6 Tips for Choosing an Accommodation in the Outer Banks for Your Next Family Vacation

Famed for its stunning beaches, relaxed atmosphere, serene landscapes, and unique attractions, the Outer Banks in North Carolina has been a popular vacation spot for families for decades. If you’re planning a trip to this beautiful and vibrant destination, this guide provides essential tips for securing the perfect Outer Banks accommodation for your family. 

Best Accommodation in the Outer Banks for Family Vacation

Determine Your Group Size and Needs

Understanding the size of your travel group and specific needs can significantly help you choose the right accommodation. What’s your final headcount? How many bedrooms does your family realistically need? Make sure your preferred accommodation has enough bathrooms and bedrooms to comfortably accommodate everyone. 

Think about the sleeping arrangements, especially if you have small children. Will they be comfortable with bunk beds or need multiple twin beds? Consider the specific needs of each family member when it comes to sleeping, as this can help you save time and effort when searching for accommodations. 

It is also crucial to consider the special needs of each family member. This includes factors such as sensory sensitivities, accessibility requirements, allergies, and mobility limitations. Will you be travelling with a baby, a senior, a disabled loved one, or a neurodivergent child who may need features like cribs, handicap access, soundproof walls, or other specific amenities? Addressing their needs can help you find an accommodation that can make your family vacation experience smooth and stress-free. 

Consider Your Budget

Regardless of whether you plan to be economical or splurge, it is important that you create a feasible and sustainable budget for your accommodation. A well-established budget can help you narrow down your options and find accommodations that fit within your financial plan. 

Keep in mind that the Outer Banks is a popular vacation destination, so learning your budget early on can help you secure discounts or better deals, especially if you book early. To help you create an accommodation budget, start by researching the various lodging options, taking note of their amenities and price ranges.

Consider the time of the year or season of your planned travel dates, as vacationing on the Outer Banks during the summer can be expensive. 

If your travel dates are flexible, consider booking during the off-season and finding accommodations months in advance, so you can take advantage of special offers. Remember to factor in the length of your stay and any special requests by your family. 

Choose Your Location and Type of Accommodation

Location is integral when choosing accommodations on the Outer Banks, as each town and village offers a distinct atmosphere. Some areas are serene and secluded, while other spots are lively and bustling. If you love nature and prefer a charming village feel, consider staying in Corolla. 

If your family wants private beach access accommodations in a relatively quieter area, focus your search on the town of Southern Shores. Consider your family’s personality and preferences when travelling, and choose the town where your family will thrive. 

Each type of accommodation offers a different experience and may cater to varying family preferences. Decide whether you prefer a beachside house, a condo, or a traditional hotel. Explore the pros and cons of each option, and make sure to get your family’s insights. 

If your family wants more space and privacy, staying at vacation homes on the Outer Banks is ideal. They have more amenities for families compared to conventional motels or hotels and often come equipped with kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and outdoor spaces. 

Get inspired:

Prioritize Amenities

Amenities play a crucial role in the overall enjoyment and success of family vacations. They enhance comfort, convenience, and entertainment, ultimately leading to a more relaxed and memorable vacation experience for all your loved ones. 

Think about the amenities that are important to your family, such as a pool, direct beach access, or pet-friendly options. Do you want a rental with kitchenettes or in-room microwaves, or amenities that encourage family participation?

Have a family meeting and discuss the amenities that each family member wants for the trip. Some family-friendly amenities to look for in Outer Banks accommodations include hot tubs, central air conditioning, outdoor showers, high-speed internet, a well-equipped kitchen, and built-in entertainment like theater rooms or game rooms. 

If you plan to bring your family pet, make sure that your preferred accommodation is pet-friendly. Amenities such as fenced yards, pet-friendly flooring, and outdoor showers can help make your vacation with your pet more manageable and less stressful. Also, remember to ask about the pet policies of your potential accommodation to prevent misunderstanding and unnecessary violation fees. 

Read Client Reviews 

Once you have a shortlist of Outer Banks accommodation options, take time to read client feedback. These reviews provide firsthand accounts of the accommodation’s cleanliness, security, maintenance, and overall condition. They can confirm whether or not the advertised description is accurate or misleading. 

When looking for client reviews, avoid focusing on the feedback left on the property’s business website or social media. Check client reviews posted on reputable third-party review platforms as they tend to be more credible, less biased, and more objective. 

Book Early and Secure Your Reservation

The Outer Banks is a popular destination, especially during peak season. Booking early can help ensure you secure your desired accommodation and allows for better deals, more options, and the ability to plan your family trip with greater ease and flexibility. It also eliminates the stress of looking for a place that can accommodate the needs and preferences of everyone in your family. 

Start looking for an accommodation once you’ve decided on your vacation dates. Make sure to learn the cancellation policy of your chosen accommodation, especially if you’ll be booking early.  Double-check all the information in your booking reservation and make changes if necessary. In addition to your booking confirmation, make sure to keep a record of all your communication with your chosen accommodation. 

Endnote

The Outer Banks offers a blend of historical sites, outdoor activities, and family-friendly amenities that cater to different families with various interests. By carefully following these valuable pointers, you can find the best accommodation in the Outer Banks to create a memorable and enjoyable family vacation.