Vacation rental etiquette: Dos and don'ts

Staying at a vacation rental can bring different expectations and rules when compared to staying at a hotel. It’s important to know the guest rules of a vacation rental, as they can vary from place to place. However, a few practical dos and don’ts should help you make the most of your vacation rental.

Vacation rentals are homes, not hotels, so each one comes with its own house rules. Here are a few guidelines that can help guide your stay. 

Be conscious

Guests should tidy up after themselves, let the host know if anything is accidentally broken, and take the trash to the can instead of leaving it in the vacation rental.

Keep the noise levels down

Typically, the house rules will let you know when quiet hours are (roughly between 11:00 pm and 8:00 am). If your rental home is in a residential area, be considerate of the neighbors. Move gatherings indoors or to a more private area, like a roof terrace or deck, after hours. If work calls are unavoidable, take them in a private space like a bedroom.

Note that most vacation rentals don't allow parties. Many hosts can check noise levels through noise monitoring devices. Certain monitoring services track noise levels and occupancy while respecting your privacy. Vacation rental hosts often use these services.

Research local customs

Understanding cultural customs and etiquette while traveling can significantly enhance your experiences and interactions with locals, especially if you’re renting a vacation rental from someone in another region or country. Being aware of local traditions can help create meaningful connections.

Respect property

Prevention is the best approach. Start the trip with a quick house meeting to review the property's rules and set your group's expectations, for example: no shoes in the house, no dishes in the sink, etc.

Keep the home tidy

Tidy up after yourself by putting items back in their place, washing dishes, and disposing of trash. For a deeper clean, you can wipe down counters, clean spills immediately, and do a general tidy of common areas like bedrooms and living spaces. Keeping common areas clear of clutter is key to a tidier stay.

Communicate with the host before, during, and after your stay

Get to know the vacation rental host before your visit and keep a line of communication open throughout your stay. Whether it's about any issues at the property or you're seeking local recommendations, don't hesitate to reach out. Respectful and clear communication can contribute to a more enjoyable stay for both you and your host. 

Follow the rules

Keep in mind that these hosts are opening up their homes, located in communities with rules like any other. Vacation rentals have various house rules about occupancy, minimum age requirements for the primary renter, or whether pets are allowed.

Understand what you're agreeing to before booking to avoid potentially incurring any extra fees or losing your deposit. Reading the house rules is essential. 

Share the rules with all participants

While the vacation planner may read through all the details, it’s also helpful for every member of the group to know the rules. The planner has the responsibility to inform guests of all necessary guidelines. 

Be conscious of energy consumption

Be mindful of your energy usage during your vacation. Turn off lights, air conditioning, and electronics when not in use. Doing so can help reduce your environmental impact and conserve your host's resources.

Vacation rentals aren't staffed around the clock. Leaving wet towels on the floor, expecting daily housekeeping, or contacting the host late at night are some of the things to avoid while staying at a vacation rental. 

Smoke inside properties

Most vacation rentals have strict no-smoking policies, including a ban on vaping and cannabis. Guests are expected to know and follow these rules, as violation can result in significant cleaning fees, forfeiture of a security deposit, and negative reviews. Check the rules before booking, as smoking may not be allowed inside or outside a vacation rental. Many listings include "No Smoking" in the title or description. If the policy is unclear, ask the host directly before finalizing your reservation.

Unless otherwise specified, a no-smoking rule typically applies to all indoor and outdoor areas, including balconies, patios, and decks. The rules generally apply to all types of smoking and vaping.

The odor and residue from smoke permeate carpets, furniture, and walls, making it difficult to conceal. Hosts can also use advanced smoke detection sensors that alert them to real-time smoking activity.

Take things

Most rental agreements include a clause about missing or damaged items. If you take items like plush towels or throw blankets, you'll likely see the cost deducted from your credit card. Hosts often set replacement costs higher than retail to discourage removal of items.

Leave wet towels on the floor

Towels left on the floor never properly dry out and tend to develop an unpleasant odor. When you check out, if there is a laundry room present, make sure to leave all used towels either in the washing machine or stacked in a pile nearby.

Ignore check-out times and procedures

Vacation rental hosts usually have a list of check-out procedures for guests to follow, such as emptying the trash, stripping the beds, or turning off all lights and electronics. For example, the host might ask you to load and run the dishwasher or return any furniture you might have moved to its original spot.

Cause damage to the property

Damaging the property can lead to significant financial loss for the host and potential liability for yourself, as damage deposits may not cover the full cost of repairs. Beyond direct financial consequences, damaging a rental property can also result in poor reviews and difficulty booking future stays.

Play loud music or host disruptive gatherings

Whether you're in a bustling city or more rural countryside, noise can be a significant disturbance to locals. Keep the music to a moderate level, especially during late-night hours, to respect the surrounding community.

Exceed maximum occupancy

Before you book, make sure the rental property can comfortably accommodate your group. Too many people can strain the property's resources, posing potential health and safety risks. If you plan on inviting others over, make sure to clear it with the host beforehand. Many rentals forbid large or noisy parties, so always check in advance with the host if you’re planning a larger get-together. 

Treating a vacation rental with care and following the established guidelines can lead to a positive experience for everyone. By being considerate of the property, the host and the surrounding community, you'll create good relationships and enjoyable memories during your stay.