6 Tips For Planning Your Trip to Destin
How Far in Advance Should You Book Your Vacation Rental
Well, there is one thing for certain. None of us could have predicted how the events of the last couple of years would alter our lives. There were surprises, life changes, and plenty of uncertainty.
Destin is a day’s road trip from many locations in the U.S. The ability to work from anywhere and the need for a getaway have dramatically increased the demand for accommodations in Destin.
It may feel like a ways off, but if you have specific preferences, you should start planning your vacation at least six months in advance. However, the last couple of years has changed several things. Beachfront rentals now book as early as a year in advance and for two to three times higher than previous years.
Tip #1
First, and foremost, be sure and purchase travel insurance. It may seem like a waste of money, but the unexpected can and will happen. There are a number of things that can cause you to alter your plans.
Vacation rental owners are operating a business. They cannot refund your money at the last minute and leave their rental empty if they are going to stay in business. Even if you have a good reason for needing to cancel, you will not get a refund without insurance. Whether you purchase insurance or not, we encourage you to completely understand the cancellation policy BEFORE you book. Get it in writing.
Tip #2
If you are traveling in the busy season, you are going to experience an increase in cost. It goes without saying that if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Work with reputable companies even if there are additional fees. A wise saying is, “you never get more than what you pay for.” That holds true here as well. Check the Better Business Bureau for ratings. Cross-reference with other sources such as our Facebook group, Yelp, and Google reviews. You don’t want to be taken advantage of when it may be a preventable situation. We have an article with more information on how to avoid being scammed. Read more >
Tip #3
If this is your first trip to Destin, there are many things to consider before you book. There are a few hotels on the beach but most are vacation rentals. There are a few public beaches with ample parking but many are private and for use by the adjacent vacation rental occupants and/or renters.
Tip #4
A lot of you will be driving to Destin. Most vacation rentals provide one, possibly two parking spaces. Anything more, and you will need to find additional parking. That may cost you quite a bit.
Tip #5
There is absolutely one essential item that you must bring with you. Patience. The busy season is from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Just like you, many people want to escape a bit of life’s anxiety and head to the beach. Hwy 98 is the main road through town. It gets very congested and most drivers are experiencing it for the first time. Always, always, always allow more time to arrive than what your GPS recommends. Why spoil a good vacation by missing a dinner reservation or a tour that sailed without you?
Tip #6
One last thing, pack light. You will be spending most of your time at the beach. Remember, beach hair, don’t care! 
Read our blog post on what to bring.
