How to Save Money Booking Your Next Airbnb
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our airbnb in banos, ecuador
We have traveled to over 28 countries as a family and many more before we had kids. We have stayed in over 40 different Airbnbs across 18 countries. Airbnb has changed the game for families looking for large accommodation at hotel prices.
This was our super cool washington DC Airbnb -- an authentic row house - came with a free parking spot too! (Click image to see listing)
However, over the past few years the prices on Airbnb have gone up drastically. If you’re like me, you’re looking for how to save money on Airbnb so you can take the extra money and use it for a good meal or experience.
In order to keep costs reasonable and stay on budget - I have put together my best tips for getting your next Airbnb at a great price. From the best time to book Airbnb stays to the Airbnb weekly discount, I have all the details you need.
View to the courtyard from our Kitchen balcony in Florence, Italy -- we felt like locals with our clothes hanging to dry!! WE LOVED IT!!
The coliseum in Rome was SO close to our Rome Airbnb -- it made catching public transportation very easy!
This was our airbnb in budapest, Hungary -- 3 bedrooms, VERY centrally located and only $84. per night
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So, what do you need to know about Airbnb?
Hows this for size? This 2 bedroom New orleans apartment came with a stocked kitchen & they included chilren's utensils & toys for our kids!
Are Airbnb stays safe? We think so! We have never felt unsafe or threatened staying at an Airbnb. Actually, quite the opposite. Here are some saftey items I like to bring for extra precaution.
Is Airbnb cheaper than hotels? Yes, they can be. We usually pay less per night for an Airbnb than a hotel room would cost. I am cheap and I like to travel on a budget.
Know the rules. Each Host has posted rules with their accommodation. Make sure you know and understand them, so you don’t get into a situation when you arrive. For instance, if a particular Airbnb host says they do not accept children and you show up with your kids, it could get awkward and your trip may get really expensive.
You aren’t staying in a hotel. This is a private citizen’s home. Most Airbnb houses do not offer 24/7 check in/check out, there is no room service or front desk, no parking garage, etc. Keep an open mind here.
the kids loved this room in our airbnb in quito, ecuador
READ NEXT: Two Week Itinerary for Guatemala (where we stayed in several Airbnbs!)
Tips for Getting the Best Deal on Airbnb:
This tub!!! Our Airbnb in Montreal was extremely well located & very nice on the inside. 2 bedrooms, laundry, full kitchen & only $126/night
There are several ways to save money on your next Airbnb Stay. These 10 tips for saving money on an Airbnb are what I use every single time.
Choose “Entire Home”: You don’t have to settle for studio style hotel rooms and you never have to stay at someone’s house while they are residing there. You can choose to have the “entire home” instead of a room in someone’s house.
Use the “Size” filter: If you have several couples/children/family members joining your trip, you can limit your search to only include however many bedrooms you would like.
Toggle the “Show Display Total Before Taxes” option. Then use the "Price Range" filter to only see Apartments that are in your price range!
Week or month long stays usually qualify for a “Long stay” discount. This can save you quite a bit on your lodging costs.
Booking early can qualify you for the “early bird” discount - so anytime it’s possible, book as early as you can for this added discount.
6. Contact the Host before you book: You can (and should) contact the host of the accommodation you want. Give them some info about you/who’s traveling and ask them any questions you may have. Questions like: is the washing machine is still functioning, make sure the place is kid friendly, ask how convenient the place is to attractions or public transportation, etc.
7. PRO TIP: I always ask if they have a pack-n-play available, most do -- this saves us from having to bring one, which save us money on checking bags.
view from our Our Airbnb in cartagena, colombia
8. For contacting international Airbnb Hosts while in the country, I suggest always messaging through the Airbnb app for your safety and peace of mind.
9. As for Airbnb gift cards for gifts — you can use these to book amazing accommodations and experiences. We swam with Mantarays in Hawaii after our families gifted us Airbnb gift cards!
9. Enjoy the experience!! Airbnb is the BEST way for us to get to experience living the way locals do. We absolutely love going up to the apartments, looking out into the courtyards and seeing laundry on the line, hearing neighbors speak the local language, etc. It makes our trips feel more authentic and less touristy.
When you book your next trip – explore Airbnb’s website before you get a standard hotel. Find a great apartment or house to stay in, get your kids their own room to sleep in, and meet some locals!
View from our airbnb at lake atitlan in guatemala
(You’re welcome in advance for the most authentic trip you’ve been on!)
We would love to hear about your Airbnb experiences!! Please leave a comment or send us your story!
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