Airbnbs are a great way to save on lodging expenses while you’re on the road, whether it’s for business or for pleasure. But the grass isn’t always greener on the other side. That is, if you don’t know what you’re doing when you’re getting ready to book and preparing for your trip. For as many positive experiences people have staying at an Airbnb, there’s also a heavy dose of miserable experiences.
This post will take a closer look at exactly what an Airbnb is and how you can stay safe (and comfortably) after booking one.
Airbnb 101: What You Need to Know
Essentially, Airbnb is an online service that allows people to rent out their homes, apartments and guest rooms to interested travelers. It’s like the Uber of lodging, as users who rent a property on the website have to give a small percentage of the cost to the company. And like Uber, travelers can stay in an Airbnb for considerably cheaper than they could if they were to book a hotel or rental home, especially in some of the more populated cities and downtowns.
Booking an Airbnb is similar to any other online listing. Travelers can browse through photos, communicate with hosts and read detailed descriptions on the property they’re interested in securing. Currently, Airbnb has about 800,000 properties listed for rent throughout 34,000 cities and 90 countries.
Getting What You’re Paying for
Like we mentioned, Airbnb is an online service, and there’s always a risk when booking anything online. We’re not going to pretend like there aren’t any Airbnb horror stories out there — just do a quick Google search and you’ll likely be privy to several search pages full of them. But in most cases, these horror stories can be prevented by doing your homework ahead of time, and being smart once you arrive. Here’s a look at some tips:
- Pay attention to house rules: Most listings will have some sort of rules that the hosts expect their guests to abide by. Make sure you read through these thoroughly to help decide whether or not you want to book.
- Read reviews: One of the best things about Internet marketplace sites like Airbnb is that there are a slew of reviews out there about hosts and properties that are listed. Take note of what former guests say, and be sure to look at each ratings category to make sure the property checks off the things that are important to you.
- Scope out the neighborhood: If there are no exterior photos of the property, do yourself a favor and pop the general area into Google Street View to get a glimpse of the area. Make sure you’re comfortable with how the neighborhood looks and take note of how many attractions are within walking distance.
- Don’t pay on anything other than Airbnb: Airbnb’s payment system is secure and reliable. And while a host might try to seek payment “under the table,” don’t do it. Not only is it against Airbnb’s policy, but if something goes wrong, you won’t have Airbnb protection on your side. Bottom line: If a host asks you to pay them under the table, don’t do it. Find another property to rent.
- Ask about privacy: Some of the horror stories people have shared about Airbnbs involve hosts video taping or spying on guests. It might be awkward to do so, but before you arrive, ask the host if there are any security cameras located anywhere on the property. Always protect your privacy.
- Get contact information ahead of time: Prior to your stay, make sure you follow up with the host and get a contact number in case you show up after hours, there’s something wrong or if the place isn’t at all what you expected.
If you check all of the aforementioned items off your list, chances are you’ll be able to kick back, relax and really enjoy your stay (not to mention the money you’ll be saving by going the Airbnb route)!
Regards,
Ethan Warrick
Editor
Wealth Authority
