Vacation rental websites are becoming more and more popular as people seek alternative ways to travel. When comparing Airbnb vs. VRBO, both stand out as the most well-known platforms for travelers wishing to sidestep traditional hotels, but there are some major differences between them. So, which is better: Airbnb or VRBO?
Airbnb is more well-known and has a larger inventory of vacation rental properties, but VRBO tends to focus on slightly more upscale properties. (VRBO used to be known for offering some better deals than Airbnb, but you can’t really expect that anymore.)
So, which platform is right for you? Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of each.
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Airbnb vs. VRBO: The Battle of Features
When it comes to vacation rentals, Airbnb and VRBO are two of the most popular websites. Both offer a variety of rental properties to choose from, but there are some differences between the two platforms. Airbnb is more well-known and has more property listings, but VRBO tends to focus on a slightly more upscale properties. This is not universally the case, but the vibe on VRBO tends to move in the direction of traditional eloquence versus the more youth-focused Airbnb.
In the Airbnb vs. VRBO comparison, Airbnb often shines for its greater variety of rentals, from the very upscale to the simple air mattress on someone’s floor. VRBO tends to focus on full rental properties, eschewing shared space and the more novel accommodations on which Airbnb thrives.
The reputations of Airbnb and VRBO can be traced back to their respective histories, shaping the Airbnb vs. VRBO discourse. Airbnb, in particular, has a very distinct corporate history that involves a lot of creative thinking that is more appealing to a younger clientele. The name Airbnb itself came from its original focus of allowing hosts to rent out air mattresses to travelers.
So, which platform is right for you? Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of each.
Which is Better for You: Airbnb or VRBO?
In the Airbnb vs. VRBO popularity contest, Airbnb often comes out ahead with its larger inventory of rental properties. However, if you’re looking for the particular types of properties VRBO offers, you may have an easier time finding a place to stay.
Here are some of the pros and cons of each platform:
Airbnb Pros:
-Larger inventory of properties
-More well-known and established platform
-Often offers unique properties that cannot be found on VRBO
Airbnb Cons:
-Can be more expensive than VRBO—though that reputation is starting to fade -May be more difficult to book certain properties during peak seasons
VRBO Pros:
-Sometimes offers better deals on rentals than Airbnb -Tends to have more selection in smaller towns and rural areas—though that reputation is also starting to fade -VRBO properties tend to be less diverse, which can be beneficial for those seeking only a very traditional type of vacation rental
VRBO Cons:
-Less well-known than Airbnb
-VRBO offers fewer rentals and inventory can be sparse in certain areas
-Properties are more likely to require a security deposit.
So, which platform is right for you? If you’re weighing Airbnb vs. VRBO for the most extensive selection of properties, Airbnb usually emerges as a good choice. However, if you’re looking for the best deals or don’t want to wade through some more novel types of offerings, VRBO may be a better option. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which platform meets your needs. Our opinion is that over the last couple of years, Airbnb and VRBO have become too similar to have any real, meaningful difference, although we find Airbnb’s platform to be easier to use and more user-friendly in general.
Conclusion: Airbnb vs. VRBO – The Final Verdict
When it comes to vacation rentals, Airbnb and VRBO are two of the most popular websites on the internet. Both offer a variety of rental properties to choose from, and the differences in quality and quality of inventory between the two have been narrowing in recent years. Still, Airbnb is more well-known and has a larger inventory of properties. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which platform meets your needs. (If, however, you’re a vacation rental owner, we encourage you to list on both.) No matter which platform you choose, we hope you have a great vacation!
If you’re interested in learning more about how Weekender Management can help you get started in real estate, schedule a call with us today!
