32 Routine-Upgrading Things For Anyone Who Lives Alone

Buzz Feed20-02-2025

We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
Shopping
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Because you can only blame yourself for forgetting to defrost the chicken for dinner.
1. A Shark Tank -featured Click & Carry Grocery Bag Carrier that'll help you take way fewer trips from the car to the house. It allows you to hook on your bags (up to 80 pounds!) and *comfortably* rest the carrier on your shoulder.
Click & Carry is a Shark Tank and QVC-featured small business that specializes in easy carry accessories.
Promising review: "TikTok made me buy it. This is great when you have a few bags and a box — for example, if you balance the bags, you can throw it over your shoulder and walk inside and have two free hands to carry the box, which is great. Product seems well built, and is comfortable on your shoulder or hand because of the padding." — Hung
Get it from Amazon for $13.99 (available in seven colors).
2. Or perhaps a stair-climbing trolly dolly because I don't know about you, but the only time I hate living solo in a walkable city is when I have to grocery shop and then carry said groceries up my stairs. (Ugh, I think I need this.) Even if you have just a few stairs at your home, this'll come in handy for trips from your car to inside the house post-shopping trip. It can carry up to 150 pounds and the wheels LITERALLY climb stairs. (As you can see here.)
Check out a TikTok of the dolly trolley in action.
Promising review: "I was getting so tired of making several trips to my car to retrieve my groceries after each shopping trip. I saw this trolley on Amazon and decided to buy it. Best purchase ever. I now can bring all my groceries in with one trip to the ca r. I also love that its wheel design allows the trolley to climb my front steps, making it so easy for me. I have used it in the house to help me carry things upstairs, and the climbing feature makes it safe and easy." — m Robinson
Get it from Amazon for $84.81+ (available in five styles).
3. A double step stool with a safety lock and a weight limit of 330 pounds so you can reach stuff in the tippy-top of your kitchen cabinets without climbing on the counter. Trust me, you need one of these. (I live solo and use mine all the time in the kitchen, despite being tall.)
Promising review: "I recently moved into my first solo apartment and I knew I needed a step ladder to reach things because your girl is 5'2. This ladder is very sturdy, and I love that it folds up easily so I can hide it in my storage room. Would definitely recommend." — kmill
Get it from Amazon for $35.99.
4. Plus, a flexible grabber that's made for people with limited mobility but can come in handy for everyone while trying to grab stuff that's JUST out of reach. Also, you can fold it for easier storage and its sensitive grip means you get a better feel of what you're grabbing.
Amazon
Promising review: "Bought the 2-pack. Wanted my mother to be able to reach rarely used items in the topmost cupboard without getting on a step stool if my sisters and I weren't available. I'm using the other one to pick up trash when out mudlarking. Sturdy and convenient that it folds up." —
Kristen
Get it from Amazon for $32.95.
5. A rapid defrosting tray so you won't have to put off cooking because your meat is still frozen. You can't go back in time to put out your main dinner ingredient to thaw, but you CAN use this instead of using the excuse to order Domino's.
www.amazon.com
Promising review:"I was a little concerned this was going to be one of those gifts that were hyped up but it's not. It's not going to thaw a huge chunk of meat in an hour but I have thawed a chunk of chicken in a few hours. The product itself isn't very thick which I like as it doesn't take up a lot of space for storage. It doesn't warm up, but pulls the cold from the meat, which makes the product thaw (like putting meat in cold water to thaw it faster and not cook it)." — Savannah A.
Get it from Amazon for $18.88.
6. A dishwasher-safe silicone soup cube tray that'll hold one cup (or a serving) of delicious hot entrees like soup/chili/stew/sauce per cube so you can freeze and then reheat it later. Heck. Have it for breakfast! You live alone and no one can tell you differently.
Amazon
It also comes with a lid so you can easily stack them and four fill lines (½ cup, 1 cup, 125 mL, 250 mL).
Souper Cubes is a small business seen on Shark Tank that specializes in bake-and-freeze storage products.
Promising review:"I'm extremely happy with my Souper Cubes! I cook chili and soup and always make too much, having the ability to freeze serving-size portions is perfect. Saves time and food quality by not having to thaw it all each time I want another serving. High quality and since it's silicone and not rigid plastic it won't crack in the freezer. Highly recommend!" — Alexander S. Waterman
Get it from Amazon for $19.95.
7. A ~streamlined~ door draft stopper to help keep whatever temp air you prefer within the room you're currently in, rather than the rest of your home where you're not.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"So easy to set up! All you do is peel tape and adhere to a CLEAN and DRY door. Also looks great, I don't even notice it. I had a huge gap under my door. I could smell and hear everything from the hallway. Smells, drafts, and sound all are less of an issue now." — Brit B.
Get it from Amazon for $9.99+ (available in four colors).
8. Plus, a reviewer-beloved veggie chopper can make quick work of the ingredient-chopping portion of a recipe because, well, you have to designate it to yourself!
www.amazon.com, Amazon
Check out a TikTok of the veggie chopper in action.
Promising review:"Makes life so much easier. I can't imagine chopping onions or bell peppers by hand anymore, and it does so much more. We used to have a Prepworks chopper, which was a similar idea, but you had to press so hard to chop and it broke after not too long. This one requires very little effort to cut through the food and it has a generous container." — Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $29.98.
9. An organizing couch pillow with a spot for everything you require as you catch up on the Interview with the Vampire TV series.
