Choosing the right vacation rental can be a challenge. This article will guide you through common pitfalls to avoid when choosing the ideal accommodation.
From setting your budget to the practical and legal aspects, we provide essential advice to ensure a hassle-free stay. Learn how to avoid common mistakes like ignoring reviews, forgetting to check cancellation policies, and waiting until the last minute to book. Prepare for a successful vacation by considering these key points.
You vaguely define your budget and criteria
When looking for a vacation rental, it’s essential to determine your budget and criteria before starting your search. This will allow you to avoid unpleasant surprises and save time. Here are some things to consider:
- Type of accommodation (apartment, house, villa, cottage, etc.)
- Accommodation capacity (number of rooms, beds, etc.)
- Location (proximity to public transport, shops, tourist attractions, etc.)
- Equipment and services offered (swimming pool, WIFI, washing machine, parking, etc.)
Disregarding opinions and recommendations
Taking the time to read reviews and recommendations from previous travelers is essential to avoid bad experiences. This feedback will give you a more accurate idea of the quality of the accommodation, the acceptance by the owners and the correspondence between the advertisement and reality. Feel free to browse different sites and forums to get as much information as possible.
You forgot to check the cancellation policy and other fees
Sometimes unforeseen events disrupt your vacation plans. To avoid high cancellation fees or being stuck with a non-refundable reservation, check the rental cancellation policy. Online booking platforms generally offer several options, from free cancellation up to a few days before the stay to stricter conditions.
Likewise, keep in mind additional costs that may be added to the base rental price, such as:
- Cleaning costs
- Tourist tax
- Pet fees
- Costs associated with additional equipment and services (rental of sheets, baby equipment, etc.)
Wait until the last minute to make a reservation
While you can sometimes find great deals on last-minute reservations, it’s best to anticipate your rental search as much as possible. Indeed, booking in advance gives you a wider choice and avoids the stress associated with a hasty search for accommodation.
Neglecting practical and legal aspects
To avoid unpleasant surprises during your stay, be sure to consider the practical and legal aspects of renting:
- Check arrival and departure times to make sure they match your travel restrictions
- Make sure that the owner has the necessary authorizations to rent his accommodation (declaration at the town hall, compliance with the rules of co-ownership, etc.)
- Read the tenancy agreement carefully and ask for clarification if any provisions seem unclear to you
Not asking the owner the right questions
Before confirming the reservation, do not hesitate to contact the owner or the agency managing the rental with questions that seem important to you. May relate to:
- Arranging arrival and departure (handover of keys, inventory, etc.)
- The specific equipment you need (cot, high chair, etc.)
- Any restrictions (animals, smokers, noise, etc.)
By avoiding these mistakes when choosing a vacation rental, you give yourself every chance to have a pleasant stay without unpleasant surprises.