Over the years, Michelle and I have taken our five kids on as many vacations as possible across the United States. For us, it’s important to show them different parts of the country and give them experiences they can remember for a lifetime. In the early days, we used to stay in hotels. It was fine, but as the family grew and our needs changed, we started looking for alternatives. That’s when we discovered short term vacation rentals, and let me tell you—it completely transformed how we travel.
Having a whole house, cottage, or cabin to ourselves just made everything easier. We had more space to spread out, more privacy, and the ability to cook our own meals. It felt like we were truly at home no matter where we were. After our first experience with a short-term vacation rental, we were hooked. We never went back to hotels.
The Advantages of Short Term Vacation Rentals
When we first started using short-term vacation rentals, we noticed right away how much more convenient they were for our family. Here are some of the biggest reasons why we now prefer them:
- Space and Privacy
With five kids, space is a huge factor. Hotels, no matter how nice, always felt cramped. A couple of small beds, a tiny bathroom, and a mini-fridge just didn’t cut it. In a vacation rental, we often get multiple bedrooms, a full kitchen, and a living space where everyone can relax. The kids can have their own rooms (which means better sleep for everyone!), and Michelle and I can have our own space to unwind. It’s a game-changer. - Full Kitchens
One of the biggest perks of short term vacation rentals is having a full kitchen at our disposal. Eating out for every meal can get expensive quickly, especially with a big family. Being able to prepare our own meals not only saves money but also gives us the chance to eat healthier. Plus, it’s nice to enjoy a family dinner together in a cozy space instead of a noisy restaurant. - Local Experience
Staying in a vacation rental often gives us a better feel for the local culture and environment. Whether it’s a beach house, a cabin in the mountains, or a charming home in a small town, short-term vacation rentals allow us to experience places like a local. We’ve stayed in homes where we could chat with the neighbors, shop at nearby markets, and even take part in local events. This immersion in the local area just isn’t possible in a hotel setting. - More Affordable for Large Groups
Another reason we love short term vacation rentals is the cost. With a family of seven, renting two or three hotel rooms adds up fast. In contrast, a single vacation rental can often accommodate us all at a more reasonable price. When we travel with extended family or friends, we can even split the cost, making it more affordable for everyone.
The Importance of Communication in Short Term Vacation Rentals
Michelle is the one who usually handles the booking process. Whether it’s a quick weekend getaway or a longer family vacation, she takes care of the logistics, including communication with the host. What always stands out to both of us is how important good communication is when renting someone else’s home.
When you’re booking a vacation rental, you want to feel confident that if anything goes wrong, someone is there to help. Life is unpredictable—things break, plans change, and sometimes the property isn’t exactly what you expected. That’s where the host comes in. One of the reasons we’ve had such great experiences with short term vacation rentals is that we’ve been lucky enough to deal with hosts who understand this.
For example, on one trip, we arrived at the rental property and noticed that the Wi-Fi wasn’t working. For a family like ours, that’s a pretty big deal. Michelle reached out to the host, who responded immediately and had the issue fixed within a couple of hours. It’s little things like that which make all the difference.
When the communication is good, it puts you at ease and lets you enjoy your trip without worrying. In contrast, if the host is hard to reach or slow to respond, it can lead to stress and frustration. We’ve learned to prioritize short term vacation rentals with highly-rated hosts who value communication. It’s the key to a smooth, enjoyable stay.
Why We Value Great Customer Service
Both Michelle and I have worked in customer service for most of our lives, so we know firsthand how important it is to treat people well. That’s something we look for in every aspect of our travels, especially when it comes to vacation rentals.
One of the things we’ve noticed about short term vacation rentals is that the best hosts are the ones who go above and beyond to make sure you’re comfortable. It’s not just about providing a clean, well-maintained home; it’s about making you feel welcome.
We’ve stayed at places where the host left a little welcome basket with local treats, and others where they provided a detailed guidebook with recommendations for things to do in the area. Those personal touches go a long way in making the experience special.
In the rare cases when something doesn’t go as planned, it’s always comforting to know there’s someone we can reach out to. Whether it’s a small issue like needing extra towels or a bigger concern, like a broken air conditioner, having someone available to help is crucial.
How to Choose the Right Short Term Vacation Rental
With so many short term vacation rentals available today, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Over the years, we’ve developed a system for finding the perfect rental for our family. Here are a few tips we’ve learned:
- Read Reviews
The best way to get an honest sense of a property is by reading reviews from previous guests. Pay attention to comments about cleanliness, the accuracy of the listing, and, of course, the responsiveness of the host. If multiple people mention the same issues, that’s usually a red flag. - Check the Amenities
Not all vacation rentals are created equal. Make sure to check the amenities listed in the property description to ensure it meets your needs. For us, a full kitchen and Wi-Fi are non-negotiable. You might also want to check for things like air conditioning, laundry facilities, and parking options. - Look for Clear Communication
When reaching out to the host with any pre-booking questions, take note of how quickly they respond and how helpful they are. A responsive host is a good indicator that they’ll be available to help during your stay if needed. For example, if you’re booking a short-term vacation rental near Orlando or Kissimmee, you’ll want to be close to world-famous attractions like Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios Orlando, and SeaWorld Orlando. Families can also enjoy a day at LEGOLAND Florida Resort or get up close to wildlife at Gatorland. Being near these iconic spots can transform a good vacation into a fantastic one, offering endless entertainment for both kids and adults. - Location Matters
Whether you’re looking for a beachside bungalow or a mountain cabin, make sure the location suits your needs. Proximity to local attractions, grocery stores, and restaurants can make a big difference in your experience. - Book Early
Popular short term vacation rentals can fill up fast, especially during peak travel seasons. We’ve learned the hard way that it’s better to book early to get the best selection and prices.
Why Chillax Inn is Your Perfect Choice for a Vacation Rental
At Chillax Inn, Michelle and I have worked hard to create a space where families like ours can relax and make lasting memories. We understand what it’s like to travel with kids, and we know how important it is to have a comfortable, well-equipped home base for your adventures.
One thing that sets us apart from other short term vacation rentals is our commitment to excellent communication. We’re always available to answer any questions before, during, or after your stay. Whether you need help with something in the house or just want recommendations for local attractions, we’re here to make sure your experience is as smooth as possible.
There are plenty of places to stay when you’re on vacation, but we believe that communication and customer service are what make the difference between a good stay and an unforgettable one. We want you to feel completely at ease from the moment you book until the moment you check out.
Plan Your Next Getaway
If you’re looking for a family-friendly vacation rental with all the comforts of home, look no further than Chillax Inn. We’re proud to offer one of the best short term vacation rentals around, with everything you need to relax, unwind, and make the most of your time away.
So, whether you’re planning your next big family adventure or just a weekend getaway, we’d love to host you. Short term vacation rentals offer flexibility, space, and a personal touch that hotels simply can’t match.
Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need help planning your stay. We’re here to ensure you have the best vacation possible and hope you’ll come back to Chillax Inn again and again!
