You’ve chosen the destination. You’ve submitted your PTO. You’ve researched flights. Now you just need a place to stay.
You open up Airbnb, and are overwhelmed by the number of options.
As both an Airbnb host and an Airbnb guest, I’ve put together a list of things to look at to help narrow down your options, and to solidify your choice before clicking that “Reserve” button.
Who Will Be Your Host?
With the Airbnbs I have stayed at, I have noticed that the best hospitality comes from Airbnbs that are hosted by an individual rather than a large management company.
This doesn’t mean company-hosted stays are bad (they often run smoothly), but they often have more of a hotel vibe versus a personalized experience. If you value personal touches and direct communication, this point is worth noting.
Are They a Superhost?
Superhost status indicates that the host:
- Is prompt with guest communication
- Consistently receives good reviews
- Has consistent hosting experience hosting
- Demonstrates reliability.
If you see this status next to the host’s name, it is a good sign.
However, don’t automatically rule out the Airbnb if you don’t see it. New hosts don’t qualify, even if their space is fantastic, until they’ve had enough experience under their belt. Look into some of the things listed below before saying no.
Read Through Reviews (Carefully)
This seems obvious, but reading the reviews is so important. Don’t just look at the star rating, look for patterns.
Example: A beachfront home that looks perfect for a family getaway might have 5 stars, but if the reviews rave about the “nightlife” and “party vibes”, it probably isn’t a perfect match.
Photo Quality
This seems like a minor detail, but high quality photos tell you more than you think. Clear, bright, high-quality photos often indicate: the host’s attention to detail, pride in the space, and transparency.
If the listing photos are dark, fuzzy, or blurry, it can indicate a lack of polish or effort into making the space a 5-star stay.
Check-In & Entry
After a long travel day, self check-in can be a lifesaver. Personally, I prefer arriving, checking in, and unwinding right away versus rushing to meet the host at a certain time to obtain the keys.
Other things to be aware of when you arrive:
- Are there stairs to get to the front door?
- Is it a long walk from the parking area?
- IS there a parking area?
This information is usually readily available in the listing description.
Beds & Sleeping Arrangements
Always verify the actual bed set up.
If an Airbnb sleeps 6, this could mean 2 queen beds and a pullout bed in the living room. Which is perfectly fine, unless you expected 3 queen beds in separate bedrooms.
If this is important to you, specify the number of beds and bedrooms in your Airbnb search to get the best results.
Amenities
In my time as an Airbnb traveler, I’ve developed my must-have amenities list based on what I find to be comfortable and helpful when traveling:
- Blackout curtains (especially for my daughter’s room)
- Shampoo and Conditioner
- Hair Dryer
- Tub versus shower
- Free Parking
- Coffee Maker
- AC/Heating
Run through your typical day from start to finish, and notice the details of what things make your life easier. Cross-check your own must-haves with the Airbnb’s “Amenities” section to make your travel smoother and packing lighter.
“Other Things To Note”
Look for this section at the bottom of the “About The Space” section in Airbnb. This is typically where the host will leave small details that actually could impact your stay the most.
Examples of things that may be included here:
- Extra fees for services
- Amenities that are not working
- Amenities available at an extra cost
- Notes on seasonal construction/temporary property changes
Reading this section is a great way to prevent surprises during your stay.
Final Thoughts:
Staying in an Airbnb is one of my favorite ways to travel. It offers a more homey, cozy, and personalized experience. A little extra diligence while booking can go a long way in making the difference between a good trip and a great one.
