Family vacation time can be one of the most gratifying experiences, regardless of the location - whether in the vacation villa, any number of international locations, enjoying a vacation villa, or other adventures.

For many, the peaceful surroundings of a summer cottage are such a thrill. While most of us picture a summer cottage sitting right on the waterfront, inland summer home options are not only abundant, but also significantly cheaper. Before you rent an expensive waterfront cottage, keep reading to learn more about the benefits of inland property.

More Land, Lower Price

While waterfront properties offer beach and water access without having to walk or drive down to a water access point, they also don’t offer the land and privacy that an inland property would for a fraction of the price.

Most waterfront properties are either alarmingly close to their neighbors or directly across the water from other properties. On the other hand, inland properties tend to be situated on larger land parcels and, subsequently, afford more privacy.

Wants versus Needs

Are you renting a summer home because you spend your days swimming and your evenings paddling a canoe around the lake? Or, are you renting a summer home so you can enjoy the woods, go hunting, have bonfires and evenings spent by the barbeque?

Before you set your heart on a week at a waterfront property, think about the difference between what you actually want out of a property and what you and your family really need. If the answer is rest, relaxation, seclusion and quality time together, you may not prefer the expense and worry of a waterfront property.

Alternatively, many families that are renting a summer home to be close to relatives go for an inland property that’s adjacent or close to their family’s waterfront land. This allows them to enjoy their summer home - even if for a short time - be close to family, and still retain water access when they want it.

Waterfront Maintenance

With direct water frontage comes direct waterfront maintenance. This would really only be relevant if buying rather than merely renting. However, from installing and maintaining a dock, which may have to be taken in every season to shouldering the cost of life jackets, water gear and boat accessories, waterfront properties come with a whole lot more than water.

Parents should also think about safety, especially when looking at properties with deep-water docks or fast-moving river currents.

While a waterfront property is beautiful, there are many advantages to renting an inland summer vacation home. Beyond the obvious factor of cost, there’s also maintenance, safety, value for money and, of course, your own family’s actual needs. Before you pay for a vacation near water, consider the benefits of going inland.

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Vacations