Cup Cozy Pillow is a small biz as seen on TV specializing in cleverly designed cup holders.
Promising review: "I liked that it worked with cups and mugs, perfect for clumsy friends." — YAZ
"This thing is great! I'm home on maternity leave with my new baby and spend most of my time on the couch under a sleeping baby. This product makes it easy for me to keep my drinks, remote, etc close by even with crazy dogs running around. It's a little more expensive than I would have liked but it works and I love it so money well spent!" — Amber
Get it from Amazon for $34.99 (available in more colors).
10. A pair of blackout, noise-canceling, AND thermal insulating curtains to help solve a plethora of problems — even if you've brought them on yourself by staying up all night marathon-ing Interview with the Vampire series. Ya gotta watch! I'm telling ya!
Promising review: "Truly life changing sound barrier curtains!!! They definitely help with the quality of sleep, quietness, and solace for me and my whole family. The sound isolation is incredible! There was so much noise pollution around with constant main road traffic, pool/deck construction, chainsaws next door, water main construction on the main road with giant trucks/bulldozers and jackhammers, several lawnmowers, outdoor concert noise, birds constantly chirping, weekly Brazilian parties. Especially with people coming out of the woodwork after the pandemic with the noisiest, most annoying things on the planet all at once. These curtains truly dampened ALL that noise to a distance or to completely nothing. Almost all of it gone. Our sleep at night has dramatically improved and deepened. Best in our lives and finally feeling fully rested." — Heather Lascano
Get two panels from Amazon for $59.95+ (available in 12 sizes and 14 colors).
11. A folding sink topper that'll give you an ample surface when there's seemingly no room for all your getting-ready essentials. Now that you're done with the sink and don't have to wait for someone else to brush their teeth, you can make the sink pull double-duty!
www.amazon.com
Sink Topper is a small biz that specializes in this product.
Promising review: "Great for messy teenagers. Cool item for my teenager's bathroom. She likes to lay her hair/makeup stuff on it so she can keep her other bathroom decor on the sides. When she's done she puts what she was using under the sink and folds up the sink tray so it can slide under the sink as well." — Melina
Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in two sizes and seven colors).
12. An under-cabinet lid opener to help pop open that jar of pasta sauce in a jiffy. Everyone can use this, but reviewers with limited dexterity especially find it helpful!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"Works exactly as it says it does. I have small hands and trouble gripping things. This makes opening jars extremely easy and it opens in seconds just by twisting the jar counterclockwise. I'm so glad I ordered two so I can give one to a family member who has trouble with opening jars as well. I would definitely buy this again!" — H.T.
Get it from Amazon for $10.49.
13. A UV black-light flashlight that'll track down all sorts of messes that've been avoiding you. Now, you can figure out the source of that weird smell without recruiting someone else's nostrils. Good luck figuring out who's to blame, though! (Maybe this is how you find out you've got a messy ghostly roomie.)
www.amazon.com
Promising review:"OMG this is disgusting!!! I hope this isn't all just cat pee that shows up cause there is a lot! I bought this because I thought my cat was peeing in one room and couldn't find the exact spot so I bought this. Found the spot and more. Would recommend." — Momof3boys
Get it from Amazon for $12.99.
14. A no-scrub weekly shower cleaner you can simply just spray on after you shower, wait 8–12 hours while it tackles mold and mildew stains, soap scum, and just about any gross grime without YOU having to scrub. Talk about practical to the max.
www.amazon.com
Promising review:"This product is so easy to use. As you can see from the pictures, my bathtub was staying pretty good. The guy that owned the house before me used Ajax to clean it so it has almost no enamel left on it and it's probably the staining and nothing could get it out until I bought this. After 4 8-hour applications you can see the difference. I highly recommend this to everybody and once it's completely clean I'm gonna go on the once a week application. I actually bought another bottle for my dad and mom." — Domenick R. Stamegna
Get it from Amazon for $20.98.
15. A reusable pet fur remover might just have you tossing your old sticky roller after you see how much fur this reusable one (it has a sturdy brush system) picks up off your beloved couch. You don't wanna walk out the door with fur all over your behind, only to learn from your work nemesis.
Promising review:"I have a golden retriever and the shedding is out of control. My fabric sofa is constantly covered in hair and I finally decided to try this after reading an article about popular TikTok products. The reviews do not lie, this thing works magic!! I wish I had taken a before and after picture because the difference is noticeable. I watched the video tutorial before I tried it to ensure I was using it properly and everything he says is true, you do really have to put your arm to work with vigorous back and forth movement! However, I find it's a great arm workout and it works wonders." — Joanne Ertel
Get it from Amazon for $28.95.
16. A three-pack of Velveeta cheese sauce you can simply pour in a bowl, microwave, and then dump over pasta or just use as a dip for some good old tortillas. These'll come in handy when it's a Wednesday night and you barely want to lift a finger to feed yourself. No one is watching. Eat what you want!!
Amazon
Promising review: "These have been great to use. Cooking for just one person isn't the easiest thing for me, but these portions have been great when I want mac 'n' cheese, nachos, or a small smothered burrito for one. I'm sure when it's camping time these will make it into my camping stash." — M. Cheatham
Get them from Amazon for $3.28.
17. A drill brush cleaning kit that'll attach to your drill/driver for an informercial-like cleaning sesh at the flip of a switch that'll have you seeking out all the dirty surfaces you've been ignoring.
