If you are planning your next holiday and you have learned about Airbnb, a platform where you can find private vacation lodging, you may have some uncertainties about how it operates and could be interested in perusing Airbnb reviews.
We`ve utilized Airbnb on numerous occasions, particularly before we became acquainted with strategies for obtaining inexpensive lodging, or when, under certain circumstances, we prefer to stay in an apartment rather than a hotel. So in this guide, I will explain everything you need to know about how the Airbnb platform operates. Additionally, for first time users, you can obtain an Airbnb discount codehere.
I will also provide you with the best tips so that when searching for lodging on Airbnb, you will find a good place to stay and, most importantly, an Airbnb host that makes you feel at home. Additionally, using the Airbnb discount code will make your trip even better as you’ll be saving money.
In this guide you will come across:
Table of Contents
What is Airbnb?
Airbnb is a platform that matches owners of spaces for rooms, apartments, flats, or houses with guests who need temporary accommodation. This type of lodging can be reserved for one or several days or even weeks or months. In other words, it’s a platform designed, above all, for finding a place to stay for vacations/holidays, although it’s also possible to find long-term lodgings through Airbnb.
Within this excellent platform that is Airbnb, there are three fundamental pillars, the owners of the houses who rent out their spaces; guests, seeking temporary lodging; and Airbnb, which serves as the intermediary connecting owners and guests through its online platform or mobile app.
Today, thanks to Airbnb, lodging options exist nearly anywhere worldwide, making it one of travelers` most popular reservation platforms. Now that you`re familiar with what Airbnb is, remember you can receive an Airbnb discount as a Capture the Atlas reader here.
How to get an Airbnb coupon
Before finding interesting lodging on the platform, register on Airbnb through this link to acquire your Airbnb discount code for your initial stay.
To obtain your Airbnb discount code, you will need to register using the link provided, and the credit that can be applied to your next booking will automatically be included in your new account. Do you see how simple it is to register on Airbnb? In case you have any uncertainties, below I clarify all the steps required to sign up for Airbnb with a deduction for fresh users.
How to sign up for Airbnb with a discount code
To register on Airbnb with a promo code, you will need to do so by clicking here and clicking “Claim your credit.” The site will provide three options: Follow with Facebook, Follow with Google, or Sign up with your email. Choose the option that works best for your needs.
The next step will involve completing all basic registration details. Once the form is filled out, click “Sign up” and an email confirmation will be received. The link in the email must be clicked to verify the Airbnb account. This link guides back to the Airbnb website where accommodation options for the next vacation can be explored. If registering through the provided link, a discount coupon for Airbnb applicable to the first stay would have been obtained.
It is recommended that you complete your profile with accurate details so hosts can learn more about you and feel comfortable accepting your reservation request. An empty or missing key information may cause distrust, particularly for a first Airbnb booking prior to reviews. Adding an appropriate profile photo also assists in securing more lodging options.
How to use an Airbnb coupon code
The Airbnb discount voucher you possess expires within one year, so the initial reservation must be made within the subsequent 12 months or the credit will be lost.
Utilizing the credit is quite simple; you just need to click on “Apply coupon” when selecting the payment method. This option is just below. You then enter the code and click “Apply”. Then you will see this amount is automatically deducted from the total you have to pay. As you can see, utilizing the Airbnb discount is swift and easy.
How Airbnb works
If you are unaware of how the Airbnb platform works but wish to use it to locate lodging, I will explain the process step-by-step so you encounter no problems.
The initial step is logging into the platform. If you have already registered and filled in all your details, you will only need to indicate the destination you are traveling to, the dates of your trip, and the number of travelers. Then you will see all the accommodations that are available in that location for your dates and that are suitable for the number of guests.
Once a housing has been selected, the reservation process is quite straightforward and comparable to hotel search engines. Personal details and a payment method must be offered. Then, await confirmation from the host. Reservation status can always be checked under “My Account” on Airbnb.
I admit that choosing the accommodation is the most difficult thing, since the reservation process is quite simple and fast. Additionally, it’s very intuitive.
How to use search filters in Airbnb to find a good accommodation
Depending on where you travel, you will find many accommodations on Airbnb, and choosing one can be quite difficult. In this case, I advise you to utilize Airbnb filters.
In addition to specifying the location, dates, and total number of attendees, Airbnb provides some filters that can simplify your search significantly. You are able to filter by accommodation type, by cost range, by instant booking availability, by the number of rooms and beds, by amenities, by facilities, by accessibility standards, by neighborhoods, and even by the host`s primary language.
I regularly use the room type filter to establish if I wish to acquire housing like an apartment, a house or only a room through Airbnb; the price variety, to locate lodging that matches my financial plan; and depending on the voyage, I may try browsing for an apartment with a Jacuzzi through Airbnb or with a fireplace if I’m organizing a winter get-away.
The Airbnb map likewise proves highly useful, since you will be able to find lodging near the areas you want to explore, especially if you will be there for several days and want to maximize your time.
I advise utilizing these filters, as they are, without question, the swiftest and optimum way to find your ideal Airbnb accommodation.
How to book in Airbnb
If you lack familiarity with how to book with Airbnb I assure you that it is quite straightforward, swift, and intuitive. Once you’ve identified an Airbnb accommodation that appeals to you, it’s time to assess if it is a suitable place to remain.
In addition to viewing photos of the property, carefully review the information provided by the host about the accommodation and house rules. Also, check the included amenities. Do not presume a house has a bathroom or washing machine, for example. You need to confirm this.
Next, read evaluations from other travelers who have visited that accommodation. This is the best approach to knowing if that lodging fits your needs. If you have any inquiries, you can also contact the host before requesting a reservation.
Have you found the ideal Airbnb accommodation? Then double check the dates and select “Reserve.” If it isn`t an instant booking, you`ll need to provide a brief message to the host such as describing who you are and your plans during your stay at their home, or explaining your travel reasons to that location. It isn`t necessary to include many specifics. