Seven Tips To Save on Your Next Vacation Rental

Yes, you really can afford to go on vacation! Families or groups seeking a much-deserved getaway without breaking the bank should consider booking a vacation rental like the waikiki vacation rentals for their next trip. Not only do they offer twice the space at half the price of a standard hotel room – including private bedrooms, which is ideal for travel with children of all ages – they have a host of other cost-saving amenities. Here are our seven tips on how to save on your next vacation rental:

1. Own the off-season: Homeowners tend to drop rental prices in the off-season, so knowing your destinations low travel period allows for significant cost cutting.

2. Search for “sister cities”: Search for properties in lesser-known destinations for a less touristy and more peaceful getaway due to lower demand. If you still want to visit a popular beach destination, look at its sister cities. For example, rather than stay in Gulf Shores, Ala., check out Dauphin Island or skip Panama City and stay in Cape San Blas instead.

3. Go the extra mile: Look for vacation rentals that aren’t near popular attractions, such as the waterfront or next door to the theme park. The farther from tourist areas, the better the deal.

4. Divide and conquer: Many vacation rentals sleep multiple people and have extra bedrooms. Plan a trip with your family or grab a group of friends and have everyone join the fun.

5. Prepare meals: Unlike a hotel room, vacation rentals have full kitchens. On vacation eating out can be a treat, but preparing your own meals is an easy way to stretch your budget.

6. Pick pet-friendly rentals: Pet-friendly rentals are common. Bring the whole brood on the next trip and skip pricey kennel costs or pet sitting fees.

7. Choose rentals with a washer and dryer: Having access to a washer and dryer offer even more ways to minimize expenses. With baggage fees possibly tacking on an additional $100 to $200 per family each way, travelers have the option to pack less, travel lighter and save more.

Ready to book your next stay? Be sure to use reputable sites, such as HomeAway.com that gives travelers access to more than one million listings around the world or VRBO.com, which has been around for nearly 20 years.

Once you’ve made a final decision on a property, make sure to request a rental agreement that outlines all rules and cancellation policies. Lastly, try to pay via credit card or through secure services like PayPal, and avoid mailing cash. Happy travels!