Staying in Airbnbs is one of the best ways to see the world. A self-catering accommodation allows you to make it your own for the duration of your stay and really feel like you’re an adventurer in a new city.
Still, there are some rules of the game that will help you find a clean and safe accommodation with a friendly host who’s more than willing to help you maximize your time in their city. With these tips in mind, we hope you’ll be well on your way to the vacation of a lifetime.
1. Filter Your Search Results
Especially in big cities, most search results will display thousands of results. Start by filtering the essentials like free onsite parking if you have a car or a washing machine if you plan to stay a while.
2. Stick to Superhosts
As you’re filtering your results, stick to Superhosts or Guest Favorites. These are hosts who’ve consistently received stellar reviews and are more likely to treat you well. Nothing less than a 4.8 will earn them this mark of distinction.
3. Only Go With Lots of Photos
As enticing as that cover photo may seem, don’t book an accommodation with less than ten photos of the property. Perhaps they’re not technologically savvy, but that’s no excuse when your comfort and safety are on the line.
You want to see a listing with exceptional, high-quality, and ample photos of the entire property – inside and out.
3. Use the Map to Display Your Results
Before you go, you’ll probably already have a sense of the neighborhood you’d like to focus on. In the list view, you could easily be sucked in by a gorgeous picture of an accommodation in a less-than-stellar location.
By sticking to the map view, you’ll make sure you stay on the right side of the tracks and remain within walking distance of all the sights you’d like to see.
4. Switch to Google Earth
Typically, hosts don’t send their full address until a few days before your reservation. But, with the Airbnb map view, you’ll have a good sense of where your accommodation is located. Use Google Earth to stroll the streets in the immediate proximity to see if you think you’ll feel safe in that area.
5. Study the Entire Listing
Read the entire listing, from top to bottom. How does the host describe the space? What can they tell you about the surrounding area?
Not everyone’s a writer and maybe they won’t know how to go into tremendous detail. But, they should share as much as they can about the space and some things to do in the local area.
6. Read the Reviews
Back to the reviews. Before you book, read every review – yes, every review. Here, you’ll find out a lot more than what the host wrote in their summary.
You’ll read about the cleanliness of the space, its proximity to public transportation, and the host’s responsiveness to other guests. Each of these details can make or break your stay.
7. Discard Someone Argumentative
It’s nice to see a host respond to all their reviews – good, bad, or otherwise. In many instances, hosts will defend themselves after a negative review so it doesn’t act as a deterrent to fellow travelers.
And, let’s be honest, some people just can’t be pleased. But, don’t stay with a host who’s argumentative or snarky about negative reviewers. It’s a sure sign they’ll be defensive with you, as well, and might not offer you the help you need.
8. Message Your Host
Speaking of responsiveness, include a pertinent question for them in your initial booking. Clarify their proximity to the train station or available parking.
Although hosts are usually on their best behavior when trying to secure a booking, this could give you a nice sense of their general helpfulness.
9. Book In Advance
Technically, this could go either way. Sometimes, you’ll secure the best rates by booking well in advance. Other times, hosts will have last-minute cancellations and will post their accommodation at a discounted rate so it’s not a total wash.
Still, as a good rule of thumb, book in advance in the hopes of securing the best rate. And, if nothing else, you’ll certainly have greater access to a larger inventory.
10. Understand the Cancellation Fees
Cancellation fees will vary based on the host’s policies. You’ll find them toward the bottom of the details on the listing page.
If a host offers a fully refundable policy, you may be able to cancel for free as long as you’re within a specific timeframe. Other policies are nonrefundable, only partially refundable, or only available within certain dates and times.
No need to worry. You just want to know what you’re working with before you sign on the proverbial dotted line.
11. Stay a While Longer
If you’re in a position to base yourself out of one location for an extended period of time and then tour around the local city or country from there, that’s the best way to do it. Booking one Airbnb for a set monthly rate will offer you a better rate than several weeklong stays at four different locales.
12. Get to Know Your Host
In a message or two before your stay, and upon your arrival, do what you can to get to know your host a little.
Although most people host as a second stream of income, they also tend to do it because they love sharing their city with travelers. See what tidbits they have to share about local areas of interest, as well as the best restaurants and coffee shops.
13. Review Airbnb Experiences
In most of your searches, Airbnb Experiences will also come up. Don’t be afraid to browse through these, as well. Read the reviews to see what’s on offer.
Sometimes, Airbnb Experiences are far more enjoyable than big city tours because they’re often run by locals who, like your host, just want to share their love of the city.
14. Bring a Few Creature Comforts
Typically, it’s best to travel light. If you’re flying to your destination, this won’t apply. But, if you’re planning a staycation or booking an Airbnb in a nearby city that you plan to drive to, treat yourself to a few creature comforts.
Stow your own pillows in the backseat, pack your own set of 500-thread-count sheets, and bring that bath bomb you’ve been meaning to try. Sometimes, renting a local Airbnb for the weekend is the best way to get away without taking a lot of PTO or breaking the bank.
15. Always Trust Your Instincts
Our instincts are our natural defense systems. If something about the listing seems off, either in the photos, description, or reviews, move on. There are many other options on Airbnb, Booking.com, and regular hotels.
The same goes for arrival. Sure, arriving somewhere and no longer eligible for a refund would be a terrible waste of money, but don’t stay somewhere that feels wrong.
See if you can scoop up a last-minute, discounted Airbnb elsewhere or check into a classic hotel for the night until you regroup in the morning. Never stay somewhere that doesn’t feel clean or safe.
Enjoy Your Home Away From Home
Nothing in life is guaranteed. But a good deal of due diligence can go a long way when booking your next Airbnb. Be a stickler for every detail of the listing and the surrounding area.
Wherever you’re headed next, we will indeed have a destination guide to help you maximize your time. Hopefully, we’ll see you out there on your next dream vacation!