Airbnb is an online service that connects people looking to rent their homes with people who are looking for accommodations.Hosts list their available properties on the website which allows them to promote their spaces with photos and descriptions, they are also able to set their own availability and prices. Guests can search through the database and refine searches by room type, neighborhood, price, amenities and host language. Each user will have a profile with reviews from previous interactions and is a great way to get to know who you’ll be dealing with. There are currently over 550,000 listing available throughout 192 countries and spaces can range from a spare couch in someone’s basement to private villas and yachts. If you’re feeling royal there’s even a castle!
Since we usually travel as a couple and don’t spend more than a few days in a place I had never really considered renting an apartment. I recently took a long weekend trip to Boston with a few friends and I knew a cramped hotel room for the four of us was not going to cut it so I started looking at what was available on Airbnb. After a shaky start with one host claiming availability until right before booking and a few other apartments already booked we hit gold. For just a little more than what we would have spent on a four star hotel in downtown Boston we got this: a 1700 square foot, tastefully decorated flat located 2 blocks from Boston Common and right on top of a T stop for easy access to everything Boston had to offer. Our hosts were fabulous with frequent communication prior to our stay and thoughtfully left the apartment stocked with snacks and refreshments as well as some maps and guidebooks for us. This apartment was fantastic for a weekend getaway with friends, the spacious yet cozy living room was great for lounging during a rainy afternoon and the comfortable beds were the prefect way to recharge after a busy day of sightseeing. I honestly can’t imagine a better place to stay in Boston.
Interested in trying airbnb for your next trip? Here are a few dos and don’ts.
Do
-Contact multiple listings that suit your travel needs. The Airbnb calendar may not be updated or the property may be in negtiations with another potential client.
-Read the listing thoroughly. Be aware of check in and out times, the security deposit and cancellation policies.
– Check the reviews for properties you’re interested in. It will give you a good overview of what to expect of the property as well as who you will be renting from.
-Communicate thoroughly with the hosts throughout the process in order to ensure expectations are clear on all sides.
– Be aware of local laws. Several cities including New York, San Francisco and Berlin have legal concerns about Airbnb as hosts currently do not have to pay hotel taxes and landlords do not want to be held liable for incidents that occur with people who are not legally tied to the property.
-Be a good guest! Your host may give specific instructions regarding how to leave dishes or used linens, property access and where to leave the keys. Also try to keeps any messes to a minimum.
Don’t
– Hang your hopes on one property. The availability calendar may not be up to date and it may not be available.
-Party like a rock star and trash the place. This all comes back to being a good guest. At the very least you won’t get your security deposit and depending on damages law enforcement could be involved.
-Commit any major felonies. There are some Airbnb horror stories involving drug use, vandalism, burglary and even prostitution.
– Forget to leave a review after your stay. Let your hosts and other potential reviewers know what a great time you had or what could be improved upon.
In short, my first experience with Airbnb was a great one and I will definitely use this service again. Do you have any horror stories or have you found any hidden gems with Airbnb? Please share your experiences with me in the comments!
Lisa says
I loved our stay in Paris with airbandb. We had a fantastic location, great hosts and a good price. We’re using the website again this summer!
Brianna says
I’m glad to here you had a great experience as well!
Kelly says
This is a great post. We have often considered Airbnb, but have always decided against it, worried about what could go wrong. Thank you for the reassurance and the tips. We may relook and go for it. 🙂
Kelly
http://www.alovelylifeindeed.com
Brianna says
You just have to be informed about your potential rental, there are thousands of happy renters everyday!