Includes three brushes that'll attached to a standard handheld drill. The white is a soft bristle, best for wheels, carpet, upholstery, glass, and leather; the yellow is a medium bristle, best for bathroom, bathtub, shower, tile, and porcelain; the green is a medium bristle, best for kitchen, stoves, cabinets, countertops, and linoleum; the blue is a medium bristle, best for boats, pools, canoe/kayaks, hot tubs, and plastics; the red is a stiff bristle, best for outdoors, siding, brick, garage, and gutter; and the black is a hard bristle, best for grills, loose paint, furnaces, ovens, and industrial use.
Drill Brush is a small business based in New York!
Promising review:"I'm in love with this. I manage many apartment properties and finding people to do the cleaning has been tricky business, so I end up having to get in and clean these horrendous filth pods tenants lived in and left me to deal with when they move out. The ovens and stove tops are usually the worst, and I absolutely hate cleaning. I came across this drill attachment set, and let me tell you, it helped me tremendously! I still had to get in with a putty knife on some of them but it really cut down my elbow-grease time. If it wasn't for this drill attachment, I think my arms would have just fallen off trying to clean it as good as I did! My only con would be that it doesn't have any extension of any sort, so I really had my drill all up in that oven, but well worth it." — alicia haats
Get it from Amazon for $14.99 (available in six bristle types).
18. A mini air fryer in case you've put off the investment, or given up a too-big version a while back because it hogged all your counter space. (I actually gave a family-size one to my mom!)
Promising review: "I bought this tiny air fryer to use while camping, but now it has a permanent space in my kitchen, too. I find myself throwing food into it instead of my expensive, gigantic one. So many times, I don't need the whistles and bells overkill of the big one. If you live alone or have a household of 1–2, and don't expect to cook a 5-pound anything in it, it's perfect and packed with the quality I expected from Cosori. (It also blew my camping buddies away when hot rolls hit the table on my night to make chili...lol)" — Cheri
Get it from Amazon for $59.95 (available in five colors).
19. A Dash mini rice cooker can easily make a hearty and filling side to go with that last piece of salmon or chicken you have in the fridge. But! It can also whip up oatmeal, stew, soup, quinoa, rice, and pasta. So that opens up all sorts of easy meal possibilities. Plus, it's small enough that you'll definitely find room for it on your one-bedroom apartment's kitchen counter.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"I bought this for my daughter for her dorm at college. She loves making flavored rice and warming up soups and things. She likes it so well that she brings it home from college with her on breaks. It is especially nice that it has a removable pot, which makes it so much easier to clean or keep leftovers in. Would definitely buy again, don't waste your money on a slightly cheaper one that does not have a removable pot." — midohtree
Get it from Amazon for $22.99 (available in six colors).
20. A rectangular lazy Susan made to hold more than the traditional round ones and to help you use every last bit of your apartment-sized fridge's space. Yep, it's time to really make the most of your legendary condiment collection before that fancy jar of preserves goes bad.
www.amazon.com, Amazon
Check out a TikTok of the rectangular lazy Susan in action.
Promising review: "This is perfect for short people with big refrigerators! I could never reach anything on the top shelf and had to grab a step stool, now everything fits perfectly on this, and I can reach them all! It glides great and is very sturdy." — Tara Mann
Get it from Amazon for $24.99.
21. Some sheet fasteners if that the fitted sheet won't stay put on your mattress, and you end up in a sheet burrito. These are exactly how they sound, so no matter how much you toss and turn, your fitted sheet won't come loose in the middle of the night and require an extra pair of hands to put back in place.
See them on TikTok here.
Promising review:"I love these! Since I started using them my sheets haven't popped off once and that used to be a several-times-a-night problem because I toss and turn when I sleep. Thank you, TikTok!" — Gabby
Get a set of four from Amazon for $8.99 (available in three colors).
22. A set of safe-locking magnetic duvet clips to keep your duvet in its proper place, instead of loose and saggy inside the cover you couldn't resist form Urban Outfitters. These work for duvets up to 10 pounds and then use a magnetic key to remove the clips on laundry day.
Amazon
Checkout a TikTok of the duvet clips in action.
Pinion Pins is a small business specializing in home improvement products.
Promising review:"I was super worried about if I would have enough of the Pinions, and I totally do! My duvet is kinda thick and the Pinions pierced through with no problems! Plus with a little extra room if I had some extra layers. I REALLY like how you have to have the magnet tool to pull them apart. Absolutely no moving! Don't walk, RUN TO BUY THIS. I also like how unnoticeable they are." — Abigayle Mishler
Get a pack of eight from Amazon for $17.95.
23. A small compost bin/trash can will easily hang on a cabinet door for easy hiding and use. The lid lifts up *or* flips over for easily dumping as you food prep. Living solo means you likely create a LOT less waste and don't need a giant kitchen trash can to contain the mess!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "So I saw this tiny trash can on TikTok, and I was moving into a tiny studio apartment and thought this would be perfect. Turns out it's one of the best things I've ever bought. I installed mine with the over-the-cabinet hooks (also comes with adhesive stickers) on my kitchen island, and it is so convenient I can't even express with words. The lid is on this nifty hinge so you can open it by flipping the lid up, or by sliding it forward and it folds down out of the way. I usually keep it open while I'm cooking but I can close it super quickly if I see the dog coming. There is a little pull tab for easy opening. It is so easy to use and easy to clean. It's also so cute! I use my plastic grocery bags as trash can liners for this and they fit perfectly. It comes with a roll of bags as well. The lid lifts off easily to change bags out. Clicks back on easily over the new liner. Can't recommend this enough!! This is going on my list of 'best things I've ever spent my money on.'" — Ginger
