When planning a family vacation, there are more options for lodging than hotels and motels. Vacation rentals offer all the comforts of home, including room to spread out, amenities, and a full kitchen. This article will help readers determine whether a vacation rental is a good option for their family, how to find vacation houses and condos, and what to expect in the rental agreement.
Vacations are supposed to be a time to relax and recharge, but when a family gets cooped up in close quarters, family travel can quickly unravel. Most families stay in hotels or motels when they go on vacations. Hotels are great because there’s a maid to make the beds each morning and clean up after your kids, but vacation rentals allow room to spread out! And after hours on a plane or in a car, every family member needs a little breathing room. Vacation rentals also offer a homey, relaxing environment that many families enjoy. The sterile two-bed hotel room with one dresser, one television, and one bathroom, isn’t the only option families have. Here are some tips and considerations for planning the lodging for your next family vacation.
How does the family vacation planner decide if a vacation rental is a good lodging option for their family?
A vacation rental is a condo or house that offers the comforts and amenities of home. A full kitchen, usually supplied with dishes, pans, and cooking utensils will allow a family to save money on dining if someone is willing to cook and do the dishes. Remember, the vacation is for everyone, including Mom! The culinary guru in your family may agree to the cooking and shopping if someone else offers to clean up.
Vacation rentals provide various amenities that may include a washer and dryer. This is especially helpful for long trips or for families with young children. Sometimes the facility will not provide linens, so a washer and dryer means packing fewer towels. Salty swimsuits and sandy towels are much more appealing after a quick spin in the dryer. A DVD player, stereo, cable television, and video game system are offered at many rental units. Some offer the use of a swimming pool, weight room, and hot tub. If you want evening activities for the family, choose a unit with a pool table, Jacuzzi tub, and a library of videos and board games.
Some properties allow animals. A pet charge may apply, but it is usually less than the cost of boarding your animals. Besides, Fido and Spot will love the beach or the mountains or practically any adventure you let them tag along for.
Another benefit of a vacation rental is the size. Most rentals sleep at least 6, and often they will sleep upwards of 12 or more people. Find out what size and type of beds are provided. A sofa sleeper can count as two sleeping spaces, but you may not want to spend your mornings recuperating from the damage a thin mattress does to your back. Kids, however, could care less about the quality of their mattress.
A rental that accommodates more people is wonderful if your extended family enjoys vacationing together. Grandma and Grandpa can visit with the grandkids while Mom and Dad sneak out for a candlelight dinner, local entertainment, or late night movie.