In this world of instant gratification and communication it's a wonder why guests at vacation rentals don't communicate better with the owners. Here's how to make sure everyone involved in your upcoming stay remains "in the loop."

The best way to make sure your upcoming vacation stay as a guest in a rental property is set up properly, is to communicate with the owner or agent from the start. This includes: phone numbers cell, office and, if necessary, and alternative phone number if possible.

Tip #1: After you have made the decision to stay at a certain property, store the owner or agent's telephone number in your cell phone.

By having their phone number in your cell phone you'll get the dual benefit of knowing who is calling you and be able to call them very quickly. Simple tip, but too often not done by most guests and they are scrambling to find the number in a stressful moment. It's also a good idea to store the phone number of the vacation rental property in your cell phone as well.

This tip came in handy recently when our GPS blew out. We had a decent idea of where we were but had no idea how to get to the property. I had the owner's number in my cell phone. My wife called the owner, wrote down the directions and we made it to the property just fine.

Tip #2: Know what time you can check in and check out.

Just like any other lodging business, a vacation rental has to be cleaned and prepped prior to your arrival. The property will have set check in and check out times. Know when that those times are and put it on your appointment calendar.

Tip #3: If you are running late for your check in, let the vacation rental owner or agent know.

Recognize that while you may be on vacation, this is a business to the owner or agent. In many cases they need to let you in to the property personally. If you are expected to be on property at a certain time but are running late let them know.

Additionally, if you communicate clearly, you may learn that the property is ready for you hours before standard check in time and you can check in early. It's quite astonishing how many times we have been able to check in early or check out late. But the only way we were able to do so is by communicating.

Tip #4: Get to know your texting function on your phone.

Ask the person handling the property for you if they use text messaging. Even if you don't know how to do it there is probably someone in your party who does. Text messaging is rapidly becoming one of the preferred methods of communication. You can easily and quickly send and receive communications via text messaging. This is also another fantastic way to communicate if you are in a noisy environment like a beach side bar where a band is playing.

Tip #5: Over communicate.

Surprises on vacation are rarely good. To eliminate these surprises, over communicate. Let them know when you are going to be there and when you are going to leave. Understand exactly what your responsibilities are and meet them. But if a surprise does come up, having the vacation rental owner or agent's telephone number handy can be a huge time saver and stress reducer.

In the end, communicating with the vacation rental principals in a professional and clear manner help everyone enjoy their vacation and business transaction more. As in all relationships, business or personal, communication is key.

In summary, tell the owner or agent your schedule, communicate via email and text messaging and over communicate.