One of the many decisions when traveling is: Airbnb or hotel? While you’re probably considering the obvious like location, availability, and cost, there are many other factors that can affect your experience.
Of course, if all you care about is the final bill, you can simply choose the accommodation that offers the cheapest per night – although you should still factor in associated expenses, such as cleaning fees and taxes.
Ultimately, the choice comes down to what you value when traveling. Here are some things to consider when weighing your options.
When should you stay in a hotel instead of an Airbnb?
When you lay it all out, there are actually many advantages to staying in a hotel over an Airbnb or other shared accommodation, from quality to flexibility. This is where a hotel might be a better option for you.
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They are only staying for a short time or simply need a place to sleep
Hotels can be cheaper (and less hassle) than Airbnbs for a night or two. Also, travelers often opt for a Airbnb for a sense of place and a desire to hang out at leisure. If you just need a bed and don’t plan on spending any other time there, a hotel may be preferable to a rental.
They don’t want extra responsibility
If you’re staying at a hotel, all you have to do is show up, stay and go. In the case of an Airbnb or other rental property, there are usually minor cleaning tasks to be carried out in front of the checkout, e.g. There are complaints about longer to-do lists demanded by hosts despite cleaning fees – and Failure to follow a host’s strict rules can result in a poor review.
They value hotel amenities and quality control
If you like having access to a pool, fitness center, on-site dining and concierge services, and daily housekeeping, then a hotel might be your best option. Plus, you’re likely to have a more consistent and predictable experience at a well-known chain hotel.
While many Airbnb hosts are very quick to respond to guest needs, you’re less likely to encounter maintenance issues that can’t be solved at a hotel.
You have hotel rewards points
Hotel loyalty programs and travel rewards credit cards offer perks like free nights, room upgrades, and free meals that can save you money and enhance your stay.
You need a flexible cancellation policy
Hotels often charge for late cancellations (eg, within 24 hours of check-in), but many Airbnb hosts have done so much more restrictive policies. The strictest require cancellation within 48 hours of booking, no matter how long your stay is planned – otherwise you’ll have to pay between 50% and 100% of the cost.
Also, hotels will not cancel she in the last minute.
When should you stay in an Airbnb instead of a hotel?
The main arguments for Airbnb, on the other hand, are come down to comfort and value.
You are traveling with a large group
Considering cost and convenience, Airbnb is often the better choice for larger groups. For example, paying for a handful of hotel rooms can be more expensive than renting a house that can sleep a dozen people. Also, you likely have more open and communal spaces to hang out, cook, and spend time together.
Note that Airbnb and individual hosts have rules about parties and guest counts, so this isn’t a fun free-for-all.
They stay longer
Not only is a home likely to be more comfortable if you stay for days or weeks, but Airbnb hosts sometimes offer lower rates for longer-term guests. Airbnbs often also have washing machines and dryers for doing laundry during longer stays. In fact, stays of a week or more account for around half of all booked Airbnb nights.
you prefer a home environment and amenities, including access to the kitchen
Again, Airbnb probably feels more like home, especially if you’re renting the entire space rather than a private room. If you want to cook, have a separate living space, or enjoy access to the outdoors, an Airbnb is probably a better choice.