Are You Making These Common Holiday Let Signage Mistakes? Essential Signs Every Property Owner Needs

Running a holiday let can feel like juggling a dozen spinning plates at once, we get it! Between managing bookings, keeping the property pristine, and ensuring guests have everything they need, it's easy to overlook something as simple as signage. But here's the thing: those little signs around your property can make or break a guest's experience, and sadly, many of us are making the same avoidable mistakes.

Don't worry though, we've all been there. Whether you're just starting out or you've been hosting for years, there's always room to improve. Today, we're going to walk through the most common signage slip-ups we see (and trust us, we've seen them all!) plus share the essential signs that'll have your guests singing your praises instead of bombarding you with questions at all hours.

The Signage Mistakes That Drive Guests (and Hosts) Mad

When Your Signs Don't Match Your Vibe

Picture this: you've spent months creating the perfect coastal retreat with weathered wood furniture, nautical touches, and soft blues throughout. Then you slap up a bright neon yellow "No Smoking" sign that looks like it belongs in a petrol station. Ouch!

Your signage should feel like it belongs in your space, not like it crash-landed from another planet. Whether your property screams "rustic farmhouse," "sleek city pad," or "beachy getaway," your signs need to sing the same tune. This means thinking about colours, materials, and style that complement your existing decor.

We often see hosts who've clearly grabbed whatever was cheapest online without considering how it'll look next to their carefully curated interiors. Trust us, your guests notice these things more than you'd think!

Design Disasters That Confuse More Than They Help

Here's where things get a bit nerdy, but bear with us, it's important stuff! Some design choices that seem harmless actually make your signs harder to use. Take arrows, for example. If you're pointing guests toward the beach access, that arrow should point away from the text, not into it. Sounds silly, but your brain processes directional information better this way.

Another common mistake? Grouping unrelated information together or separating related bits. If you're listing "Toilets" and "Baby Changing," keep them together since they're likely in the same area. Your guests' brains will thank you for the logical flow.

The Font Fiasco

We've all done it, chosen a font because it looks "cute" or "rustic" without considering whether anyone can actually read it. Remember, your guests are on holiday, which means they've probably left their reading glasses at home and might be squinting at your signs after a few drinks by the pool.

Stick with clear, legible fonts in sizes that don't require a magnifying glass. Your sign might win design awards, but if guests can't read it, what's the point?

The "Set It and Forget It" Trap

Once you've put up your beautiful new signs, the job's done, right? Wrong! Signs get weathered, faded, and damaged over time. That pristine "Please Close the Gate" sign you hung up two summers ago might now read "P ease Cl se the Ga e," which isn't exactly helpful.

Regular sign maintenance is one of those unglamorous tasks that makes a massive difference to your property's professional appearance.

The Essential Signs Every Holiday Let Needs

WiFi Information (The Number One Guest Question!)

Let's be honest, the first thing guests ask isn't "How do I work the coffee machine?" or "Where's the nearest shop?" It's "What's the WiFi password?" Every. Single. Time.

Save yourself countless interruptions by displaying your WiFi network name and password prominently. Some of our cleverest hosts frame this information as decorative artwork near the entrance or create stylish plaques that blend seamlessly with their decor. It's functional and looks intentional rather than slapped together.

Smoking Policy Signs (Avoid the Drama!)

Nothing creates tension faster than misunderstandings about smoking. Different cultures and countries have varying attitudes toward smoking, and what's obvious to you might not be clear to international guests.

Whether your property is completely smoke-free or you've designated specific outdoor areas, make it crystal clear with well-placed signage. This isn't about being unwelcoming, it's about setting expectations so everyone can relax and enjoy their stay.

Safety Signs That Actually Matter

We're not talking about covering every surface with warning labels, but certain safety signage genuinely protects both your guests and your liability. Think fire escape routes, emergency contact information, and locations of safety equipment like fire extinguishers or first aid kits.

Hot tub safety signs are particularly important if you have spa facilities, guests need to understand temperature limits, maximum occupancy, and basic safety rules. It's not just good practice; it's essential for insurance purposes too.

House Rules Made Visual

Your digital house manual is great, but physical signs catch attention when guests need reminders most. Consider signs for:

• Bathroom etiquette (especially important for septic systems)
• Rubbish and recycling procedures
• Checkout instructions
• Pool or hot tub rules
• Quiet hours
• Parking arrangements

The key is making these feel helpful rather than restrictive. Frame them positively, instead of "DON'T slam doors," try "Please close doors gently for other guests' comfort."

Getting Your Sign Game Right

Material Matters More Than You Think

Cheap, flimsy signs might save money upfront, but they'll cost you more in replacements and give your property a budget feel that doesn't justify premium rates. Invest in materials that can handle weather, cleaning, and regular handling.

Outdoor signs need to withstand rain, sun, and temperature changes without fading or warping. Indoor signs should look polished and professional: think about how they'll appear in those Instagram shots your guests are bound to take!

Consistency Creates Calm

When all your signage follows the same design principles: similar colours, fonts, and style: your property feels more cohesive and professional. Guests subconsciously feel more comfortable in spaces that appear well-organized and thoughtfully designed.

If budget's tight, tools like Canva can help you create a basic design template, but for something truly unique and professional, consider working with a design specialist. The investment often pays for itself in better reviews and the ability to charge higher rates.

Location, Location, Location

The best sign in the world is useless if guests can't find it when they need it. Think about your guests' journey through your property and place signs where they'll naturally look for information.

WiFi details work well near the seating area where people first relax. Safety information should be visible from key locations. House rules belong where guests will see them early in their stay, not tucked away where they'll discover them on checkout day.

Making It All Work Together

Remember, the goal isn't to turn your beautiful holiday let into a sign-covered maze that feels more like navigating an airport. The best signage blends seamlessly into your property's aesthetic while quietly solving problems before they arise.

Think of signs as silent staff members: there to help when needed but unobtrusive when not. They should answer the questions you know guests will have, guide them through your space intuitively, and help them feel at home from the moment they arrive.

Your signage strategy doesn't have to be complicated or expensive, but it does need to be thoughtful. Start with the essentials: WiFi, smoking policy, and basic house rules: then add signs as you identify recurring guest questions or issues.

At North By North East Print and Sign Limited, we work with holiday let owners every day to create signage that works as hard as they do. Whether you need something simple and functional or want to create a complete branded signage system, we're here to help you get it right.

The best part? Once you've got your signage sorted, you'll spend less time answering the same questions and more time focusing on what really matters: creating amazing experiences for your guests and growing your business.

Your future self (and your guests!) will thank you for taking the time to get this right. Trust us on this one!