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.

Where can vacation rentals be found?

The best source for locating vacation rentals is the Internet. Simply conduct a search for "vacation rentals AND," then enter the name of the city or area you plan to visit. Some rentals are independently owned and managed, while others are owned and/or managed by property management companies. Individually managed properties are generally more affordable, but they may not provide the same amenities as the corporately managed properties.A look in the classifieds section of large city newspapers may also provide insight into vacation rental sources. Individuals who do not want to contract with a management company to lease their vacation home or condo will advertise in newspapers, online, and by word of mouth. Ask around. Many of your friends may stay in vacation rentals regularly, and they may be able to turn you on to some great deals.

What’s in standard rental agreements, and what are the normal deposit requirements?

A standard vacation rental agreement should outline the guidelines you agree to in layman’s terms. If you are uncomfortable with any of the language or stipulations, ask for an explanation or amendment to the agreement. Most renters’ rules pertain to noise issues, too many occupants, prohibition of pets, or too many vehicles on the property. Some management companies will not rent to college students because of the potential for damage to the property during parties.

Most neighborhoods that have vacation rentals are family-friendly. Some of the neighbors may be retirees who live in their home year round or for long periods of time. They and the management company want to maintain a peaceful, friendly atmosphere.

A deposit of approximately $200 is standard for most vacation rental agreements. The deposit will be returned to you after the property is inspected for damages. Your refund could be immediate or take up to six weeks. Read your agreement for specifics. You can choose to use the deposit for a future reservation in most cases. The management company or owner should provide a list of items you are responsible for upon vacating the property. This could include minimal tasks, like taking the garbage out and leaving the porch light on, to a full cleaning list that includes vacuuming and sweeping the porches. Often you can pay a fee for cleaning if you do not want to do it yourself. Any questions about what your responsibilities are as a tenant should be discussed with the manager or owner before you sign the rental agreement.

The major benefits to a vacation rental are size, occupancy, amenities, a family-friendly environment, and the ability to cook meals on site. If you have a small family, or if you believe some of the best highlights of a vacation are eating out and not having to clean up, a vacation rental may not suit you. However, if you want to save money and stay in a place with enough room for a large family to move around, you may want to consider a vacation home or condo for your next family trip. Just be sure not to stick Mom with all the cooking and cleaning. Or maybe she’d rather stay home and send the family away?