When looking for a vacation rental, it’s important to make sure you’re getting the best deal and the most value for your money. You can do this by applying these helpful tips:
Avoid Tourist Areas
If you want to save money on your accommodation, it is best to look for places to stay close to public transportation or a short drive from tourist areas. Accommodation prices in these areas are much more reasonable than in major tourist areas such as La Rambla in Barcelona or Pike Place Market in Seattle.
Use More than One Agency or Airline
It is important to consult more than one agency or airline when searching for a rental. Check out websites that compile listings from multiple sources and location-specific websites that may offer more familiar listings. That way, you can find the best selection for the area you’re interested in.
Determine What you Want
Do you prefer to stay indoors or explore the area? Are there children at your party? How important is it to have an ocean view? Figuring out what you want will make it easier to rent the perfect place without breaking your budget. Talk to your group before looking for the best value for everyone.
Choose the Right Time
Plan to book your vacation rental as early as possible, as they can be in high demand. If your destination is popular, such as Florida or Arizona, you can often wait until closer to your travel date and get discounts on the rental.
Plan Flexible Dates
If you’re planning a trip to Europe during the summer, expect to pay high prices and face stiff competition for rental units. Consider planning your vacation in the spring or fall, generally considered the best times to visit, and you’ll find better prices and more options.
Many booking sites offer rate charts that show how prices change over time. You could save hundreds of dollars if you book your trip during the last week of the off-season.
Spend Wisely Without being too Cheap
Don’t let budget concerns keep you from making the most of your trip. Consider your options and think about what you’ll enjoy. Sure, you don’t need that rooftop deck, but why not splurge and enjoy it? You don’t need to spend a lot of money on a 42-inch TV, but why not invest in a few extra amenities to make your vacation memorable?
Understand the Terminology
If you are booking a rental through a rental agency or co-op, make sure you understand the difference between terms like “Beachfront” and “Oceanfront” (the former guarantees you are right on the water).
“Direct Ski Access” usually means you have to take a shuttle to get to the slopes, while “Ski In/Ski Out” means you can ski directly to the property. Garden View” can mean different things, so check the rental photos online or ask for them if they are not provided.
Conclusion
Remember these tips the next time you go on vacation. The best doesn’t always mean expensive amenities and locations that will bankrupt you before you even get home. It can be about making the most of your budget without skimping on what you can afford.
Make your Vacation Work with WeChalet
WeChalet offers people a way to explore the natural beauty of the world by connecting them to vacation rentals such as unique homes, Condos and cottages for rent. Our goal is to encourage people to spend time in nature, appreciate its beauty and importance, and inspire them to take action to help protect and conserve the environment. Start looking now or become a host by visiting our website!