Furnishing a holiday let can be an expensive business, especially if you are aiming for a 4 or 5 star rating.  But a few small steps beyond the standard inventory can make guests feel special for little outlay.  Here we present 20 suggestions which cost less than £20 each:

1.    Near a Beach?  Providing something simple like buckets and spades for children, foldable chairs, or beach tent.

2.    Provide guests with a complimentary map and guide to the area, commonly available from the local Tourist Information Centre or a newsagent.

3.    Upon arrival go further than coffee sachets with locally produced produce such as biscuits, preserves or dairy products such as ice-cream.

4.    Room with a view? Be it coastal or countryside, make the most of your view by providing a pair of binoculars.

5.    Have a newspaper delivered to the holiday home each day, chosen by the guest.

6.    Walkie talkies are a fun way to keep in touch with the rest of the family on holiday.

7.    Go that extra mile in the kitchen with a Smoothie Maker.

8.    Baby equipment can save guests having to bring their own equipment.  Potential items include an intercom, nightlight, folding buggy or a stairgate.

9.    Board games – a tradition gone, or novelty retro fun for groups and families?

10.    A portable fan which can be moved around the property to suit the guest.

11.    A picnic or hamper set and/or blankets for days out.

12.    A capacious flask for that countryside walk.

13.    An umbrella or two; well, it might rain during a guest’s stay...

14.     Inspiration in the kitchen – maybe a cookbook relevant to the region?

15.    A bathrobe for guests.  It’s extra laundry so extra running costs, but it’s a good way to stand out from the competition and show guests you care.

16.    A battery charger and some rechargeable batteries.  A great thought if guests have run out of batteries in their camera for example.  Just make sure they don’t take them home accidentally.

17.    Labour saving devices such as an electric can opener.

18.    If there is a garden at the holiday let, how about a garden game such as swingball or giant Jenga?

19.    One for the dads – is there somewhere for a dartboard?

20.    And finally the journey home – maybe some word puzzle books or car games to keep everyone happy on the long drive home.

Some of these suggestions carry a ‘per booking’ cost while others will need looking after and replacing due to wear and tear.  However it only takes an extra booking, say from word of mouth, to make them pay for themselves many time over.