We use Airbnb for every trip, big and small, but I am astounded by how many people are afraid to try Airbnb! Here are a few tips to ensure you have an awesome trip with Airbnb!

Cost Effective

Airbnb is cost effective, no matter how you look at it. I rent entire houses and apartments for less than $100 a night. All of the houses I have ever stayed at through Airbnb have been nothing short of incredible. For example, my husband and I have booked a trip to Washington DC for 4 days, and an entire apartment with a kitchen, washing machine, and dryer will cost us $300. A hotel room with far fewer amenities was going to cost us $500.

Not only will you save money on your room, but you almost always have access to a full kitchen, saving you money on breakfast and occasional lunches. If you have picky children, this kitchen is a life saver. Most of the time, Airbnb hosts give guest snacks and breakfast foods, too!

Privacy

I love the privacy of an Airbnb. No one can hear you laughing late at night, and you don’t have to worry about having the TV up to loud. You can even have friends over without disrupting any other guests. That being said, be sure you are always respectful of the host’s house. Because you aren’t staying in a hotel, it is important to be extra courteous about household appliances and furniture.

Some people have had concerns, though, and I understand. One of the most common questions I get is, “what if someone is watching me while I shower?” To that, I respond, “then I feel sorry for them!” In all seriousness, anyone could be watching you anywhere you go, even in a hotel.

Cozier Experience

Free Parking

Most Airbnb offer free parking when you book a house or room. If you’re traveling to a busy area, like New York, free parking is a delicacy. Some hotels don’t even offer free parking!

Rent a Room

If you don’t need an entire house, you can rent a single room. Though I have never done this, several of my teacher coworkers have rented rooms on their summer road trips. You can even opt to share a room with another person to get by for almost nothing! You can rent a room for only $30 a night and sometimes even less.

Great for Big Families

Hotel Rooms only allow for two queen beds. If you have more than 4 people to accommodate, you will need more space. Even if you pack everyone on the floor, your trip will be miserable. Airbnbs allow 8 or more guests for around the same price as a hotel room. Here is an example: A Florida house, 35 minutes from Disney, with 5 beds, and 2 bathrooms for $80 a night.

Go Anywhere with Airbnb

Airbnb is world-wide, so you can book a room anywhere!

Experiences

Airbnb has an “Experiences” resource that is incredible! Once you book your stay, the website will suggest things to do while on your trip. We have had some really fun times using the “Experiences” suggestions. We went on a haunted ghost tour for $30, and have the time of our lives! I highly recommend taking advantage of these tools.

Reviews

Reviews are a great way to see what you’re getting yourself into. If a house has poor reviews, or no reviews at all, do not stay there. I avoid homes without reviews the most.

Highly reviewed and experienced hosts get what a “Plus” status. If a host is considered a “Plus” host, they have been verified as a trustworthy host by Airbnb. All hosts must go through extensive verification before being accepted, but I prefer to stay with “Plus” hosts. They are not more expensive that regular hosts, either.

If you are interested in traveling through Airbnb, use my link to get $40 off your first trip of $75 or more.