Airbnb competitors are becoming increasingly popular as both hosts and guests seek alternatives for better experiences and improved occupancy rates. While Airbnb boasts over 7.7 million active listings and 150 million users worldwide, it’s not without its challenges. This guide explores the top 10 Airbnb competitors, highlighting why they are strong alternatives and the unique features they offer for both hosts and travelers.
Reasons Airbnb Competitors Exist:
Why Hosts Look for Airbnb Alternatives
- Competition: With millions of listings, it can be hard for hosts to stand out.
- Occupancy Rates: Lower demand or search visibility drives hosts to list on multiple platforms.
- Dispute Resolution: Airbnb often sides with guests during disputes, leading hosts to seek fairer platforms.
- Revenue Diversification: Hosts want to avoid relying solely on Airbnb and increase bookings by using multiple sites.
Why Guests Seek Alternatives
- Mixed Experiences: Reviews don’t always reflect actual experiences, leading guests to explore other platforms.
- Additional Services: Sites like Booking.com offer integrated services like flight and car rentals, making travel planning easier.
- Customer Support: Better support, flexible cancellation policies, and different offerings attract guests to competitor platforms.
Top 10 Airbnb Alternatives for Hosts and Guests
1. VRBO (Vacation Rental By Owners)
As of 2024, VRBO lists over 2 million properties worldwide, catering primarily to families and large groups seeking vacation homes. This platform has seen a 30% increase in bookings in the past year alone, reflecting its growing popularity among travelers looking for alternative lodging options.
VRBO, part of the Expedia Group, specializes in vacation rentals, offering entire properties such as homes, villas, and condos for rent. With a focus on family vacations and group travel, Vrbo stands out by providing larger properties that ensure privacy and comfort. Unlike other platforms that list shared spaces or private rooms, Vrbo exclusively offers entire accommodations. Travelers can browse an extensive selection of properties that are perfect for longer stays, group gatherings, or a home-away-from-home experience.
Feature | VRBO | Airbnb |
Entire-home rentals only | ✔ Yes | ✘ No (Offers shared spaces) |
Family & group-friendly | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
Service fees | Higher for larger properties | Lower for shared spaces |
Cancellation policies | Flexible options | Flexible options |
Instant Booking availability | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
Pros and Cons of VRBO
Pros:
- Family & group-friendly: Ideal for large groups or families needing entire homes.
- Transparent pricing: Clear details on pricing, cancellation, and amenities.
- Wide range of properties: Access to vacation homes in popular tourist destinations.
Cons:
- Higher service fees: For larger properties, the service fees can add up.
No shared space options: Lack of budget-friendly shared space listings limits appeal to solo travelers.
Who Should Use VRBO? Ideal Audience
VRBO is best suited for families, large groups, or anyone prioritizing privacy and space. It’s an ideal platform for those who need an entire vacation home, often located in prime holiday destinations like beach towns or ski resorts.
How Is VRBO Better Than Airbnb?
- Specialization: VRBO focuses exclusively on entire-home rentals, ensuring guests get complete privacy—something Airbnb doesn’t always offer.
- Family-Oriented Features: VRBO filters allow users to find properties based on family-friendly amenities, making it easier for large groups or families to plan vacations.
2. Booking.com
Overview
Booking.com is a versatile platform that offers a wide range of accommodations, from hotels to vacation rentals. With over 28 million listings worldwide, it caters to various travel preferences and budgets, making it a popular choice for diverse travelers.
Feature | Booking.com | Airbnb |
Variety of accommodations | ✔ Yes (hotels, rentals) | ✘ Primarily rentals |
Instant booking availability | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
Flexible cancellation policies | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
User reviews and ratings | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
Loyalty program | ✔ Yes (Genius program) | ✘ No |
Pros and Cons of Booking.com
Pros:
- Diverse options: Offers hotels, apartments, and unique stays all in one place.
- Instant booking: Immediate confirmation for many listings, streamlining the booking process.
- Loyalty rewards: The Genius program provides discounts and perks for frequent users.
Cons:
- Service fees: Some listings may have additional fees that can add to the total cost.
- Less personalized experience: Compared to Airbnb, there may be fewer interactions with hosts, affecting the local experience.
Who Should Use Booking.com? Ideal Audience
- Wider variety of accommodations: Booking.com includes hotels, giving users more options for different types of stays.
