Rent cribs, car seats, strollers, high chairs from an Independent Baby Rental Company on your next family vacation.
Planning a vacation with kids can be challenging, especially if you’re flying to your destination. Airlines vary with baggage fees but can range anywhere from $0-$40 per bag. Some airlines even charge for carry-ons! Most US carriers allow you to check a child safety seat but fees apply to other necessities like portable cribs, full size strollers, folding wagons or anything else that would make a vacation with kiddos easier. Add these fees up with your luggage and carry-on fees for a round trip flight and you’re looking at hundreds of dollars.
Some rental car companies will rent you a car seat for $10-$15 per day and will not always have the type that you need waiting for you. Resorts, hotels and rental properties will frequently have cribs and baby equipment available for an extra fee but how do you know if it’s monitored for maintenance issues or recalls?
- Ask the car rental company you use how much it costs to rent a child seat and will they guarantee the size that you need upon arrival. Also, find out how the seats are cleaned and if they are checked for recalls and safety issues.
- Many hotels and rental homes advertise cribs although most will provide portable mesh or hotel size and not a standard full size crib. Be sure to find out what size it is, the extra cost and if they are checked for recalls. How about bedding? Sheets and mattress pads need to fit properly and be clean.
Another option is to order your baby vacation gear from a local reputable rental service and have it waiting for you when you arrive. Listed below are some steps and questions to ask when looking for an independent baby gear rental service.
- Research independent licensed baby rental companies in your destination city. Many rental companies have serviced their communities for many years and have built relationships with resorts and property owners. Go with them! Be careful of the new “app” based services that anyone can join with gear they have lying around or pick up at yard sales. These companies are not necessarily regulated and will not be the best for your child.
- Will the company deliver to your destination? Will they bring the car seats to you at the airport or car rental service and the rest to your resort or rental home?
- Ask about fees. Some companies charge for delivery, location, set up, service, stairs, same day, cleaning, deposits, etc.
- We all know that plans can change with kids. Is there a cancellation fee? When is the cancellation deadline for a refund? What if I have to reschedule the vacation to different dates? What if I have to change my location during the vacation?
- How is the equipment cleanliness handled? Is it cleaned by the returning customer or by the rental company?
- What if I’m not happy with a piece of equipment for whatever reason? Do I get a replacement? A refund? Is my satisfaction guaranteed?
- Look for equipment that is up to date. Baby products change and are improved constantly – especially car seats.
- Are full size cribs and mattress up to the current standards? Are mattresses waterproof?
- Consider bringing your own child’s bedding so there is a familiarity to the crib.
- Consider rentals for the older kids. Toys, ride ons, boosters, games, books are frequently available to rent. Another way to lighten your load!
Planning vacations need to be fun and full of precious memories. Renting gear at your destination will help keep everyone happy!
Check out our nationwide listing of Independent Baby Rental Companies to consider when planning your vacation with kids.
