Booked a Holiday Home Before? Don’t Make One of These 7 Mistakes

Been there—scrolling through glossy pics of sun-drenched patios and “sea view” lounges, dreaming of the perfect escape. Click Book Now, bags packed, and then… reality hits. Maybe the view’s just the neighbour’s bins, or the ‘king bed’ turns out to be two singles pushed together. Holiday home bookings can be brilliant—but only if you know what to look out for.

Here’s a heads-up on the sneaky little mistakes that catch people out when you book holiday homes. Worth keeping in mind for next time.

Think You’ve Got Holiday Bookings Down? These 7 Slip-Ups Say Otherwise

1. Only Looking at the Prettiest Photos

The wide-angle lens. The lighting. The “no filter” lies.

Just because it looks like a page from a home interiors mag doesn’t mean it’s actually like that.

• That “sea view”? Might need binoculars.

• That lovely open-plan space? Tiny in real life.

Always scroll to the last photo. And if there are only five? Bit sus, that. For example, a quick look around Clarach Bay Holiday Village and what’s actually on offer—facilities, perks, and all the little extras you’ll want to know.

2. Not Checking What’s Included

Turns out “fully equipped kitchen” doesn’t always mean a kettle and decent pans. And “towels provided” might mean one hand towel for four people.

Best to ask questions like:

• Are there decent cooking basics?

• Bedding and towels—yes or no?

• Heating? (Don’t laugh—some still don’t)

3. Overlooking the Cancellation Policy

Plans change. Flights get delayed. Someone gets ill. But if the place you booked, especially with caravan holiday homes, is strict about refunds, well… that’s a lot of money down the drain.

Always check the small print. Especially if you’re booking well in advance. Flexibility matters more than you'd think..

4. Booking Without Reading the Reviews Properly

We’re all guilty of skimming reviews, but trust me—read between the lines.

If someone says, “Lovely location, bring earplugs”, you’re in for some late-night traffic joy. And if multiple people mention it not being clean? Big red flag.

5. Trusting the Host’s Definition of ‘Near’

“5 mins to town” could mean 5 mins by car, bike, or jetpack. Don’t just take their word for it—check the address and map it yourself.

Especially important if you’re relying on public transport or planning to walk places. Lesson learned the hard way…

6. Forgetting About Hidden Costs

Cleaning fees, service charges, “linen hire”—all the little add-ons that sneak up at checkout. What looked like a bargain ends up costing more than a decent hotel.https://www.aberystwyth-caravan-holidays.co.uk/book-online

Always check the full cost before you book holiday homes, or you might be in for a surprise.

7. Assuming It’s Kid or Pet Friendly 

That open staircase, the breakable decor, the unfenced garden… Not every home is made for curious toddlers or excitable dogs.

If you’re bringing either, double-check what the setup is like. A pretty cottage won’t mean much if you spend the whole week on edge.

Final Insights

Looking to avoid the usual booking blunders? We make it easy. Browse our handpicked holiday homes with no hidden surprises—just comfort, convenience, and proper coastal charm. Contact us and let’s help you plan your next stay the right way. Book with us today.