Planning your next getaway? Whether it’s a beach escape, a city break, or a remote work retreat, one thing can make or break your entire experience: your holiday rental.
In today’s world of endless travel options, choosing the right accommodation is more important than ever. From spacious family homes and chic city apartments to off-grid cabins and romantic hideaways, the perfect vacation rental can turn a good trip into an unforgettable one.
At Search and Stay, we believe that finding the right place to stay should be simple, smart, and tailored to your travel style. This guide will walk you through how to choose a holiday rental that suits your needs—whether you’re travelling with the kids, planning a romantic escape, working remotely, or chasing adventure on your own.
The Power of the Right Stay
A good holiday starts with great planning—and your accommodation is a huge part of that. The place you book becomes your home base, your sanctuary after long days of exploring, and often, a big part of the memories you bring home.
Unlike hotels, vacation rentals offer variety and personality. They allow you to live like a local, enjoy more space and privacy, and often access locations off the usual tourist track. But with choice comes responsibility—it’s up to you to filter through the options and find the right fit.
So, how do you do that? It all starts with knowing your travel style.
Match Your Stay to Your Travel Style
Different travellers need different things from their holiday rental. Here’s how to match your accommodation to your travel vibe.
Family-Friendly Holidays
Travelling with kids means juggling nap times, snacks, and safety—so your vacation rental should support that. Look for homes with enclosed yards, multiple bedrooms, laundry facilities, and fully equipped kitchens. A little extra space can go a long way, especially when everyone needs a breather.
Family-friendly holiday rentals often include high chairs, cots, toys, and even books for little ones. Location matters too. Consider being close to the beach, a park, or a local attraction so there’s always something to do without spending hours in the car.
Couples' Escapes
Romantic getaways call for atmosphere. Think ocean views, clawfoot tubs, fireplaces, and a touch of luxury. The right holiday rental offers privacy, comfort, and the chance to slow down together—whether that’s a vineyard retreat, a mountain hideaway, or a studio in a lively city neighbourhood.
Keep an eye out for features like private balconies, in-room spa baths, or outdoor decks—anything that makes the stay feel special.
Remote Work Getaways
Working from paradise is now a reality for many. If you’re combining business with pleasure, your accommodation needs to be as functional as it is relaxing. Fast Wi-Fi is non-negotiable, and a quiet workspace or desk setup helps keep productivity high.
Look for vacation rentals in peaceful settings, but still within reach of cafes, shops, or transport. Somewhere with inspiring views doesn’t hurt either—because even spreadsheets are better with a beach backdrop.
Solo Adventures
Travelling alone gives you complete freedom. Whether you’re after reflection, connection, or exploration, the right holiday rental can enhance your sense of adventure. A self-contained studio, a quirky tiny home, or a centrally located flat gives you flexibility without excess space or cost.
Look for safety, proximity to transport or local hotspots, and something with a little personality—you’re travelling solo, not staying sterile.
Group Trips & Celebrations
When you're travelling with mates or extended family, the more the merrier—but only if the accommodation works. You'll want plenty of bedrooms, shared common areas, multiple bathrooms, and ideally some outdoor space for barbies or sundowners.
Check listings for extras like pool tables, large dining tables, or even fire pits. These make communal living smoother and more fun, giving you the chance to connect without stepping on each other’s toes.
Consider the Destination First
Your destination plays a huge role in choosing the right holiday rental. A beach shack at Boomerang Beach will have different vibes and requirements than a city loft in Melbourne or a rainforest retreat in Queensland.
Ask yourself:
- What will the weather be like?
- Will you need heating, cooling, or insect screens?
- Is it walkable, or will you need a car?
- Are you planning to eat out, or will you cook most meals?
All of these affect the type of accommodation that’s right for your stay. For example, a ski trip might require heated floors and a drying room, while a coastal vacation rental might need secure parking, surfboard storage, and air-con.
Top Features to Look For in a Holiday Rental
Every traveller has must-haves. Here are some of the most sought-after features in holiday rentals, and why they matter.
Essentials
- Wi-Fi – a given for most stays now, whether for work or streaming.
- Fully equipped kitchen – saves money and allows flexibility.
- Washing machine – especially helpful for families or long stays.
- Heating/cooling – ensure comfort no matter the season.
Nice-to-Haves
- Outdoor area or balcony – ideal for relaxing evenings.
- Parking – essential in cities or remote locations.
- BBQ or firepit – great for social or rural settings.
- Pet-friendly – because pets are part of the family too.
Read Between the Listing Lines
Photos and descriptions are helpful, but reviews tell the real story. Past guests can give you insights into what the vacation rental is really like—whether the place was spotless, if the host was responsive, or if the location lived up to the hype.
Look out for:
- Repeated comments about cleanliness or comfort.
- Accurate descriptions of space and layout.
- Mentions of things the listing may not reveal (like nearby noise or tricky parking).
When you're ready to book, make sure to reach out to the host with any questions. A good host will be responsive, transparent, and happy to provide extra information.
Set a Realistic Budget
Price matters—but remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best value. Consider what’s included in the price: cleaning fees, linens, and amenities. A slightly more expensive holiday rental with a kitchen and laundry could save you hundreds during a longer stay.
Using Search and Stay makes this easy—you can filter by price range, see total costs upfront, and compare value across different listings. And because we don’t charge inflated commissions, you get more accommodation for your budget.
Book Early—Especially in Peak Season
Popular destinations and school holiday periods fill up fast. If you’re eyeing a beach vacation rental for summer or a cosy cabin for winter, get in early. Booking in advance gives you the best selection, better rates, and peace of mind.
The Benefits of Booking Through Search and Stay
At Search and Stay, we make it easy to find your ideal holiday rental—without the fuss. Our platform is designed with travellers in mind:
- Clear pricing with no hidden fees.
- Flexible search filters based on your needs.
- A wide variety of unique, quality accommodation options.
- Easy direct communication with hosts.
- Simple booking process and trusted support.
Whether you’re planning a last-minute holiday or a months-long stay, we’ve got something for everyone.
In Summary: Smart Stays Start with Smart Searches
The perfect vacation doesn’t begin when you reach your destination—it begins when you choose the right place to stay. With so many beautiful, unique holiday rentals out there, taking the time to match your travel style with the right accommodation can completely transform your experience.
Whether you’re hitting the road with your family, taking your partner somewhere special, or flying solo for a fresh perspective, your ideal vacation rental is just a few clicks away.
So next time you're planning a trip, remember this: a better holiday begins with a better booking—and at Search and Stay, we’re here to help you find it.