A How-To Guide for Owners of Short-Term Rental & Airbnb with EV Charging

In recent years, the rise in electric vehicles (EVs) has transformed the way we think about transportation and sustainability. As more people embrace the eco-friendly benefits of EVs, it’s becoming increasingly common for guests at holiday rentals to arrive with electric cars in tow.

As a holiday let & Airbnb owner, accommodating these guests by providing Airbnb’s with EV charging options can set your property apart and contribute to a greener future. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to handle guests who expect electric car charging at your holiday let, ensuring a seamless and positive experience for everyone involved.

Understand the Basics of Electric Car Charging

Before delving into hosting EV-driving guests, it’s crucial to familiarise yourself with the basics of electric car charging. There are three primary levels of charging:

• Level 1: This uses a standard household electrical outlet and is the slowest form of charging.
• Level 2: This requires a dedicated charging station and offers faster charging speeds than Level 1.
• Level 3: (DC Fast Charging): These stations are usually found in public spaces and can rapidly charge EVs.

Offer Charging Solutions

There are several ways to accommodate guests with electric cars:

• Level 1 Charging: If your holiday let has outdoor electrical outlets, you can provide guests with a Level 1 charging cable that plugs into a standard outlet. While slow, it’s a convenient option for overnight charging.
• Level 2 Charging: Consider installing a dedicated Level 2 charging station on your property. This will provide faster charging speeds and attract guests looking for a hassle-free charging experience.
• Collaborate with Charging Networks: If your property isn’t suitable for on-site charging, you can provide guests with information about nearby public charging stations or collaborate with charging networks to offer exclusive discounts.

Communicate Charging Options Clearly

When advertising your holiday let, be sure to clearly communicate the charging options available. Include details about the type of charging, whether it’s on-site or nearby, and any associated costs. Transparency is key to setting accurate guest expectations.

Provide Charging Instructions

Upon arrival, provide guests with clear and concise instructions on how to use the charging equipment. If necessary, create a simple guide or infographic that outlines the steps for connecting and disconnecting the charging cable.

Make Safety a Priority

Safety should always be a top priority. Ensure that any charging equipment provided is in good working condition and meets safety standards. If you’re installing charging stations, consider hiring a professional electrician to handle the installation to avoid any electrical hazards.

Consider Charging Costs

Decide whether you’ll offer charging as a complimentary service or charge a fee. If you choose the latter, make sure to specify the cost upfront. You can base the cost on the electricity used or establish a flat fee for the convenience.

Plan for High Demand Periods

During peak travel seasons, you might experience higher demand for EV charging. Anticipate this and have a system in place to handle multiple guests who need to charge their cars simultaneously.

Collect Guest Feedback

After guests have utilised your charging amenities, ask for feedback on their experience. This can help you identify any issues and make improvements for future guests.

In Conclusion

Embracing the electric vehicle revolution can provide a unique selling point for your holiday let while contributing to a more sustainable future. By offering charging options, communicating clearly, ensuring safety, and considering guest feedback, you can create a positive and memorable experience for guests and electric car charging at your Airbnb or holiday let. As the world shifts towards cleaner transportation, your holiday let will be well-positioned to cater to the growing community of environmentally conscious guests.