If watching endless Christmas movies has taught me anything, it’s that family get-togethers don’t always go as planned. And while I’m pretty sure I won’t be shooting my eye out anytime soon or knocking Santa off the roof, the holiday will go much smoother if I have a comfortable and efficient guest room for my visitors. That means the preparation starts now.
Are you prepping for overnight visitors, too? Here are the 10 ultimate guest room essentials that will make your loved ones feel right at home:
Space
Unless your guests relish the idea of living out of a suitcase, they are going to be looking for a place to put their clothes. Clearing out space in the closet and dresser can go a long way to making them feel at home. Don’t forget to leave some extra hangers, too.
Luggage Rack
A luggage rack, folding chair, or bench can save your guests the hassle of having to bend down every time they want to access their suitcase. Plus, packing is a breeze when you have a place, other than the bed, to set your luggage.
A Tech Station
In today’s day and age, we all travel with an entourage of electronics – smart phones, laptops, tablets, etc. – that will need to be charged and to possibly access the internet. Make things easy for your guests by having your wifi password readily accessible. Print it out. Frame or laminate it. And set it on the bedside table. Complete your tech station by providing a universal charger for those who may have left theirs at home or are just too lazy to dig it out of their suitcase.
Extra Pillows and Blankets
Though they might not be Goldilocks, your guests will each have different sleep preferences. So give them options – soft or firm pillows and light or heavy blankets. This will ensure that they remain comfortable throughout the night.
Basket of Necessities
Here’s where you can get really creative. Decorate your own basket or simply use a dresser drawer. Then fill it up with anything and everything your guests might need – toiletries, toothbrushes, tissues, razors, feminine products, meds, etc. Your guests will be happy that they don’t have to bother you for anything or run to the store.
Snacks & Drinks
Some guests are happy to make themselves at home, while others may shy away from things like venturing into your kitchen for a drink or snack. Instead, provide them with a basket of snacks for all those midnight cravings. Make sure to include water (bottled or a pitcher) or some of their favorite drinks to wash it all down with. If you have the space, you could even set up a little coffee or tea bar for their convenience.
Reading Material
Leave some magazines, books, and local brochures for them to enjoy while lounging in the bedroom. A bedside lamp or reading light can also come in handy for those late night reading sessions.
Blackout Curtains
Blackout curtains offer both privacy and the comfort of darkness for your glittery vampire guests. Or those who just aren’t morning people. After all, all that late night reading takes a toll on you.
Spare Key
Giving your guests a spare key to use during their visit will allow them the freedom and comfort of coming and going as they please. They don’t have to worry about inconveniencing you. Plus, they won’t get stuck waiting outside for you to get home.
Household Instructions
Print out a list of instructions for all those quirky little things in your house. Does the hot water take forever to heat up? Or does your shower have to be turned on a certain way? Give your guests the heads up. Giving them instruction for the TV remote can also save them hours of trying to decipher the secret code.
Will you be hosting family or friends this season? What would you add to this list?
P.S. If you liked this article, you might also like How to Make It Through A Family Get Together.
