7 Budget-Friendly Bedroom Design Tips for Vacation Rentals
Let’s face it—when you’re setting up a vacation rental, you want it to look amazing without draining your bank account. The bedroom, especially, needs to be a place where guests can unwind and get cozy, but that doesn’t mean you need to splurge on designer decor. With a little creativity and some smart shopping, you can create a beautiful, inviting space that guests will love—and keep your budget intact.
Here are 7 budget-friendly bedroom design tips that will help you turn any vacation rental into a guest favorite without breaking the bank. Plus, I’ll link you to affordable, must-have items (available on Amazon!) so you can get started right away.
1. Affordable Headboards for Instant Style
Nothing says “luxury” like a stylish headboard, but you don’t need to spend hundreds to achieve the look. Opt for a DIY headboard or an affordable upholstered headboard to add instant character to the bedroom. It’s one of the easiest ways to make the bed look inviting without a major investment.
Pro Tip: Go for a wall-mounted headboard—it’s a trendy look and often cheaper than full bed frames.
Check out this stylish and affordable upholstered headboard.
2. Peel-and-Stick Wallpaper for a Pop of Personality
Want to add personality to your vacation rental bedroom but not ready to commit to paint? Peel-and-stick wallpaper is your best friend! It’s budget-friendly, renter-friendly, and comes in a variety of patterns. You can transform the space with an accent wall behind the bed or go bold and cover the entire room—it’s entirely up to you.
Pro Tip: Choose a neutral or calming pattern that will appeal to a wide range of guests.
Here’s a peel-and-stick wallpaper option that’s perfect for vacation rentals.
3. Floating Shelves for Style and Storage
Floating shelves are a game-changer in any bedroom, and they’re especially great for vacation rentals. They’re not just budget-friendly but also multi-functional. You can use them to display cute decor items, store extra books, or even double as a minimalist nightstand if you’re short on space.
Pro Tip: Style your floating shelves with a mix of functional and decorative items like small plants, alarm clocks, or travel books.
These floating shelves are affordable and super easy to install.
4. Throw Pillows & Blankets to Add Color and Texture
When it comes to creating a cozy, welcoming vibe, throw pillows and blankets are your go-to weapons. They instantly add color, texture, and warmth to the bedroom. The best part? You can easily find affordable options that look expensive but won’t hurt your wallet.
Pro Tip: Opt for machine-washable options, so you can keep them fresh between guests. You don’t need to overdo it either—two or three throw pillows and a chic blanket at the end of the bed are enough.
Find budget-friendly throw pillows here
And this cozy throw blanket is a guest favorite.
5. Affordable Area Rugs to Warm Up the Space
Rugs have a magical way of pulling a room together, adding warmth, and making the space feel finished. Look for area rugs that are budget-friendly but durable enough to handle guest traffic. Choose one that complements the room’s color scheme and adds a soft touch underfoot for your guests.
Pro Tip: If you’re designing a small space, use a rug with light colors to make the room feel bigger.
This affordable area rug is both stylish and durable.
6. Budget Lighting for a Cozy Glow
The right lighting can turn an average bedroom into a cozy retreat. Skip the overpriced designer lamps and go for budget-friendly lighting that still looks chic. Consider table lamps or plug-in wall sconces that are easy to install and don’t require hiring an electrician.
Pro Tip: Use warm light bulbs to create a calming and relaxing atmosphere.
These affordable bedside lamps are modern and functional
Or try these plug-in sconces for a modern touch.
7. Minimalist Wall Art for a Polished Look
A blank wall is a missed opportunity! But don’t worry—budget-friendly wall art can fill the space and make the room feel polished without spending a fortune. Look for prints, framed posters, or even DIY art that you can create using online resources.
Pro Tip: Choose neutral or nature-inspired prints that appeal to a broad audience. You can also create a mini-gallery wall with a few simple frames.
Here’s a set of affordable wall art prints perfect for vacation rentals.
Bonus Tip: Mix and Match Thrift Finds
Don’t be afraid to hit up your local thrift stores or second-hand marketplaces for hidden gems. You can often find unique furniture pieces, vintage decor, or one-of-a-kind accents at a fraction of the price. Mixing old and new can give your rental a more personalized and eclectic feel, which many guests love.
Wrapping It Up: Affordable Can Still Be Stylish
You don’t have to break the bank to create a beautiful, cozy bedroom that guests will rave about. By focusing on affordable, multi-functional items and clever design choices, you can transform your vacation rental bedroom into a space that feels luxurious on any budget.
Whether you’re just getting started with your vacation rental or looking to refresh your current setup, these budget-friendly tips will help you create a bedroom that guests love to sleep in—and that keeps them coming back.
Need more hosting tips and tricks? Grab my Free Vacation Rental Furnishing Checklist to make sure you have everything you need to set up the perfect space! Sign up below, and I’ll send you the checklist to help you furnish your rental like a pro—without missing a thing. Get your free checklist here!
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I turned a challenging situation into a thriving million dollar short-term rental business. My mission is to prove that anyone can replicate my success with effort and dedication. I am committed to teaching and guiding others to achieve their financial goals.
