What Type of Vacation Rentals are Best? 

Apartment Rooms (shared or private)

On many vacation rental sites, you’ll find a large selection of rooms for rent in apartment buildings (often called flats outside the USA). These owners enjoy meeting new people and welcoming them into their homes. The biggest benefit of renting a room in an apartment is that you’ll often be in or near the city, or at least have restaurants and shopping establishments nearby.

The level of privacy you’ll experience in an apartment can vary. If the owner’s unit has just one bathroom, then you’ll be sharing it. If the owner has pets, you’ll have to be okay with that. If there’s no elevator, you might have to climb stairs. You may or may not have outdoor yard space or a veranda. Parking may or may not be available, especially in a city center. On the upside, many buildings may have a swimming pool or gym. A good property listing should specify all these details so that travelers know what to expect.

These hosts are usually willing to give their guests as much privacy as they want or even entertain and show them around town. It just all depends upon the host’s availability. Hosts and travelers alike can meet some amazing people by renting apartment rooms. You’ll have to decide if the level of privacy, location, and amenities meet your travel needs.

Bed & Breakfast (B&B) or "Pension" in Europe

A Bed & Breakfast (or "Pension" as are common in Europe) is a privately owned home where guests stay in a private room and sometimes get breakfast included. These owners usually live in the home and give great hospitality to their guests since it’s their primary business. Hosts often have useful information to share about the local area, such as tourist spots, restaurants, outdoor activities, and tips for getting around.

People don’t usually stay at B&Bs for their swimming pools and fitness centers (although some could have them). Again, these are private homes where guests usually leave during the day to enjoy their leisure or business activities. There are a few exceptions to this, as some B&Bs may host yoga retreats or other type of leisure activities. It’s important to check what amenities are offered (such as a meal) instead of assuming they'll offer it.

Accommodations at B&Bs can vary. You’ll have your own room, but the bathroom might be private or shared. You may have to climb stairs. Parking space may be available, unless you're in a city center. You’ll also have a cozy home environment that so many travelers seek.

A B&B is a great place to meet other travelers. You might be dining with other guests in the morning. Perhaps you’ll even meet some folks to join you for dinner. If you prefer to be friendly and social, this is your type of place. If you want to keep to yourself and never have to say hello to another traveler, then perhaps consider a hotel.

Camping

If you love the outdoors, then consider a camping related vacation rental. You could stay in a travel trailer, caravan, rv, cabin, or a tent. Many homeowners who have space on their property will put a camper out back and rent it out. These usually come with all the amenities you need in a smallish, self-contained space. Depending upon the unit, you’ll have a bed and kitchen area with a dinette. You might have a bathroom; otherwise, there should be one nearby.

You’ll also want to check that bed linens and pillows are included. They may or may not be. You can also stay in a tent, yurt, or tipi. They can range from rustic to refined. If you’re offered a “glamping” experience, then you might have A/C, heat, TV, etc. When it comes to the bathroom, it could be anything from a porta potty to bathroom facilities nearby.

The types of properties where you’ll find campers and tents can greatly vary. You might be at a campground with a swimming pool, fitness center, and organized activities for adults and kids. Then again, you might be in someone’s backyard where none of that exists. It all depends upon what you are looking for. These are often the cheapest form of accommodations, so if you love nature and need to travel on a budget, this is for you.

House or Villa

If you’re looking to rent an entire place, then a house or villa should be your choice. These are suitable for a large family or for events. If you are having an event, it’s imperative that you contact the host before booking to ensure that events are allowed, whether they be family reunions, weddings, birthday parties, etc.

Amenities can vary. Some houses may have a swimming pool, fitness room, movie room, game room, bar area, and more. It all depends upon the type of home. It’s important to remember that homes are usually in residential areas, so keeping the noise level down and respecting the neighbors should be on your mind.

Houses and villas can be expensive to rent, but it can be more affordable if you share the cost with each member of your party.

Condo or Townhouse

Some families prefer to stay in a condo or townhome when they travel. Particularly in Florida, condo rentals are very popular on the beaches and near theme parks. Unlike a hotel room, these places are just like home and feature a living room, kitchen, laundry room, bedrooms, and bathrooms. Many of them have a recreational area a short walk away with a swimming pool, clubhouse, arcade, and fitness center. You’ll most likely have parking in front or near your unit.

Condos and townhouses are ideal for families. Instead of the whole family being crammed into one hotel room, the adults can have their own private bedroom (you know, for some “special” time). The kids can also have their own space so they can giggle and carry on without disturbing the parents.

It’s important to note that many condo type rentals (particularly in Florida) are timeshare properties. Don’t let that bother you. You will usually not be required to attend any presentations. If you are asked to attend a two hour session at check-in, firmly say no (and I know from experience it will be an entire afternoon and not just two hours).

Hostel (Dorm)

A dorm is a type of room with multiple beds (often bunk style) where travelers sleep. They are usually found in hostels. The USA has a few of these places, but they are much more common in Europe. I’ve stayed at hostels in Europe, and I have fond memories of the people I met at those places.

Whether or not a hostel is right for you depends upon your need for privacy. You’ll have to be okay with sleeping with other strangers in the same room. Dorms can be single-sex or coed and bathrooms are always shared. You might have to pay an extra fee for lockers or bed linens. When I stayed, I just kept my backpack close to me in the bed. You might also need to show a hostel membership card. For that you can check out Hostelling International.

Hostels are usually found in big cities and are for budget travelers who want to connect with other backpackers. While many associate them with young people in their twenties, I’ve seen older adults and families with kids staying in hostels.

Remember that hostels are not resorts, so don’t expect a swimming pool, hot tub, or restaurants. There might be some lounge area or a business center. What’s great about them is that they are a short walk or ride to all the action: the tourist spots, museums, restaurants, trails, and more.

Conclusion

What type of vacation rental property is right for you? It all depends upon your privacy needs, the amenities you want, and the location you desire. Do you want to meet people or be left alone? Do you want to be near it all or away from it all? What’s your budget like? How you answer these questions will help you determine the best fit for you.