At Cascadia Getaways, we believe everyone deserves a comfortable and memorable stay. That includes guests with disabilities. By making small but thoughtful changes, vacation rental owners can create inclusive spaces that work for all travelers—while also boosting bookings and standing out in a competitive market.
Why Accessibility Matters in Vacation Rentals
According to the CDC, nearly 13% of Americans live with a disability. That’s millions of people—and their families—who face challenges when traveling. Many standard vacation rentals aren’t designed with accessibility in mind, which can make simple tasks like entering the home or using the bathroom difficult or even impossible.
Improving accessibility isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s a smart business decision. Inclusive properties attract a wider audience, increase guest satisfaction, and earn more repeat bookings.
What Makes a Vacation Rental Accessible?
Creating an accessible vacation rental means thinking beyond the basics. Here are some key features to consider:
Step-Free Entrances and Ramps
Ensure that guests using wheelchairs or walkers can easily enter your property. If steps are unavoidable, consider installing a sturdy ramp with handrails.
Handicap-Accessible Parking
Provide at least one wide, flat parking space near the entrance with room for mobility devices.
Wider Doorways and Hallways
Aim for a minimum of 32 inches for doorways and 36 inches for hallways to allow for smooth wheelchair navigation.
Accessible Bathrooms
Install grab bars near toilets and showers, offer a roll-in shower or tub seat, and ensure the sink is at an appropriate height with knee clearance.
Kitchen Adjustments
Lower counters, pull-out shelves, and lever-style handles make kitchens more usable for everyone.
Thoughtful Interior Design
Use lightweight dishes for guests with limited strength, and include visual aids like high-contrast light switch covers for those with impaired vision.
The Benefits of Inclusive Design
Reach More Guests
Accessible properties appeal not only to travelers with disabilities but also to seniors, injured individuals, and families with young children.
Competitive Advantage
With relatively few truly accessible vacation homes on the market, making your property inclusive can set it apart on platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, Expedia, HomeToGo, and Trip.com.
Style and Function
Accessibility doesn’t mean clinical. Brands like Pottery Barn and West Elm now offer furniture and decor designed with beauty and accessibility in mind.
How to Promote Your Accessible Rental
On Booking Platforms
Each site has different filters and tags. Make sure to accurately list every accessible feature on:
- Airbnb: Use the “Accessibility features” section.
- Vrbo: Include accessibility in your amenities list.
- Booking.com: Tag features like step-free access and accessible bathrooms.
- Expedia, HomeToGo, Trip.com: Use the descriptions and highlight accessibility in photos.
On Your Website
Create a dedicated section or page outlining all accessibility features. Use clear, descriptive language and photos to show the layout and accommodations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Accessible Vacation Rentals
What makes a vacation rental truly accessible?
A rental is considered accessible if guests with mobility, visual, or other impairments can use the space safely and comfortably. This includes step-free access, wide doorways, and accessible bathrooms.
Do I need to follow ADA laws for my short-term rental?
In most cases, private short-term rentals aren’t required to follow ADA laws, but complying with best practices makes your space more inclusive and attractive to a wider market.
How do I market my accessible rental?
Be specific in your listing descriptions and include photos of each feature. Use platform filters and consider reaching out to platforms like Becoming RentABLE, which help travelers find accessible stays.
Can I still have a stylish interior with accessibility features?
Absolutely. Many modern brands offer accessible furnishings that look beautiful while meeting diverse needs. Thoughtful design can balance both form and function.
What small changes make the biggest impact?
Start with grab bars, step-free entry, clear pathways, and accessible lighting. These improvements can significantly improve comfort and safety for guests.
Final Thoughts
Making your vacation rental more accessible is a win-win. You create a welcoming space for more people and grow your rental’s appeal in the process. At Cascadia Getaways, we support owners who want to make a difference—and we’re happy to help.
Need help getting started? Reach out to us today and learn how we can guide you through the process of making your rental more inclusive!