Many people are choosing staycation holidays this year rather than jumping on a plane are loading up the car and heading somewhere different. This might be your first time, and one of the best options for a staycation is booking a holiday cottage. However, you may have realised that there is certainly a lot to choose from. Different websites, owner advertised, or platforms like Airbnb to devour, how do you know you will get your holiday cottage booking right for you? With that in mind, here are some tips to help you if you are booking a holiday cottage for the first time.
Staycation Holiday Tips
Be certain of your destination
One of the first things you need to nail down is the destination you want to go to. It is important to figure out the perfect location for you and the people you are going away with. If it is for a family is there enough things to do locally? If it is a couple or a group of friends is there enough going on, or in some cases is the location secluded enough or fits your interests? Knowing where you want to go and doing the research on just the location means you can narrow down your search.
With so many cottages and staycation holiday homes available, having the location in mind means you are sure of one thing. We have had lovely family holidays in Weymouth read 5-fun-things-to-do-in-weymouth-for-kids for inspiration. We also loved staying at Hawkchurch-spa-resort/ in Devon.
Book as early as you can
The next thing to do would be to book as early as you can. The longer you leave it, the less likely you will get a cottage that suits your needs, you might pay more, or you may even have to compromise on some things. It isn’t worth it. When you know where, the dates, and you have your budget ready to go, get it booked.
Have a wish list of the things you want
There will always be things that you will want from your holiday cottage so have a wish list for the things you want. This might include the number of bedrooms, whether there is a hot tub, or are their facilities close by? You might want a cottage with easy access to other things like the beach or close to the village or town you are visiting. Having your wish list on non-negotiables and then compromisable things will help you narrow down your search when searching for a staycation holiday.
Make sure you read the reviews
Another thing you should do once you have a few cottages on the short list would be to read some reviews. There will be dedicated websites for holiday reviews but also, depending on who you are booking with, there will like be ratings and feedback. This will give you an honest overview of whether it is right for you.
Is there a cancellation policy?
A cancellation policy is important, especially right now when life is a little uncertain at the moment. However, knowing what your rights are and whether there is a cancellation policy in place before you book can give you some extra peace of mind. Not only will it give you the confidence to book the cottage, but you can also be assured that should there be any changes to your plans, that you can cancel and get money back, if appropriate. If it isn’t advertised, make sure you ask before you book to protect yourself.
Are there any additional fees?
Looking at a staycation holiday cottage online may seem like you have found the perfect place, but always be mindful that what you see in the pictures or in the description may be subject to additional fees. There could be fees for additional people, pets, the use of facilities like a hot tub, for example. It should be in small print but if you are unsure always ask the question before you book. This brings us to the final tip.
Clarify what you get
Make sure you clarify what you are getting as part of your booking. Doing this before you part with any money is important, but if you forget to ask about something specific then don’t be afraid to send a message or email ahead of your trip. There could be missed details like needing to bring your own bed linen, food and water for the first evening perhaps, or generally having access to all of the grounds or facilities. Don’t take for granted what you see in the advert or in the pictures.
Let’s hope these tips help you if you are booking a staycation holiday cottage for the first time.
