When you travel, you have many options for lodging. Some travelers prefer hotels; others choose to stay with a host through Airbnb or similar services. Which is better? There are pros and cons for each type of accommodation, but there are also some differences in the experience. What works best for your next trip? The choice is up to you! Whether you’re traveling with family, friends or alone, it’s important to consider all your lodging options. For example, staying in an AirBNB versus a hotel could impact your trip in a positive or negative way. Read on to find out more!

AirBnB Basics

What is AirBnB? Airbnb is a home-sharing platform that connects hosts who are renting out their property with travelers who need a place to stay. You can find accommodations for every budget and travel scenario, making it a viable option for almost any type of trip. What are the types of AirBnB properties? Airbnb has many types of properties, from shared homes to private rooms in a host’s home, whole homes, tree houses, yurts, boats and even igloos! You can also choose from an array of amenities, from outdoor spaces to kitchen facilities and more. What are you looking for in your next trip?

AirBnB Pros

Value for money – Airbnb can often be cheaper than a hotel if you’re traveling alone or in a group of two or three, but don’t need the space of a regular room. In some areas, you can find Airbnb properties that are less than half the price of a regular hotel room. Availability – Airbnb generally has more availability than hotels. If you’re booking at the last minute or during a busy travel season, a host’s place may be your best option. Locality – Some Airbnb properties are in areas not commonly frequented by tourists. These places are great for travelers who are interested in experiencing the “real” local culture.

AirBnB Cons

Personal space and cleanliness – If you choose to stay in a shared room, hostel or private home, you may not have the same cleanliness and privacy you have in a hotel room. Communication – Sometimes, communicating with your host can be difficult. If you have specific questions about amenities, directions to the property or other things, you may not get a prompt response. Terms and conditions – Airbnb has strict policy guidelines for its hosts. Any damage to the property must be paid for, but Airbnb has a process for handling these issues. This could be a problem if you are not familiar with Airbnb’s policies.

Hotel Pros

Standardization – You know exactly what you are getting when you stay in a hotel: a nice room with cleanliness and amenities, such as free Wi-Fi, that are standard at all properties. Plus, you can even earn rewards when you stay at hotel chains. Convenience – Many hotels offer free shuttles to and from airports, are located near public transportation and have easy self-check-in/check-out systems. Plus, you can store your luggage at the hotel if you plan to explore the area before check-in.

Cons Hotels

Exorbitant prices – Some hotels are so famous that you’ll pay an arm and a leg for a night there. Lack of locality – While some hotels are in interesting areas, others are in generic spots that don’t provide much insight into the local culture. Difficulty finding availability – Hotels are often fully booked with advance reservations, so you may have to pay a lot of money for last-minute stays. Conventional – There’s nothing wrong with staying in a hotel, but it may not be the best way to experience a place.

Key takeaway

Hotels and Airbnb properties each have their own sets of pros and cons, but they are very different experiences. You should consider all your lodging options, such as cost, location and amenities, whenever you travel. If you’re looking for something a little different than a standard hotel, Airbnb may be the way to go. Alternatively, you can also try house sitting. This is a great alternative to hotels that allows you to live like a local while still having a place to sleep at night!