So you’ve decided to stay in a privately owned vacation rental home. Travel dates are set, reservations are made, and now you’re looking forward to your vacation starting.
But wait, we’ve always stayed in hotels, so how exactly is this? Will toilet paper be provided? What about hand soap and laundry soap?
It’s good that you’re asking these questions now, because staying in a privately owned vacation rental home is significantly different than staying in a hotel. What he renounces in convenience, he gains in comfort and freedom.
Most vacation rental home owners make sure the basics are there for your arrival, but remember, this is best after staying in your own home, and who provides the supplies there? Of course yes!
No owner wants their guests to arrive needing to use the bathroom, only to find that there are no bathroom supplies available. But they also won’t provide you with supplies for your entire stay.
So you need to plan for that and budget for that. One of the first things you’ll want to do, upon arrival, is look around to see what’s there and make a list of what you need.
You will most likely be surprised to find food and other supplies left behind by the vacation rental home owner or previous guests. The general rule of thumb is that what you find is yours to use.
Finding multiple food supplies is also normal. Everyone has their own level of comfort and preferences. Don’t be surprised if you find a couple of jars of peanut butter and other similar supplies. Again, you can use them, but if that makes you uncomfortable, just add that item to your shopping list.
Generally, the cleaning crew has been instructed to remove anything that might spoil or attract unwanted critters. Since we’re on this topic, when you leave, try to get rid of anything that spoils or attracts bugs.
You can also find non-food items like bar soap, shampoo, laundry detergent, dish soap, sunscreen, etc. You can use them, but they might not be your brand or whatever. So, save them for the next guests.
Once you’ve looked around and taken inventory, make a shopping list and go shopping. You will want to stock up for your stay and should plan to replace whatever you use. You certainly don’t want to leave the property without essential items like toilet paper and soap.
It’s kind of a “pay in advance” philosophy. The idea is that if you leave it well stored for the next guest, they will do the same for subsequent guests, etc. Hopefully, you will benefit the next time you stay in a privately owned vacation rental, and the home will be well equipped for you, upon arrival.
Always remember that you are staying at someone’s house. Yes, you are paying the rent and yes, it is your right to use it, but use it with respect. If you move a side table or lamp, you must return those items to their original location.
If you break something, be responsible and replace it if you can, or offer to repair it or share the cost. At the very least, notify the vacation home rental owner, so the item can be replaced by later guests. Most vacation rental homeowners understand wear and tear, but courtesy and consideration are greatly appreciated.
Remember, staying in a vacation rental home is not that different from staying with a family member. Would you use all their supplies? Would you rearrange your furniture without permission? What if you broke something, wouldn’t you be responsible for fixing it, replacing it, or at least notifying your family member? Just use a little common sense and courtesy, and everyone will be happy.
Staying in a privately owned vacation rental is a great experience that allows families to vacation together comfortably. If you feel the need to be pampered, then staying in a hotel where enough staff are available to meet your needs is probably a better option for you.
But if you enjoy your privacy and like the idea of waking up in the morning and having a cup of coffee while sitting poolside in your pajamas, then a privately owned vacation rental can’t be beat!