Vacation Rentals, Cabins, Beach Houses, Unique Homes & Experiences (2024)

How-to

Taking a trip generally means spending your own time and money. So you want to be sure you find a place that suits you perfectly. Here are some tips to help you travel with confidence, knowing you’ve made the right decision.

Find what’s right for you

First of all, find a space that suits your needs by using our many search filters. When you spot a place you really like, take time to read through the Host’s profile and listing description, paying special attention to the amenities, house rules, and the cancellation policy.

Read the ratings and reviews

We always recommend reading feedback from other guests as a great way of finding the right fit. You’ll find ratings on subcategories like cleanliness and accuracy, as well as detailed reviews from fellow travelers. Guests can only leave a review after their trip, so you can feel confident that the feedback in a review is from someone who actually stayed there.

Need more info? Learn how reviews for stays work.

Review the safety features

It’s a good idea to check for smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on the property, which you can find in the listing of amenities under Home safety.

Read more about smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in our Help Center.

Get answers from the Host

Our secure messaging tool is a safe and easy way for you to ask a potential Host any questions you may have before you book. After booking, you can also message them to coordinate check-in, ask additional questions, and keep in touch throughout your trip. Learn more about contacting Hosts.

Always communicate and pay on Airbnb

Keep yourself, your payment, and your personal information safe by staying on our secure platform throughout the entire process—from communication to booking and payment. You should never be asked to wire money, provide credit card information, or otherwise pay a Host directly. If this happens, please report it to us immediately.

Do a safety check

Once you arrive, it’s a good idea to locate safety information and relevant emergency equipment, such as the fire extinguisher or first aid kit. If you’re not sure where something is, don’t hesitate to ask your Host. It’s always better to be prepared.

Research local travel alerts and warnings

Whether you’re traveling with Airbnb or not, it’s wise to research your destination ahead of time, and check with your local embassy for any travel warnings or special requirements. For example, travelers from the USA should check with the US Department of State for visa information and travel warnings. Learn more on our Host & guest safety page.

We're here to help

If there’s an emergency in progress, please contact local emergency services or law enforcement authorities for assistance.

For other safety issues, we’re available 24 hours a day. Read more about how to contact us in our Help Center.

Remember: In an emergency, or if your personal safety is threatened, contact local police or emergency services immediately.

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Vacation Rentals, Cabins, Beach Houses, Unique Homes & Experiences (2024)

FAQs

What is a unique stay on Airbnb? ›

Unique stays on Airbnb refer to properties or experiences that offer something different and out of the ordinary to guests. These can include everything from treehouses, yurts, and airstreams to boats, tiny homes, and even igloos.

How do I find my most unique Airbnb? ›

You can also use Airbnb Categories to filter by unique listings. Choose from categories like lighthouses, cabins, or boats. Note: Currently, sorting is not an Airbnb search feature, but you can filter by price to find places that fit a certain price range.

Does vrbo have experiences like Airbnb? ›

Vrbo offers stand-alone vacation homes only. It doesn't generally offer “shared” spaces like private rooms or more unusual options like campsites. Airbnb offers stand-alone vacation homes as well as shared spaces and even hotel rooms.

Is Airbnb cheaper than hotels? ›

Depending on the type of Airbnb apartment and the hotel, Airbnb can be cheaper than hotels but can also be more expensive. In general, Airbnb is cheaper than hotels because Airbnb does not have to pay for the overhead costs of a hotel or the general management of such a large operation.

What do Airbnb guests want most? ›

No matter whether you're offering a private room or a castle, all hosts should aim to provide these Airbnb must-haves:
  • Freshly laundered bed linen on each bed.
  • Sufficient pillows for each guest.
  • Extra pillows and blankets – “just in case”
  • Plenty of clothes hangers.
  • Clean and fresh towels for each guest.
Jan 26, 2024

How do I create a unique experience on Airbnb? ›

How to create a unique Airbnb guest experience
  1. Offer welcome packs. Go that extra mile and offer your guests welcome packs on arrival. ...
  2. Provide entertainment. ...
  3. Complimentary amenities. ...
  4. Offer local tips.

What is OMG on Airbnb? ›

Airbnb recently introduced a new category of properties titled 'OMG' which captures the most luxurious, unique, and exclusive accommodations listed on the site. These properties stand out from the rest with their next-level amenities, outstanding service, and high-end furnishings.

What are rare finds on Airbnb? ›

On Airbnb, a "Rare Find" is a badge of distinction that highlights properties that stand out due to their high demand and swift booking rates. These are the gems guests stumble upon and quickly reserve, often because they offer something exceptional or are located in sought-after destinations.

Which vacation rental site is the best? ›

  • Airbnb. Best rental site for variety. ...
  • Vrbo. Best rental site for group travelers. ...
  • FlipKey. Best rental site for destination guidance. ...
  • Booking.com. Best rental site for hotel loyalists. ...
  • Agoda. Best rental site for travel throughout Asia. ...
  • Plum Guide. Best rental site for quality assurance. ...
  • HomeToGo. ...
  • Casamundo.
5 days ago

Why do people use Vrbo instead of Airbnb? ›

Vrbo only allows the rental of private units — meaning Vrbo houses, cabins and apartments are only occupied by the renters. You won't be seeing any shared spaces on the site, which makes it ideal for families and groups of people traveling together. Airbnb places no such restrictions on their listings.

Who is Airbnb's biggest competitor? ›

Vrbo, otherwise known as Vacation Rentals By Owner, is often heralded as Airbnb's closest competitor. This platform stands out with its wide range of listings and powerful “total price” search option, letting travelers see the full cost upfront.

What are the disadvantages of Airbnb over hotels? ›

Airbnb
ProsCons
Airbnbs are generally cheaper than hotel rooms (based on nightly rates)The quality of each listing can be inconsistent
Guests can experience living like a local and sometimes have the option of getting to know the hostLittle to no guest services available
1 more row
Nov 28, 2023

Are Airbnbs cleaner than hotels? ›

Airbnbs are, on average, far cleaner than even luxury hotel rooms. Perhaps Airbnb guests show more respect simply because they're staying in someone else's home, leading them to be more conscious of grime left behind. 75 percent have found nothing unclean about their Airbnb, compared with 57 percent of hotel stays.

Is Vrbo or Airbnb less expensive? ›

Vrbo takes a lower portion than Airbnb, which tends to result in costs being a bit better on Vrbo, although there are no guarantees. Both platforms allow hosts to set their nightly rate, cleaning cost, and pet fee.

What is a unique space on Airbnb? ›

Unique space: Interesting or unconventional structure, such as a treehouse, yurt, or farm stay. Bed and breakfast: A hospitality business offering guests breakfast with a Host on-site. Boutique hotel: A hospitality business with a unique style or theme defining its identity.

What makes my Airbnb unique? ›

Use high-quality photos that showcase your property's unique features and write a compelling description that highlights its best attributes. Other helpful ways of making your Airbnb stand out are: Offering desirable amenities like Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and well-equipped kitchens can attract more guests.

What is the unique selling point of Airbnb? ›

In the case of Airbnb, its USP is the ability to provide travelers with a unique and more personalized experience, often in unique and unusual properties that traditional hotels can't match. Your value proposition promises what your product will do for the customer and how it will meet their needs.

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