Vrbo: Find Your Perfect Vacation Rental
Are you looking for a unique and memorable vacation experience? Do you want to stay in a cozy cabin, a spacious beach house, or a luxurious villa? Do you want to enjoy the comforts of home, the amenities of a hotel, and the flexibility of a rental? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then Vrbo is the perfect choice for you.
Vrbo is the leading platform for vacation rentals, connecting homeowners with travelers who are looking for something more than a hotel for their trip. With Vrbo, you can find over 2 million bookable vacation rentals in popular destinations around the world, with features like full kitchens, pools, yards, and more.
Vrbo is more than just a booking site. It’s a community of travelers and hosts who share a passion for travel and hospitality. You can read reviews from previous guests, chat with the owners, and get personalized recommendations for your trip. You can also join the Vrbo rewards program and earn points to use when you book your next getaway on Vrbo, Expedia, and Hotels.com.
Vrbo is also the most convenient and secure way to book your vacation rental. You can browse and compare thousands of properties, filter by price, location, amenities, and more, and book online with a few clicks. You can also enjoy peace of mind with Vrbo’s Book with Confidence Guarantee, which includes 24/7 customer service, property damage protection, and cancellation options.
Whether you’re planning a family reunion, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, Vrbo has the perfect vacation rental for you. You can choose from a variety of types and styles, such as apartments, cabins, villas, house rentals, and more[^4^][5]. You can also find rentals that suit your needs and preferences, such as pet-friendly, beachfront, ski-in/ski-out, and more.
Tips for a Memorable Vacation Rental Experience
Choosing the Right Rental on VRBO
Location is Key: The perfect vacation rental starts with its location. Consider what’s important to you – proximity to attractions, the tranquility of a secluded spot, or the convenience of city living. Use detailed maps and read reviews to get a sense of the area.
Read Reviews Carefully: Past guests’ reviews are a goldmine of information. Look for comments about the cleanliness, safety of the neighborhood, and the responsiveness of the host. Photos uploaded by guests can also give you a more realistic view of the rental.
Understand the Amenities: Check the listing for amenities that matter to you, such as Wi-Fi, air conditioning, or a fully equipped kitchen. These details can make or break your stay, especially for longer trips or when traveling with family.
(Dive Further into How to Choose the Right Rental)
VRBO Vacation Rental Hacks
Leveraging Flexibility for Better Deals
If your travel dates are flexible, use this to your advantage. Prices on VRBO can vary significantly depending on the season, week, and even day of your stay. Playing around with dates before booking can reveal more affordable options. Some hosts also offer lower rates for week-long stays or last-minute bookings, so keep an eye out for these opportunities.
Exploring Less Popular Destinations
While everyone flocks to well-known tourist spots, consider looking at rentals in less popular areas. These locations can offer a more authentic experience at a fraction of the cost. VRBO listings outside major tourist hubs often feature unique properties that provide a different kind of vacation, from secluded beach houses to cozy mountain cabins.
Vacation Rental Checklist
Before You Book
- Research the Location: Ensure the rental is in a safe area and close to attractions or amenities you plan to visit.
- Read Reviews Thoroughly: Past guest reviews offer invaluable insights into the actual experience of staying at the rental.
- Understand the Rental Terms: Familiarize yourself with the cancellation policy, check-in/out times, and any house rules.
- Communicate with the Host: Ask any questions you have about the property or area. This can also help you gauge the responsiveness of the host.
Pre-Arrival Preparations
- Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers rental stays, especially for long trips or expensive bookings.
- Contact Information: Ensure you have the host’s contact information and clear directions to the property.
- Check-in Instructions: Confirm how you’ll check in—whether it’s a key under the mat, a lockbox, or meeting the host in person.
What to Pack
Essentials
- Personal Toiletries: While some rentals provide basic toiletries, it’s best to bring your own, especially preferred brands or special needs items.
- Chargers and Adapters: Don’t forget chargers for all your devices, and if you’re traveling internationally, bring the necessary adapters.
- Basic First-Aid Kit: Always have a small first-aid kit for minor emergencies.
For the Kitchen
- Condiments and Spices: Some rentals may have a fully stocked kitchen, but bringing your favorite spices or condiments can make cooking easier.
- Specialty Cooking Items: If you plan on cooking something specific that requires special equipment, it’s safer to bring those items with you.
For Comfort and Entertainment
- Streaming Device: If you have favorite shows or movies you can’t miss, consider bringing a portable streaming device.
- Books and Games: For downtime, having a selection of books or board games can enhance your relaxation.
VRBO Vacation Rental Budgeting Tips
Start with Research
Compare Prices: Don’t book the first property you like. Spend time comparing prices of similar properties in the area to ensure you’re getting a good deal.
Consider Off-Peak Seasons: Traveling during the off-peak season can significantly reduce rental costs. Plus, you’ll enjoy fewer crowds at popular destinations.
Look at Different Locations: Sometimes, staying a little further from the main attractions can save you a lot on your rental cost. Consider properties that are a short drive or public transport ride away from your primary destinations.
Understand the Full Cost
Account for All Fees: VRBO listings include various fees beyond the nightly rate, such as cleaning fees, service fees, and sometimes, a refundable security deposit. Ensure you factor these into your budget.
Read the Cancellation Policy: Life happens, and plans change. Understanding the cancellation policy can save you from losing money if you need to cancel your booking.
Save on Meals
Choose Rentals with Kitchens: One of the biggest advantages of booking through VRBO is the access to full kitchens. Plan to cook some of your meals to save on dining out.
Plan Your Meals: Before your trip, plan your meals and grocery list. This can help you avoid impulsive buys and ensure you only purchase what you need.
Be Smart About Transportation
Consider Transportation Costs: If the rental is far from attractions or amenities, you might spend more on transportation. Calculate these costs to see if it’s worth staying closer to your points of interest, even if the nightly rate is higher.
Look for Special Offers
Early Bird or Last-Minute Deals: Some hosts offer discounts for booking well in advance or filling in last-minute openings. Keep an eye out for these deals, especially if your travel dates are flexible.
Longer Stays: Often, the longer you stay, the less you pay per night. If you’re planning an extended vacation, look for properties that offer weekly or monthly discounts.
Maximize Amenities
Use Free Amenities: Choose rentals that offer free amenities such as Wi-Fi, parking, laundry facilities, or access to pools and gyms. This can save you money on entertainment and other services during your stay.
Travel with Others
Split the Cost: Traveling with family or friends can significantly reduce the cost per person. Larger properties often don’t cost much more than smaller ones but offer more space and amenities.