Before You Book: 5 Questions to Ask About Any Vacation Rental

Booking a vacation rental should feel exciting, not nerve-wracking. But anyone who’s ever shown up to a stay that looked better online than in person knows: not all rentals are created equal. From missing basics to confusing check-ins, what seems like a dream escape can quickly turn frustrating.

The good news? A few smart questions can go a long way toward a better experience. Here’s what to ask before booking any vacation rental so you can arrive confident, relaxed, and ready to enjoy your trip.

1. What’s Actually Included in the Stay?

Toiletries? Extra towels? Cooking oil? It’s not always clear.

Vacation rentals can vary widely in how well they’re stocked. Some feel just like home. Others might leave you scrambling for trash bags and hand soap. One of the easiest ways to avoid surprise store runs is to simply ask what’s included before you arrive.

Check for:

• Linens and towels

• Kitchen basics (salt, pepper, oil, coffee filters)

• Toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, soap)

• Laundry essentials (detergent, stain remover)

• Kid-friendly gear (high chairs, pack-n-plays, etc.)

  
  

Hosts who truly care about the guest experience will usually provide a full list of what’s on hand and may even offer a digital guidebook so you know what to expect before you pack.

2. Are There Any Extra Fees?

The nightly rate isn’t the whole story.

Service fees, cleaning fees, pet fees, resort fees… it adds up. And worse, sometimes you don’t notice them until checkout. Transparency matters. Before you click “book,” take a close look at the fee breakdown, and if something seems unclear, don’t be afraid to ask.

Good to clarify:

• Are early check-in or late checkout options available?

• What’s the pet fee, and are there any weight or breed restrictions?

• Is there a refundable deposit or damage waiver?

• Will the total price change based on the number of guests?

  
  

A responsible host will gladly walk you through it. Hidden fees or vague explanations are red flags.

3. What’s the Check-In Process Like?

Your vacation shouldn’t start with a scavenger hunt.

After hours of travel, the last thing anyone wants is a confusing check-in process. Whether it’s a keypad, lockbox, or digital code, make sure you understand how (and when) you’ll access the property.

Ask ahead:

• How do I check in, and what time is it available?

• Is the property address GPS-friendly?

• Will I need an app or Wi-Fi to get inside?

• Who do I contact if something doesn’t work?

  
  

The smoother the arrival process, the better your vacation begins. Look for listings that clearly outline check-in steps, provide local contact info, and send reminders before your trip.

4. What Amenities Are Actually Accessible to Guests?

Photos can be misleading. Double check what’s fair game.

Just because you see a fire pit or hot tub in the photos doesn’t mean you’ll be allowed to use them. In some homes, especially those in resort communities or shared properties, certain features may be restricted.

Ask for clarity on:

• Is the home entirely private, or are there shared spaces?

• Are amenities like the garage, grill, or game room accessible?

• Are there any off-limits areas or locked rooms?

• Are outdoor spaces (like the yard or dock) guest-friendly?

  
  

A trustworthy host will be upfront about what’s included and what isn’t. If something’s not available, that should be made clear in the listing. Not hidden in fine print.

5. What Happens If Something Goes Wrong?

Because real-life stuff happens, even on vacation.

The faucet might drip. The Wi-Fi might go out. Or a thunderstorm might knock out the power. What really matters is how quickly and thoughtfully those hiccups are handled. Before you book, make sure there’s a plan in place.

Here’s what to find out:

• Will someone be available 24/7 if I need help?

• Who should I contact for maintenance issues or emergencies?

• Is the host local or remote?

• Are there instructions in the home if I need to troubleshoot something myself?

  
  

Even the most beautiful home can feel stressful if no one responds to your messages. A good host makes support part of the experience, not a last resort.

Bonus Tip: Read Between the Lines

Photos and pricing are only part of the story. Guest reviews often reveal the real experience, especially the 3- and 4-star ones. See how past guests describe communication, cleanliness, accuracy, and comfort.

Also, pay attention to how the host responds to feedback. Professional, timely responses show that they’re invested in improving and care about guest satisfaction.

If you’re seeing a mix of glowing reviews and thoughtful replies to concerns, that’s usually a great sign.

The Big Picture: You’re Booking More Than Just a House

You’re booking peace of mind. Rest. Adventure. Family memories. A break from your routine.

Asking these five questions helps ensure that your vacation rental matches your expectations, not just the photos. Whether you're planning a lakefront escape, a mountain getaway, or a long weekend in a cozy cottage, taking a little extra time before you book can save you a lot of stress later.

When you do find a host who gets it, who thinks like a guest and plans with care, you'll feel the difference from the moment you walk through the door.

Want a stay where the answers are always clear? You can browse guest-loved homes at skyviewvacations.com or just keep these tips close for your next booking, wherever that may be.