Not all holidays are the same, which is why you shouldn’t book the same type of rentals each time. In addition to traditional chain hotel and motels, there are condos, bed and breakfasts, and even hostels that might be better options. 

If you’re getting ready for your summer holiday but haven’t booked your accommodation yet, there are several types of rentals you can choose from. You don’t have to stay at a chain motel or a four-star hotel either. Consider condos, bed and breakfasts, or even hostels for your next vacation. 

Hotels
For couples or single travelers and those going away for just a day or two, hotels are likely the best option. While generally small unless you pony up for a honeymoon or presidential suite, even the lower quality rooms will have everything you need for a weekend away. You’ll also be treated to daily maid service (remember to always tip!), fresh towels, and the help of a 24-hour staff. Most hotels provide room service for a large fee, but to save a bit of money you can always take a trip to the restaurant. Pools, spas, beauty salons, and other amenities are often available on the premises. A really great hotel, while costly, can feel like a luxurious experience. Some people enjoy it so much that they end up never leaving and exploring the local surrounds. 

Bed and breakfast
If you want something more charming and less corporate, most cities offer several smaller bed and breakfast rentals. Unlike hotels, the rooms and services provided are non-standard across the board, although there is a consistent rating system in most travel guides that judges cleanliness, amenities, service, and appearance. These tend to be less expensive than hotels and like the title suggest, most include a breakfast in the package. A B&B is great for a few days in a smaller town. Due to their small size, the owners will generally have time to chat to guests and make recommendations. Since they’re usually local themselves, they’ll be of great assistance and won’t try to sell you on an overpriced tour. 

Condos
If you’re planning on visiting a location for a week or more, or you are traveling with a larger group that includes children, condo rentals make sensible options. There is much more space so your privacy will not be impaired. There is also plenty of variety, from one room country cottages to six bedroom beachside resorts. Prices will vary, and much like hotel rooms, the more luxurious and the more services that are included, the more you will pay. You can save some money by booking several days or weeks at a time and making use out of the kitchen. You can cook your own food rather than eating out every night. 

Hostels
Just making a quick stopover in a large city and on a tight budget? Why not consider a hostel? While they generally cater to the youth and backpacker cultures, especially in Europe, there are still several dotted throughout the United States and private rooms are available at a slightly higher rate. They are much less expensive than hotels and motels, but there is a good reason for that. Even at the best of them you will likely have to share a bathroom with several other guests and deal with a bit of noise and grit. If you don’t plan on staying long though and have a meager budget, they are worth looking into.