Planning a trip to Cancun? With its turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and buzzing nightlife, Cancun is one of the world’s most popular destinations. But with the surge in vacation rentals online, it’s crucial to know what you’re booking. While platforms like Airbnb offer plenty of options, you’ll want to avoid the common pitfalls that can turn your dream holiday into a nightmare.
Here are the top five things to know before booking Cancun rentals.
1. Choose a reliable booking platform
Online scams are rising, with fraudsters listing fake rentals that don’t exist. Stick to trusted platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo, which offer guest support and secure payment systems.
- Avoid direct payments or casual Facebook and Instagram listings.
- Check if the property has verified photos and up-to-date host information.
2. Read reviews carefully
Reviews reveal the true story behind a rental. Check for:
- Consistency across multiple reviews.
- Feedback on cleanliness, amenities, and host responsiveness.
- A decent number of ratings (50+ reviews is a good benchmark).
Tip: If reviews are all recent or overly positive, approach with caution – they could be fake.
3. Research the location
Cancun has diverse neighbourhoods, each offering a different vibe:
- Downtown Cancun is budget-friendly but farther from the beach.
- The Hotel Zone offers direct beach access but at a premium price.
- Playa El Niño, just a 5-minute taxi ride from some downtown rentals, is a hidden gem.
Use Google Maps to check distances to key attractions, restaurants, and transport options.
4. Watch for hidden fees
Many properties charge extra for cleaning, late check-outs, or damaged items. Before booking:
Check refund and cancellation policies.
Read the fine print.
Confirm total costs, including taxes and service fees.
5. Know the house rules
Every rental has its own set of rules – from quiet hours (often 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.) to restrictions on parties or pets. Breaking these rules could mean fines or losing your deposit. Always confirm what’s allowed before booking.
