If you are a travel junkie, and love traveling and backpacking, then you must have definitely heard of VRBO and Airbnb. VRBO is basically an abbreviation for Vacation Rentals by Owner and is an American lodging rental company that HomeStays took over in the year 2006. Airbnb, on the other hand, is also an American company that provides amazing rented lodging and vacation stays. Both these platforms are accessible via the website and have their own mobile apps as well. But, lodging can be tough and expensive around vacation times, so if you know some hacks, then it can help you in finding for yourself the best property to stay in at the best price. Let’s learn about ‘VRBO And Airbnb Hacks’.
VRBO And Airbnb Hacks-
Airbnb and VRBO both have some amazing properties listed for vacation stays. Both are available and accessible through an online medium which means you can find a number of ways to further reduce the amount you are paying for lodging and homestays for your next journey. Many hacks like availing discount coupons, extra off during seasons, pre-bookings, etc., might help you cut some slack off the price on your next trip. Let us see in this article further how you can utilize these hacks to find yourself an affordable VRBO and Airbnb accommodation.
Useful VRBO Hacks –
- Early-bird Bookings: The best and the most efficient way to save extra money is to book the place as early as possible. Usually, if your vacation plan is final and will have no further travel dates and budget changes, then it is easy to book your accommodation early. Try booking the accommodation at least a month prior to saving a heavy amount on lodging.
- Off-seasons: Travelling during off-seasons has multiple benefits like –
- Less crowded places. The tourist locations are less crowded.
- Affordable lodging and home stays. Even hotels are cheaper during off-seasons.
- Clean and tidy places to visit.
Try planning your trip during off-seasons and save money on accommodation.
- Kitchen+on-site Grills: Always make sure you utilize the kitchen spaces available on most of the properties listed on VRBO. This will save you some extra money on food. And it is always healthier to eat home-cooked food.
Useful Airbnb Hacks –
- Ask for waivers: Always ask the owners if they can provide waivers in addition to your booking. You can take advantage of various waivers like complimentary cleaning from the owner’s side, availability of kitchen cookware, utensils, foodstuff, parking, etc. These waivers can really provide an exotic experience and can save you a lot of time and cost.
- Book with Confidence guarantee: Only book with those owners who are ready to provide instant confirmation on your booking. This trick will save you the money as well help you in confirming your accommodation as well. In case you book and the owner refuses, then it might be a bit of a hassle so it is always better to book with instant confirmation.
- Read reviews: Always read the reviews before you book any property. Usually, we just go by the images of the property and do not read the reviews, but it is advisable to book your accommodation after carefully reading the reviews and checking the star ratings as well. Usually, the guests who have stayed at the property earlier would be able to give you a better insight into the property.
Conclusion –
There are a number of other ways to save money on your homestays and lodging during vacations like looking for damage deposits, travel insurances, safety concerns, etc. You must carefully read the policies before making any permanent bookings and paying the amount. Whether it is VRBO or Airbnb, both provide amazing properties but it is up to our own wit to choose the best at the most affordable price according to our budget.
Frequently Asked Questions –
- How can guests review their stay?
Usually, after the vacation is over, both VRBO and Airbnb have a policy of shooting emails automatically to their guests wherein they provide you with a link to fill up your experience with them. Also, they allow you to write a review and rate the property as well as the owner and other services they provide.
- How to get rid of cancellation charges?
Most of the time, it is clearly mentioned how much %of the total booking amount will be deducted if you cancel the booking. It is up to the owner’s discretion and in accordance with the company policies to deduct cancellation charges. Usually, the amount increases when you cancel near the dates of the vacation.
- Can I take my pet along?
If carrying your pet along with you on a vacation, you must inform the property owner about this well in advance. The owner may or may not allow the pet to stay on their property as it is up to their total disposal. Also, you can check the same under the rules and regulations section.
