Today kicks off the 2008 vacation planning season. There are a number of advantages to renting a vacation home rather than a hotel room, including cost savings, convenience and privacy.

As you search for your 2008 vacation accommodations on PickPackGo or elsewhere, consider these tips:

1. Rent from professional property managers. They have on-site staff to help you deal with anything unexpected. They are often regulated and are businesses that can provide insight (and often deals) into local restaurants and attractions.
2. Use a credit card. It’s a safer, more convenient form of payment. Most major credit cards are accepted both domestically and internationally, if you are considering renting abroad.
3. Ask questions. Professionally managed properties are likely to meet government requirements (such as the Americans with Disabilities Act), but vacation homes are not like hotels, and you need to ask about things that matter to individuals in your party: Allergic to pet dander? Are there child safety gates for the stairs and pool area? Is there room to park an RV?
4. Consider purchasing travel insurance. Cancellation policies for homes are often far more restrictive than hotel rooms. Don’t let your effort saving, planning, booking and looking forward to your vacation be wasted if things don’t go according to plan.
5. Invest in damage insurance, also known as a security deposit waiver, to cover unexpected damages. This also helps you avoid paying potentially large cash security deposits to cover accidental damage.

See more tips.

Enjoy your stay!