The HomeAway 2019 Trend Report reveals fresh insights into travelers’ vacation rental preferences, highlighting which property types and amenities are gaining traction and how different generations approach vacation lodging.
Over the past year, demand for distinctive property types has risen sharply: searches for castle rentals increased by 55 percent, while interest in estate rentals grew by 25 percent. Despite the variety of property styles gaining attention, the single most desired feature across listings remains the swimming pool, reflecting travelers’ ongoing preference for private amenities that enhance relaxation and recreation.
Generational differences stand out in this report. Generation Z travelers—those 24 and under—show a stronger inclination to vacation with friends rather than with family or alone. This shift suggests changing social patterns around travel and may influence how properties are marketed and configured to meet younger travelers’ priorities.
“What is so striking about this year’s findings are the generational differences they reveal, and their implications for vacationing and vacation home rental activity for years to come,” said Melanie Fish of HomeAway. “More than three quarters of these newly independently vacationing Gen Z’ers have already stayed in a vacation home, cabin or condo at some point, making them far likelier than their parents to consider vacation rentals a primary lodging option as they continue to mature.”
The report also identifies rapidly growing vacation rental destinations. Hocking Hills, Ohio, located southwest of Columbus, ranks as the fastest-rising destination, reflecting travelers’ interest in nature-oriented retreats and unique regional experiences. Other emerging markets include Newton County, Arkansas, and Loudoun County, Virginia. Traditional favorites remain strong: Florida continues to be the most popular vacation rental destination overall, with Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and Gulf Shores, Alabama, also among the top domestic picks.
On the international front, major European cities remain high on travelers’ lists. Paris, London, Rome and Florence all rank prominently as sought-after locations for vacation rentals, indicating sustained demand for urban, culturally rich experiences alongside the continued appetite for nature and coastal escapes.
Overall, the HomeAway 2019 Trend Report points to three notable trends: growing interest in distinctive properties (such as castles and estates), consistent demand for private amenities like pools, and evolving generational preferences that will likely shape the vacation rental market going forward. Property owners and managers can use these insights to tailor listings, highlight the amenities most valued by travelers, and adapt marketing strategies to appeal to younger travelers who increasingly view vacation rentals as their preferred lodging option.