Get it from Amazon for $20.39 (available in three colors).
24. A set of two rechargeable emergency LED bulbs can function like regular ole light bulbs and then when a big storm hits and your power goes out, they'll stay lit for 3–4 hours, which is enough time to help you figure out what you're going to do next without tripping on something and hurting yourself.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "These little guys are so bright!! Got these on a whim after seeing it on a TikTok. These are super bright and charge when the light is turned on. These are worth the price." — Reid524
Get a two-pack from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in three colors and a four-pack).
25. A self-sealing magnetic screen door to let dogs help themselves out or in the house — so you won't have to peel yourself up from the hammock and leave your Margaritaville day dreams.
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review: "I bought this so my puppies could traverse to/from their backyard pen area...and keep flying insects out. It is AWESOME! The puppies figured out quickly that they could go through the screen — the screen snapped back into a closed state immediately after they got through the opening. If only all things in life could be solved this easily!" — Lynette S Quigley
Get it from Amazon for $27.99.
26. An investment-worthy MicrowavaBowl you should absolutely make room for in your cabinet. After all, you have free reign of all the kitchen cabinet space! This bowl's elevated center distributes the appliance's heat evenly and quickly, so your leftovers are ready to go faster. Oh, and it's dishwasher-safe!
www.amazon.com
Promising review: "These bowls are high quality and very convenient. They heat up food very quickly and evenly, saving you valuable time and energy. Its ability to heat the food and not the bowl itself is very valuable to me. Prior to this purchase, I would have to use a hot bowl holder to avoid burning my fingers. The size of the bowls are perfect for the dishwasher, making them easy to clean and use. I would highly recommend them to friends and family!" — Alana
Get it from Amazon for $34.98.
27. A game-changing"bed wedge" pillow in a high-density foam and triangular shape to prevent stuff from falling into that gap between the mattress and the headboard. No need to scrounge down there for your phone or other stuff. Totally the stuff of nightmares!
www.amazon.com
Bonus: T here's a lil' side pocket for your phone, glasses, or other nighttime accessories.
Promising review:"I did not realize that these were out there until I watched a TikTok about one. This has saved my pillows. I do have a headboard, but there was about a three-inch gap between it and my mattress. This has stopped my pillows from sliding down in between. I have had no issues at all with it. I did let it sit for almost 72 hours while it was getting its shape back from being in a shipping container, but after that it was perfect!!! I highly recommend." — Miss_Beck
Get it from Amazon for $326.99+ (available in two colors and Twin–California King).
28. A powerful dishwashing spray that, honestly, if you buy anything from this list, this should be it — especially if your old house *doesn't* include a dishwasher. You can spray down that casserole dish caked with enchilada sauce, let it sit, and you simply wipe and rinse away that saucy mess in a few minutes after you've conquered your meal. (Can you sense an enchilada theme here?)
I live in an apartment without a dishwasher, and I honestly use that as an excuse to order takeout food instead of cooking. But, as soon as I got my hands on a bottle of this stuff (regular Dawn is my go-to dish soap, BTW), I put it to use on both a saucepan I used to make homemade enchilada sauce *and* the casserole dish I baked those enchiladas, which had a ton of caked-on food. It really does work like I say it does! Like, scary well.
Get the starter pack from Amazon for $12.16.
29. A clear magnetic refrigerator dry-erase board that sticks directly on your fridge. It's a little bit more aesthetic of a reminder than a series of sticky notes. Feel free to jot down reminders to eat the leftovers that are about to go bad!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
It also includes four dry-erase markers!
Promising review:"Saw it on TikTok being used as a dinner menu for the week! It will help me be more organized and add little chores that needs to completed or important reminders. Love it, no complaints." — Clarince Thomas
Get it from Amazon for $18.99.
30. A jumbo pack of toilet cleaning tabs you simply throw in the tank every two weeks to keep your bowl (and bathroom) fresher on the reg.
www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Effective at keeping the toilet bowl clean and very easy to use." — Amazon Customer
Get a 30-pack from Amazon for $24.99.
31. A handheld steam cleaner (perfect even if you're in a small space and that's who you can afford to live solo) with a nearly 10-foot-long cord to help you get at all sorts of greasy, stuck-on messes sans chemicals.
www.amazon.com
Promising review: "Cleaned stove top and the hood vents. Then, I had to clean the sticky grease from the sink. Worked very easily and without chemicals. Easy to use and to refill. The attachments make various jobs easy to clean." — Lori
Get it from Amazon for $55.99.
32. And a playful bath mat because you NEED one anyway. Might as well make your nonslip, machine-washable mat extra cute. It's your bathroom. Decorate how you want!
www.amazon.com, www.amazon.com
Promising review:"I absolutely love this rug. I was not expecting it to be as cute and fluffy as it is! I've gotten so many compliments on it." — Amanda Fiji
Get it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in four sizes and three styles).
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.

