Are Bargain Vacation Rentals Really Cheaper? How to Get the Most Bang for Your Buck
We all love a good deal, whether it's a discount on groceries or an affordably-priced pair of jeans. Today, that bargain mindset applies to travel too, with lots of influencers discussing the best ways to save on your vacation.
But this begs the question- are bargain vacation rentals really cheaper in the long run? While there are clear advantages to saving money, choosing the cheapest option could end up costing you in other ways. Here's what to consider when you're deciding between inexpensive and luxury accommodations.
Why So Many of Us Look for Cheap Rentals
If you're always on the hunt for the best bargain, you certainly aren't alone. Travel costs a pretty penny, and many of us are looking to save money where we can. Affordability is the most obvious benefit of choosing cheaper flights and accommodations.
Many travelers use the money they save on those comforts to pay for additional tours, dinners, and experiences. Budget travel can also pave the way for future trips- the thinking being that if you save on this trip, you'll be able to travel more in the months and years to come. For folks who aren't worried about comfort, affordability trumps all.
When Cheap Vacation Rentals Fall Flat
When we travel, we often end up paying for things upfront- the flights, vacation rentals, admission tickets, and more. If you pay well in advance, you might not even feel like you're spending money when you actually leave for your trip!
Travelers who choose the cheapest options, however, frequently come across disadvantages they don't expect. Here are just a few of the ways a low-quality vacation rental can ruin a trip:
Safety Concerns
Too often, travelers skimp on their accommodation and arrive at a hotel or rental where they don't feel safe. In the most extreme cases, they could end up paying to stay somewhere else and effectively pay double for one vacation.
Subpar Amenities
Inexpensive vacation rentals probably won't have the amenities you've come to expect from standard accommodations. Be ready to forgo laundry facilities, complimentary beverages and snacks, and smart TVs if you compromise on cost. Some lodgings might advertise certain amenities, only to offer a very low-quality version.
Hidden Fees
An accommodation that looks cheap at first might actually include tons of hidden fees that drive the price up. For example, the per-night rate might only be $80, but when you factor in additional costs for parking, breakfast service, and linens, it's just as expensive as a luxury stay.
The Pros of Budgeting for Luxury
Sometimes, it pays to budget for a deluxe experience! Although you'll have a higher initial cost, you don't have to stress about missing amenities or poor safety measures. Not every luxury vacation rental is perfect, but you're more likely to get these benefits when you pay a bit more:
Comfort
You just can't beat the comfort of a luxury vacation rental. These accommodations have more than your average bells and whistles. They often include plush linens, king-size beds, and cozy outdoor furniture perfect for enjoying the views.
Convenience
If you're paying for luxury, you're probably paying for convenience as well. High-end lodgings often have easy access to a washer and dryer, a fully-equipped kitchen, and sometimes even beach towels and supplies. Certain accommodations might give you free access to a local resort, too.
Unique Experiences
A luxury vacation will be memorable for all the right reasons. High-end accommodations might have unmatched views you wouldn't find at your average hotel, or they may provide amenities like kayaks, golf carts, or private pools. For many travelers, a luxury vacation rental is the perfect way to treat themselves to a new experience.
Which Is the Better Deal?
Ultimately, only you can decide if the advantages of cheap accommodations outweigh the lack of comfort and convenience. Instead of exclusively looking at the sticker price, think in terms of value. Would a luxury accommodation significantly improve your stay?
Could a cheap one make your vacation less enjoyable? When you add up the total value of a cheap vacation vs. a luxury one, you might find that high-end accommodations are worth the added monetary cost.
How to Get High-End Accommodations for Less
Staying in a luxury vacation doesn't have to mean breaking the bank! If you know where to look, you can find less expensive rentals that still bring you the high-end amenities you deserve. Here are a few tips to get the most bang for your buck:
- Look for Discounts and Promos- Many vacation rental providers run discounts and promotional events throughout the year. If you follow your favorite properties, you might be able to take advantage of these offers.
- Book Direct- Perhaps the easiest way to save money (and stress!) is to book directly with the accommodation. It might be tempting to use aggregator sites, but going straight to the property's booking system often gets you the best rate. What's more, you may earn loyalty points to cash in later!
- Be Flexible with Dates- Instead of honing in on a specific vacation date, we encourage you to be flexible with your schedule. Some rentals offer lower prices midweek, and changing up your dates could save you money.
- Watch for Last-Minute Deals- Most accommodations would rather fill their rooms at a lower rate than have them sitting empty. Vigilant budget travelers watch for last-minute deals to get reduced rates as their vacation date nears.
- Use Credit Card Points- Do you have lots of credit card points racked up? Use them to book travel! Some credit card companies partner with travel brands to provide even lower rates.
- Go in the Off-Season- Consider booking travel outside of the most popular season. Vacation rentals typically offer lower rates during the off-season when the area isn't full of tourists.
Everyone wants to save a little money, but booking a cheap vacation rental may not bring you the value you expect. Luxury accommodations allow you to vacation in comfort and convenience with access to all kinds of amenities.
Our partners across North America feature hundreds of luxury stays that will ensure your trip is one to remember. Explore our destinations today!