- Instant booking: Many properties offer instant confirmation, making it easier for last-minute travel plans.
3. Expedia
Overview
Expedia is a leading online travel agency that offers a comprehensive selection of travel services, including vacation rentals, hotels, flights, and car rentals. With its user-friendly platform and package deals, it caters to a wide range of travelers looking for convenience and cost savings.
Feature | Expedia | Airbnb |
Variety of travel services | ✔ Yes (flights, hotels, etc.) | ✘ Primarily rentals |
Package deals | ✔ Yes | ✘ No |
User reviews and ratings | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
Flexible cancellation policies | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
Loyalty program | ✔ Yes (Expedia Rewards) | ✘ No |
Pros and Cons of Expedia
Pros:
- All-in-one travel solutions: Book everything from flights to accommodations in one place.
- Package discounts: Save money by bundling services like flights and hotels.
- Rewards program: Earn points on bookings that can be redeemed for discounts on future travels.
Cons:
- Less focus on unique stays: Limited selection of vacation rentals compared to Airbnb.
- Additional fees: Some bookings may come with hidden fees, affecting the final price.
Who Should Use Expedia? Ideal Audience
Expedia is perfect for families, business travelers, and those looking for comprehensive travel planning. It’s ideal for users who want to book multiple aspects of their trip simultaneously and prefer the convenience of an all-in-one platform.
How Is Expedia Better Than Airbnb?
- Broader travel options: Expedia allows users to book flights and cars alongside accommodations, making it a one-stop shop for travel needs.
- Cost-effective packages: Users can save money through bundled deals that are not available on Airbnb.
4. Google Vacation Rentals
Overview
Google Vacation Rentals is a meta-search engine that aggregates vacation rental listings from platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, and more. While Google does not directly host properties, it provides users with a broad overview of available rentals, allowing them to compare options and book through third-party websites.
Feature | Google Vacation Rentals | Airbnb |
Aggregates listings from various platforms | ✔ Yes | ✘ No |
Direct bookings | ✘ No (redirects to other platforms) | ✔ Yes |
No listing fees for hosts | ✔ Yes | ✘ No |
Integration with Google Maps | ✔ Yes | ✘ No |
Filtering options | ✔ Extensive (price, location, etc.) | ✔ Yes |
Pros and Cons of Google Vacation Rentals
Pros:
- Wide range of options: Aggregates listings from multiple platforms, giving users a broader selection.
- No fees for hosts: Hosts can list their properties without paying fees to Google.
- Comprehensive filters: Allows users to narrow down results based on location, price, and other factors.
Cons:
- No direct bookings: Users are redirected to third-party platforms to complete bookings.
- Limited host control: Hosts cannot manage listings directly on Google.
Who Should Use Google Vacation Rentals? Ideal Audience
Google Vacation Rentals is ideal for budget-conscious travelers and those looking for an easy way to compare options from multiple rental platforms in one place. It’s also great for hosts who want free visibility for their vacation properties.
How Is Google Vacation Rentals Better Than Airbnb?
- No booking fees for hosts: Unlike Airbnb, hosts do not have to pay any commission to Google.
- Wider reach: Google displays rentals from several platforms, offering more variety for travelers.
5. TripAdvisor Rentals
Overview
TripAdvisor, primarily known for reviews and travel advice, also offers vacation rentals through its platform. TripAdvisor Rentals combines property listings with user-generated reviews, giving travelers the chance to book accommodations while reading real feedback from other guests.
Feature | TripAdvisor Rentals | Airbnb |
Reviews from verified users | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
Large inventory of global listings | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
Direct bookings | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
Guest review filtering options | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
Traveler’s Choice Awards | ✔ Yes (featured properties) | ✘ No |
Pros and Cons of TripAdvisor Rentals
Pros:
- User-generated reviews: Offers a wealth of guest reviews for an informed booking decision.
- Recognition of top properties: The platform highlights highly rated properties through its Traveler’s Choice Awards.
- Global reach: Provides listings from all over the world with trusted reviews.
Cons:
- Higher competition: Listings might get lost due to the sheer number of reviews and recommendations.
- Additional booking fees: TripAdvisor often adds service fees on top of the property price.