Cathy says
Thanks Brianna for your do’s & don’t. I might suggest another very important one. I am a host in Las Vegas offering an amazing off strip guest house. Airbnb gives us the option of only accepting guest with a verified ID, and as a host, I also have a verified ID, and am a SuperHost. This is part of the Airbnb Trust & verify policy. This helps both parties feel more comfortable by knowing something about each other
Those of you that are considering using Airbnb, DO this first, as it may take a few days to process. Many host, like myself will not consider renting to someone without this. We like to see reviews also if available. I have rented to many, new to Airbnb (first time), so may make decision from profile & ID. Also, you can inquire about any questions you might have before requesting to book. Listings on Airbnb have many pictures to help you make a informed decision along with a good description. I for instance had a approved Airbnb photographer come out to take pictures which are posted as “verified photo” to assure the guest that the photos show the real thing. Also, the listing should show when the calendar was last updated. You can message the host to check if dates are available. Hope this helps! Cheers, Cathy
Brianna says
Fantastic tips Cathy, thanks for sharing!
Charles McCool says
I have two upcoming AirBNB stays in Canada. Looking forward to them. Much better deals (it seems) than hotels.
Brianna says
It was certainly a better deal for us, especially with all the space we got. I really hit the jackpot with this stay.
Chris - Part Time Vagabond says
Airbnb is a godsend for part time travelers like myself. I stayed at 2 places in Austin over the course of 2 nights, and they were both fantastic, and reasonably prices. Your Dos and Don’ts are spot on. But with the wide selection in most places, you’re bound to find something really good.
Brianna says
I couldn’t have had a better experience, I’ll definitely check Airbnb in the future!
Jenna says
We almost always stay in vacation rentals because it’s very important for us as parents to have a kitchen and some space to spread out; plus, we usually travel with our dogs. I’ve had mixed experiences (I posted about it after one that was particularly disappointing).
Brianna says
You win some, you lose some. I gather you’ve had more positive experiences than negative though.
SJ @ Chasing the Donkey says
Great wrap up. I dislike that the availability calendar is not always live – it’ smy big pet peeve with AirBNB. Safe travels.
Brianna says
That is quite annoying but overall I had a great experience.
Phoebe @ Lou Messugo says
You can’t really blame Airbnb for the calendar, it’s up to the host to keep it up to date which is exactly the same with any holiday apartment portal. I’ve rented out my holiday apartment for 4.5 years through Airbnb very successfully and always keep the calendar up to date. Those who don’t up date miss out on business and aren’t very serious. Those who do, get the business. Don’t let that put you off SJ, it’s a fantastic way to travel particularly with young kids.
SJ @ Chasing the Donkey says
PS: Thanks for linking up with us for #SundayTraveler
Bex says
I had a great experience as well with AirBnB in Hong Kong. Great tips, and your Boston accommodation looked wonderful!
Brianna says
I’m definitely going to keep them in mind for future trips!
Tara Lepore says
After our first apartment stay (through TripAdvisor, not AirBnB) I’m really eager to try this route again. AirBnB seems pretty reliable, and your tips really help. Also, I’m super glad you enjoyed Boston–that’s my home city! Thanks for linking up with us on #WeekendWanderlust!
Brianna says
I loved Boston, what a fun city in the summer!
Bron says
We just spent six weeks over Europe and stayed in six different apartments through vrbo and airbnb. Our experiences were all fantastic and positive and gave us so much room to move! Cheers Bron
Brianna says
Six weeks in Europe sounds lovely! I’m glad you had great experiences with all of your rentals.
Lauren says
I have an account with Airbnb but have yet to try it out…would love to try it out sometime though as I’ve heard some great things! The place you stayed at looks awesome! Thanks for linking up with #WeekendWanderlust!
Brianna says
That apartment is one of the nicest places I’ve ever stayed, I would definitely use Airbnb again!
Mandie @ RamblingMandie says
I haven’t yet used Airbnb but I keep hearing great things! Sometimes I love the community aspect of hostels but other times I just want to relax and have my own space. Some great tips here!
Brianna says
We loooved having so much room, at 1700 sq. feet it was almost as big as my house.
