Airbnb VS. Hotel
To stay in an Airbnb or a hotel is one of the many important questions people ask when traveling. There are plenty of pros and cons to both, so which one do we chose? Airbnb came into play in 2008 and became popular among the younger crowd. Each has their own benefits so where you chose to stay really depends on your preference.
Pros of Airbnb:
Airbnb seems to get more popular as time goes on. Especially when it’s a group of people traveling together. They seem to fall more on the cheaper side depending on the location and the amount of people staying there. If you rent a house it’s probably cheaper than booking two or three hotel rooms. Also having a house offers a kitchen which can save you money on food and meals if you decide to cook. Going off of that, having a house can make you feel more at home while away. You have more space than just one room. Probably my favorite part is most of them have free WiFi. No more $12.99 for WiFi.
Pros of a Hotel:
Hotels are the easy way out. Hotels are simple you go online, book the room you’d like and you’re all set. You also know what you’re getting when you book it. You know what to expect based on their standards and or the chain you choose. I prefer to pick The Waldorf Astoria or The Ritz-Carlton chain but that’s just me and some people also feel safer in a hotel. Knowing there is a full staff and security at all times makes some feel better. While some of us like to feel at home while away, others like to be pampered and not have to lift a finger on vacation. Therefor a hotel with room service and everything in house is a must have. If you’re a frequent traveler, some hotels make it worth your while to stay by offering loyalty programs which can land you some things for free.
Cons of Airbnb:
While Airbnbs have plenty of pros, they also have a few cons. Booking one can be a little bit of a slow process. It’s not as easy as hitting book, you need to send a request to the owner and then get an approval and then book the home. The worst part of it all is the cancellation fact. If you’re really unlucky the owner of the property can cancel on you and then you’re stuck trying to find a place to stay. These properties also tend to be off the main street meaning they are a further away than the attractions and hustle bustle of the city. Some prefer it while others like to be in the center of it all in the hotel district.
Cons of a Hotel:
Hotels are the easy way out, but they can also cost you a pretty penny. Especially when you need to book more than one room. They also don’t offer much privacy besides the one room you book, that’s really the only privacy you have. Fellow guests can also be a downfall. If you stay at a hotel that is family friendly you risk the chance of having loud children running and screaming through the halls. If you go away during say spring break, you may be kept up all night by loud music from the college kids across the hall from you. Check in and check out can also be a hassle. If you arrive to the hotel too early, you may not be able to check in, given most hotels will hold your luggage for you until your room is ready, it can still be annoying if you want to shower or take a nap after your travels. Not to forget usually having to check out at an early time as well.
Airbnb and hotels each have their own unique features that make them a better choice. Before you book either, think of all the options and which will suit you and your fellow travelers the best.
Click on the images below to check out some of my current favorite hotels.
Comments
I’ve never used Airbnb but have thought about it! I’m always too nervous to try for the reasons you mentioned above!
Maggie
http://www.polishedclosets.com
So glad you shared this! We’ve been debating on trying Airbnb and getting a house at the beach this summer instead of a condo.
I’ve stayed at an Airbnb before and I like that its usually cheaper, but there was never anyone to physically check in with and I felt like finding a key was a treasure map! Some have definitely been cleaner than others too!
Xo, Nina
Law of Fashion Blog
Yes I’m so glad you shared this post! We have some trips planned in the future and we were actually discussed going the Airbnb route!
xo Kelsey | http://www.chasingcinderellablog.com
Love this! I’ve stayed in 2 Air BnB’s now and have had great experiences so far!
Great comparison! Definitely sharing with my travel friends.
http://www.kayleighskloset.com
These are such great comparisons. I love staying at hotels but it is always nice to switch it up and stay at an Air B&B every now and then.
xoxo,
Kim
I’ve loved using Airbnb and hotels and I use them for different reasons! When I know I won’t spend much time at a hotel I’ll definitely book through Airbnb and I’ve luckily had a great experience. I can’t deny that getting pampered and getting your bed made at a hotel —nothing can beat that! xoxo
Love this post! I agree with you on all the pros and cons which is why I use both, hotels and Airbnbs depending on where I’m visiting!
XO, Jaime
Sunflowers and Stilettos
I would feel so uncomfortable staying at someone’s home, so I prefer hotels. But you are right, each have their pro’s and con’s and I guess it just depends on the situation, you know?
Thanks for sharing!
xo Mariam
http://www.thepetitebijou.com