Vacation rentals can easily be the factor that makes a difference in your travel memories. The right rental home can make your stay completely comfortable and give you plenty of space to spread out as you relax at the end of the day. As you are comparing the various condos, apartments, and rental homes available to you, these are some of the factors that you should consider to ensure that you pick the right one.

The Location
You want to choose a rental that is near the attractions you are planning to see. This will cut down on wasted time spent traveling from your lodging to your activities. However, you may not want to be too near, as this can make the noise from other tourists distract from your holiday experience. Tailor the location to your needs and travel plans.

Services
Not all vacation rentals have the same services. Some are in communities where features like continental breakfast, workout facilities, and even kids play areas are offered, while others are stand-alone units. Even stand-alone homes may have services like baby gear, rental bikes, and private swimming pools, depending on the location you visit. Other services you may need include airport transfers, beach clubs, and special packages for events like honeymoons or weddings. When comparing the lodging options available to you, always compare these services.

Ambiance
The ambiance of the home is important to your overall stay. Many of these homes are decorated to match a theme. Make sure that the decor is going to make your stay comfortable and inviting. Also, make sure that it appeals to your entire family. If you are traveling with kids, you are going to want to avoid the romantic villas with amenities and decor designed for a couple and opt instead for a more family-friendly option.

Layout
Vacation rentals come in all shapes and sizes, literally. Consider the needs of those you are traveling with when choosing one. A family may be able to enjoy a cozy cottage with just one restroom, but friends traveling together are going to be more comfortable in a more spacious home with at least a couple of bathrooms. Consider whether everyone in your group needs his or her own bedroom, or if sharing between siblings or friends is an option.

Terms of Rental
When considering these homes, look not only at the decor and layout of the home, but also on the terms and policies of the rental agreement. Read these thoroughly, and make sure that you understand them before you sign. For instance, you need to know what the refund policy is should you need to cancel or change your travel plans. Some will not allow this, or will charge high fees.

The policies will also tell you what is included in the cost of your rental. For some facilities, the rental includes everything, including laundry and maid service, included meals, and entertainment. For other facilities, the rental includes only the location. Other things you may need are extra, or you have to come up with the money on your own. Understanding the terms when comparing vacation rentals is vital to making the right choice for your travel plans.