Angelica @BkChickTravels says
I started using Airbnb last year and love it! I still go to hotels of course because sometimes every apartment or beachfront condo I want is taken for my dates of travel, but it is amazing what others offer.The homes I have stayed in are always so homey and it’s just a great experience. I love to do it with my girlfriends so we fit more girls into one house rather than separate hotel rooms. Hope you continue to enjoy it!
Brianna says
It was awesome for traveling as a group, I will definitely use them in the future.
Amy Lynne Hayes says
I have yet to use AirBnB, but I am highly considering changing that on an upcoming trip to New Zealand. I’ve had friends who have used it, and always have great things to say about their experience. I’m glad yours was positive as well!! I have a little over 2 months before I arrive there, so it’s probably time to start looking to make sure there’s still some properties left!
Brianna says
New Zealand, lucky you! I’m sure you’ll find some great properties.
elaine schoch says
Glad you had a good experience. I still haven’t tried Airbnb, mainly because we travel on a lot of points. I need to try to it tho -soon!
Axelle says
Like with any other rental company you just have to do your research and by the look of this you did a great job 🙂
Claudia says
What I don’t like about airbnb is that the prices are always confusing – I read a price, click on the property, read the information, and then realise the price is actually different…
Brianna says
I agree but you do have some leeway to negotiate with the hosts though.
Cathy says
The price’s are different because Airbnb charges a fee for their services, and then the Host probably has a cleaning fee. Some listings charge extra for more than two people. Airbnb usually gives you a break down of all charges. Don’t forget price’s may be higher during week-ends or holidays. Compare that to a hotel that has all kinds of add on fee’s.
Mindi @ 2foodtrippers says
I haven’t yet tried Airbnb. Based on your review, I finally need to give it a try.
Brianna says
My first experience was fantastic, it was hard going back to a hotel room after that awesome apartment!
Sandra @ Tripper says
It’s great when you get a nice apartment and a nice renter who leaves you treats for your staying. I always prefer renting an apartment if I’m staying for more than a couple of days for sure.
Brianna says
I couldn’t have asked for better hosts!
Annika - Live Laugh Explore says
Sounds like this is the way to do it these days, everyone and their mother are renting through Air BnB! I have not yet tried it but I am curious..and a little wary too, although am not sure why. I guess hotels feel safer if something goes wrong and the place isn’t what you expected at all, at least in a hotel you can request another room. Nevertheless, I’m sure I will try this out one of these days once I have a destination I would need it in 🙂
Brianna says
I certainly searched through a lot of misses before landing this gem.
Katrina says
Glad you had such an awesome experience! We have yet to use Airbnb, but will be looking at various options for our next trips to see if it’s a better fit than a hotel.
Brianna says
It was one of the nicest places I have ever stayed!
Bente Vold Klausen says
This was so useful for me as I have just rented a flat on AirBnB in Altea, Spain and we are going there in September. I have also rented a flat in Dakar, Senegal for Christmas and is soooo excited about it! Some friends have already tried out AirBnB and they are all very happy with it and recommend it.
Brianna says
Good luck, I hope your rentals are as wonderful as ours was!
Dave Cole says
I have yet to use Airbnb, but there appears to be a lot of upside to this addition to travel accommodation. It really does broaden the options for visitors to a city and provides the “home away from home” comfort. The next time I’m headed someplace with an Airbnb presence, I’ll definitely look into the possibilities! And, of course, I will be careful not to engage in any felonious activity.
Brianna says
Always a good idea to contain the felonious activity to your own home, its only the polite thing to do.
The Wandering Wanderluster says
We have yet to try it out but we are really keen too! Your first time rental looks amazing!! You were lucky to find such a beautiful apartment! We are considering doing it on our next trip but I don’t think there are too many places on Air BnB outside of Prague in the Czech Republic! 🙁
Brianna says
I couldn’t believe how luxurious the apartment was, it was like spending a few days in architectural digest!
Christa Thompson says
Hey, on behalf of Christa, Host of The Sunday Traveler, I was stopping by to check out your article. Seems like a great concept and the place you stayed at in Boston was very modern and nice. Good tips too. Thanks!
