What Are the Amenities of a Hotel?

Convenience has a huge impact on the guest experience. But with most modern travellers using their smartphones to check-in (and the ability to arrange cars and arrange meal delivery), many hoteliers are thinking twice. Here, we can help you consider the options, define the basics and outline what your best customers want most.

What are hotel amenities? 

Hotel amenities are premiums or extras offered by those who sell accommodation to guests. They will vary with the type of property (for example, luxury hotels versus hostels) and from property to property.

Amenities include other facilities in the room such as air conditioning, entertainment (TV/music), Wi-Fi, toiletries, bathrobes etc.; and property premium services including parking, dining, pool, common areas, fitness and leisure facilities. The use of in-property amenities will usually incur associated fees or charges. Amenities can include the basics such as rooms, bathrooms and a clean and safe environment.

Are amenities and special offers the same?

Accommodation providers also offer special offers or privileges to guests, which are technically only part of the amenities. The difference is that amenities are usually offered to all guests, while rooms may be sold with special offers to attract specific types of guests (e.g. families, business travellers, millennials) or to increase room bookings at specific times. Examples include free breakfast for children, free parking, free pet accommodation and discounts on services and available activities.

What amenities should be included in every hotel?

Amenities are a fantastic opportunity to ensure your guests are comfortable and pampered during their stay. However, it is important to plan your amenities carefully and with an eye to your bottom line and profitability. You also want to create a consistent guest experience, choosing amenities that meet the expectations of your travellers. If you have a luxury property, offering cheap soaps and shampoos may be considered substandard by your guests. However, if your target travellers are on a budget, then simple toiletries can make all the difference.

Research shows that room quality remains the number one reason travellers choose hotels, so let's focus on the important in-room amenities.

The new essentials for the modern traveller

Today, people are travelling with more devices (mobile phones, laptops, tablets) than ever before and expect to be able to use them easily and frequently during their stay. This has created a new set of essential conveniences that every property needs to plan to provide.

Fast, free Wi-Fi

Whether you're a leisure traveller who wants to upload photos, a traveller FaceTiming using home and streaming video, or a business traveller who wants to send emails and make video calls, it's vital to always have Wi-Fi that works perfectly - it's a vital location.

Charging stations

With all these devices, your guests need to be able to conveniently keep them charged. In addition to power outlets, add USB ports next to the bed to accommodate guests who like to keep their phones nearby during the night. If international travellers are frequent visitors and wish to host guests, you may wish to add universal sockets for added convenience.

In addition to plugs, please consider providing desks that allow guests to use and charge devices. Long an essential choice for business travellers, having a workspace is essential for all types of travellers.

Smart TVs and wireless speakers

In the age of binge-watching and on-demand video services such as Netflix, Hulu and Amazon Prime Video, many guests now want to log into their personal accounts from their hotel room anywhere in the world and continue watching their favourite video movie or TV series from the point they stop. Recognising that most guests' smartphones are already loaded with their favourite music, another great option is to offer Bluetooth speakers. This allows guests to easily control the music they listen to, enabling them to create a familiar, comfortable atmosphere outside of their home.