10 Things Brits Would Find Strange About Staying at an American Holiday Rental
If you’re from the UK and planning to stay in an American holiday rental, there are a few things that might catch you off guard. From the size of the properties and the detailed checkout instructions to the essential need for a car, these differences can make your stay interesting, if not a bit challenging. Let’s explore what makes American holiday rentals unique!
1. The property can be far larger than expected
Imagine booking a holiday home and walking into a place that’s bigger than your entire flat back in the UK. That’s often the case with American rentals. These large properties offer plenty of room, which is great for families or groups. The extra space means everyone can spread out and relax without feeling crammed. It’s nice to have room to breathe, especially when you’re on vacation!
2. Guests may find an enormous list of checkout instructions
When it’s time to leave your rental, you might be surprised by a long list of tasks. American owners often have detailed instructions for checkout. This may include stripping the beds, taking out the trash, and sometimes even starting a load of laundry. It’s different from many UK places where you just drop the keys in the mailbox and go.
3. Cleaning fees can significantly change the final price
When booking a rental in the US, the listed price might look perfect until you see the cleaning fee. These fees can be pretty hefty, significantly changing the cost of your stay. It’s something to look out for so you’re not caught off guard when the total price pops up at checkout. Always check the fine print!
4. A car may be essential even for getting breakfast
If you’re staying in a holiday rental in the US, don’t be surprised if you find yourself needing a car just to get the basics like breakfast. Many rentals are located where public transport isn’t an option, so renting a car becomes a necessity. This can be a bit of a shock if you’re used to walking down the street to grab a bite back home.
5. Some rentals have several bathrooms
Coming from a country where space can be at a premium, finding a rental with multiple bathrooms can be a luxury. It’s quite common in the US to have several bathrooms in a single rental. This can be super convenient, especially when you’re staying with a big group. No waiting in line for your turn in the shower!
6. Huge kitchens encourage guests to cook rather than eat out
One of the joys of American rentals is often the big, fully-equipped kitchens. They invite you to whip up your own meals instead of eating out. It’s a great way to save money while traveling and a fun way to experiment with local ingredients you might not find back home.
7. Properties may come with barbecues and fire pits
Get ready to enjoy some outdoor cooking and evening chats around a fire. Many American rentals come equipped with barbecues and fire pits. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the local weather and have a memorable evening with friends or family.
8. Rules can be shaped by local communities or HOAs
When you rent in the US, you might need to follow rules set by local communities or Homeowners Associations (HOAs). These rules can cover everything from parking to noise levels. It’s different from the UK where such strict local rules are less common in holiday rentals.
9. Large groups may rent one enormous house together
If you’re traveling with a big group, you can often find a huge house to rent together. This is great for reunions, family gatherings, or a holiday with friends. It means everyone stays under one roof, making it easier to plan activities and meals together.
10. A lakeside or mountain rental can be miles from the nearest shop
Staying in a picturesque lakeside or mountain rental sounds dreamy, but it can also mean you’re miles away from the nearest shop. This isolation is something to prepare for, ensuring you have all the essentials before you arrive. It’s a trade-off for the peace and beauty of a more secluded location.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.