Brianna says
Thanks fot stopping by, the rental was simply amazing and Airbnb will definitely be an option for all my future travels.
Lisa at Wanderlust Women says
Personally, I have never used the site but have heard mixed views from my travel clients….but that’s with anything in life.
Brianna says
Like anything you have to do your research. It’s not a perfect solution for every trip or every destination.
Christina says
Thanks for sharing this useful article. I heard a lot about AirBnB lately but never had the chance and/or time to read about it. Very interesting and I like your list of Do´s and Dont´s.
Brianna says
I was super happy with my first experience, glad you like my tips!
Els says
Every time I’m telling myself I’m going to use it, but I always seem to forget 🙂 Ok, next trip definitely! Wow, that apartment looks absolutely stunning. And it’s a great way to feel “at home” in a place!
Brianna says
We really lucked out with getting that apartment, it was a wonderful stay!
Paul says
Never even heard of this before until now, wow! I am currently looking at AirBnB hosts for when I dubrovnik next year – Thanks so much for the tips!
Brianna says
Glad I could help, good luck with getting some awesome apartments in Dbrovnik!
Tracie Howe says
Airbnb is the best! Such a great way to experience a bit of the life of a local, while having your own space. I’m glad you liked your stay.
Brianna says
Thanks, that Boston apartment was amazing!
Jessica Pepe says
I’m definitely torn on Airbnb – it’s a great idea when used as intended, but it seems like people on both sides (renters and guests) abuse the system, and the company isn’t always helpful when something goes wrong. But then again, I’ve had enough bad experiences with hotel staff not being helpful when something goes wrong . . .
I’m glad your stay worked out great!
Brianna says
There is definitely some added uncertainty when renting from just one person, but I was thrilled with my first experience.
Phoebe @ Lou Messugo says
As a host with Airbnb I’d say your tips are spot on. I’ve only ever had great experiences both hosting and as a guest. Pretty much all the travellers I’ve had to stay in my place have been interesting, independent, fun people who’ve totally respected my place and same goes for where I’ve stayed. I’ve used Airbnb to stay in Kotor, Mostar, Fes, Northumberland and Carcasonne and all have been really special unique places.
Brianna says
We definitely had a great experience with this apartment and our wonderful hosts.
Emily says
You hit the jackpot with that place – it looks lovely. A couple of friends used Airbnb and raved about it, so I’ll definitely have to consider it for my next break.
Brianna says
We loved it there, it was hard to stay in a hotel on my return trip to Boston
Milosz Zak says
I absolutely love Airbnb, I even have my own listings too – it’s all funding my travels: https://www.airbnb.ca/rooms/2998963
Brianna says
Great way to make Airbnb work for you!
Adelina // Pack Me To says
I have a love hate relationship with AirBnB – I’ve had some really fantastic stays and others that were meh and okay. Regardless it’s a great option to have if you’re going to be in a city for a long time. I like having more space and the comfort of almost being at home.
Brianna says
It was wonderful having the extra space and a kitchen.
Anna | slightly astray says
I’m glad you had a great stay! We are a couple traveler too and use airbnb almost exclusively for our travels because we’re just at that place where we prefer more quiet & privacy over being social, lol. I agree that communication with the host is important! The only time our experience wasn’t as good was when we didn’t communicate well, and they expected us to THOROUGHLY clean the apartment… whereas we assumed that it would be cleaned professionally after us like every other place we’ve stayed in… so we didn’t leave it EXACTLY the way we came in, and they got all pissy lol. But I think that was just unrealistic expectations!
Brianna says
It will definitely be on my radar for future travels!
Karisa says
I would say also try to book as far in advance as possible. I was turned down by 5 or 6 places over the course of 2 weeks leaving me almost stranded in Taipei. I didn’t realize that the availability might differ from what is posted!
Brianna says
I definitely agree! We cut it a little close for a holiday weekend in Boston too.
