8 ways to make your holiday rental more sustainable

A sustainable holiday rental uses less energy, water and plastic thanks to changes such as fitting LED bulbs, using efficient appliances, making recycling easy, installing low-flow taps and recommending local transport and shops. These measures can lower running costs and give guests a more responsible experience without major works.

In the era of responsible tourism, ecotourism is gaining ground. More and more travellers are looking for sustainable accommodation that not only offers comfort but also keeps its environmental impact to a minimum. A good starting point is learning how to keep electricity use under control in your apartment. Bringing sustainable practices into your holiday rental can not only improve your guests' experience, earning you excellent reviews, but also increase your bookings and cut your utility bills.

While some structural changes, such as installing solar panels or heat pumps, require a considerable investment, there are many quick, inexpensive and easy-to-implement sustainable measures that can make a big difference. Here are some of them:

1. Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances

Upgrading your appliances to low-consumption options is one of the most effective ways to reduce both your carbon footprint and your bills. Go for appliances with energy efficiency labels, which range from A (most efficient) to G. A simple change, such as a smart thermostat, can optimise energy use and lead to significant savings.

2. Switch to LED Bulbs

LED bulbs are an excellent alternative to traditional ones. They use 75% less energy and can last up to 25 times longer. This small adjustment will not only let you reduce your electricity consumption, but you will also be helping to protect the planet.

3. Make Recycling Easy

Encouraging waste separation in your property is simple and effective. Put out separate recycling bins and leave a visible note explaining why reducing waste matters. Guests tend to respond positively when they are given the means to be greener.

4. Install Low-Flow Taps and Showers

Cutting water consumption is essential in any sustainability strategy. Installing low-flow devices in showers, taps and toilets can reduce water use by 60%. This not only helps conserve this valuable resource but also reduces your bills.

5. Encourage Sustainable Transport

Offering bicycles to guests or installing charging points for electric vehicles can add value, especially in high-end properties. Details like these add to other holiday rental amenities that make a difference. At beBalmy, we always tell guests about local transport options, such as bike hire or nearby public transport, so they can get around in a greener way.

6. Support Local Businesses

Recommending that your guests shop locally or enjoy regional products not only boosts the local economy but also reduces the carbon footprint of transporting goods from far away. At beBalmy, we always provide a tailored list of nearby local businesses, such as shops or restaurants, adapted to each property and its surroundings so that guests enjoy a more authentic and sustainable experience.

7. Use the "Eco" Programmes on Washing Machines and Dishwashers

Let your guests know about the eco programmes on washing machines and dishwashers. These modes use less water and energy, which makes them a more efficient option than washing by hand.

8. Cut Down on Plastic

Small details matter too. Installing refillable dispensers for shower gel, shampoo and soap instead of using individual bottles is a simple, effective way to reduce single-use plastics, something conscious travellers really appreciate.

Tell People About Your Sustainability Efforts

Highlighting the steps you have taken to make your property more sustainable will help you stand out from the competition and attract a growing segment of environmentally minded tourists. Make sure you mention the green initiatives you have put in place on your website or in your listing descriptions.

What is more, travellers are willing to pay more for accommodation that matches their sustainability values. This not only lets you increase your income, but also offsets the initial costs of adopting more environmentally friendly practices.

Taking a sustainable approach not only benefits the planet, it can also give your holiday rental a profitable boost. Go on, take the step towards greener tourism!

If you want to apply some of these actions to your holiday let, beBalmy is here to help you do it. While you are at it, take a look at these cheap improvements to boost the returns on your flat. You can contact us through this form, or send us a WhatsApp message.