Apr 29, 2025

10 Budget Decor Ideas for Vacation Rentals

Transform your vacation rental into a cozy, inviting space without overspending. Here are 10 budget-friendly decor ideas to make your property stand out and attract more guests:

Paint Walls & Ceilings: Use light, neutral colors to make rooms feel larger and brighter. A fresh coat of paint costs little but has a big impact.
Add Mirrors: Strategically place mirrors to reflect light and create the illusion of more space.
DIY Decor: Create personalized wall art, macramé hangings, or use natural elements like seashells or pinecones to add charm.
Upgrade Bedding: Invest in durable, comfortable bedding like polycotton blends or cotton percale for a hotel-like feel.
Refresh Furniture: Repaint, repair, or swap out hardware on old furniture for a modern look.
Decorate with Plants: Add low-maintenance indoor plants like snake plants or pothos for a fresh, natural vibe.
Improve Bathrooms: Update hardware, lighting, and storage solutions to make bathrooms more functional and stylish.
Create Feature Walls: Use paint, removable wallpaper, or wood accents to add character to key areas.
Layer Lighting: Combine ambient, task, and accent lighting to enhance functionality and mood.
Showcase Local Art: Incorporate local artwork or themed decor like Blululi mandala designs for a unique touch.

These small, cost-effective updates can elevate your rental’s appeal, improve guest satisfaction, and boost bookings. Start with simple changes like fresh paint or new lighting, and gradually add more personalized touches.

Vacation Rental Design on a Budget: Where to Spend & Save

1. Paint Walls and Ceilings

Adding a new coat of paint is an affordable way to refresh your rental and make it more inviting for guests.

Start by cleaning the walls and ceilings thoroughly, patching up any holes or cracks, and sanding rough spots. Use painter's tape on the trim to get clean, sharp edges. These prep steps help you achieve a polished, professional look.

Gather the right tools: quality rollers, angled brushes for edges, drop cloths to protect floors, and paint trays. Stick to light, neutral colors - they make rooms feel more spacious. For an added touch, choose a slightly lighter shade for the ceiling to create the illusion of higher ceilings.

2. Add Mirrors to Make Rooms Look Bigger

Mirrors are an affordable way to make your vacation rental feel more spacious. They reflect light and create the illusion of a larger, brighter interior, instantly making rooms more welcoming.

For maximum effect, position a large mirror opposite a window to bounce natural light around the room. Hanging it at eye level ensures it feels natural and enhances the overall look.

Here are a few ideas for mirror placement:

Add a full-length mirror in a narrow hallway or entryway to create depth.
Hang a horizontal mirror near the dining area to visually expand the room.
Mount a large mirror above the sofa or fireplace to serve as a striking focal point.

You can also arrange smaller mirrors in a creative pattern to achieve a unique, artistic focal point without investing in a single large piece.

3. Make Your Own Decorative Items

Adding DIY decor is a great way to personalize your space and match your rental's theme.

Wall Art and Hangings
Brighten up your walls with handmade pieces. Frame old maps, set up a gallery wall with local photographs, or make macramé hangings using simple cotton rope - these projects can cost less than $20.

Customized Textile Decor
Bring in textiles that match your theme. For example, Blululi offers hand-drawn mandala designs on towels, tote bags, and other items. These pieces help tie the room together and add a touch of charm.

Natural Elements
Incorporate materials from the local area. For a coastal vibe, fill glass vases with seashells. For a rustic feel, arrange pinecones in wooden bowls. These simple additions can connect your rental to its surroundings.

Tips for DIY Projects:

Start with small projects that don’t require many tools.
Use durable materials that can handle regular guest use.
Stick to a consistent color scheme to keep things cohesive.
Focus on items that are easy to clean or replace.

Make sure all decorations are securely fastened to avoid accidents. Pair your DIY projects with other budget-friendly updates to make your rental even more inviting.

4. Choose Good Quality Bedding

Investing in quality bedding can improve guest comfort without breaking the bank. The trick is selecting materials that stay comfortable and durable after multiple washes.