Bob R says
I’ve been using them for a few years now and it’s become my No 1 go-to for rooms. Their growing popularity seems to have driven the price up a bit, at least in some markets, but I’ve never had a bad experience. Glad you’re happy too.
Brianna says
Good to hear it Bob! I have definitely seen some listings that were priced a little too generously for what you were getting.
Kristen Bor (Bearfoot Theory) says
Wow! Looks like you scored a fabulous place. I’ve used Airbnb a few times and always been happy. Great tips for first time users!
Brianna says
I couldn’t have been happier with that apartment, it was amazing!
Mandy says
I used Airbnb for the first time last winter and I absolutely loved it! I used it to book an apartment in Paris for my upcoming trip there and I’m seriously excited to use them again. It’s amazing what you can get for almost the same cost as a hotel room. It’s a no-brainer if you’re traveling with a group of friends.
Brianna says
No doubt! I’m sure you scored a super chic flat in Paris too.
Hannah says
I’ve never used AirBNB. As a primarily solo travel I usually stick to hostels to get some company but next time I travel with a friend I’ll give it a shot- maybe at the castle 😉
Brianna says
Let me know how royal living suits you!
Our Adventure in croatia says
I have been an Airbnb host for quite a few months now.
Last summer I rented out my London apartment while I was on holiday, and this summer we are renting out our Croatia seaside villa and some bookings are coming via Airbnb. It works both ways, guest want to be happy and have a good accommodation, but hosts want good guests and someone who will take good care of their home.
Our guests leave us great reviews.
Next week we’ll rent a room in Split Croatia from an Airbnb host who has excellent reviews, so we are looking forward to our stay and we will blog about our experience. It’s a great way to visit a country staying in someone else’s home rather than in a hotel room
Diana - Life in German. says
I’ve never stayed with airbnb, but only because i’ve never found any to be available on our travel dates, hope your time in Boston was great!
Brianna says
We had a fantastic time in Boston, thanks for stopping by!
Jon @ jonistravelling.com says
This was a handy post for me as I’m planning on using Airbnb when on my upcoming trip to Europe, thanks for the info!
Brianna says
Glad I could help, have a great time in Europe!
Amy says
Great tips! I’ve always been nervous to use Airbnb but I keep hearing such positive things. The place you got looks awesome! I’ll have to give it a try one of these days.
Brianna says
I was a little nervous too but it really was a great experience.
Carmen (CarmensTravelTips) says
What a great place with lots of space. I’ll have to check out their website to see what they have to offer. I rather rent an apartment than stay at a hotel. Thanks for sharing.
Brianna says
Our apartment was way more comfortable than any hotel I’ve stayed in.
holly says
Very helpful as I’ve been curious about Air B&B.
Brianna says
Thanks, I’m glad you found this post to be informative. Happy travels!
Carissa - Start Wandering says
What a wonderful post. The place looks amazing that’s what airbnb is all about to me. Thing is I’m yet to use them but on my upcoming round the world one way trip I will be booking majority of my stay with them! So thank you for the tips
Brianna says
Good luck on your upcoming travels!
Sumit Surai says
Never used Airbnb. But looks like a good option.
Brianna says
It was a great option for this trip, thanks for stopping by!
Bianca @itsallbee says
I love airbnb and use it all the time. Out of all the times I have used it I have only had one weird experience. I am hoping to use it on my up coming trip to Namibia.
Brianna says
Namibia, you lucky girl! I can’t wait to see your pictures!
Kate says
I’m really glad I’ve read this because I’ve been thinking about trying it on an upcoming trip. Pleased to see it was a great experience for you and the place looks incredible! Hopefully they don’t start cracking down on airbnb because of hotel tax etc. Sounds like a great service
Brianna says
It was hard to go back to staying in a hotel room after staying in this sweet apartment. I hope Airbnb is here to stay!
