Alternative Accommodations for Families

When it comes to traveling as a family, there’s the traditional route of reserving a few adjoining resort or hotel rooms so everyone can be together, yet have their own space when needed (think nap time). An alternative idea to the traditional is to rent a vacation home so you can all be together with living areas to boot, yet still have your own space to get back to for some quiet time.

We checked in with the experts at HomeAway, which also manages VRBO, for some insights into vacation home rentals, as well as a few tips to make finding your perfect rental as easy as 1-2-3.

Photo: HomeAway

According to the pros at HomeAway, which offers more than 2 million unique listings in 190 countries, cost-saving amenities such as multiple bedrooms and kitchens in which to prepare meals rather than eating out are why travelers continue to turn to vacation rentals when looking for their home away from home.

Keep these booking tips from HomeAway in mind when searching for your next vacation rental. They can save you time and money.

• More Inventory: The more inventory from which you have to choose, the more likely you are to find the right rental home that meets your needs and fits within your budget.
• Filter: There’s no sense in perusing studio lofts when you need a four-bedroom home to accommodate your family. This is when you realize filters are your friend. Start with the number of bedrooms you need and amount you’re willing to spend and go from there. Once you’ve narrowed down the selections, add in filters that will let you know which have pools and hot tubs, an outdoor grill or welcome Fido, too.
• Review Time: The reviews are in, and HomeAway suggests there’s no better indicator about what a vacation home is really like than through reviews of previous travelers.
• Map It Out: Just like filters, the map is your friend when it comes to selecting just the right spot for you and your family. If you’re looking for a beach house in South Florida, or a lodge at a popular ski resort, the map can show you just how close — or far — you can be to the action.
• Plan ahead: Unlike hotels that have room inventories, if the rental of your dreams is already booked, it’s a no-go for your family’s vacation. That being said, take some time to begin your vacation planning early. If you know your family wants to spend spring break on the slopes of Tahoe or at the theme parks in Orlando, start thinking about that now.

Photo: HomeAway

As far as when to book your vacation rental, HomeAway suggests booking at least six to 12 weeks before you plan to travel. Avoid holiday weekends; and avoid booking stays during big events (like the upcoming Super Bowl in Minneapolis).

Keeping these tips and insights in mind when looking for vacations rentals will have you booked in no time, and looking forward to family time.