There is a growing market of eco-conscious travelers who are willing to pay more for a stay that is both beautiful and helps the environment.
And transforming your vacation rental into a sustainable haven is easier (and more rewarding) than you might think.
With 87% of global travelers saying they want to travel sustainably, forward-thinking owners like you have a golden opportunity.
After witnessing our eco-friendly upgrades at Oak Creek Retreat's positive impact on guests, bookings, and our bottom line, I want to share a few tips with Vacation Rental hosts.
These 5 simple, affordable upgrades can significantly reduce your property's environmental impact while delighting guests and boosting your bottom line.
Trust me, your guests, your wallet, and the environment will thank you. Let's dive in!
1. Start saving water, one fixture at a time
Low-flow fixtures can reduce water usage by up to 40% without sacrificing pressure. They are also pretty cheap.
And…Here's where I would start:
- Low-flow showerheads & faucets
- Dual-flush or low-flow toilets (a water tank bank saves 38,000 liters annually!)
- ENERGY STAR-certified appliances
Worried about the cost? Many utility companies offer rebates for water-saving upgrades. Plus, you'll start seeing savings on your bills from day one.
2. Slash energy bills with smarter lighting & climate control
Lighting and temperature control account for nearly half of the average vacation rental's energy use. Take control with these simple swaps:
- LED bulbs (75% less energy!)
- Smart thermostats (can save 10-12% on heating and 15% on cooling)
- Motion sensors and timers for lighting
- "Eco-mode" on appliances
3. Eliminate single-use plastics (your guests will thank you)
Single-use toiletries are a major contributor to plastic waste. Delight your guests and differentiate your rental with these eco-friendly alternatives:
- Refillable dispensers for shampoo, soap, and conditioner (more professional-looking)
- Recycled & unbleached paper products
- Reusable shopping bags and food containers
"We were thrilled to find refillable toiletries and reusable bags at this rental. It made it so easy to reduce our waste during our stay!" - Sarah, an eco-conscious traveler
4. Curate a greener guest experience
Help your guests make sustainable choices by sharing local resources and recommendations, such as:
-Eco-friendly restaurants and businesses
- Public transit, biking, and walking routes
- Volunteer or low-impact tour opportunities
- A "borrow bin" of reusable beach & picnic supplies
5. Power up with renewable energy
Granted, renewable energy is not cheap, but are you ready to take your sustainability to the next level? Consider renewable energy:
- Many utility providers offer 100% renewable plans at no extra cost
- Installing solar panels can drastically reduce your carbon footprint (and may qualify for tax incentives)
Real-world example: I did not have the budget for a full renewable energy integration into Oak Creek Retreat, but I did use renewable energy for our water heaters. I am seeing a ~15% reduction in energy bills, plus another renewable energy success story to add to my property copy.
Make the Leap to a Greener Rental
Transforming your vacation rental into a sustainable oasis is a win-win-win: for the environment, your guests, and your business. By implementing these 5 eco upgrades, you'll reduce your carbon footprint, attract a growing market of conscious travelers, and see long-term savings on your bills.
Ready to start your eco-friendly vacation rental transformation? Feel Free to reach out directly to me and I would be happy to chat about how to integrate sustainable practices into your property.