Material Matters

Cotton-polyester blends are a great choice for vacation rentals. A 50/50 polycotton percale set typically costs $40–$60 and can handle 150+ washes, compared to pure cotton, which lasts for 75–100 washes. For a more luxurious option, 300-thread-count cotton sateen offers a hotel-like feel and costs around $80–$120 per set. Once you've chosen your material, focus on thread count for the best balance of comfort and durability.

Finding the Right Thread Count

A thread count between 200 and 400 strikes the perfect balance. For example, a 200–250 thread count percale set costs about $50–$70, offering a crisp, fresh feel that guests will enjoy.

Bedding Type	Price Range (Queen)	Best Use
Polycotton Blend	$40–$60	High-turnover rentals
Cotton Percale	$50–$70	Warm climates
Cotton Sateen	$80–$120	Creating a luxury feel

Tips to Save Money

Buy 2–3 identical sets per bed to rotate and extend their lifespan.
Use mattress protectors ($15–$25) to prevent stains and increase fabric life by about 30%.
Shop during seasonal sales in March and August, when premium brands often offer discounts of 15–30%.

Caring for Your Bedding

Pre-wash new sheets 2–3 times to enhance softness.
Wash with oxygen bleach, which costs about $0.10 per load, instead of hot water ($1.50 per load), to preserve the fabric.
Rotate your sets to limit each one to roughly 50 washes per year.

Pro Tip

For a polished, hotel-inspired look, tuck flat sheets with hospital corners and add a woven throw blanket ($30–$50) at the foot of the bed.

5. Update Old Furniture

Give your furniture a new lease on life with simple updates. A bit of effort can turn tired pieces into eye-catching additions to your space.

Here are some cost-effective ideas:

Paint It Up: Sand, prime, and paint furniture in light or neutral shades to brighten up the room and create a clean, modern vibe.
Fix the Flaws: Sand out scratches, fill in dents, and apply a protective finish to restore the piece and make it last longer.
Swap the Hardware: Replace old knobs or handles with stylish, modern options to instantly refresh the look.

These small changes can make a big difference, helping your vacation rental feel fresh and inviting without breaking the bank. Plus, these updates pair well with other affordable improvements to elevate the overall space.

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6. Decorate with Indoor Plants

Indoor plants bring a touch of nature indoors, improve air quality, and create a cozy vibe without breaking the bank. Here are some great plant options to consider:

Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
- Handles low to bright light with ease
- Only needs watering every 2–3 weeks
- Medium size typically costs $15–$25
- Known for purifying air and releasing oxygen at night
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas)
- Perfect for low-light spaces
- Minimal watering required (every 2–4 weeks)
- Medium size priced around $20–$30
- Extremely hardy, ideal for busy rental owners
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
- Adjusts well to various lighting
- Water when the soil feels dry (about once a week)
- Small plants cost $10–$15
- Grows quickly and can be propagated for free

Simple Placement Ideas

Use larger plants in corners to fill unused spaces.
Place smaller potted plants on shelves or windowsills.
Add hanging plants for a pop of greenery without taking up floor space.
Combine plants of different heights for an eye-catching arrangement.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Start with smaller plants and propagate them to grow your collection.
Look for decorative pots at discount stores (usually $5–$10 each).
Use cuttings from existing plants to create new ones at no cost.

Make sure pots have drainage holes and saucers to keep surfaces protected. Including plant care instructions in your rental guide can also help guests know how to look after them during longer stays.

With a budget of $100–$150, you can add a refreshing touch of greenery to your space.

7. Make Simple Bathroom Improvements

Give your rental bathroom a fresh look without breaking the bank. These easy upgrades combine practicality with a touch of style.

Update the Hardware

Swap out old hardware like towel bars, cabinet pulls, shower curtain rods, and toilet paper holders. Opt for finishes like brushed nickel or matte black - they look sleek and resist water spots.

Improve the Lighting

Replace basic vanity lights with more modern fixtures. Use energy-efficient LED bulbs to create a warm, inviting glow. A motion-sensor nightlight is a handy addition for nighttime convenience.