Who Should Use TripAdvisor Rentals? Ideal Audience
TripAdvisor Rentals is a great fit for review-driven travelers and families who want to read detailed guest feedback before booking. It’s also an excellent choice for those seeking award-winning properties.
How Is TripAdvisor Rentals Better Than Airbnb?
- More detailed reviews: TripAdvisor Rentals includes comprehensive user reviews, which can provide more transparency for potential guests.
- Award recognition: Properties can earn accolades through the platform, helping guests find the best-rated stays.
6. Plum Guide
Overview
Plum Guide is a high-end vacation rental platform known for its strict selection criteria. The company prides itself on offering only the top 3% of properties, chosen after rigorous vetting processes, which include professional inspections and customer feedback. It’s geared toward luxury travelers seeking curated, exceptional stays.
Feature | Plum Guide | Airbnb |
Rigorous vetting process | ✔ Yes (only top 3% of properties) | ✘ No |
Direct bookings | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
Professional inspections | ✔ Yes | ✘ No |
Global luxury listings | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
24/7 customer support | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
Pros and Cons of Plum Guide
Pros:
- Top-tier properties: Only the best homes make it to the platform, ensuring quality.
- Professional vetting: Every property undergoes an intensive review process, including inspections and guest feedback.
- Luxurious experience: Focuses exclusively on luxury rentals, giving travelers confidence in their accommodations.
Cons:
- Limited inventory: Because of the strict selection process, there are fewer options compared to broader platforms like Airbnb.
- Higher price point: Premium properties come with a higher cost, which may not fit every budget.
Who Should Use Plum Guide? Ideal Audience
Plum Guide is ideal for luxury travelers and high-net-worth individuals looking for exceptional and meticulously curated vacation homes. It is especially suited for guests who prioritize quality over quantity and are willing to pay a premium for top-notch accommodations.
How Is Plum Guide Better Than Airbnb?
- Superior quality control: Unlike Airbnb, Plum Guide only accepts properties that meet its rigorous standards, ensuring consistently high-quality listings.
- Vetted listings: Plum Guide homes undergo professional inspections, something Airbnb does not offer.
7. Homes & Villas by Marriott International
Overview
Homes & Villas by Marriott International offers a collection of premium vacation rentals, with the added benefit of Marriott’s well-known hospitality standards. Launched to cater to the growing demand for vacation homes, it leverages Marriott’s loyalty program, allowing members to earn and redeem Bonvoy points.
Feature | Homes & Villas by Marriott | Airbnb |
Loyalty program | ✔ Yes (Bonvoy points) | ✘ No |
Professional property management | ✔ Yes | ✘ No |
Luxury-focused listings | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
24/7 support | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
Pros and Cons of Homes & Villas by Marriott
Pros:
- Marriott Bonvoy points: Guests can earn and redeem loyalty points on bookings.
- Quality control: Properties are professionally managed, ensuring consistent service.
- Trusted brand: Backed by the reliability of Marriott, a globally recognized name in hospitality.
Cons:
- Higher prices: Marriott’s brand and quality control come at a premium.
- Limited inventory: While luxurious, the platform’s options are fewer compared to more mainstream platforms like Airbnb.
Who Should Use Homes & Villas by Marriott? Ideal Audience
This platform is perfect for Marriott loyalists, luxury travelers, and those looking to earn or redeem Bonvoy points. If you prefer the reliability and standards of a major hotel brand but still want a private vacation rental experience, this is a great choice.
How Is Homes & Villas by Marriott Better Than Airbnb?
- Loyalty program integration: Unlike Airbnb, Marriott allows guests to use and earn loyalty points, adding more value for frequent travelers.
- Professional management: All properties are handled by professional managers, offering a higher standard of service compared to Airbnb hosts.
8. Agoda Homes
Overview
Agoda Homes is the vacation rental arm of Agoda, offering a wide variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly stays to luxury homes. Known for its strong presence in Asia, Agoda Homes offers flexible bookings and supports multilingual customer service.
Feature | Agoda Homes | Airbnb |
Strong presence in Asia | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
Budget-friendly options | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
Instant booking | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
Multilingual support | ✔ Yes | ✘ No |
Pros and Cons of Agoda Homes
Pros:
- Affordable options: Ideal for budget travelers looking for cost-effective accommodations.
- Multilingual customer support: Particularly beneficial for international travelers.
- Asia-focused listings: A wider selection of homes in Asian destinations compared to other platforms.
