You have booked your plane or train tickets and have a list of all the places that you want to visit. The only thing left is to book a place to stay. Accommodation can be a tricky subject when it comes to planning a vacation. There are hundreds of options to choose from and it can be very overwhelming. Today, we are comparing resorts and home rentals to help you decide which option is right for you.

What are the benefits of a resort?

Resorts are located in popular vacation destinations and offer a wide variety of activities and amenities. Most resorts offer swimming pools, spas, restaurants, and even golf courses and water parks to allow their guests to have a luxurious and relaxing experience without having to leave the property.

Because resorts are run by big names in the hospitality industry, they come with a complete team of staff members whose primary purpose is to make your stay enjoyable and carefree. This can include drivers, room service staff, and concierge services to help you with booking tours or making dinner reservations.

Many resorts also offer all-inclusive packages that come with airport transfers, three meals a day, and standard tours to eliminate the hassle of having to book and pay for everything separately. Resorts are perfect for families or large groups who just want an easy vacation where they do not have to lift a finger to organize food or fun.

What are the benefits of a home rental?

Home rentals give you a chance to live like a local while exploring a new city or country. Through websites such as Airbnb, you can rent apartments, houses, or even boats that will allow you to experience the area firsthand. Many home rentals come with useful amenities such as laundry facilities, a kitchen, and televisions with Netflix.

Because home rentals are typically run by individual local hosts, you can enjoy more privacy and seclusion than you would get at a resort. Since you are not staying in an exclusive area, you can immerse yourself in local culture, restaurants, and shops, and explore your destination at your own pace on a more authentic level.

Another perk of home rentals is that they are often more budget-friendly than resorts. In addition, you get to save more money by cooking and washing your own clothes. Home rentals are good for more self-sufficient travelers who prefer to make the trip as affordable as possible without compromising on comfort.

Which is right for you?

There are four main questions to ask when selecting your ideal vacation accommodation.

What is your budget?

The cost of accommodation is a huge factor in deciding where to stay. Resorts often charge higher rates since they offer a higher level of comfort, service, and amenities, whereas home rentals tend to be cheaper since you are paying only to rent the space. That said, some home rentals can cost more than resort rooms, especially if they have unique features or are situated in very popular locations. Be sure to do your research and compare prices from different sources as there are often deals available online.

Where do you want to stay?

If you are looking to explore a city, you might want to look for a home rental with a central location that allows you to walk to nearby attractions and use public transport. Alternatively, if you are looking for a relaxing holiday where you can just lay back and chill by the pool, you might want to consider staying at a resort that is spacious and far away from the hustle and bustle. In some cases, you may have a specific attraction that you want to stay close to, such as the Universal Studios theme park or the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Who is coming along?

If you are traveling with children, you probably want a family-friendly resort that offers activities for kids. On the other hand, if you are traveling with your partner or friends, you may want to stay in a rental apartment so you can have quiet candlelight meals or dinner parties. The number of travelers in your group matters as well. It may be easier to stay in a resort as a big group to avoid conflicts with privacy and living space. However, renting out a whole house for a big group may work out cheaper than booking several rooms in a resort.

What do you feel like doing?

While some people love to see and do as much as possible while they are on holiday, many others prefer to do nothing at all. If you have no interest in cooking or cleaning during your vacation, then a home rental is out of the question. Likewise, if you like to socialize and have a few drinks in the evening, then you will most likely want to choose a resort where you can meet other travelers. Meanwhile, if you plan to spend most of your time sightseeing, then a home rental may be a better choice since you will not make use of the amenities anyway.

Choosing the perfect accommodation option for your holiday can be challenging. Resorts and home rentals both have their pros and cons, so be sure to consider your options thoroughly before making a final decision. Enjoy your vacation!