For an extended, leisurely vacation along a beach like the shores of the Currituck Outer Banks, nothing beats a stay in a vacation rental. A rented beach home, condo, or cottage provides more privacy and room to breathe than a hotel or motel. Also, a vacation rental offers the opportunity for more amenities than other accommodations can give - like a hot tub, private beach access, and a full kitchen.



When you plan your next vacation, however, it is best not to jump into a rental without first doing some solid research. For a vacation to be relaxing and memorable, it must also be carefully planned to the last detail, otherwise you may find yourself scrambling to find a room at the peak of the season! If you are seriously considering a vacation rental at the beach, be it the pristine coastline of Currituck County or Virginia Beach, take care to follow these helpful hints before you pack.

1) Research the rental company

Especially if you are traveling from out of state, you will be placing your trust in a rental company to set you up with a nice vacation home rental, sight unseen. Before you hand over any credit card information to reserve accommodations, do your homework. If you know people who have rented in the area previously, ask for recommendations. Were the agents or rental companies they used helpful and courteous? Did they have a good knowledge of the area? Did they offer rentals in a reasonable safe area of town?

Most large travel websites may not deal with individual vacation rentals, leaving you to research the websites of specialized rental agencies. Study their websites - do they look professional? Are there detailed pictures of each available home, cottage, and condo for rent? Are there pictures of the area and neighborhood surrounding the home? Are prices listed on the website? Is there a directory of nearby attractions, restaurants, and shops? Are amenities listed and shown in photos?

In shopping for a rental for your vacation, it is best to contact several agencies before making a decision. Find out how long each company has been in business, and how many properties are managed. Compare pricing and location - if you want to spend most of your time at the beach, you want to make sure the house you rent is within proximity.

2) Your responsibilities versus their responsibilities

When you go on a vacation, so many things come to mind when you pack. You want to bring comfortable clothing, water sports equipment if you plan to play at the beach, maybe your golf clubs if there is a course nearby. When you rent a vacation home, however, you may have to pack more than you realize. It is a good idea to find out beforehand.

Always ask the rental agency questions about the house you plan to rent. Will you need to bring sheets and towels? What kitchen equipment is available to you? If you are renting a condo or a duplex, will you have to share amenities? Will you have access to a clubhouse, private beach, or a swimming pool?

It is possible, too, that during your vacation there could be an occasional mishap. You may experience plumbing problems, or a power outage. In the event of damages or such hiccups during your vacation, make sure you know what the rental agency is responsible for fixing, and if you are liable for any repairs. Find out if the agency has maintenance on staff to help you with any problems.

3) Research the area

If you are traveling to an area you have never visited, it is a good idea to research your intended destination before you visit. Especially if you plan to travel by car, you want to make sure you don't get lost and threaten the enjoyment of your trip.

When you have rented your vacation home, explore the neighborhood with the Internet. What stores and restaurants are convenient? Do you know where the closet hospital or outpatient clinic is, in case of emergency? What attractions are nearby? If you are traveling out of season, it is recommended to call ahead to a few places you would like to visit to make sure they will open when you arrive. This is especially true of beach resort towns, where many places close up for the winter.

With enough planning, a vacation rental in a beach destination like the Outer Banks can provide your family a fun-filled vacation. Do your homework, then relax and enjoy.