Best Playing Cards and Card Games for Airbnb Entertainment

Bee Setups
Jul 23
5 min read

Key Takeaways

From our experience furnishing 3,000+ properties, we have found that simple amenities like playing cards significantly boost guest satisfaction and review scores. This guide helps you select the best materials and strategies for your short-term rentals.

Prioritize 100% plastic playing cards for their durability and ease of cleaning between guest stays.
Implement a replacement schedule to ensure decks remain complete and in good condition.
Create dedicated storage to keep games organized and accessible for all your guests.
Utilize clear photography in your listing guide to highlight gaming amenities to potential bookers.
Choose a diverse variety of games to cater to families, business travelers, and solo vacationers.

What to look for in Airbnb card games

Durability and plastic material requirements

Selecting the right materials is the cornerstone of a low-maintenance gaming amenity in any vacation rental. Using paper cards usually leads to frayed edges and bent corners after just a few bookings, forcing frequent and costly replacements.

Ease of sanitization between guest stays

Managing a clean and hygienic property requires you to think about every item a guest touches. You need items that can be wiped down quickly during a turnover shift.

Aesthetic appeal and replacement frequency

Guests appreciate a fresh, high-quality deck of cards that doesn't look like it has been through a dozen previous groups. A premium aesthetic ensures the guest feels cared for throughout their stay.

Assessing brand reputation for guest-proof quality

When buying in bulk, focus on brands that prioritize hospitality amenities known for surviving high-traffic environments. You want a product that stands up to spills and repetitive use without losing its shape or slickness.

Top five best playing cards for professional rental properties

Bee standard playing cards for high-traffic gaming

Bee cards are industry favorites known for their durability in professional settings. They are excellent for consistent use in short-term rentals because they retain their finish longer than standard decks.

Bicycle prestige luxury plastic cards

These provide a premium feel that guests associate with a high-end experience without sacrificing durability. They are ideal for properties aiming for luxury status where guests expect top-tier components.

Kem bridge sized plastic playing cards

Kem decks are often considered the gold standard for long-term durability. While the initial investment is higher, the extended lifespan makes them a smart financial choice for hosts.

Copag 100% plastic waterproof decks

Waterproof cards are essential for properties with pools or high-humidity environments. They stand up to accidental spills and are incredibly easy to sanitize with a damp cloth.

Theory11 artisan premium collectible cards

These cards offer an elevated look that works well in boutique rental settings. While more for display and casual play, they add a touch of elegance that guests often mention in reviews.

Before finalizing your purchase of rental home supplies, consider that high-durability decks ultimately save on labor and replacement costs over time. Even if you choose a mid-range option, ensuring the cards are plastic versus paper makes a world of difference.

Maintenance and storage strategies for short-term rentals

Implementing protective storage solutions

Keeping cards in their original paper boxes is a recipe for disaster. Using sturdy, acrylic, or wooden containers protects the deck and keeps it from wandering off into guest luggage.

Establishing a deep cleaning routine for card decks

Your turnover process should include a quick count and wipe-down of all playing cards. This simple step prevents the frustration of guests discovering half-finished decks or sticky surfaces.

Creating a replacement schedule to prevent wear

Establish a quarterly check-in for all game components to ensure everything is present.

Check for bent corners on all cards.
Verify the deck count is complete at 52.
Sanitize the storage container with non-toxic cleaner.
Rotate or replace decks showing visible wear.

Maintaining a consistent replacement schedule ensures that guests never face the disappointment of a compromised game, keeping your rental experience professional and clean.

Tracking inventory to avoid lost or missing cards

Keep a small supply of backup decks in your owner's closet. Replacing a missing deck immediately maintains your property's high standards without requiring a last-minute shopping trip.

Optimizing guest experience with card game placement

Photography tips for showcasing game amenities

High-quality photos of your game collection show guests that you have put thought into their entertainment. This visible effort often boosts occupancy rates by making your property feel like a complete home away from home.

Highlighting entertainment options in digital guidebooks

Include a note in your digital guidebook mentioning the available card games. This sets expectations and helps guests feel informed before they even arrive at your door.

Organizing a dedicated high-engagement game corner

Create a specific "play zone" in your rental where games are centrally located to encourage use and prevent losing pieces across the entire home.

This deliberate placement makes guest engagement feel organic and planned rather than like an afterthought, and it keeps your home organized for incoming groups.

Encouraging guest feedback on provided gaming options

Ask guests if they enjoyed the games during their stay. This valuable feedback loop helps you understand which amenities truly drive the most guest satisfaction for your specific type of traveler.

Strategic game variety for diverse traveler demographics

Fast-paced social games for group travelers

Groups often want interactive, easy-to-learn games that break the ice. Including a deck of cards along with simple instruction guides for common games ensures everyone can join in without stress.

Strategic options for long-term or remote work guests

Long-term guests appreciate having more intellectual or complex games during their downtime. A good deck of cards is versatile enough to support solitaire or more intense strategic play like bridge.

Family-friendly classics for all age ranges

Classic games remain the most reliable bet for families. Because cards can be used for everything from Go Fish to War, a single deck serves multiple generations effectively.

Selecting games that require minimal setup time

Avoid games with dozens of tiny tokens or complex rulebooks that leave guests confused. Cards remain the best playing cards airbnb amenity because they are universally understood and ready to play in seconds.

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Conclusion

At Bee Setups, we've installed cards in thousands of properties, delivering 32% more ADR by focusing on thoughtful, high-end guest amenities that drive 138% more views. Talk to us today for expert help furnishing your property.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I replace my playing card decks?

For a high-traffic property, replace decks every three to six months, or sooner if cards become sticky or bent.

Is it better to provide plastic or paper cards?

Always choose plastic cards because they are waterproof, durable, and easily sanitizable, which is critical for short-term rental environments.

How can I stop guests from taking the cards home?

Use a branded display case or keep the deck in a clearly marked amenity drawer to make it harder to accidentally tuck into a suitcase.

Should I provide an instruction book with the cards?

Including a simplified guide or a QR code to common card game rules is a great way to ensure all guests, regardless of experience, can play.

What do I do if a deck is missing half its cards?

Recycle the remaining cards and replace the entire deck immediately to ensure you always provide a complete set for your next guests.

Can I use used decks from casinos?

Avoid using used casino decks as they often have holes or markings that make them inappropriate for a professional, guest-facing rental.

Are there specific games I should avoid including?

Avoid games with too many small, loose parts that are easily lost or games requiring proprietary consumables that cannot be replaced easily by the host.