Add Storage and Organization

Maximize space with clever storage solutions. Install floating shelves, over-the-toilet organizers, or adhesive hooks. A simple counter tray can keep toiletries tidy and organized.

Tackle Small Cosmetic Changes

Fix up the details: refresh caulking, re-grout tiles, or repaint with moisture-resistant paint. Replace an old shower curtain to instantly improve the room’s appearance.

Include Thoughtful Guest Touches

Make the bathroom guest-friendly with soft towels, a plush bath mat, a curved shower rod for extra space, and a lidded wastebasket for a polished look.

8. Create Feature Walls

Adding a feature wall is an affordable way to transform any space. According to VRBO's 2024 survey, properties with accent walls saw a 17% increase in booking rates.

Choose the Right Wall

Focus on walls that naturally grab attention, like the space behind beds, entryways, or the ends of hallways. These spots deliver the most impact without breaking the bank. For smaller rooms, vertical stripes or tall botanical designs can help create the illusion of more space.

Affordable Options

Here’s a breakdown of costs for different feature wall styles (based on a standard 10x10 ft wall):

Method	DIY Cost	Durability	Maintenance
Painted Designs	$50–$150	1–2 years	Annual touch-ups
Removable Wallpaper	$150–$400	2–3 years	Minimal cleaning
Wood Slat Accent	$300–$500	5+ years	Occasional dusting

Next, consider paint techniques to make your feature wall stand out even more.

Paint Techniques

For a polished, professional look, use painter’s tape to create geometric patterns. This method can save you over $150 compared to using stencils. Start with neutral base colors like soft grays or warm whites, then layer in subtle metallic accents for a sophisticated finish.

"The Furniture Dr (2023) crafted DIY slat walls using $0.98/sq.ft. plywood and insulation foam, completing a 10x12 wall for just $117".

Smart Material Choices

Removable wallpaper is gaining popularity, with a 42% rise in use for rental properties between 2023 and 2024. Use the 'paste-the-wall' method for easier updates and removal. Opt for:

Vinyl-based wallpaper for easy cleaning
Moisture-resistant options in humid areas
Fade-resistant designs for spaces with lots of sunlight

Expert Advice

Test materials under both natural and artificial lighting to ensure they look good at all times of the day. Keep extra supplies handy for quick touch-ups between guest stays. For studio apartments, stick to one small accent wall and use light-reflective elements to keep the space feeling open.

Design Tips

Feature walls don’t just look great - they also improve guest satisfaction, which can lead to more bookings. According to Graham & Brown’s 2024 survey, 68% of renters prefer nature-inspired designs. Keep patterns simple, as 58% of guests favor understated styles. Coastal or botanical themes are excellent choices, especially since they photograph well for listing images.

9. Install Different Light Sources

Lighting can completely change the look and feel of your rental, offering an affordable way to combine style and practicality.

Layer Your Lighting

Consider a three-layer lighting approach to cover all your needs:

Ambient Lighting: This is your main source of light, like ceiling fixtures or recessed lights, to brighten the entire room.
Task Lighting: Perfect for focused activities, such as desk lamps or under-cabinet strips for work or cooking.
Accent Lighting: Adds a decorative touch - think wall sconces, string lights, or even LED strips for a cozy vibe.

Smart Bulbs for Flexibility

Smart bulbs are a great addition. You can control brightness and color directly from your phone, letting you easily set the mood in living spaces or bedrooms. Plus, they don’t require a big investment.

Go Energy-Efficient

Switching to LED bulbs is a simple way to cut down on electricity bills. They last longer and use less energy than traditional bulbs.

Maximize Natural Light

Make the most of natural light by using light-filtering curtains, placing mirrors strategically to bounce light around, keeping windows clean, and choosing light-colored walls that reflect sunlight.

Affordable Lighting Hacks

Brighten your space on a budget with options like battery-operated puck lights, plug-in dimmers, motion-sensor lights for the exterior, and clip-on reading lights. These small changes can make a big difference without breaking the bank.

