8 Tips for Making a Short Term Rental Feel Like Home

A short term rental is an excellent option when you need temporary housing between moves or are traveling for work. There are a range of types, including apartments with variable lease terms, sublets, extended stay hotels, and vacation rentals, but all of them have one thing in common—they’re transitional, and by nature, living in them is a bit different than living somewhere you’re planning to stay for a while.

Currently, my husband and I, along with our dog and cat and way more furniture than we need, are living in a short term rental apartment while our new home gets built. We’ve got a couple months under our belt here and a few more to go, and we’ve learned quite a bit so far about how to make the best of the situation and make our temporary living space feel more like home. Whether you’re also in a short term rental right now or are planning to make the move soon, here are 8 tips for making the most of your time there.

Don’t bring everything you own

Make sure your short term rental covers your basics

If you don’t need it, don’t unpack it

But do unpack everything else

Save your boxes

Decorate, but don’t hang art

Throw a housewarming party

Meet your neighbors

Living in a short term rental can actually be a lot of fun if you go into it with the right mind set. Embrace it for what it is, and do what you can to turn it into a place that you enjoy living in, even if just for a small amount of time. You’ll be glad that you did.