When hosting an Airbnb, creating a memorable guest experience is key to earning rave reviews and securing repeat bookings.
One simple yet effective way to achieve this is by stocking your rental with the best board games for Airbnb.
Whether it’s a rainy day or a cozy night in, board games offer timeless entertainment that brings guests together—families, friends, or couples alike. Including a variety of Airbnb games tailored to your target audience can enhance the guest experience, whether for larger groups or smaller gatherings.
At 10XBNB, we’re all about maximizing your short-term rental success, and curating the best games for Airbnb can set your property apart from the competition.
In this Airbnb Tips blog post, we’ll dive into the most popular board games for Airbnb, explore what Airbnb guests crave, and share unique insights to help you build the ultimate game collection.
Why Board Games Are a Must for Your Airbnb
Games aren’t just a fun pastime—they’re a strategic addition to any vacation rental. Playing board games can significantly enhance the guest experience by providing entertainment and fostering social interaction.
They encourage bonding, provide a break from screen time, and cater to different interests across all ages.
From kids to adults, everyone loves a great game that sparks laughter and friendly competition.
Plus, offering a thoughtful game selection can boost your guest experience, leading to glowing reviews and higher occupancy rates.
According to a survey by Airbnb, guests often seek unique amenities that make their stay feel special—board games fit the bill perfectly.
What Are the Most Popular Board Games for Airbnb?
When choosing the top board games for Airbnb, you want airbnb games that are easy to play, universally appealing, and durable for repeated use. Here’s a rundown of popular board games that Airbnb hosts swear by:
1. Monopoly: The Classic Board Game That Never Fades
Monopoly is a classic board game that’s been a staple for generations. Players buy, trade, and develop properties, rolling dice to determine their fate.
It’s a popular board game for larger groups, typically supporting 2-8 players. While it can stretch into hours of fun, its universal appeal makes it a must-have. Playing board games can significantly enhance the guest experience by providing entertainment options for all ages.
Pro tip: Opt for a themed version tied to your rental’s location for an extra touch of charm.
2. Scrabble: Wordplay for All Ages
Scrabble challenges guests to flex their vocabulary muscles. This classic board game is ideal for families or groups of 2-4, making it one of the best games for smaller rentals. Playing board games can significantly enhance the guest experience by providing entertainment options for all ages.
It’s easy to play, with simple rules that even kids can grasp, yet strategic enough for adults. Keep an eye on missing pieces, though—those letter tiles can wander!
3. Ticket to Ride: A Journey Worth Taking
Ticket to Ride is a well-loved board game where participants gather train cards to secure railway routes on a map. Supporting 2-5 players, it’s a great game for families or friends.
The game rules are straightforward, blending strategy and luck for an engaging game night. It’s one of the best board games for creating a relaxed yet competitive vibe. Including playing board games like Ticket to Ride can significantly enhance the guest experience in rental properties.
4. Cards Against Humanity: The Party Game for Adults
For rentals targeting adults, Cards Against Humanity is a top pick. This irreverent card game thrives on humor and creativity, making it perfect for larger groups of 4 or more.
It’s one of the best games for Airbnb when you want to offer a fun game that sparks laughter. Just ensure your guests are comfortable with its edgy content. Additionally, consider the benefits of playing board games to enhance the overall guest experience.
5. Exploding Kittens: Quick and Quirky Fun
Exploding Kittens is a fast-paced card game that’s taken the world by storm. With room for 2-5 players, it’s a party game that’s easy to learn and quick to play—ideal for short-term rental stays.
Its quirky humor and simple rules make it one of the best games for Airbnb guests of all ages. Stock up on extra decks from thrift stores to replace any lost cards. Including a variety of options for playing board games can further enhance the guest experience.
What Do Airbnb Guests Want the Most?
Airbnb guests crave comfort, convenience, and a touch of fun. Beyond essentials like cozy beds (check out our guide on Airbnb bedroom essentials), they want entertainment that keeps them engaged during downtime.
Airbnb games fill this gap, offering a low-cost way to elevate their stay.
Whether it’s families with kids, couples seeking two-player games, or groups of friends looking for game nights, the right games cater to their desires for connection and enjoyment.
What Entertainment Is Good for Airbnb?
Beyond board games, entertainment options like streaming services (see our take on the best streaming service for Airbnb) or outdoor activities can enhance your rental. Playing board games can be a great way to bring guests together and provide hours of fun.
However, games shine because they’re interactive and portable—no Wi-Fi required.
A well-stocked game nook with board games, card games, and even puzzles creates a versatile game room vibe, perfect for any weather or group size.
What Are the Best Games for Short-Term Rental?
The best airbnb games for any short-term rental balance durability, accessibility, and broad appeal. Here are more standout games to consider:
6. Chess: Timeless Two-Player Strategy
Chess is a classic board game that doubles as decor. It’s perfect for two-player games, appealing to couples or thoughtful guests.
While it risks missing pieces, a sturdy set can last for years, making it one of the best games for a sophisticated game nook.
7. Checkers: Simple Yet Engaging
Checkers is another classic board game that’s easy to play and hard to break. Supporting 2 players, it’s a great game for kids or adults seeking a quick match. Its simplicity makes it a staple in any game collection.
8. Candy Land: A Kid-Friendly Adventure
For families with young children, Candy Land is a no-brainer. This colorful board game requires no reading, making it accessible for kids as young as 3.
It’s a popular board game that ensures little ones stay entertained, giving parents a much-needed break.
