3 Simple Tips to Use When Booking an Airbnb

FIRST OFF - WHAT EVEN IS AN AIRBNB?

Remember bed and breakfasts? Well, it is basically the same thing - just modernized. Oh, and most of them don’t serve breakfast. However, some do (like the ones I stayed at in Bali and Cuba). An Airbnb is a home, villa, apartment, room, Airstream, yurt, tent, etc. - that you can rent out like a hotel. You can book online through the website or through the app. Use my link to earn up to $65 toward a qualifying booking, and I will get a credit too.

WHY AIRBNB?

Some people think that Airbnb’s are a great option because they’re cheaper. While sometimes true, this is not always the case. Over the years Airbnb has grown significantly, and you can now find luxury villas, bungalows, and unique properties galore. Some of these popular listings are booked out for the entire year (I have a saved list of my dream Airbnb’s). Oh, and they are not cheap either. So, what is the benefit of booking an Airbnb if it’s not cheaper?

You can live like a local.
You can stay where the action is.
You can experience a unique property.
And yes - sometimes you can save money.

There are cons and scams that you have to be vigilant of. There have been horrific stories about fake Airbnb’s and sketchy situations leaving people scared and skeptical. I will share with you my tips of how to try to avoid this happening to you.

MY TIPS FOR BOOKING AN AIRBNB

AS A FEMALE - I DON’T STAY ALONE

I would never book an Airbnb to stay in by myself. I guess I should say in most cases. If it were somewhere local or reputable, maybe.

FILTER FILTER FILTER

This may be a bit bougie, but I say it is a safety measure. Filter your search results to Superhost. Superhosts are reputable hosts with experience, good reviews, and they often go above and beyond for their guests. You can consider them “verified” hosts.

CHECK THE REVIEWS

You’re not just looking for what people say in the reviews. That is of course important, but you also want to check the number of reviews. If the listing has none or 2 reviews, I wouldn’t feed comfortable booking it. Great and real listings have great and plenty reviews.