Keep It Safe and Functional

Add nightlights in hallways and bathrooms for safety at night. Regularly check bulbs, clean fixtures, and test any sensors to ensure your lighting stays in top shape.

10. Add Local Art and Blululi Decor

Blululi

Give your rental a unique touch by incorporating local artwork and mandala-inspired designs. This affordable approach not only adds visual appeal but also creates a memorable atmosphere for your guests. These art pieces blend perfectly with earlier cost-effective decor ideas.

Highlight Local Creativity

Showcase local talent by purchasing art from community markets. Display these pieces in prominent areas like entryways to add a local charm that resonates with guests.

Design Relaxing Spaces

Transform small areas into peaceful retreats using Blululi’s hand-drawn mandala designs. Known for their playful and uplifting energy, Blululi’s art can enhance spaces such as:

Meditation corners
Reading nooks
Bedrooms
Home offices

Affordable Decor Options

Blululi offers budget-friendly items that can elevate your rental's decor without breaking the bank:

Item	Use Case	Price
Mandala Art Tote Bags	Wall hangings/storage	From $19.95
Colorful Mandala Yoga Towels	Bathroom accents	$16.95
Mandala Art Hand-Drawn Prints	Wall decoration	From $19.95

These pieces pair effortlessly with other affordable updates mentioned earlier.

Where to Place Art

Strategically position art in entryways, living rooms, bedrooms, and wellness areas to create a warm and inviting environment.

Shopping Tips

Sign up for Blululi’s newsletter to get 10% off your first purchase and a free mandala coloring book PDF - a thoughtful extra for your guests. Plus, enjoy a 30-day exchange policy for added peace of mind.

"Playful designs created to brighten your world. Exclusive products designed by me for originals like you."

Conclusion

With these cost-effective ideas, you can make your rental stand out without overspending. Small changes can significantly improve your rental's appeal, increasing guest satisfaction and encouraging repeat visits.

Even minor updates, like DIY projects or adding locally sourced art, can help create a welcoming and consistent theme for your space. Key areas to focus on include:

Prioritizing bedroom comfort and spotless bathrooms
Spreading out upgrades over time to stay within budget
Choosing updates that make the biggest visual difference

FAQs

What are some tips for keeping decor updates in my vacation rental looking fresh and appealing for guests?

To ensure your decor updates stay fresh and continue to impress guests, focus on durability and regular maintenance. Choose high-quality, easy-to-clean materials for furniture and decor items, especially in high-traffic areas. For example, washable slipcovers or stain-resistant fabrics can help keep furniture looking new longer.

Regularly inspect and clean your decor to maintain its appeal. Dust surfaces, wash linens, and replace worn or damaged items as needed. Adding seasonal touches, like fresh flowers or themed accents, can also keep your space feeling updated and inviting for returning and new guests alike.

How can I decorate a vacation rental on a budget without sacrificing style or durability?

To decorate a vacation rental on a budget while ensuring both style and durability, focus on affordable yet high-quality items that enhance the space's overall appeal. Look for versatile decor pieces that are easy to maintain and can withstand frequent use, such as washable textiles, sturdy furniture, and timeless designs.

Adding thoughtful touches like vibrant wall art, cozy throw pillows, or unique accents can make the space feel inviting without breaking the bank. For example, incorporating handcrafted items or meaningful decor, such as mandala-inspired art, can create a calming and stylish atmosphere that guests will love. Durable, mindful design choices can elevate your rental while staying within budget.

How can I use local art to make my vacation rental more inviting and unique for guests?

Incorporating local art into your vacation rental is a great way to create a memorable and inviting space for guests. Consider adding hand-drawn mandala art decor that reflects mindfulness and creativity. These artistic pieces can bring vibrant colors and a sense of calm to your property, helping it stand out while offering guests a unique experience.

For an extra special touch, look for decor items that combine traditional artistry with modern design. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also creates a warm and personalized atmosphere your guests will appreciate.

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