Off-Grid / No Water Questions

Nathan4083
Level 1
Yellville, AR

Off-Grid / No Water Questions

Hello, I'm currently a Super Host and have another property I would like to list, however I have questions and looking for some advice. One property that I own is a nice little cabin that is very well built and super cute and rustic. It sits on 10 acres all to itself and is about 5 minutes from the largest lake in the state. It has electricity and heating/cooling. However, it does NOT have running water (no bathroom, no shower, etc..). Bottled drinking water can be supplied. My questions: Do any fellow hosts offer anything similar? If so, how is the bathroom situation handled and cleaning done? All help, tips or advice is greatly appreciated. Thanks! 

4 Replies 4
Paula
Community Manager
Community Manager
Port Moody, Canada

Hello @Nathan4083, that's an interesting question!

 

I’m tagging a few hosts to see if they’ve encountered listings like this on the platform: @Nash-Cottages-LLC0@Mary1523@Sorcha3@Zheng49 and @Oksana127 

 

Looking forward to read their opinions 😊

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Please follow the Community Guidelines // Por favor consulta las Normas de la comunidad

I plan to host a rural property in the future. I would at least provide a mouldering privy unless you plan to only allow RVs. Everyone uses the restroom and will need a place to go... 

 

In one of the areas I'm in, sewage disposal can make or break a property.

Oksana127
Level 10
Riga, Latvia

Hello! Congratulations on expanding your hosting journey—it sounds like your cabin has so much charm and potential! While it doesn’t have running water, there are definitely ways to make it work and attract the right type of guests who are looking for a unique, off-grid experience. Here are some tips and suggestions:

Bathroom Solutions:

Composting Toilet
Many hosts in similar situations use composting toilets. These are eco-friendly, easy to maintain, and don’t require plumbing. Just ensure you provide clear instructions for guests on how to use it. You can place it in a small, private outhouse near the cabin.

Outdoor Shower
An outdoor shower is an excellent addition! You could install a simple summer shower with a solar-heated water tank or gravity-fed system. It’s budget-friendly and can be quite charming, especially if surrounded by natural wood or rustic decor for privacy.

Tip: Add thoughtful touches like hooks for towels, a wooden platform to stand on, and maybe even a view of nature to elevate the guest experience.

Water Supply
Supplying bottled drinking water is great, but consider adding a larger water tank or dispenser for handwashing and general use. Guests will appreciate having access to water for small tasks like brushing teeth or rinsing off dishes.

Cleaning and Maintenance:

  • Cabin Cleaning: You can simplify cleaning by focusing on surfaces and providing easily washable linens. Consider a cleaning checklist for your team, especially if there’s no water access.
  • Shower Maintenance: If you install an outdoor shower, make sure to empty and clean the tank regularly to avoid buildup.
  • Restroom Cleaning: Composting toilets are easy to clean if you maintain them weekly and provide odor control solutions like sawdust or compostable materials.

Guest Expectations:

  • Be upfront about the off-grid setup in your listing. Highlight it as a feature for guests who want to unplug and enjoy nature. Words like “rustic,” “eco-friendly,” and “unique getaway” resonate with this audience.
  • Include a guidebook or welcome binder with clear instructions on how to use the toilet, shower, and any other amenities. Guests will feel more comfortable if they know what to expect.

Additional Tips:

  • Create an experience: Add outdoor seating, a firepit, or even a small picnic area to enhance the charm of your property.
  • Think of your audience: Your ideal guests might be nature lovers, couples looking for a romantic retreat, or solo travelers seeking a peaceful escape. Tailor your listing to appeal to them.

Finally, consider offering some extras like a "welcome basket" with snacks or local products, which can go a long way in making your cabin stand out.

Good luck with your listing—your cabin sounds like it has the potential to become a favorite for off-grid adventurers!

Nash-Cottages-LLC0
Level 10
Nashville, TN

@Paula - thanks for the tag! 

 

@Nathan4083 We don't have that set up but I would think as long as you advertised the amenities available and the amenities that are not available then guests could book accordingly. As another person noted, I would encourage you to look into a compostable toilet set up. Those can easily be managed with a bit of occasional saw dust. You might also want to look into some kind of rain barrel or cistern that collects rainwater from the roof. Just a couple of thoughts from someone who spent a few years living with the very basics.