9. Codenames: Teamwork and Wordplay
Codenames is a party game where teams guess secret identities based on one-word clues. It scales from 2 to 8+ players, making it one of the best games for Airbnb targeting larger groups. Its compact box fits neatly into any game room.
10. Jenga: Tension and Triumph
Jenga isn’t a traditional board game, but it’s a universal crowd-pleaser. Players take turns removing blocks from a tower, testing dexterity and nerve.
It’s one of the best games for all ages, and its reusable pieces mean no worries about missing pieces.
How to Choose Games for Your Airbnb
Selecting the right games requires understanding your guests. Playing board games can significantly enhance the guest experience by providing entertainment options for different preferences and age groups. At 10XBNB, we recommend tailoring your game selection to your rental’s demographic:
- For Families: Prioritize board games like Candy Land or Ticket to Ride that kids and adults can play together.
- For Couples: Stock two-player games like Chess or Checkers for intimate game nights.
- For Groups: Include party games like Cards Against Humanity or Codenames to entertain larger groups.
- For All Ages: Opt for versatile games like Jenga or Exploding Kittens that stick with everyone.
Consider game rules—simple rules ensure guests dive in without frustration. Durability matters too; games with fewer pieces (or replaceable ones) reduce the hassle of lost components.
Caring for Your Games
Maintaining your board games in top condition is crucial for ensuring a delightful experience for your guests. Regularly inspecting your games for damage or missing pieces can prevent any disappointments during game nights. Store your games in a dry, cool place to avoid damage from moisture or extreme temperatures, which can warp boards and ruin cards.
Consider investing in a game storage cabinet or shelf to keep your games organized and protected. This not only makes it easier for guests to find and choose games but also adds a touch of sophistication to your game nook. Cleaning your games regularly is essential to prevent the buildup of dust and dirt. Use a soft cloth and gentle cleaning products to avoid damaging game components.
Implementing a “game rotation” system can ensure that all games are regularly played and not left idle for extended periods. This keeps your game collection fresh and exciting for repeat guests. Encourage your guests to report any damage or issues with the games so you can promptly repair or replace them. Keeping a record of your game inventory and their condition helps track any changes or issues over time.
To keep things interesting, consider offering a “game of the month” or “game of the season.” This can be a fun way to introduce new games and keep your selection dynamic. Make sure to include clear instructions on how to play each game to ensure that guests can enjoy them without confusion. Laminating the game rules and tucking them into the box can prevent wear and tear, making it easier for guests to dive right in.
Unique Insights for Airbnb Hosts
Here’s where 10XBNB brings fresh perspective to the table:
- Thrift Store Treasures: Build your airbnb games collection on a budget by scouring thrift stores for gently used board games. You’ll save money while offering variety.
- Game Nook Aesthetics: Create a cozy game nook with good lighting and comfy seating (like the best couches for Airbnb). It doubles as a photo-worthy spot for guests to share online.
- Instruction Sheets: Laminate game rules and tuck them in the box to prevent wear and tear—guests will thank you for the clarity.
- Seasonal Swaps: Rotate games based on your rental’s peak seasons—light card games for summer, hearty board games for winter retreats.
Setting Up Your Airbnb Game Room
You don’t need a full game room to impress. Playing board games can be a great addition to your rental property. A corner with a small table, good lighting, and a shelf of games creates an inviting game nook.
For larger properties, go big with a dedicated game room featuring board games, a card table, and even a giant Jenga set. Pair it with comfy amenities from our Airbnb Tips category to maximize appeal.
Marketing Your Airbnb with Games
Your game collection can be a unique selling point that sets your Airbnb apart from the competition. Highlight your board games in your Airbnb listing to attract guests who enjoy game nights. Use keywords like “board games” and “game nights” to help your listing appear in search results for guests looking for game-friendly accommodations.
Consider offering a “game night” package or promotion to attract guests seeking a fun and social experience. High-quality photos of your game collection and game-playing areas can showcase your offerings and entice potential guests. Encourage your guests to share photos of themselves playing games at your Airbnb on social media. This not only creates a sense of community but also attracts new guests through word-of-mouth and social proof.
Partnering with local game stores or game designers to offer exclusive games or promotions can add a unique touch to your game collection. Use your game collection as a unique selling point to differentiate your Airbnb from others in the area. Make sure to include information about your game collection in your guestbook or welcome packet so guests know about the games available.
Consider offering a “game concierge” service to help guests choose games and provide recommendations based on their preferences. This personalized touch can enhance their experience and make their stay more memorable. Use your game collection to create a sense of community and connection among guests, encouraging them to share their favorite games and gaming experiences with others. By leveraging your game collection effectively, you can create a standout guest experience that keeps guests coming back.
The Business Case for Games
Investing in airbnb games isn’t just about fun—it’s smart business. A $50 investment in board games can yield 5-star reviews, boosting your visibility on Airbnb’s algorithm.
Happy guests mean repeat bookings, and word-of-mouth spreads fast when folks rave about your game nights. At 10XBNB, we’ve seen hosts turn small touches like this into big wins.
Final Thoughts on Games for Airbnb
The best board games for Airbnb blend fun, accessibility, and durability to entertain**guests of all ages. Playing board games can significantly enhance the guest experience by providing a variety of engaging activities. From Monopoly’s empire-building to Exploding Kittens’ wild antics, these games transform downtime into highlights. Ready to level up your vacation rental?
Explore more hosting hacks at 10XBNB and stock your game selection with the best games today.
For more on creating a standout guest experience, check out this Airbnb hosting guide from Airbnb’s official resources.
