Apartment instead of hotel: what to pack and expect

What is usually there

Most short-term rentals provide bed linen and towels, a basic kitchen kit (plates, glasses, cutlery, a few pans), cleaning products, toilet paper to start with, and often a hairdryer. Many add coffee, tea, salt and oil. The listing's amenities section tells you what this host provides; if something matters to you, check it there.

What is often not there

• Daily cleaning: the place is cleaned between guests, not every day. On longer stays, ask how cleaning works.
• A reception: there is nobody at a desk. Questions go by message or phone.
• Luggage storage: before check-in or after check-out, you may need a luggage storage service unless the host offers flexibility.
• Toiletries in quantity: some hosts provide shampoo and soap, others only hand soap.
• Breakfast: you shop for it, which is part of the charm.

A short packing list for apartment stays

• A charger and a power bank: self check-in and host messages depend on your phone.
• A plug adapter if you travel from another plug standard.
• Your own toiletries, and a small amount of washing powder for longer stays.
• A reusable shopping bag for the first trip to the supermarket.
• Slippers or indoor shoes, if you like them: many flats have hard floors.
• Earplugs and a sleep mask: city flats are not soundproofed like hotel rooms.

Living in someone's space

A rented flat often sits in a residential building, among neighbours who live there all year. Keeping noise down in the evening, sorting rubbish the way the building expects and closing the main door behind you make life easier for everyone, including the next guest.

When a hotel is the better choice

For a single night, a very late arrival with no self check-in, or a trip where you want to be looked after, a hotel is often simpler. Apartments shine for families, groups, longer stays and travellers who like to live like a resident for a few days.