Posted on 1/30/2019

When it comes time for a vacation, one of the most important decisions you will make is where to stay. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel or a private vacation rental home, your accommodations can make or break your travel experience.

One of the many advantages of staying in an Ocean Reef Resorts rental during your vacation is the feeling of being in a home away from home. The ultimate goal of every rental home and condo is to provide its guests with a comfortable place to relax and enjoy a memorable vacation. For this reason, rentals come completely furnished and supplied with a range of great amenities. These conveniences include everything from fully stocked kitchens and laundry facilities to private pools and flat screen TVs.

While we do everything we can to make your vacation perfect, there are some fundamental items guests should remember to bring. They are small and easy to pack, and ensuring you have these items can improve your vacation, ease your stress levels, and enhance the memories you make.

Here are the top seven vacation rental essentials to pack so that your beach rental feels cozy and like a true paradise.

Beach Towels

Many of our rentals are located on or in close proximity to the Gulf Coast, meaning the beach is never more than a few minutes away. You will spend a great deal of time at the beach, so you definitely do not want to forget a towel – one you do not mind getting sandy! Our rental homes and condos provide most linens (sheets, blankets, bath towels, etc.), so just grab your favorite beach towel and you are good to go. You should also consider bringing other beach items such as swimsuits, sunscreen, sunglasses, an umbrella, toys, and a book.

Disposable Goods

Our rental properties provide only a starter pack of trash bags, toilet paper, paper towels, and other disposable goods. Before arrival, make sure to pick up the essentials like Ziploc bags, additional trash bags, plastic wrap, aluminum foil, toilet paper, and dishwasher and laundry detergent. It is important to bring these items with you so that you do not get stuck without the basics when you need them.

Beauty Appliances

Everyone has their own beauty regimen that makes them feel comfortable in their own skin, so do not forget to bring your essential beauty appliances with you on vacation. These might include a hair dryer, straightener, curling iron, razor, makeup brushes, facial cleansers, and anything else you can think of!

Seasoning & Spices (and Coffee!)

With a fully stocked kitchen, chances are you will want to cook up something delicious during your trip. Packing your favorite spices will help you serve up an excellent meal to share with your family and friends. Besides seasoning and spices, make sure to pick up your favorite coffee so that you can start each day the right way.

Specialty Appliances

Each of our rentals is supplied with basic kitchen appliances, such as coffee makers, toasters, and blenders. If your food plans require any specialty appliances like a crockpot or an AirFryer, make sure to bring those with you. This way, you can enjoy a real home-cooked meal, even though you are far away from home!

Toys and Games

Toys and games are a great way for both kids and adults to unwind while on vacation. All of our bedrooms and living spaces come equipped with TVs, so feel free to bring your favorite video game consoles and spend a little time indoors. If you are trying to get the kids to unplug, try packing a deck of cards and some board games.

Your Favorite Pillow

Sure, our rentals have an ample number of pillows, but it is not your favorite pillow from home. Packing your pillow is a great way to feel comfortable in a strange place, and it ensures you will get a good night's sleep – so that you can fully enjoy your vacation!

That's it – these are the rental essentials you should pack to make sure your vacation is simple and stress-free. If you have already booked your stay at one of our vacation rental homes or condos, it is time to start packing. If you have not yet planned your trip, it is time to get on it…and then start packing!