The holiday season is one of the most profitable times of year for vacation rentals in the Pocono Mountains. Travelers come here for snowy adventures, family gatherings, and cozy getaways, which means demand for short term rentals skyrockets. But to make the most of this peak season, your property needs to be ready to impress.

As a trusted short term rental Poconos agent, we’ve put together a holiday prep guide to help you maximize bookings, increase guest satisfaction, and earn more 5-star reviews this winter.

1. Create a Warm, Seasonal Atmosphere
Guests are looking for holiday magic in the Poconos. Tasteful décor like string lights, cozy throws, and winter greenery makes a rental feel festive without overwhelming guests. Keep it neutral so it appeals to a wide variety of travelers.

2. Stock Up for Holiday Comfort
The holidays bring larger groups and longer stays. Set your rental apart by anticipating guest needs:

• Extra cookware and serving dishes for family meals

• Baking trays, crockpots, and roasting pans

• Additional blankets and pillows

• Firewood or outdoor heaters (if applicable)

• Board games or streaming subscriptions for cozy nights

3. Add a Local Touch with Pocono Favorites
Guests love experiencing local flavor during their stay, and adding small touches can elevate your STR from good to unforgettable. A few easy ideas:

• 🍫 Chocolates from Callie’s Candy Kitchen in Mountainhome

• ☕ Coffee from Moka Origins in Honesdale

• 🧀 Cheeses from Calkins Creamery in Wayne County

4. Share a Local Winter Attractions Guide
Help your guests make the most of their Pocono getaway by leaving a curated list of winter activities. This not only enhances their stay but also encourages positive reviews. Some local favorites to highlight:

• 🎿 Skiing at Camelback, Jack Frost, or Shawnee Mountain – world-class slopes just minutes away.

• ⛸️ Skating at Skytop Lodge – a picture-perfect outdoor rink.

• 🛷 Snow tubing at Camelback Snowtubing Park – fun for the whole family.

• 🍺 Craft beer at ShawneeCraft Brewing Company – cozy taproom vibes after a day in the snow.

• 🍴 Dinner at Frogtown Chophouse in Swiftwater – a guest-favorite for special occasions.

• 🎁 Unique gifts from Callie’s Candy Kitchen or American Candle – holiday shopping with a local twist.

Providing a printed guide or digital welcome book with links/maps will set your STR apart from the competition.

5. Refresh Your Listing for the Season
Update your photos to highlight winter charm—snowy views, fireplaces, or a decorated living room. In your description, emphasize features that appeal to holiday travelers: “perfect for family gatherings,” “close to ski slopes,” or “ideal for a winter retreat.”

6. Adjust Pricing & Availability
Holiday weeks are peak demand, and guests are often willing to pay premium rates. Make sure your pricing reflects market conditions and that your calendar is open for early planners. A knowledgeable short term rental Poconos agent can help you analyze comps and set competitive but profitable rates.

Preparing your Pocono short term rental for the holidays is about more than décor—it’s about creating a guest experience that stands out in a competitive market. From optimizing your listing to providing a guide to local winter attractions, small steps now can mean a big payoff this season.

If you’re looking for expert guidance, a short term rental Poconos agent from Redstone Run Realty can help you manage every detail—from pricing strategy to property prep—to ensure your investment performs at its best.