Vacation Rentals can mean a lot of things. Cabins, homes, condominiums, RV campsites. They can offer a different vacation experience. Renting a vacation home comes with perks, but make sure you know what you are getting into before renting for the first time.
With so much out there, it can be daunting, especially for a first timer. Here is a guide that helps with the process:
Shop on the Internet First
Go to websites you trust. If you have a lot of choose from, you'll more than likely make a more informed choice. Use filters to narrow the search around your rental needs. Look closely at photos and where the property is located. Is it near somewhere you would like to be? Read reviews of previous renters as well as owner responses. Good property owners will respond to reviews respectfully and address the real issues. This way, you know for sure you're getting what's advertised. Look at the search as an adventure in itself.
Going Solo
Don't assume that vacation rentals are only meant for large groups of families. Or even small groups of families. Research your options to find the perfectly sized vacation rental that fits you. There are a number of rentals out there fit for someone traveling alone.
Food Rules
One of the perks of vacation rentals is being able to cook your own meals. Food rules are usually talked about ahead of time between the guest and homeowner, but typically what you will find in the refrigerator are staples to cook with, like vegetable oil spices.
Be Courteous
It's a good idea to put all the dirty dishes in the dishwasher and make sure the place looks as clean as you found it. Remember that it is not a hotel room. It's someone's home.
Have Your Say
If you had a good experience, leave a positive review on the vacation rental site so it will help them get additional visitors. It's more valuable than a "thank you."
Some other dos and don'ts:
• Don't: spend your entire vacation in the rental. No matter how great you think it is.
• Do: Get out and visit your surroundings. If it's woodsy, go for hikes and explore. If it's urban, go about it on foot.
• Don't: Show up unprepared for your vacation.
• Do: Plan ahead by checking out what you rental includes. And what it doesn't include. While most do some with linens, Wi-Fi or other things that you may consider essential, it is not smart to assume that every home works the same way.
• Don't: Sign the owner or manager's rental agreement without reading all of it.
• Do: Take a look at the fine print and make sue you understand the terms of your rental before booking.
Author: Clinton Rhodes
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