What Is the Difference Between Short Term Rental and Vacation Rental?

By Anna Duncan

Are you planning a trip and looking for accommodations? With the rise of online platforms like Airbnb, short term rentals and vacation rentals have become popular options for travelers.

However, these terms are often used interchangeably, causing confusion among travelers. So, what is the difference between short term rental and vacation rental?

Short Term Rental:
A short term rental is a property that can be rented out for a brief period, typically less than six months. Short term rentals can include apartments, condominiums, or homes that are used as temporary housing for business travelers or people relocating to a new area. They can also be rented out by homeowners who want to earn extra income by renting out their properties while they are away.

Advantages of Short Term Rentals:

  • Flexibility: Short-term rentals offer more flexibility than traditional hotel bookings with check-in and check-out times that are not as strict.
  • Cost-Effective: Depending on the location and length of stay, short-term rentals can be more cost-effective than staying at a hotel.
  • Privacy: With a short-term rental, you have the entire property to yourself which provides more privacy compared to staying in a hotel room.

Vacation Rental:
A vacation rental is a property that is rented out for leisure purposes such as vacations or weekend getaways. Vacation rentals can include cabins, cottages, villas or other types of private residences. They are usually located in popular tourist destinations such as beaches or ski resorts.

Advantages of Vacation Rentals:

  • More Space: Vacation rentals offer more space compared to traditional hotel rooms making it ideal for families or groups traveling together.
  • Fully Equipped: Most vacation rentals come fully equipped with kitchens and other amenities which make them ideal for extended stays.
  • Location: Vacation rentals are often located in scenic areas or popular tourist destinations, providing a unique experience for travelers.

Key Differences:

The main difference between short term rentals and vacation rentals is their intended use. Short term rentals are primarily used for temporary housing while vacation rentals are used for leisure purposes. Short term rentals can be found in both urban and suburban areas while vacation rentals are typically found in popular tourist destinations.

Which is Right for You?

When choosing between a short term rental or vacation rental, it’s important to consider your specific needs. If you’re traveling for business or relocating to a new area, a short-term rental may be the best option. However, if you’re planning a leisure trip or looking to explore a popular tourist destination, a vacation rental may be more suitable.

In Conclusion

In summary, short term rentals and vacation rentals have distinct differences that should be considered when choosing accommodations. While both options provide unique experiences and advantages over traditional hotel rooms, understanding their differences can help you make an informed decision that meets your specific needs.