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Truffle-hunting and harvest dinners: How farm stays became glamorous

CNN

15 minutes ago

Truffle-hunting and harvest dinners: How farm stays became glamorous

Before the rise of homesteading influencers, picturing farm life would have likely brought to mind an arduous and messy day: wheelbarrow loads, pig troughs, late-night calving, and long hours spent seeding or harvesting. But the visual markers of a back-to-the-land lifestyle have changed. 'Living off the land,' as depicted in viral Instagram posts and TikTok videos, comes with a farmhouse-style open kitchen with Williams-Sonoma appliances. Family meals are curated with sunlit tablescaping. Sturdy jeans and mucked-up boots have been replaced with cottagecore dresses and 'clean girl' makeup. Now, a new set of Arcadian luxury resorts are offering a taste of farm life — or a more permanent stay — with all the bounties of organic, locally grown crops, and without the daily 14 hours of labor. In the foothills of Tennessee's Great Smoky Mountains, for instance, guests can stay at the idyllic 4,200-acre Blackberry Farm and partake in fly fishing, horseback riding and the property's 170,000-strong wine cellar. In Portugal's São Lourenço do Barrocal, visitors retreat to a pastoral setting with livestock and olive trees, as well as proximity to a nearby stargazing haven. Within Mexico's resort town of San José del Cabo, Flora Farms offers guest rooms and homes to culinary enthusiasts on an intimate family-run property. And on the eastern side of Puerto Rico, the forthcoming 1,100-acre property Moncayo will offer 400 residences, 68 guest rooms, a 100-acre farm and golf courses along its mountain ridges, valley and coastline. Many of these properties' rooms cost between $1,000 and $3,000 a night, with built residences on Moncayo starting above $12 million. 'There will be rounds of golf, there'll be games of tennis, there'll be island hopping on boats,' said Carter Redd, the president of the Moncayo development project, for the firm Juniper Capital, on a video call. 'But I would be surprised if most days don't start or finish with the trip to the farm.' Influencers have played a role in leading the rebrand of farm life, with Hannah Neeleman of Ballerina Farm — one of homesteading's most visible acolytes — attracting more than 10 million followers on Instagram alone. Aspirational posts from her Utah farm often show Neeleman picking fresh vegetables from her garden with her children (she has eight), and whipping up turmeric lattes with creamy milk straight from the cow's udder. Celebrities also take part (these lifestyles are less replicable for the average person without hired hands). Supermodel sisters Gigi and Bella have been known to retreat to the family's 32-acre farm in Pennsylvania — Bella told Dazed in a recent interview that horse poop was her earliest scent memory — while a video tour of Lenny Kravitz's verdant Brazilian fazenda is one of Architectural Digest's most-watched to date. Other celebrities known to participate — or at least be photographed — in the rituals of living off the land include Brie Larson and Shailene Woodley, who are fans of foraging, and Meghan Markle, who harvests honey in her Netflix show and recently posted a video depicted herself of beekeeping with her daughter, Lilibet, on Instagram. Related video This furniture takes a decade to grow and is priced as an artwork Allyson Rees, a senior strategist for trend forecasting company WGSN, thinks that farm stays have wide appeal amid 'a desire for more authentic experiences… and feeling like your vacation has a bit more of a wellness component, and an impactful component to your mental health,' she told CNN over the phone. The global agritourism market, which was worth $69.2 billion in 2019 and is projected to reach $197.4 billion by 2032, according to Fortune Business Insights, encompasses anything that engages the public with agricultural production, from pumpkin patches and corn mazes to wine tours. But, increasingly, longer-term immersion into the day-to-day of ranches, farms or vineyards has become more appealing. In the US, farm-stay listings increased 71% between August 2019 and August 2024, according to AirDNA, which tracks data on short-term rentals from various platforms. On Airbnb, there were over 1 million searches for farm stays in the first quarter of 2025, per company data provided to CNN, a 20% increase from the same period in 2024. At the heart of many of these agrarian retreats are high-end meals and cooking classes using ingredients grown on site. 'The idea is to have people get more of an appreciation of where local food comes from and what goes into it,' said Kristin Soong Rapoport, a co-owner of Wildflower Farms in the bucolic Hudson Valley area of New York, in a phone call. A former tree nursery, Wildflower's 140-acre plot now offers bountiful crops, meadows and wooded vistas, with dozens of cabins, cottages and suites dotting the land. Beyond more traditional amenities such as a spa and pool, guests can try botanical baking, pressed-flower pottery or take cooking classes with the produce they've freshly picked. This summer, the farm is launching a harvest dinner series, each hosted by a notable figure in the creative or culinary industries — including Oscar de la Renta and Monse creative director Laura Kim and renown chef Flynn McGarry — and featuring ingredients harvested by guests earlier in the day. 