Hardworking individuals and their families look forward to their vacations with much anticipation. People not only work hard to afford a relaxing getaway, but also to plan such excursions.

There’s no shortage of lodging options to consider when planning a vacation, and travelers tend to have strong opinions about which types of places to rest their heads. A 2023 survey from Boston.com asked readers about their lodging preferences, and 73 percent indicated hotels are their first choice. Short-term rentals (11 percent) were less attractive to readers, but 16 percent of respondents indicated certain variables, including the length of the trip, affected which option they felt was best.

Vacationers considering a short-term rental service like Vrbo or Airbnb can keep these tips in mind as they seek a rental property for their next getaway.

Identify your priorities. It sounds simple, but recognition of your needs is important before you begin searching for a property. Many rental properties are awe-inspiring, and it’s easy to get swept up by a property’s stunning views or additional amenities. But ocean views or penthouses perched high atop a metropolitan locale won’t necessarily accommodate all vacationers. For example, parents might want to prioritize bedrooms for the kids and a private outdoor space to relax together once the children fall asleep, while singletons might find that penthouse view is more important.

Give ample thought to location. Locale and location are not necessarily the same. Many vacationers know a locale they would like to visit prior to planning their trips, but the location of the property they ultimately choose is an important variable as well. Some vacationers may rank proximity to nightlife high on their list, while others might want a secluded property that’s ideal for relaxation. The location of a property can go a long way toward determining how enjoyable a trip can be, so be sure to check the address of each rental to determine precisely where it is in relation to restaurants, nightlife, beaches, and other amenities.

Consider the amenities. No two rental properties are the same, so vacationers would be wise to read the details of each listing prior to booking a reservation. Some rental properties provide bed linens and towels, while others ask guests to bring their own. Some properties may come with access to an on-site pool or lounge, while others may only allow guests to enter the property itself. Amenities can sometimes make or break a property, so give these ample thought.