9 Tips For First Time Cottage Renters

Save the date.  There’s one tradition that my family knows I protect with all my heart, our vacation to “Cottage Country”.  Lives get busier, schedules more complicated, but the one tradition I will continue to fight for is some good old fashioned time at the lake.  There’s nothing like the serenity (okay maybe the organized chaos) of a vacation in cottage country.  Time at the lake gives you the opportunity to really unplug, re-connect and make some memories that hopefully your kiddos will remember forever.

So where do you start when you are ready to rent a cottage?   Here’s how to find the perfect cottage rental for your family.

When To Start The Search

NOW. In my experience, the best time to start the search for your summer vacation rental in Cottage Country is in late November through and January.  Those family favourites go quickly, but don’t despair, with a little patience and a little luck you can still find the perfect cottage rental for your family.

Know Where You Want To Be

Narrow down the possibilities.  I live in Ontario.  If you punch “Cottage Rental Ontario” into your favourite search engine you will get a gazillion hits.  You will help yourself if you know which region you want to be in, near which town, or even better which lake!

Distance From Home

Not sure where you want to be? Then consider how far you are willing to drive.  My girls are a bit older, so I’m okay with a 41/2 – 5 hour drive.  My SassySis learned the hard way 5 hours is about 1 hour too long with a Toddler.  We search for cottages a bit closer to home so our vacation starts with smiles and not stress.

Which Sites To Explore/Where To Look

I prefer the tried and true.  The best way to rent a cottage?  From a friend!  Of course this is not always possible so here are some of my favourite websites.  Ontario Cottage Rental, Cottage Country, Cottage Portal, and Cottages in Canada.  Please keep in mind that these websites do not take always take responsibility should something go wrong while renting!  When you rent protect yourself as best you can.  When you can, use a rental agency – it’s worth the peace of mind.  You can also browse through AirBNB and HomeAway.com but in this instance I personally prefer a site targeted specifically for cottage rentals.

If you are renting directly from an owner: Keep a record of all transactions between you and the owner, and trust your gut.  Try and get a feel for the owner before you rent.  Do they answer your enquires in a timely manner?  Are they polite, willing to share more photos of their property with you?  Are there reviews you can read?  How old are the pictures on their website? Does the owner come across as professional? In short, research the owner, not just the cottage.

What Does “Cottaging” means to you?

Roughing it might be okay for some, but not for me.  I am a travel snob and  I own it.   I also know I rarely get summer vacations so when I do, I try and do it right.  I want ample space with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms.  Privacy, on a clean, swimmable lake.  I need a view that takes my breath away AND a dishwasher.  Yup. A dishwasher!  Mama doesn’t want to spend her vacay in the kitchen.

Note that even in the nicest of rentals you usually have to take your own linens and you are expected to clean the cottage before you leave.

Not All Cottages Are Created Equally

Extras  Know what’s included and what’s considered an extra.  Which extras are important to you?  Here are a few of the extras that can help make your week at the cottage a true vacation for everyone.

Does the rental you are considering have a BBQ?

Is there a fire pit?

A place the kids can play?  Either a sandbox or swing set.  Are there water-toys for the lake or should you bring your own?

Is there air conditioning?  Perhaps that doesn’t matter to your family.

Access to a canoe, a rowboat and/or some kayaks can make a huge difference in your week.

Does this cottage include or offer the possibility of a cleaning service?  Yes, you can find some properties that will include cleaning at the end of your stay.  This is all kinds of magic when at the end of your trip all you have to do is pack up your stuff, do a quick tidy and say goodbye to the lake!

Those little extras help create some memories.  *Note if you find the perfect rental without those extras you can always rent them from the nearest marina.  Be sure you check that list of amenities before you sign on the dotted line.

If Something Goes Wrong

You have rented a cottage to get away from it all.  Chances are internet is spotty and your cell phone only works from the end of the dock.  Be sure to ask the owner if there is a land line in the rental.  Also be sure the cottage owner leaves you not only their contact information but the contact numbers of their caretakers should something at the cottage require attention while you are there.

Know What To Ask

Is there wifi?

Is the property child proofed? If not you should consider bringing any childproofing necessities.

Are there lifejackets available?  Be sure to check the sizes of those lifejackets.  Babies and toddler sizes are often not included.

Is there a marina on the lake?

Where is the nearest hospital?  Better to be safe than sorry!

How far is the nearest grocery store or market?  LCBO or Beer Store?

Is the water a shallow entry? Is the water a rocky or sandy entry? (Tip: I always pack water shoes.)

What is the cancellation policy?

Is the cottage non-smoking?

What time is check in/ check out?

Is the cottage pet-friendly?  I won’t rent a pet friendly cottage that allows cats as my Sister can’t stay there.  Allergies!

Remember That Nothing Is Perfect

Renting a cottage is not like staying in a hotel or a resort,  There will be bumps, there will be imperfections, but there will also be the possibility to have the time of your life.  Get out there and find the best place that suits you and your loved ones, enjoy the hunt and then make some memories!

Happy Travels!