8/25/2024

VRBO Tips & Tricks: Your Ultimate Guide to a Fantastic Stay

Are you ready to unlock the secrets to making your VRBO (Vacation Rentals by Owner) experience absolutely AMAZING? Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a newbie in the vacation rental game, you’re in the right place! In this guide, we'll explore a treasure trove of tips & tricks to help you make the most of your VRBO experience. From booking to staying, we've got you COVERED.

1. Understanding the Platform: VRBO vs. Other Direct Rentals

Before diving into the nitty-gritty, let’s get a good grasp on what makes VRBO special. Unlike Airbnb, which lists anything from shared spaces to entire homes, VRBO focuses solely on whole properties. This means if you’re traveling with family or friends, it’s a PERFECT choice for privacy & space.

Why Choose VRBO?

Family-Friendly Options: Most properties cater to larger groups.
Less Shared Space Anxiety: Ahem, no awkward shared kitchen moments!
Focused Listings: You’re less likely to encounter properties that don’t meet your needs.

2. Researching Your Dream Rental

Once you’ve decided VRBO is the way to go, it’s time to hunt for that dream rental! Here are some hot tips for researching:

- Create a Trip Board

Using VRBO’s Trip Board feature allows you to save & organize your favorite rentals, making comparison a BREEZE. You can keep track of amenities, prices, & locations all in one place!

- Read Reviews like a Detective

Don’t skim over reviews; dive into the details. Look for comments on cleanliness, host responsiveness, & accuracy of the listing. Past Travelers usually share valuable insights that can give you a realistic expectation.

3. Communicate with Your Host

NEVER underestimate the power of good communication. Once you’ve found a property, don’t hesitate to reach out to the host with any questions or concerns. Here’s why:

Clarifications on Amenities: Are there extra fees? Is Wi-Fi included?
House Rules: Make sure you're onboard with the rules. Each property might have different guidelines regarding guests, pets, or noise.

Pro Tip: Ask for Discounts!

If you're lucky, some hosts might offer discounts, especially for longer stays or if you inquire directly. It doesn’t hurt to ask and see what happens!

4. Getting Familiar with Cancellation Policies

Before you hit that BOOK NOW button, swing by the cancellation policies. Understand if you’re opting for a strict or relaxed policy – this can influence your booking strategy:

No Refund Policy: Yikes! Proceed with caution!
Strict – 60 Days: Great if you’re sure about your plans.
Flexible Policies: If you think your plans might change, look for these to ensure you won't lose your hard-earned cash if something comes up.

5. Safety First!

When you're browsing properties, safety is key! Here’s what you can do:

Check for Security Features: Make sure the property has smoke detectors, fire extinguishers & a plan for emergencies.
Research the Area: Use apps or local resources to gauge the safety of the neighborhood. Trust your GUT feeling!

6. Pack Smart & Prepare for Your Stay

Packing can make or break your trip. Here’s how to pack efficiently:

List Things That Matter: Don’t be the traveler who forgets crucial stuff like chargers or swimsuits!
Check for In-House Amenities: Many properties come with appliances, kitchen gadgets, & even beach gear. This not only decreases packing stress but can also save YOU money!

What You Should Bring

A favorite pillow or blanket if you’re picky!
Snacks for late-night cravings—always essential for group trips!
A light first-aid kit for unexpected boo-boos.

7. Arrival Fun & Check-In Hacks

Transitioning from travel mode to relaxation can be SMOOTH with the right strategies:

- Early Check-In Requests

Don’t hesitate to ask for an early check-in or late check-out. Sometimes hosts are flexible, depending on their cleaning schedules. A little extra time can make a WORLD of difference on the first & last day.

- Familiarize Yourself with the Space

Once you arrive, take a hot second to explore the house. Look for:

Emergency exits
Location of fire extinguishers
Rules about using shared facilities, if applicable (pool, gym, etc.).

8. Respect House Rules

This might seem like a no-brainer, but respecting your host's house rules is CRUCIAL. This can include:

Guest Limits
Noise Restrictions (be the GOOD neighbor!)
Smoking Policies

Breaking rules can lead to nasty reviews & possible fees, so just abide by them!

9. Exceeding Expectations: Leaving a Review

After a fantastic stay, leaving a thoughtful review can help future guests decide. Plus, it’s just good karma! Here’s how to do it well:

Be Honest But Constructive: Mention what you liked, & if there were areas to improve, be kind in your critique.
Share Details: Specific comments about the property & host generally help others more than vague praise.

10. Take Advantage of Technology

Did you know there’s a world of technology you can exploit for your trips? Consider using chatbots from Arsturn for your pre-travel and on-the-go questions!

Why Arsturn?

Instant Communication: Ask questions about your rental or even local hot spots instantly!
Tailored Recommendations: Get personalized advice based on your travel preferences directly from the chatbot.
No Credit Card Required: Explore all the capabilities without worry about hidden fees or complexities!

Conclusion

There you have it, a full-fledged guide on leveraging VRBO to make every stay a smashing success! Use these tips & tricks to ensure that your next vacation is smooth, enjoyable, & packed with fun. Happy travels, & remember to keep those VRBO stars shining bright with every well-deserved review!