How to Maximize Amenities in Your Rental (Kitchens, Workspaces, Pet-Friendly Features)

Most travelers book a vacation rental for the extra space, but many don’t take full advantage of the amenities included in their stay. That full kitchen, dedicated workspace, or pet-friendly yard can completely change how you experience your trip — if you plan for it. Here’s how to get the most value from every feature your rental offers.

Make the Kitchen Work for You

A full kitchen is one of the biggest advantages of a rental over a hotel. Stop at a local grocery store on your way from the airport and stock up on breakfast basics, snacks, and ingredients for a few dinners. You don’t need to cook every meal, but making breakfast and packing lunches can save your group hundreds of dollars over a week. Visit a local farmers market for fresh ingredients and turn meal prep into part of the vacation experience.

Set Up a Real Workspace

If you need to work remotely during your trip, look for rentals that mention a dedicated workspace or desk area. Test the Wi-Fi speed as soon as you arrive — most owners will share the speed in the listing or upon request. Set up your workspace on day one so you’re not scrambling when you have a morning meeting. A good setup lets you be productive during work hours and fully present during vacation hours, which is the whole point of a working vacation.

Traveling with Pets

Pet-friendly rentals are a game-changer for animal owners. No more boarding fees or guilt about leaving your dog behind. Look for rentals with fenced yards, nearby walking trails, and outdoor spaces where your pet can play safely. Ask the owner about any pet-specific rules or areas that are off-limits. Bring your pet’s bed, bowls, and favorite toys to help them settle into the new space. Clean up thoroughly before checkout to protect your deposit and help keep the property pet-friendly for future guests.

Take Advantage of Outdoor Spaces

Patios, decks, fire pits, and grills are amenities you simply don’t get at a hotel. Plan at least one evening around the grill or fire pit. Eat breakfast on the patio. If the rental has a pool or hot tub, use it — it’s included in your rate, unlike resort pools that charge day fees. Outdoor spaces are often the setting for the best vacation memories, so don’t let them go to waste.

Use the Entertainment Options

Many rentals come stocked with board games, streaming services, book libraries, kayaks, bicycles, or beach gear. Check the listing for these extras and plan activities around them. A rainy day with a stocked game closet can be just as memorable as a day at the beach. Some owners even provide local experience guides with recommendations for hikes, restaurants, and attractions that tourists typically miss.

The amenities in your vacation rental are there to be used. With a little planning, you can turn a simple place to stay into the highlight of your trip. Browse FRBO listings and pay attention to the amenities — they might just inspire your next vacation itinerary.