Cons:
- Limited in non-Asian markets: While Agoda is strong in Asia, it has a smaller presence elsewhere.
- Less luxury-focused: Agoda Homes offers a mix of properties, but fewer high-end options compared to platforms like Plum Guide or Homes & Villas by Marriott.
Who Should Use Agoda Homes? Ideal Audience
Agoda Homes is a great option for budget-conscious travelers and international visitors seeking diverse accommodations, particularly in Asian countries. It’s also ideal for those who prefer instant booking and multilingual support.
How Is Agoda Homes Better Than Airbnb?
- Strong presence in Asia: Agoda offers more options in Asia, making it a better choice for travelers visiting the region.
- Multilingual support: Agoda Homes provides customer support in several languages, offering greater accessibility for non-English-speaking travelers.
9. 9flats
Overview
9flats is a peer-to-peer vacation rental platform, similar to Airbnb, that focuses on offering private apartments and homes globally. It’s known for having a straightforward booking process and features a mix of affordable and mid-range properties.
Private apartments and homes | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
No service fees | ✔ Yes | ✘ No |
Flexible cancellation | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
Affordable options | ✔ Yes | ✔ Yes |
Pros and Cons of 9flats
Pros:
- No service fees: Unlike Airbnb, 9flats does not charge service fees to guests.
- Affordable options: A wide range of budget-friendly accommodations.
- Simple booking process: The platform is easy to navigate and use.
Cons:
- Limited property selection: The platform is smaller than major competitors like Airbnb or Vrbo, so there are fewer listings overall.
- Lower luxury focus: 9flats focuses on affordability rather than luxury, so options may be limited for travelers seeking high-end stays.
Who Should Use 9flats? Ideal Audience
9flats is ideal for budget travelers and solo travelers looking for private accommodations at a lower cost. It’s a great choice for those who want to avoid paying extra service fees while still getting the experience of staying in private homes or apartments.
How Is 9flats Better Than Airbnb?
- No service fees: 9flats allows guests to avoid service fees, making stays more affordable compared to Airbnb.
- Simplified booking: The platform is easier to use and navigate, especially for those looking for budget options.
FlipKey
Overview
FlipKey, a part of TripAdvisor, is a vacation rental platform offering a wide range of rental properties globally, from apartments to villas. It’s known for its extensive user reviews and ratings, thanks to TripAdvisor’s large user base, making it easier for travelers to make informed decisions.
Feature | Available on FlipKey |
Private apartments and homes | ✔ Yes |
No service fees | ✘ No |
Flexible cancellation | ✔ Yes |
Affordable options | ✔ Yes |
Pros and Cons of FlipKey
Pros:
- TripAdvisor integration: Provides access to user reviews, making it easier to gauge the quality of the rental.
- Wide selection of properties: Offers a diverse range of properties across various price ranges.
- Trusted platform: As a part of TripAdvisor, it has a strong reputation for reliability and user safety.
Cons:
- Service fees: Similar to Airbnb, FlipKey charges service fees to guests.
- Limited local experiences: Focuses more on property rentals and less on local experiences compared to Airbnb.
Who Should Use FlipKey? Ideal Audience
FlipKey is perfect for travelers who value detailed user reviews and a large selection of properties. It’s ideal for those looking for a reliable booking platform with the backing of a well-known brand like TripAdvisor.
How Is FlipKey Better Than Airbnb?
- TripAdvisor reviews: FlipKey’s integration with TripAdvisor allows users to access extensive reviews, making it easier to evaluate potential stays.
- Broader selection: FlipKey offers a wide variety of property types, catering to different preferences and budgets.
Conclusion
Choosing the right alternative to Airbnb depends largely on the type of stay, location, and traveler preferences. Platforms like Vrbo and Homes & Villas by Marriott cater to those seeking professionally managed, family-friendly, or luxury accommodations, while Agoda and 9flats provide more affordable options for budget-conscious or Asia-focused travelers.
Each platform offers unique features that can better align with your travel or hosting goals. Whether it’s earning loyalty points with Marriott, enjoying multilingual support with Agoda, or skipping service fees with 9flats, these alternatives provide diverse opportunities to enhance the vacation rental experience. By comparing key features, pros and cons, and target audiences, you can select the platform that best fits your needs, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable trip or hosting experience.