NZ Muse says
Only good experiences here! Couldn’t have asked for better in Paris. Our next two experiences in NYC were a bit different but not bad. Wrote about them in more detail here: http://nzmuse.com/2013/10/airbnb-first-timers-experience/
Brianna says
I will definitely use Airbnb again.
Monique van Tulder says
It is such a great option for accommodation on so many levels. My father recently visited us in Sydney, our inner city terrace bursts when we have visitors – not particularly comfortable for anyone. Using Airbnb he managed to find a property across the road from us, fabulous and convenient! Recommend them all the way. Cheers Monique
Brianna says
Great you had a great experience and that your father was able to find a place so near by.
Andi says
I have heard nothing but good things and there are certain locales that I am definitely considering AirBnB as the best option. I am glad you liked your first experience!
Brianna says
My Boston rental certainly set the bar high, we had a great first experience.
Murissa says
I am hoping to rent an AirBnB for the first time when I visit Boston in March for the WITS conference. This is a perfect post to ensure a good stay!
Brianna says
I’ll be at the WITS conference too! This apartment was the perfect location for downtown Boston.
Anita says
My first experience with airBNB was great too – a lovely couple up in Napa when I went to a food conference! You look like you really picked a winner!
Brianna says
This was really a fabulous apartment, I can’t wait to see what other gems I can find!
Marah on iFly AU says
I heard many things about Airbnb. I think I really must try staying there if available in my chosen destination. Whatever would be my experience, I will share it whether it’s a great one or will just disappoint me.
Brianna says
I enjoyed my Airbnb experience and will definitely use them in the future.
Joseph @ Green Global Travel says
AirBnb is a great alternative, thanks for sharing your experience! I agree with your Do’s and Dont’s, especially about the importance of leaving a review for your fellow travellers.
Brianna says
I loved my first Airbnb experience and will certainly be using them again in the future.
Allison says
Great article! We used Air BnB to book a townhouse in Philadelphia for a family wedding this spring! It looks like a great place and we are really excited to visit that city.
Other guests are not as thrilled… They booked last fall with another company and found out in early January that the property had been sold and the new owners weren’t renting. They are now scrambling to find accommodation for eight on a weekend that will be very busy ( graduation weekend at the University) the wedding is downtown so they might be paying premium prices as well.
A really good idea is to pay attention to the reviews, the place we have is very highly rated for its type in the Philadelphia area.
So we feel quite comfortable with our choice… Communication with the host is key.
Brianna says
I completely agree with you on reading the reviews and communicating with your host- it gives you a much better idea of what to expect.
Zaroyana says
I used AirBnB for some of my stays in Italy. Because I was travelling for over a month, I specifically chose apartments that has a washing machine. This allowed me to do laundry and hang it to dry (most people in Italy do not have a dryer)
I also used HouseTripping in Paris, but that was a DISASTER! I still have scares from the mosquito bites (27 in total), and there was no hot water. And the website pretty much said “Too bad, you’ve already checked in and there is not anythign we can do because we have already received your money and paid the host…here’s a coupon for 10% off your next booking of seven days or more.” NEVER AGAIN.
I am going to Cuba next week. Too bad there are no AirBnB locations available there…..
Brianna says
I’m sorry to hear about your experience with HouseTripping, I didn’t even know Paris had mosquitoes!
Susan says
Thank you for for sharing your first Airbnb experience. I think that Airbnb is such an enriching way to travel. Being an Airbnb host has truly been rewarding. The hosted home is the ultimate Airbnb experience. All the best, Sue
Brianna says
Hi Sue, thanks for stopping by. I definitely enjoyed Airbnb and am about to use them again!
Suzanne (PhilaTravelGirl) says
That Boston flat looks fabulous – what a great first stay! I tried Airbnb for the first time in Europe this summer six times – found two gems in London and Venice. had awful experience with one dirty house not maintained house where I fell on loose/uneven steps and fractured foot which affected holiday. Important to do research.
Brianna says
Suzanne, this flat spoiled me! The espresso machine alone is worth the stay here.