guest feedback, you increase the likelihood of return visits and positive buzz.

Why cold tubs and saunas are in demand

Taking a leisure trip is more than just an escape — it’s an opportunity to focus on health. In fact, 73% of people report experiencing health benefits from their vacations. But today’s travelers are no longer satisfied with relaxation as an afterthought. More and more people are prioritizing health and wellness when planning their trips. According to the Global Wellness Institute, wellness vacations are expected to grow faster than any other sector in the coming years.

This shift means that guests are increasingly health-conscious, seeking not just relaxation but also recovery during their stays. Cold therapy and saunas have become popular amenities due to their health benefits, with many travelers actively searching for vacation rentals that offer these experiences. Whether it’s athletes looking to recover after a workout or an event, wellness enthusiasts eager to try contrast therapy, or couples seeking a rejuvenating retreat, cold tubs and saunas cater to a wide range of guests.

Boosting your vacation rental revenue

One of the key benefits of adding a cold tub or sauna to your rental property is the potential for increased revenue and a reduction in your vacancy rate. While the upfront cost may initially seem substantial, many hosts report seeing a return on their investment more quickly than anticipated.

For example, surveys show hot tubs and pools are among the must-have amenities for guests. Hosts have reported that adding a hot tub to their vacation rental listing has increased their occupancy rates by up to 13%.

Higher nightly rates 

Guests are willing to pay more for properties with unique and luxurious amenities. For example, an Airbnb study found that a hot tub can add an average of $40 to nightly rates. Even with an occupancy rate of 50%, a hot tub can generate more than $7,000 in just one year.

Depending on your location and the demand for wellness-focused experiences, you can charge a similar premium for offering cold therapy and sauna access.

Year-round appeal 

While some amenities, like pools, may only attract guests during warmer months, cold tubs and saunas appeal year-round. A cold tub offers a refreshing escape in the summer, while the sauna creates a cozy, relaxing retreat during the colder months.

Attracting a niche market

Wellness travelers are a growing segment of the vacation rental market, seeking properties that cater to their health and recovery needs. By offering amenities like cold tubs and saunas, you can set your property apart from others and increase your bookings. 

Choosing a cold tub for your vacation rental

Selecting the right cold tub for your vacation rental goes beyond adding a trendy amenity. You also want to find a cold plunge that fits your space, budget, and the expectations of your guests. Michael Phelps Chilly GOAT Cold Tubs by Master Spas are specifically designed with both rental owners and guest satisfaction in mind, offering a unique blend of durability, efficiency, and easy maintenance.

Durability 

Vacation rental amenities need to stand the test of time, and Chilly GOAT Cold Tubs are engineered to do just that. Made with premium materials, they’re built to endure frequent use, whether it’s indoors or outdoors. Their durable construction ensures that they can handle exposure to varying temperatures and withstand the wear and tear of high-traffic rental properties.

Ease of maintenance

Keeping up with rental turnover can be demanding, and the last thing you want is an amenity that requires extensive upkeep. Chilly GOAT Cold Tubs are designed for easy maintenance while keeping the water clear and cold. The advanced ozone system makes it easier to keep the water clean during your guests’ stay. And at just 120 gallons, they’re easy to drain and refill before bookings. 

Energy efficiency

High utility bills can be a concern for rental owners, but Chilly GOAT Cold Tubs are built to be energy efficient. With full foam insulation and an insulated cover, the design maintains cold temperatures without putting a strain on your energy costs. 

Aesthetic appeal 

In addition to their functionality, Chilly GOAT Cold Tubs boast a sleek, modern design that can enhance the look of any vacation rental. Whether your property is in a rural setting or a chic urban retreat, the tubs’ clean lines and high-end look create a visual focal point. Guests will not only enjoy the wellness benefits but also appreciate the luxury feel that a Chilly GOAT brings to your space.

The best sauna for short-term rental properties

When selecting a sauna for your short-term rental property, it's essential to consider a few key factors to ensure you make the right investment: What size sauna fits best in your space? Should you opt for traditional or infrared heat? How much maintenance will it require? These are common questions rental owners face when evaluating their options. Finding the right sauna means balancing guest appeal, ease of use, and the potential return on investment.

A good option should offer advanced features that appeal to wellness-conscious travelers, be low-maintenance for you as the owner, and fit seamlessly into the layout of your property.

Infrared technology 

Unlike traditional saunas that rely on high temperatures to create a relaxing experience, Sweaty GOAT Saunas use infrared heat to warm the body from within. This type of heat therapy is known for its health benefits, including improved circulation, detoxification, and muscle relaxation. For wellness-focused travelers, this cutting-edge technology provides a more comfortable and effective way to unwind. Plus, the infrared sauna heats up quickly, ensuring guests can enjoy it even with limited time during their stay.

Low-maintenance operation

As a short-term rental owner, one of your priorities is minimizing the amount of upkeep required between bookings. Sweaty GOAT Saunas are designed to be low-maintenance, with durable materials and easy-to-clean surfaces that make them ideal for a busy rental schedule. Infrared saunas don’t require water or steam, which means less mess and fewer parts that could need repair. Just wipe down between guests, and it’s ready to go.

Design and size

Michael Phelps Sweaty GOAT Saunas come in three models, allowing rental property owners to choose the perfect size for their space. Whether you have a cozy guesthouse or a spacious master suite, there’s a model that will fit seamlessly into your rental. The sleek, modern design enhances the aesthetics of any room, creating a luxurious, spa-like atmosphere that guests will love.

While traditional saunas are often placed outdoors or in larger spaces, Michael Phelps Sweaty GOAT Saunas are designed for indoor use, fitting comfortably into bedrooms, gyms, or even basements. Their compact size and stylish look ensure they add value to your property without overwhelming the space. With the flexibility to choose the right model, you can provide a premium wellness experience that fits the needs of your short-term rental.

According to industry experts, the return on investment for cold tubs and saunas can be realized in as little as 12 months. This quick payback period is due to the increased demand for wellness amenities and the ability to charge a premium for properties offering these unique features.

Invest in your vacation property