A vacation should be a chance to get away from drudgery. That's why many are choosing to forgo the national chain hotels in favor of a condo rental for their vacations.

Tired of the same bland, overpriced hotels? A vacation should be a chance to get away from drudgery, rather than inviting more of it. That's exactly why many are choosing to forgo the national chain hotels in favor of a condo rental. If you've never considered going this route, you don't know what you're missing. Instead of relying on an outrageously priced mini-bar and room service, you can have a true home away from home. A kitchen! Multiple rooms! A condominium is perfect for families that don't want to squish into a tiny room for the duration of their trip. If you've decided to leave hotels behind, here are some tips you can use for best results.

Time Of Year

The time of year has a lot to do with the kinds of deals available to vacationing families. More often than not, your most popular travel destinations are going to fill up in the summer months, as well as weekends surrounding the holidays. If you want to book a condo rental in one of these times, you'll need to ensure that you make your arrangements well in advance. If you want to save money, try looking for alternative times. Summer is popular because of the weather and the fact that the kids are out of school, but if you can schedule your vacation in October, for instance, you'll find much more budget-friendly rates.

Destinations

No one wants to base his or her vacation destination around a condo rental, but it's worth considering availability when planning your trip. As stated, vacancies are going to be limited in the most popular destinations. If you're the type of family that likes to plan their trips at the last minute, consider visiting some out-of-the-way areas. Every American coast is lined with beautiful beaches, so you don't need to limit yourself to Florida. There are major tourist attractions in every state. Think outside the box, and you'll not only find additional vacancy options, but you'll probably have a lot more fun.

Extras And Features

Some condo rental deals offer more than others. If you're expecting to spend more than your sleeping hours in your room, you might want to look for those establishments that give you a little more bang for your buck. Some places are perfectly willing to let your dog come along, for example. Others may include tickets to local attractions in the price of the condo rental. At the same time, of course, don't choose an expensive condominium simply because of features and amenities if they will likely go unused.