Whether you are looking for a cozy beach cottage or luxurious mountain cabin, snagging your ideal vacation rental is easier than you think! Here’s how to book the best vacation rentals without any hassles, headaches or hindrances.

1. Plan Ahead – The most coveted vacation rentals can book months in advance, sometimes as many as twelve so no matter where you are going, plan your vacation well in advance. As soon as you get back from vacation is the time to start planning next year’s getaway!
2. Avoid Peak Season – Demand for the best vacation rentals will surge during peak season, which is often during the warm, summer months and around holidays such as Christmas and New Year’s. Vacationing during the off season will not only increase your chances of booking your ideal vacation spot, it can also save you money since most rentals tend to be the cheapest during the slow, off season months.
3. Check the Amenities – For many vacationers, they want their rental to be a home away from home so before you sign on the dotted line, make sure the home has all the amenities you want. A few to consider may include a full kitchen, a washer and dryer, Internet access, and cable.
4. Scrutinize the Photos – Chances are you will have to book the rental sight unseen so make sure there are multiple high-resolution photos of the interior and exterior of the rental. Be wary of any photos taken with a fish-eye lens (designed to make the room look bigger than it actually is) and rooms with the shades drawn. If you would like to see more photos, request additional ones from the owner.
5. Be Willing to Pay – When you are booking your dream vacation rental is not the time to skimp! Remember that the best vacation rentals are probably going to cost a pretty penny, so if that’s what you really want, you need to be willing to pay the cost.
6. Find Rentals off the Beaten Path – Travelers can often find the best vacation rentals in exotic, lesser known locales. For example, instead of trying to book something in Cancun, Mexico, look for Akumal vacation rentals. Located just south of Cancun, Akumal offers the same lush, tropical setting without the crowds.

Whether you’re headed to the Bahamas or Hawaii, follow these six simple steps to book your dream vacation rental.