18/03/2020
Dear travelers,
We are in unprecedented times and understand you may have hesitations or there may be complications to travel in light of COVID-19. Situations are evolving on a daily basis and there is a lot of uncertainty that may affect your vacation plans. We want you to make the best decisions for your family’s safety and well-being, but we also understand how this affects homeowners who list on Vacation Home Rental Network member sites.
Here are some tips for handling current or future reservations:
Tips for updating vacations you've already booked
1. Review your rental agreement and travel insurance policies
Please review your rental agreement to determine what the cancellation / re-booking policy is for the home you booked. If you purchased travel insurance (which we always recommend), review the conditions in which a cancellation may be covered. Not all insurance policies are the same so it is important for you to understand what coverage you have.
2. Reach out to the owner
Homeowners and property managers who list their homes on Vacation Home Rental Network member sites each have their own cancellation policies. None of the owners have ever been required to adopt a cookie cutter policy and our member sites do not regulate what the owner policies are. We encourage you to try to work out exceptions to the owner policies with the owner, but please keep in mind that they may not be able to have the flexibility due to financial or other concerns.
Tips for booking an upcoming vacation
1. Look out for flexible cancellation policies
Homeowners and property managers each have their own polices for cancellations and refunds. You can find the owner's refund policy on their property page.
2. Consider adding trip insurance
Adding travel insurance to your reservation may cover your non-refundable trip costs if you have to cancel because you or a companion gets sick or injured before your trip. There are many companies offering travel insurance. Please review their policies so you fully understand what is covered before purchasing.
3. Look for something closer to home
Opt for a vacation within driving distance instead of a long flight. Find a place where you and your family can all be just far enough from home to feel like a vacation.
As you evaluate future stays, we encourage you to review local travel recommendations and restrictions, in addition to following guidance from the CDC.
Everyone deserves something to look forward to, and will need a break to reconnect with one another when this situation resolves itself. There are vacation options and we hope Vacation Home Rental Network member sites can play a role in your family’s next great vacation, whenever that may be.
We support and encourage your family to be strong together, wherever it is you choose to spend this time.
Stay well, and stay together.
Your Management Team
Vacation Home Rental Network