'In general, luxury hotels were just touching on… gardening, and it was important for us to really have a farm,' Soong Rapoport said of the early research and planning into the resort. 'I think the size and the ambitiousness of the program was what we thought would make it stand out.' In Puerto Rico, the team behind the Moncayo farm plans to use regenerative agriculture practices and distribute half of its produce to local communities in Fajardo, where it is located, according to its press materials. With 85% of the island's food imported, Moncayo is also positioning itself as 'a learning lab' for agriculture by partnering with local universities, farmers and organizations. 'Our ability to provide fresh produce and fruits locally is really meaningful,' Redd said. The association of locally grown, quality ingredients with luxury is nothing new — and has continued its trajectory ever since organic produce hit the shelves at higher price points, farmer's markets were popularized in major cities, and farm-to-table restaurants proliferated in search of Michelin stars. But now other elements of farm life and homesteading have become aspirational, too, as the lifestyle itself has become less attainable. According to the sustainable food systems thinktank IPES-Food, global land prices doubled from 2008-2022, with 1% of the world's largest farms controlling 70% of global farmland. At the same time, the number of farms worldwide has declined and is projected to continue shrinking. Aside from new luxury properties, agritourism has offered another revenue stream for existing, independent farms. In 2024, hosts of Airbnb farm stays in the US collectively earned over $500 million, the company said. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations has credited the industry with revitalizing the Mediterranean's rural areas and boosting its local economies, while Japan's Farm Stay Promotion Plan has encouraged the same, offering traditional stays where guests learn to cook or ferment vegetables with local farmers among picturesque rice fields and mountain ranges. And in China, a 'rural revival' was accelerated during the pandemic, Rees said. With travel and quarantine restrictions, many Chinese urbanites headed outside of cities, fuelling a rural tourism boom, while influencers like Li Ziqi drew large followings to their posts about the idyllic countryside. Not all farm stays and eco villages are inherently expensive, and part of the luxury is finding an experience that's 'off the beaten track — almost like an if-you-know-you-know type of thing,' Rees added. Similar to China's rural tourism trend, the growing interest in farm tourism is partly due to pandemic travel restrictions, Rees explained, when more people sought out local retreats and open air away from major cities but closer to home. That shift in vacation patterns was important to the success of Wildflower Farms, Soong Rapoport noted, which opened in 2022. New York City residents left in droves and many looked north to the Hudson Valley area, with the small town of Hudson seeing the biggest change in net incoming residents out of all US metro areas, according to The New York Times. 'It was a harder story for us to explain to the general public before the pandemic. And so when we opened, I think a lot of people already got the benefit of it, and so it just made it catch on a lot more quickly,' she said. Rees believes that interest in other aspects of farming and off-grid living, such as growing a personal and sustainable food supply, has only grown since the pandemic. 'People were staying home more, but I also think it's very much tied to the preparedness movement and (the desire) to be much more self-sufficient,' she said. 'It's not really this niche thing. It's not like 'Doomsday Preppers' anymore.' Agritourism marks a departure in luxury tourism that is less about visible wealth and excess, according to Vittoria Careri, a marketing manager for The Hospitality Experience, which owns the Italian countryside escape Borgo dei Conti Resort. It aligns with the movement toward 'quiet luxury' in fashion. Like desiring fewer logos on clothing, resort stays don't necessarily need the ultra-expensive poolside bottle of champagne for a photo op. 'That concept of luxury now is old-fashioned,' she said in a video call. 'These types of customers are searching for something more genuine.' In Umbria, the 'green heart' of Italy, guests at Borgo dei Conti stay at a villa that was formerly the home of the late-Romantic Italian painter Lemmo Rossi-Scotti, and can spend their days suiting up to harvest honey with the property's beekeepers, following truffle-hunting dogs to discover a summer version of the delicacy, or picnicking among the verdant olive trees. At any price point, from multi-thousand-dollar stays to more modest accommodations, Rees credits the popularity of agritourism with the wider slow-living movement online (somewhat ironically promoted by influencers across TikTok) — a reaction to the stressors and pace of modern life and increasingly dense metropolises. And Rees says that while Millennials might be more associated with the trend, 'it's quite Gen-Z focused as well.' Careri believes that younger Italians have lost touch with something generational within their families, and now they are seeking it out once more. 'This kind of farming, (raising) the animals, is something our grandparents experienced. But now the new generations, they don't know it,' Careri said, adding that it gives them 'a sense of wonder.'

