Puerto Rico is beautiful, but power outages are just part of island life. Storms, grid issues, and maintenance can cause electricity to cut out without warning. As a short-term rental host, you need to be ready for outages, which can last anywhere from an hour to a full day. Guests are likely to worry about staying cool, charging their devices, and finding light at night.

The good news? With the right equipment and preparation, your guests can get through an outage comfortably—and you’ll avoid bad reviews.

Let’s go over how to prepare your Airbnb or rental property for a power outage, including affordable product recommendations and actionable steps.

1. Keep Lighting Simple with USB Rechargeable Options

In Puerto Rico, power outages are common, and lighting is one of the most important things to have on hand. USB-rechargeable lanterns and flashlights are ideal because they cut down on the need for expensive, hard-to-track disposable batteries. However, providing one or two budget-friendly battery-powered flashlights as backups is also smart for added convenience.

For durability, power tool battery lights (like Milwaukee’s M18 system) offer excellent flexibility—these lights can run for hours and also power other essential devices like fans.

Recommended Lighting Options:

• Tough Light LED Lantern ($60): USB-rechargeable with up to 200 hours of light, doubles as a power bank.

• OLIGHT I5R USB-C Flashlight ($30): Compact, powerful, and ideal for indoor use.

• Milwaukee M18 Radius Light ($150): Works with swappable Milwaukee tool batteries, making it highly versatile.

• Eveready LED Flashlight ($10): Simple battery-powered flashlight for emergency backup.

Place lanterns in common areas like the kitchen and living room. Provide flashlights in each bedroom and store extra batteries or USB chargers nearby. Include a quick-reference guide explaining where to find lights and how to recharge them.

These options ensure your guests stay comfortable and safe, even during extended outages.

2. Stay Cool with Rechargeable Fans

In Puerto Rico’s heat, airflow is crucial during a power outage. A rechargeable fan can keep guests comfortable, especially at night. Look for fans that either run on USB power or battery packs like Milwaukee’s system.

Fan Options:

• Milwaukee M18 Cordless Fan Kit ($150–$200): Runs for 8–10 hours and can be recharged with standard Milwaukee batteries. There are also no-frills Milwaukee-compatible batteries that cost less but perform just as well.

• Koonie Rechargeable USB Fan ($30–$60): Portable and capable of running for up to 24 hours on a single charge.

Aim to provide one fan per bedroom and fully charge them between stays. Inform guests where to find and charge the fans, especially if solar charging is an option.

3. Offer Power Banks—But Make Them Practical and Secure

Power outages often mean no Wi-Fi, and guests will depend on their phones for both communication and entertainment. A few strategically placed power banks can keep their devices charged.

However, theft or accidental removal is a concern. You can secure power banks with a lockable wire or install a small charging station built into the furniture. Alternatively, provide mid-tier power banks that are easy to replace if necessary. For properties that cater to remote workers, consider high-capacity options that can power laptops.

Recommended Power Banks:

• Anker PowerCore 26800mAh ($60): Can charge smartphones 6–8 times.

• Jackery Explorer 240 ($200): Portable power station with enough capacity to charge phones, laptops, and even small fans. Ideal for work-friendly rentals.

• Solar Charger Backup Option: BigBlue 28W ($60): A foldable solar panel that can recharge power banks or small devices through a USB connection.

Explain how guests can recharge power banks through available solar panels or during extended outages with a generator.

4. Prepare Guests with a Simple Instruction Checklist

Guests may feel stressed if they don’t know what to do during a power outage. A guest-friendly instruction guide can help set expectations and keep them calm. Include information like:

• Where to find emergency lights and fans (e.g., "Lanterns are located in each bedroom closet").

• How to charge devices using power banks or available solar options.

• How to stay comfortable: Encourage guests to open windows for ventilation (if there are mosquito screens) and drink plenty of water.

• What to expect with water: If your property has an electric water heater, let them know they may need to take cold showers.

5. Safety and Security During an Outage

Losing power can make some guests feel unsafe, especially in an unfamiliar property. Take steps to maintain security and visibility.

Install solar-powered exterior lights with motion sensors to ensure outdoor areas remain well-lit. Provide backup keys for smart locks since they may not function during an outage. Make sure all entry points have manual locking options.

Inside, inform guests where to find emergency flashlights and ensure high-traffic areas are illuminated with rechargeable lanterns.

6. Should You Use a Generator?

Gas-powered generators are a good backup solution for longer outages but may be unnecessary for outages under 24 hours. However, generators offer an advantage in maintaining essential services like refrigeration and recharging multiple power banks or devices.

If you choose to provide a generator, ensure you have a plan for fuel storage and safe operation. Alternatively, your property management company can handle generator management and refueling during extended outages.

Generator Options

• Honda EU2200i ($1,000–$1,200): Quiet, reliable, and portable. Great for maintaining basic power needs during longer blackouts.

• Solar Alternative: EcoFlow Delta 1300 ($1,000+): A powerful solar generator that can be charged by panels during daylight hours. While more expensive upfront, it's a clean and low-maintenance solution.

For shorter outages, portable power stations like the Jackery Explorer can serve as a lightweight alternative.

7. Don’t Forget About Extension Cords and Solar Recharging

Having a long extension cord can make it easier to set up solar panels safely outside or through a window. Guests may not be familiar with how to position or use portable solar panels, so provide clear instructions. Solar charging stations work best when exposed to direct sunlight for several hours.

Also, recommend that guests charge their power banks, fans, and phones during daytime hours to ensure they have enough power for the evening.

8. Emergency Supplies: Keep It Simple

For short-term outages, you don’t need to go overboard on food supplies. Restaurants and stores will likely remain open. However, it’s a good idea to provide basic essentials in case guests want to stay in.

Stock a few gallons of drinking water (aim for 1 gallon per guest) and some canned goods with a manual opener. A small first aid kit should also be easily accessible.

Final Thoughts: Be Ready, Stay Calm

Power outages don’t have to be a nightmare for your guests. With rechargeable lighting, portable fans, and secure power banks, you can provide a comfortable and safe experience. Communicate clearly with your guests, set expectations early, and be prepared for both short and extended outages.

At Tropical Stay Management, we offer full-service solutions, including emergency planning, guest communication, and generator management. Contact us today to learn how we can keep your property guest-ready—rain or shine.