12 Inexpensive Ways to Make Your Guest Room Feel Like a Hotel

Add a Wooden Luggage Rack

While it may not come straight to mind (since it’s not an item you’d otherwise keep in a bedroom), a luggage rack can go a long way in impressing those who have the pleasure of staying in your guest room.

“Having it available for guests shows that you've thought about their arrival and avoids an awkward moment where they have to decide where to place and open their suitcase,” says interior designer Charlotte Lucas. “Wooden racks can be found on a budget and have a more refined and welcoming feel than metal options.”

Place Fresh Flowers in the Room

Just before your guests arrive, place a vase of fresh flowers on the nightstand or dresser. "Use seasonal flowers for a fresh, cost-effective arrangement," suggests Chloe Wang, a Los Angeles-based luxury interior designer at Mastuvu Design. "Grocery stores will often have pre-made bouquets that you can stick in a beautiful vase." Another option is to pluck something fresh from your own yard—even if it's just a sprig of greenery or herbs from the garden.

Hang Blackout Curtains

Curtains are an absolute must in any guest room for privacy purposes, but adding a second layer of blackout curtains allows your guests to further control the amount of light that pours into the room. "There are many affordable, ready-made options at home goods stores. You can also buy curtain tiebacks or hooks for a polished look when curtains are open," says Wang. Those traveling from miles away with a case of jet lag will certainly appreciate this budget-friendly addition to your guest room.

Create a Cozy Reading Nook

A cozy reading nook is the perfect way to invite your guests to unwind and take a breather. "Place a comfortable armchair or a plush beanbag chair in a corner. Then add a small side table, a reading lamp, and a cozy throw," says Jan Odesanya, principal interior designer at Mondän & Co Interiors. "Bonus points for a curated selection of books or magazines. I personally love to include a few coffee table books with beautiful photography or inspiring stories."

Incorporate Dimmable Lighting

Lighting can make or break the ambiance of any space, so don't make it an afterthought. Wang recommends incorporating soft, warm lights that your guests can control according to their preferences. "A bedside lamp or dimmable light ensures guests can control the ambiance throughout their stay, and it makes the room feel more like a retreat," she explains.

Upgrade the Pillowcases

Outfitting the bed with brand new sheets and blankets too much of splurge? You can easily elevate your guests' sleeping experience by swapping in some silk or satin pillowcases.

"Silk pillowcases are a small indulgence that make a big impact," says Brooke Droptini, interior designer and founder of LittleCreek+Co. "Guests either already love them at home, so you’re meeting their high standards, or they’ve never tried them—so they’ll feel like they’re staying at the Four Seasons." Stick to neutral colors that coordinate with your bedding.

Add a Throw Blanket

Another budget-friendly way to upgrade your guest room bedding is to add a secondary layer of warmth with a cozy throw blanket. Laura Williams, interior designer with ATX Interior Design, suggests keeping it at the base of the bed or tossed over an armchair. "Effortlessly drape the throw so it adds another layer and some texture," Williams says. "It also adds warmth and comfort for sleeping."

Don't Forget Accent Pillows

No need to go overboard with the accent pillows—we've all seen the memes by now—but a few here and there can add texture and warmth to the room. Plus, they're an inexpensive way to make a big statement. Lucas says, "Accent pillows placed on either the bed or chair create a more welcoming setting and are a nice way to add pops of color and texture to a room."

Greet Guests With a Simple Welcome Basket

Friends or family will feel extra special if they walk into the guest room and see a thoughtful welcome basket waiting for them. In your basket, include travel-sized toiletries like shampoo and condition, toothpaste, and lotion, as well as easily-forgotten items like cellphone chargers or lip balm.

Wang adds, "You could also tap into what a luxury hotel would do and include water bottles, a stylish notepad and pen, and a guidebook of all your favorite restaurants and shops nearby." To keep it stylish, use a spare woven basket or a decorative tray to elevate your guest space without spending much.

Minimize Noise

Homes can be often naturally noisy places, but they can feel even more so when you're not in your own space with the sounds you're used to. "Minimizing the sound in a guest bedroom is imperative to help guests have a welcoming stay," says Luis Carmona of VERDE Interior Design.

"Adding soft layers to the space like a rug (especially if there are hard floors), drapery, and bedding will help absorb some of the sound waves that are bouncing across the space." You can also add a white noise machine or fan to further help mask sounds.

Infuse Some Spa Energy

If your guest room has an en suite or nearby bathroom dedicated to guests, make sure your hospitality continues in this space, too. "A luxurious bathroom experience can elevate the entire guest room stay. It creates a sense of pampering and indulgence, making guests feel like they're at a spa retreat," Odesanya says.

She recommends purchasing some fresh new towels (or at least making yours are freshly laundered and fluffed), and adding a cozy bathrobe, candle, and fresh greenery.

Personalize the Space With Art

Tapestries, artwork, photos, and sculptures can instantly make a guest room feel more welcoming. "Add layers of art, accessories, and personal mementos so that the guest room feels like a part of the home," suggests interior designer Courtney Hill Utt. "It doesn't need to be overdone. A couple of framed photographs, art on the walls, or even a candle can go a long way." To save some money, consider shopping at a local thrift store. You never know what treasures you can find for a few dollars!