How to Book the Perfect Family Vacation Rental

September 30, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 10 minutes

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When traveling with kids, finding the perfect vacation rental can make or break your trip. But with so many options, from cabins to beach houses, how do you know which is the best fit for your family?

Here’s a guide to help you pick the perfect vacation rental that everyone will love.

In today’s issue:

  • Tips: Booking the Perfect Family Vacation Rental

  • Trips: Family-Friendly Destinations with Great Rentals

  • Inspire: Share Our Newsletter 🥰

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Tips: Booking the Perfect Family Vacation Rental

Not all rentals are created equal, and it’s easy to get caught up in beautiful photos without considering the practicalities of traveling with kids. A house with an open floor plan might be great for adults, but could be a challenge if you have toddlers who like to roam.

Let’s dive into the must-have features and services that will make your next family vacation a breeze.

1. Prioritize Safety Features

Kids love to explore, so choosing a rental that prioritizes safety is essential. Look for properties with childproofed spaces or at least those that can accommodate your safety needs. For example, if you have toddlers, ensure there are no balconies without railings or steep staircases. Airbnb allows you to filter listings by family-friendly amenities like cribs, high chairs, and safety gates.

Product Recommendation: Consider packing a travel baby gate or outlet covers if the rental doesn’t offer these. Dreambaby's Retractable Gate is lightweight and easy to install anywhere.

2. Choose Rentals with Kid-Centric Amenities

Your vacation rental should offer more than just a place to sleep—it should enhance your family’s stay. Kid-friendly amenities like bunk beds, game rooms, or even a swimming pool can make the vacation more exciting. Many platforms like VRBO offer search filters to find homes with large backyards, toys, and even in-home theaters.

App Recommendation: Use VRBO's App to search for homes that cater specifically to family travelers. You can also save favorite rentals to share with your partner before making the final decision.

3. Location, Location, Location

The proximity of your rental to key attractions or conveniences, like playgrounds, grocery stores, or family-friendly restaurants, can make a big difference. Avoid places that require long drives to the nearest town or those situated in noisy, urban areas that could disrupt the kids’ sleep.

Service Suggestion: For urban adventures, try Sonder, which offers centrally located apartments in family-friendly neighborhoods with kitchen facilities to help with meal prep.

4. Check Reviews for Kid-Friendliness

It's the little things that matter most, and reviews can uncover what the listings might miss. Parents who’ve stayed there before will often share helpful insights into whether the home truly lives up to being “kid-friendly.” Take time to read through reviews, especially those from families with children. If you see positive comments on a home’s safety or fun amenities for kids, it’s likely a good bet.

App Tip: Use the Airbnb app and search for listings that have at least five family reviews.

5. Opt for Rentals with Kitchens

A full kitchen can be a lifesaver when traveling with kids, especially picky eaters. Being able to whip up a quick breakfast before heading out for the day or have snacks on hand can prevent meltdowns. Vacation rentals like those found on Booking.com or Plum Guide often come equipped with fully stocked kitchens, making meal planning easier and more cost-effective.

Bonus Tip: If you’re heading somewhere new, grocery delivery services like Instacart or Walmart Plus can deliver groceries directly to your rental, saving you time.

6. Avoid Common Pitfalls

Booking a vacation rental for the family can come with its challenges. Avoid the stress by:

  • Double-checking the cancellation policies, house rules (no pets?), and the check-in/check-out times.

  • Some properties are strict about noise levels, and while this may not always be listed, it's worth asking the host about it.

  • Communicate any special needs upfront to ensure a seamless stay.

Remember, a little research goes a long way to ensure the rental you choose is perfect for the entire family.

Trips: Family-Friendly Destinations with Great Rentals

Orlando, FL

Universal Studios

Orlando is a top destination for families, and vacation rentals here often come with kid-centric features like themed bedrooms (think Mickey Mouse!), private pools, and game rooms. Plus, you're close to Disney World, Universal Studios, and tons of family-friendly restaurants. Check out VRBO’s Orlando listings for homes just minutes away from the parks.

Jackson Hole, WY

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

For families seeking a mix of outdoor adventure and stunning natural beauty, Jackson Hole is the perfect destination. With nearby national parks like Grand Teton and Yellowstone, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and even family-friendly rafting trips. Look for cozy cabins or luxurious lodges that offer large outdoor spaces and easy access to trails. Plum Guide has several curated rentals that blend rustic charm with modern amenities, ideal for enjoying the great outdoors with kids.

San Diego, CA

San Diego, California

From its world-renowned zoo to stunning beaches, San Diego has something for everyone. Family-friendly rentals are abundant here, many with easy access to kid-approved attractions like Legoland and SeaWorld. With rentals that boast ocean views and backyard playsets, Airbnb’s San Diego homes are perfect for both relaxation and play.

The right vacation rental can be the difference between a smooth, relaxing trip and a stressful one. By following these tips and picking the best location for your family, you’re one step closer to creating lasting memories.

Happy Travels,

The Traveling Parents Team

P.S: Be sure to follow us on social media and share your family's travel experiences with #parentstraveleasy

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