If you’ve picked Tennessee as your next vacation spot, you’ve made the right decision. Of course, everyone heads to this thriving and scenic state to revel in the beauty of the Smoky Mountains. You’re probably wondering what the hype is all about!
In terms of attractions and enjoyment, the Smoky Mountains don’t disappoint. The real trouble is finding lodgings that check all your boxes: views of the Smoky Peaks, affordability, proximity to attractions, and plenty of amenities. If you want vacation lodgings that offer all that and more, you’re at the right place.
Knowing the right tips before booking your rental in the Smoky Mountains is crucial! Here’s what you need to know about finding the perfect vacation stay in Tennessee’s best national park.
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Plan in Advance
The last thing you want to do is show up to the Great Smoky Peaks unprepared. So, don’t wait until the last minute to book your rentals. Not only does early booking give you better options to work with, but it also makes it easier to find the rental of your dreams.
Since you’ll have plenty of time to peruse your options, you won’t have to settle for the first lodgings you can afford. Take charge, be proactive, and secure your awesome lodging for an unforgettable trip!
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Know What You Want
The only way to get the perfect lodgings for your trip is to know what you’re looking for. Before you pick, decide what you want your vacation to look like.
Are you hoping for a rustic and intimate experience in a cozy cabin in the woods? Or are you in the mood for a luxurious hotel with top-notch amenities and services? Maybe the Smoky Mountain condos are all you need, with their space and convenience giving you a home away from home.
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Research Areas
Just because you’re visiting the Smoky Mountains doesn’t mean you have to restrict yourself to one area. Take this opportunity to explore and research all the surrounding areas to find the perfect vacation stay.
There are three things to consider for each town: its vibe, proximity to attractions, and amenities. While Pigeon Forge is a family-friendly pick, Gatlinburg will draw you in with its music scene. Or maybe you’re into scenic views of Wears Valley or the charming small-town feel of Townsend.
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Check Booking Platforms
We all know online booking platforms are an invaluable resource when it comes to vacation lodgings. With the help of Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com, you can cut down on research hours and find a perfect tailored vacation lodging.
Look for newer listings, and focus on the given photos to get a visual representation of the property. Don’t forget to read the description to get an idea of the layout, decor, and ambiance. You’ll also find reviews from previous renters, so you can learn more about customer service quality.
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Read Reviews
As mentioned, online booking platforms have customer reviews giving you a wealth of information about what you can expect during your stay. By reading the reviews, you’ll get valuable insights about the place’s cleanliness, comfort, amenities, and customer service.
We recommend paying close attention to factors like reliable WiFi, comfortable beds, and other amenities important to you. If the reviews mention a helpful and responsive staff, you’re in luck!
Other than that, look for recurring patterns in the reviews, giving you a better idea about the place’s strengths and weaknesses.
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Compare Prices
You may be tempted to pick the first option that meets your preferences, but that’s not good for your budget. Vacations can be luxurious, but you can still get the best bang for your buck with a little more effort. Take your time to compare the prices of similar rentals to find the best deal.
If you’re lucky, you may even come across special deals, discounts, or package offers. Don’t forget that the prices of each rental will vary based on the season, location, and amenities.
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Consider Amenities
Amenities are crucial to your vacation experience, but some people consider them as an afterthought. That’s the worst vacation mistake you can make! When choosing your Smoky Mountains lodgings, make a point to check off all boxes on your amenities list. Make a list of your must-have amenities and use it as a guide when browsing accommodations.
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Stay Close to Attractions
When booking lodgings in the Smoky Mountains, consider the proximity to the attractions. You may have specific places that you wish to visit, like national parks, hiking trails, or tourist spots. So, choose accommodations nearby to minimize travel time and maximize convenience.
Being close to your desired attractions allows you to make the most of your time on this trip. Plus, proximity to restaurants, shops, and entertainment can add to your stay’s convenience.
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Contact the Host
Lastly, it may help to directly contact the host or property manager with any inquiries you may have. You may have specific questions about the amenities, parking arrangements, or check-in procedures. In that case, reaching out to the host can provide you with valuable insights and reassurance.
By contacting them, you can also gauge their responsiveness and professionalism. A prompt and helpful response from the host indicates a high level of customer service. Plus, they may offer personalized recommendations based on your specific interests.
Conclusion
The Great Smoky Mountains are the perfect spot for a serene vacation. When visiting the Great Smoky Mountains, you can count on one of the best travel experiences in the world. But perfecting this trip is only possible with the right lodgings! Lodgings that are too expensive, far away, and boring can definitely put a damper on what should be the visit of a lifetime.
Luckily, you won’t need to worry about that if you’ve learned our tips. Even something as simple as reading the reviews and planning in advance can take your rental pick up a notch. Now, you can pack your bags and venture into this captivating mountain range!
