One of life’s great pleasures is getting to go on vacation with your friends, whether it’s to an exotic destination or just a state you’ve never visited before. To this end, renting a large vacation home could be the perfect solution to accommodate your group.
But what steps should you take to plan the perfect summer getaway with your friends this travel season?
Start With the Right Type of Vacation Rental Home
The foundation of a great group trip is having a home base that works for everyone. Hotels are fine for short stays, but when you’re traveling with a group, vacation rental homes are almost always the better option. That’s because you get more space, a kitchen for shared meals, and plenty of areas to gather without having to squeeze into a single room or hang out in the hotel lobby.
When browsing options, look for homes that offer multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, so people can enjoy privacy when needed. Look for common areas, like large living rooms, porches, or game rooms, to hang out and relax. Prioritize outdoor space, whether it’s a grill area, pool, or even a firepit for late-night conversations. And definitely account for proximity to activities, as close walking distance to beaches, trails, restaurants, or attractions makes planning easier.
Remember that booking early is key, especially during summer. Many of the best rentals fill up months in advance, and having your lodging set makes it easier to coordinate the rest of the trip.
Choose a Destination That Fits the Group’s Vibe
The best summer getaway spot isn’t necessarily the trendiest; it’s the one that suits your group’s travel style. Is this trip about relaxing, or exploring? Is your crew more into beach lounging, city nightlife, or mountain trails? Settling on a shared vision early on helps avoid misunderstandings and disappointment later.
If your group is mixed in interests, pick a location that offers a bit of everything. Choose somewhere people can split up during the day and reunite in the evening.
Divide Responsibilities Before You Go
When everyone pitches in, the planning feels lighter and the trip runs more smoothly. Designate someone as the main coordinator, but share the load wherever you can.
Assign roles such as lodging coordinator, food planner, activity lead, or transportation czar. This not only avoids one person feeling overwhelmed, but also gives everyone a chance to contribute in their own way. Group chats and shared docs are helpful tools for keeping plans organized and visible to all.
Plan Some Structure (But Be Sure to Leave Room to Breathe)
It’s tempting to densely schedule a group vacation to “make the most of it,” but too much structure can lead to stress. Instead, aim for one or two group activities per day and leave the rest of the time open for spontaneous moments or solo recharge time.
Consider mixing big outings (like a boat tour or a concert) with low-key options (like a lazy afternoon at the house or a sunset walk). If someone wants to skip a group event and nap or read on the deck, let them. The goal is shared fun, and not forced participation.
Meal Planning Can Make or Break the Trip
Food is a big part of any vacation, and it’s especially important when you’re with your friends. Renting a home with a kitchen means you can cook some meals together, keep snacks on hand, and avoid eating out for every meal (which adds up fast).
One strategy that works well is to assign cooking nights. This way, each person or pair takes a turn preparing dinner for the group. You can also plan for one big grocery trip on day one, stocking up on breakfast staples, drinks, and snacks to fuel everyone throughout the week.
And don’t forget to try at least one local restaurant together. It’s a nice change of pace and often a highlight of the trip.
Capture the Memories – But Don’t Be Glued to Your Phone
Take photos, capture videos, and snap silly candids and sunset group shots. But don’t let your screen take over the experience. Assign one or two people as the unofficial photographers each day, and share all the media at the end of the trip.
Consider creating a shared folder or even a digital scrapbook afterward. It’s a great way to relive the moments once everyone’s back home.
The Bottom Line
A summer getaway with friends doesn’t have to be extravagant or overly complicated to be perfect. With the right vacation rental, clear communication, and a little flexibility, you can build a trip that balances fun, rest, and connection — all under one vacation rental home roof. So plan smart, keep it simple, and make space for the moments that matter most.
