Imagine this: you’ve found the perfect destination, packed your bags, and are ready to book your accommodation. You head to Airbnb, only to be shocked by the price tag of your ideal place. You’re not alone—many travelers face the same dilemma. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to settle for overpriced stays! There are easy, actionable ways to get the best deals on Airbnb without compromising comfort or location. In this article, I’m going to share 10 pro tips that will help you save big and book like a savvy traveler.
Why Are Airbnb Prices So High?
Before we dive into the tips, let’s talk about why Airbnb can seem expensive at first glance. Unlike hotels, Airbnb hosts have the freedom to set their own prices, and many times, they’re influenced by things like demand, location, and seasonality. Plus, those extra cleaning and service fees? They can add up quickly, often doubling the cost of your initial booking.
But don’t worry, I’ve got your back. In just a few moments, you’ll learn how to navigate Airbnb’s quirks and find budget-friendly options that will leave your wallet happy and your vacation stress-free.
10 Pro Tips to Save Money on Airbnb
1. Book Early—But Not Too Early
You’ve probably heard that booking early is key to getting the best deals. While this is generally true, it’s also important to find the sweet spot. Booking 3-6 weeks in advance is usually the most cost-effective window. Booking too early can result in high prices (since hosts tend to offer discounts closer to the check-in date), and waiting until the last minute might leave you scrambling for options.
Pro Tip: Use Airbnb’s “flexible dates” feature to see how prices fluctuate within a 7- or 30-day range. You might find huge savings with just a little flexibility.
2. Search for Discounts and Promotions
Did you know that many hosts offer weekly or monthly discounts? If you’re planning to stay for more than a few days, make sure you check if these offers apply. Longer stays can often bring the price down substantially.
Objection Handling: You might think, “But I’m not staying long enough to qualify for these discounts.” That’s okay! If you’re booking a shorter trip, keep an eye out for special offers or last-minute deals that pop up, especially during off-peak seasons.
3. Consider the Total Cost (Including Fees)
It’s easy to get caught up in the nightly rate, but don’t forget to factor in cleaning fees, service fees, and taxes. Always click through to see the total cost before you hit “book.” Sometimes, a seemingly cheap option can quickly become unaffordable once all those extra fees are added on.
Pro Tip: Use Airbnb’s “Price filter” to adjust your budget, including fees. This way, you’re not just looking at the base rate but the full price.
4. Be Flexible With Your Location
Airbnb has accommodations in practically every neighborhood, but the most desirable areas come with premium prices. If you’re willing to stay just a bit farther from the city center or the major attractions, you can often save a significant amount of money. Use the map view to explore options in less touristy areas.
Objection Handling: “But I want to be close to everything!” I get it, proximity matters. However, staying just 15-20 minutes away from the action can often save you 30-40% on your accommodation. And with Uber or public transportation, getting around isn’t as expensive as it seems.
5. Use Airbnb’s “Price Alerts” Feature
Want to be the first to know about price drops? Airbnb lets you set up price alerts for your desired listing. If the price goes down, you’ll be notified immediately. This is especially useful for those destinations or properties you’re eyeing months in advance but don’t want to commit to just yet.
6. Book Longer Stays
If you’re planning a longer vacation, booking an Airbnb for a week or more can often reduce your overall nightly cost. Hosts are more likely to offer discounts for extended stays, and the longer you stay, the more likely you are to get a great deal.
Pro Tip: Some hosts may even offer additional perks or services (like free parking or airport pickup) when you book a longer stay. It’s worth asking!
7. Avoid Peak Travel Seasons
High-demand travel seasons—holidays, school vacations, and summer months—tend to have the highest prices. If you have some flexibility in your travel dates, consider planning your trip during the off-season when demand is lower and the prices are much more affordable.
Open Loop: Not sure when the off-season is for your destination? Keep reading for a strategy that can help!
8. Negotiate with Hosts
This might sound a little intimidating, but it’s totally possible to negotiate with Airbnb hosts—especially if you’re booking for an extended stay. Many hosts are willing to offer a discount if you ask politely, especially during off-peak times when they may have fewer bookings.
Pro Tip: Send a friendly, respectful message before booking, explaining your situation. If the host is open to negotiation, they may offer a better price or additional perks.
9. Use Referral Credits
Airbnb offers referral bonuses that can be applied toward your next booking. If you haven’t signed up yet, you can earn credit for referring friends. If you already have an account, try sharing your referral link with people who are planning trips to get credit toward your next stay.
Objection Handling: “But I don’t know anyone traveling right now.” No worries! You can also check out Airbnb’s community on social media or travel forums. You may find other travelers willing to use your referral link in exchange for a discount on their own trip.
10. Read the Reviews for Hidden Gems
While flashy listings may look great, sometimes the best Airbnb options are those little-known gems with a few reviews. These places often offer better value, and if you find a listing with glowing reviews that’s a bit off the beaten path, you can often get more for your money. Don’t be afraid to take a chance on a place with fewer reviews—just make sure to read them thoroughly!
Wrapping It Up
Saving money on Airbnb isn’t as hard as it may seem. By applying these pro tips—like booking early, using price alerts, and choosing a less central location—you’ll be well on your way to securing budget-friendly stays without sacrificing comfort or style.
Now, I know what you might be thinking: “What if these tips don’t work for my specific trip?” The key is being flexible, patient, and creative. With these strategies in your back pocket, you’ll always be able to find a deal that fits your budget.
So, next time you plan your trip, remember: Airbnb doesn’t have to be expensive. With the right approach, you can book smart and save big. Happy travels!
Post sponsored by Travelocity / Photo courtesy of Freepik
