There are so many decisions to make when planning a vacation.
Typically, my biggest decision is where we will stay.
That can change depending on the type of vacation we are taking.
Is it just me and my husband? Will children be coming along? Is it a large group vacation? Do you tend to stick to one type of lodging for every vacation or do you fluctuate like most people do? Hotels are attractive because they don't typically have a minimum rental time like condos and rental homes, which usually require a week-long rental or more.
If you are vacationing for a long weekend then a hotel might be right for you.
Also, with so many online options like Hotels.
com, Travelocity and Expedia, chances are you can find a very competitive rate depending on your time of travel.
Hotel lodging also allows you to earn reward points if you are a frequent traveler and member of a rewards program like Marriott Rewards.
Keep in mind that most hotels offer a number of extra amenities that rental homes and condos can't, such as laundry services, an indoor pool, linens and towels provided, business services, etc.
If you need to be waited on during your vacation, then a hotel might be right for you.
Typically our family prefers to vacation in a rental home.
There are a number of online services you can use to shop for and book a house for rent.
I love the flexibility to be able to do all my searching on my own from home.
I love being able to look at pictures and find the home that best fits our family needs, especially if we are vacationing with other relatives.
Rental homes come in all shapes and sizes.
They are still different from condo renting because they typically provide more space and sometimes a private pool.
Having small children, I love having a rental home to ourselves versus a condo.
When we've stayed in a condo I worry about our next door neighbors being bothered by the noise of four small children.
However, there are several similarities between rental homes and condos.
Dollar for dollar, condos and rental houses beat hotel rooms by a long shot.
Condos and rental homes will always have a full kitchen.
Eating in is a lot cheaper than dining out for every meal during your vacation.
You'll save money by loading up on groceries early in the week and cooking at least two meals a day.
That still allows you to go out to eat every evening for dinner if you choose.
Always be sure to ask the owner or booking company to tell you exactly what's in the kitchen, down to cooking utensils and silverware, and what supplies will you need to bring along such as linens, beach towels, etc.
Don't forget that condos aren't just for families.
Even if you are traveling by yourself or as a couple, condos make a lot of sense.
You get two to three times more space than a hotel room.
Condos and rental homes offer a bit more flexibility in negotiation especially if you are traveling during the off season.
It doesn't hurt to ask for a better price.
With today's economy, less people are vacationing and there are a lot of empty condos and houses for rent.
Owners would rather make some rental income then none at all.
So don't be shy.
Make an offer.
If that owner turns you down, there are plenty of other condos to turn to.