Get in touch with farm life — at $3,000 a night

CNN

27 minutes ago

Get in touch with farm life — at $3,000 a night

36 Etsy Things Your Friends Will Also Want

Buzz Feed

5 hours ago

Buzz Feed

36 Etsy Things Your Friends Will Also Want

An acrylic sun catcher so mesmerizing, I wish I could crawl inside of it and pretend I'm in a scene from Beauty and the Beast. And just imagine the colorful sun rays that'll cascade from this — stunning. A floral desk mat for all the lovers of warm, soothing cottagecore vibes. This is a *must* for all the WFH peeps, video game players, and lunch break YouTube watchers. A bookish hoodie that's got nothing but truth written on it. Not only is it made with a fantastical design, but it'll also be the coziest thing for you to snuggle up in as you start the next chapter in your current romantasy novel. Or an ACOTAR crewneck you can cozy up in when you go to read the next book in the series while pretending to be on a balcony overlooking Velaris. Made of the softest material in Prythian, this sweater lets you showcase your love for your favorite court and is designed with some of the novels' most beloved quotes on each sleeve. A reviewer-beloved, aloe vera-based curl refresher spray if you want to showcase your bouncy curls without having to revamp your entire wash 'n' go. This'll help rehydrate your locks *without* the frizz in seconds! A nongreasy, lightweight whipped body butter that'll indulge your skin in the natural powers of shea butter, mango butter, and essential oils. It comes in over 70 (!) delightful scents *and* it comes in a recyclable jar! A tufted floor cushion so you can turn any corner of your tiny apartment into a good space to curl up and watch your comfort show. (The Office, anyone?) Your bestie will also appreciate it during a much-needed sleepover. A personalized jewelry box if you want to stop throwing your shiny accessories into plastic zipper bags and having them come out all tangled afterward. This can easily fit in your carry-on without taking up too much space. And not only is it perfect for your travel needs, but it also works wonderfully for bridesmaids' gifts or as a simple thank-you gift! A chic coffee cup holder because the phrase "I've always got my hands full" applies both literally and figuratively. This helpful little thing lets you easily carry your Starbucks with you while you answer work emails and *most importantly* look at the latest TikTok your bestie just sent you. A book tracker bookmark — not only does it help you keep track of where you are in your current read, but it also serves as an adorable way to show your book history by letting you color and write in the titles you've read so far. Plus, you'll finally be able to stop subjecting your book to the dreaded dog ears. And a bookshelf street sign to transform your beloved book corner into its own little world. It's available in options like Romance Rd, Horrow Hwy, and as a custom sign! (I'll be getting "TBR Rd," because I def buy books faster than I read them. 🫠) A 100% natural oven scrub made of pumice powder and essential oils that give it deep-cleaning powers free of harsh fumes while leaving a light, fresh scent. This might just make you excited to clean the oven. (Can you imagine?) A fresh eucalyptus bundle because there are few things in life that feel better than being embraced with eucalyptus's fresh, soothing scent. The bundle is infused with essential oils that are released by the steam of your shower and add a tranquil, botanical aesthetic! Until further notice, you'll find me here. Or a set of shower steamers if you want to take your shower experience to the zen level. These are handmade with essential oils and Epsom salt and come in delightful scents such as lavender, grapefruit, and eucalyptus. An adorable crocheted mushroom crossbody bag, which reviewers say is roomier than it looks! No outfit will ever be boring with this little guy as your accessory. A powerful hair growth treatment so you can achieve the lengthy locks of your dreams. It's made with natural ingredients like black castor oil, rosemary, peppermint, herbs, cloves, and essential oil blends. Plus, reviewers mention that they *love* the smell! A plush potted tulip plant you'll adore because it'll brighten up your space — and you won't even need to lift a finger to keep it alive! In my humble opinion, that's the best part. And a fan-favorite Highland cow plush — careful, your guests might want to kidnap this lil' cutie. And how can you blame them? It's so cuuuuute!!! A scratch-off world map, which serves as a fun (and pretty!) way of showcasing all the places you've traveled to. Scratch off the silver foil layer to reveal the beautiful watercolor underneath. Reviewers also say it works perfectly as a housewarming gift! A crystal-infused organic facial serum designed for anyone who wants a bit of ~plumping~ with their pampering. This plant-powered hyaluronic acid serum is enriched with a blend of marshmallow extract, blue-green algae extract, chicory root extract, and chlorophyll for a revitalizing blend of antioxidants, proteins, and fatty acids. Magical fairy lights that'll add a fairytale touch to your mundane space and transform your bedroom into a cozy oasis. Why get regular ol' string lights when you can get these crackling crystals paired with the larger glowing bulbs for some *truly* enchanting vibes? A knot candle because if you thought your regular candles gave off cozy vibes, just wait until you get your hands on these. 😍 It comes in so many colors and scents you're basically obligated to get one for every room in your home. Or a "Witch's Brew Candle" — legend has it: it's said to fill your home with feelings of coziness as well as vibes of peace, happiness, and protection. But even if you don't believe in all that hocus pocus, at least you'll get to enjoy the alluring scent of orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and star anise. A machine-washable faucet splash catcher because it soaks up all the extra water that ends up around your sink throughout the day. Beats wasting paper towels and having to constantly wipe that countertop down! An all-natural scour paste made with baking soda, castile soap, and natural oils that'll work on those hidden spots in your home you've been avoiding (but somehow your mom will notice them). This stuff works on your tile, sink, stovetop, bath, and just about any surface! A genius butter dish and grip set because actually having to slice and spread a pat of butter is simply preposterous. Instead, just pop a butter stick straight onto this grip and spread away for hassle-free pan greasing. A sentimental art print that'll look so charming above your coffee station and delight all the artsy coffee lovers out there. An elegantly handmade floral coaster so that even the thing your iced drink rests on is eye-catching. These coasters are made with real flowers and sprinkled with gold flakes that make them look so sophisticated, you may be tempted to point that pinky up every time you reach for your drink. A pair of bubble and wand earrings because they'll ~blow~ you away with how pretty they are. They're sure to be the center of attention, no matter what you wear! A set of Goldfish fridge magnets — can you believe it? We're now using our fave childhood snack as a functional item in our adult home. What a full-circle moment. A handy dandy minimalist weekly cleaning printable that gives you a daily breakdown of small things you can do around your home every day to keep it clean, instead of letting it all pile up on you and having to clean it all at once. A quirky French café-themed print if you, too, believe that any hope for a good day should be sponsored by coffee. Hang this in your kitchen or at-home office, and you'll constantly have this cute lil' cat to look to for some sense of relatability. A dreamy, reviewer-beloved chiffon maxi dress worthy of infinite twirls. Designed with an elegant V-neckline and a hidden zipper closure, this flowy dress is perfect for those summer weddings you've got coming up this year. And bonus — custom sizing is available! A chemical-free glass cleaner for anyone who appreciates non-toxic cleaning products. This cleaner is made with ingredients so safe; you could even eat them (probably won't be too tasty, though), like castile, essential oils, distilled water, and lime. This also makes it safe for kids and pets! But don't let this sway you from its effectiveness — one use of this, and you'll have glistening, streak-free windows and mirrors. A luxurious, vegan pure wild-crafted batana oil to elevate your self-care regimen. Use it as a deep-conditioning treatment, a leave-in conditioner, a scalp massage oil, or a skin moisturizer! And the scent? Heavenly. A set of all-natural toilet bombs because it'll stop you from dreading cleaning your porcelain throne. Heck, you might even look forward to it with these! These are scented with essential oils like eucalyptus, lemon, and lavender and will clean, disinfect, *and* deodorize your toilet. All you have to do is drop one or two of these in the bowl, watch them fizz away, scrub, and flush — amazing.