When it comes to planning a vacation, there are always so many decisions to make – where to go, how to get there, what to see and do when you get there, and of course where to stay!
The truth is there are pros and cons to both hotels and vacation rental properties. Making the right choice depends on your budget, preference, and priorities as a traveler.
Check out our list of pros and cons to weigh when booking your next vacation getaway:
Vacation Rentals: Pros
Local Flair
Vacation rental properties are often unique in their layout and design. You can find cozy beach cottages, mountain chalets, luxury lakefront homes, rustic cabins, and modern condos. Chain hotels can often be bland and uniform, lacking local flair.
Vacation rentals tend to be in local neighborhoods, providing guests with the opportunity to discover a less-touristy (but still charming) neighborhood, which can help in getting a real feel for the day-to-day life of a city, not just its highlights.
More Space
Renting an entire house is often cheaper than booking individual hotel rooms for a large group. Larger groups will be split up into separate hotel rooms, often on different floors.
Enjoy spending time with friends and family in communal gathering spaces for easy hangouts during a birthday trip, bachelorette party, or family reunion.
Vacation rentals also generally offer equipped kitchens, so you can save money by cooking meals at home rather than eating out three times a day. Likewise, if you’re working remotely on your trip, vacation rentals may have dedicated office space available … often with inspiring views.
Privacy
Don’t want to be kept awake at night from the sound of your hotel room neighbors or guests in the hallways? Book a vacation rental for optimal privacy! Renting a house means you’ll have the entire place to yourself, so you won’t have to deal with noise from other guests.
Pet Friendly
There are far more vacation rental properties that allow pets than hotels. If you are bringing your furry family member along on your trip, a vacation rental is probably your best bet!
Hotels: Pros
Consistent Expectations & Customer Service
Quality standards and available amenities are usually consistent across hotel chains.
Hotels generally offer 24/7 customer service, either in-person or by phone. Vacation rental hosts are not always available at all hours of the day if you encounter a problem like locking yourself out of the home.
Access to a Gym
Chain hotels often have on-site gyms, and some even have swimming pools, saunas or jacuzzis.
Free Breakfast
Hotels often offer a continental breakfast, or a breakfast buffet as a perk. This can be a great way to start your day while saving time and money. Prefer a leisurely morning? Many hotels offer room service, so you can enjoy your breakfast without even having to leave your room.
More Convenient Locations
Many hotels tend to be closer to the city center, with easy walking or transport access to restaurants, shopping, and cultural attractions.
Receive Elite Status Perks
Elite status members in loyalty programs like Marriott, Hilton Honors and World of Hyatt can receive free room upgrades, free breakfast and late checkout.
Book a Stay with Us!
Curious about booking a vacation rental home for your next getaway? Check out our impressive rental collection with homes in some of the most-loved beach and mountain vacation destinations on the West Coast. We also have homes in charming Leavenworth, Washington and scenic Big Bear, California. Our friendly and knowledgeable reservations team can work with you to find the perfect home to suit all of your needs. We can’t wait to host you!
