The trick here is knowing your target market and understanding their sleeping preferences—because believe me, your guests will tell you if it’s not working.

Ah, the great bed debate. You’re setting up your holiday property, and here it comes: “Should I provide split beds?” Sounds simple enough, but there’s a bit more to it than just choosing a bed frame. So, let’s dive into the delightful world of split beds (or “the double trouble”) and figure out if this is a road you actually want to go down.

1. Do You Actually Have the Space?

Before you’re seduced by the versatility of split beds, grab a measuring tape. A split king bed is basically a king-size mattress that splits into two long singles, which means each piece is 92cm wide and 203cm long (yes, that’s a bit longer than your standard single). You’ll need space between those beds if they’re split—ideally around 80cm so guests aren’t accidentally elbowing each other. I’ve seen as little as 50cm between, but let’s be honest: it’s cozy. Check your room dimensions before you commit to these bed gymnastics.

2. Are You Ready for the Bed-Linen Juggle?

So, split beds aren’t just a one-time purchase; they’re a lifestyle. You’ll need not only the bases and mattresses but also twice the bedding: king-size sheets and long single sets. And in the magical world of holiday properties, you’re typically stocking three sets per bed for quick changeovers. So, you’re looking at three king sets and three long single sets—each. Plus, don’t forget the quilts and mattress toppers for each configuration. The math adds up faster than you might think, both in cost and cupboard space.

3. Are You (or Your Cleaner) Up for the Switcheroo?

While making beds isn’t rocket science, switching between bed configurations is just a bit more hassle (and time). Every time a new booking requires a different setup, it adds time for your cleaner or you, which means extra costs. This might not matter much for properties with leisurely turnarounds, but if you’re flipping the space in the same day, it’s worth considering if you want to add to the setup time (and costs).

4. Confirm Configurations with Guests Ahead of Time

If you’re offering split beds, make sure you’re confirming bed preferences with guests well before their arrival. There’s nothing worse than a guest expecting split beds and arriving to find them joined—or the mad dash to reconfigure the setup on the day. Prioritizing this in your booking system or procedures will save everyone a headache and make the stay smoother for your guests.

5. Does Your Target Market Even Need It?

Let’s be real: if your property is mainly attracting couples, they probably don’t need split beds. Instead, a king or queen setup might be all you need. On the other hand, if your property is popular with families, maybe a dedicated family room with single beds makes more sense. But if you’re targeting retreats, large groups of friends, or gatherings with mixed sleeping needs, having split beds could be a real win. The trick here is knowing your target market and understanding their sleeping preferences—because believe me, your guests will tell you if it’s not working.

So, to split or not to split? It all boils down to space, budget, flexibility, and your guests’ needs. If split beds fit your property’s vibe and target market, then go for it and embrace the versatility! But if you’re on the fence, sometimes simpler is better. Either way, here’s to giving your guests the ultimate holiday experience—one that lets them sleep without surprises.