Hotels Vs. Vacation Rentals: Which Is The Best Option?

As seasoned travellers we have had our fair share of stays in hotels and vacation rentals. Each has its own set of advantages, but they also come with their own challenges. In this post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of hotels vs. vacation rentals and what to consider so you can make the best choice for each type of trip.

Hotels: Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Location: Hotels are usually located in central areas close to tourist attractions, shopping centres, business hubs, and public transportation. Often the locations of hotels are known locally by taxi drivers, guides etc. which makes it easier with transport and pickup arrangements.
• Amenities: Hotels provide many amenities like room service and daily housekeeping. They often have on-site facilities such as business centres, restaurants, bars, gyms, and swimming pools.
• Reception: The reception desk is often a critical touchpoint throughout your stay and there to help with queries and resolve any issues. Often reception desks are manned fully around the clock.
• Concierge Services: Hotels often extend their services beyond the confines of their property to ensure guests have a seamless and enjoyable stay. Many hotels offer airport shuttle bus services to alleviate the stress of airport transfers. Additionally, hotels can assist with making bookings for tours, restaurant reservations and assist with other matters such as currency exchange. All these services significantly enhance the overall experience of the stay.
• Consistency: With hotels, you generally know what to expect in terms of service and standards, especially if it is a well-known chain.
• Upgrades: Room upgrades are possible and loyalty schemes with hotel groups can be easily joined that will enhance your future stays.
• Cancellation Policies: Cancellation policies for hotel rooms can often be more straightforward, and for many reservations only require a 24-48 hours cancellation notice. This gives great flexibility to your stay. But of course always read the room cancellation policy before making a booking.
• Safety: Hotels often provide a higher level of safety due to their established security measures and protocols. In additional to staffed reception desks; surveillance cameras and on-site security personnel are also generally in place.

Cons:

• Less Privacy: Hotels can sometimes feel crowded and sometimes noisy, especially during peak seasons.
• Limited Space: Hotel rooms can be quite small, particularly in city centres and expensive cities.
• Cost: Hotels, especially those with higher star ratings, can be more expensive than other accommodation options.
• Lack Variety: Staying at hotels can get quite mundane, with the same room styles and layouts.

Vacation Rentals: Pros & Cons

Pros:

• More Space: Vacation rentals generally offer more space, including separate bedrooms, a living area, a kitchen area, and sometimes a private outdoor space. Large amounts of space is particularly beneficial for longer stays and when in large groups, families and young children.
• Fully Equipped: Vacation rentals often come equipped with many essential items that will save you the hassle of packing and transporting them. From fully furnished living spaces to kitchens stocked with cooking utensils, appliances, and crockery, families and groups can comfortably settle in without worrying about the basics.
• Privacy: You have the entire place to yourself and can come and go as you please without worrying about disturbing others.
• Cost-Effective: Vacation rentals can often be more cost-effective, especially for longer stays. Also, as vacation rentals typically come with fully equipped kitchens, you can prepare meals which not only allows for a more home-like atmosphere, but also can result in significant savings by reducing the need for dining out.
• Unique Stays/Properties: Vacation properties provide an opportunity to experience unique stays that go beyond the typical hotel room. For instance, you could opt to stay in a modern apartment loft, a windmill, a lighthouse or in a converted castle; the options are endless. These unique vacation rentals not only offer a place to stay but also contribute significantly to the travel experience, making your trip all the more memorable.
• More Locations/Remote Locations: While hotels are commonly situated in city centres or popular tourist areas, vacation rentals span a broad geographical spectrum. They can be found everywhere – from bustling city neighborhoods to remote countryside locations, coastal villages, or even on secluded islands. This variety allows you to choose accommodations that closely align your preferences, whether it’s a beachfront villa, a mountain cabin, a city loft, or a quaint cottage in the countryside. Furthermore, you can immerse yourself in local culture by staying in residential areas or enjoy the tranquility away from tourist hotspots.

Cons:

• Room Services: Unlike hotels, vacation rentals don’t typically offer services like room service and daily housekeeping.
• Reception: Vacation rentals don’t have a 24/7 reception desk.
• Variable Quality: The quality and standards of vacation rentals can vary greatly. It’s important to check reviews before booking.
• Cancellation Policies: Can be stricter compared to hotels, again always check the cancellation policy before booking.
• Safety: Vacation rentals, such as private apartments or houses, might lack these robust security features compared to hotels. While vacation rentals can offer a unique and often more private experience, hotels tend to have the upper hand when it comes to overall safety.

Best Option For Vacation Scenarios

Family Vacations: If you’re traveling with family or with young children, vacation rentals can be a great choice. The extra space and kitchen and laundry facilities allow for a more comfortable and flexible stay.

Solo Travel: For solo travellers, a hotel might be a safer and more convenient option. The round-the-clock services and the populated/central locations will provide for a safer stay.

Business Trips: For business travellers, hotels are generally the better choice. Hotels take care of daily housekeeping, provide reliable Wi-Fi, meeting spaces, business centres and provide additional services such as room service and laundry.

Long Duration & Car Parking: Vacation rentals can provide a distinct advantage over hotels for extended stays and if you need a car during your stay. Car parking could be an issue when staying at hotels, as hotels may not have car parking space or if they do, the car parking daily charges may be high. Therefore, rental properties can be booked that have a garage or space to park your car.

Romantic Getaways: Both options can work depending on your preference. A luxury hotel will provide a pampered experience, while a vacation property will offer more privacy and space.

Short City Breaks/Multiple Stays: Hotels can often be the ideal choice for short city breaks or when your trip includes multiple stays. Firstly, hotels are typically located in the heart of cities, providing easy access to major attractions, shopping districts, transport and dining options. This central location can save valuable time on a short trip, allowing you to maximize time and sightseeing opportunities. Secondly, hotels offer a range of services that can enhance convenience, such as daily housekeeping, room services, and concierge assistance for booking tours and restaurant reservations. Therefore, the convenience, location, and services provided by hotels can make them a more suitable option for short city breaks or multiple stays.

Cultural Immersion/Off The Beaten Track: Vacation rentals can offer a uniquely immersive experience for those that are seeking more cultural exploration or off-the-beaten-track experiences. Unlike hotels, which are often located in commercial areas and cater to a broad range of tourists, vacation rentals can be found in diverse locations. This allows you to stay in more local areas and provide a more authentic insight into the area’s culture, traditions, and way of life. Moreover, staying in a vacation rental encourages interaction with local community members, whether it’s shopping at neighbourhood markets, dining at local eateries, or participating in community events.

So To Wrap Up On Hotels Vs. Vacation Rentals And Which Is The Best Option…

There is no definitive answer as to which is the better option is the best, it all boils down to your personal preferences and the type of trip you are taking. Hotels offer the convenience of location, services and amenities, but you may not have a lot of privacy. Vacation rentals typically allow for more spacious accommodations to accommodate larger groups, as well as providing home-like amenities such as a kitchen and a living area. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide but our recommendation is to try and tailor the accommodation to the type of vacation you are planning.

For some great Hotel Hacks, read our Best Hotel Hacks blog post.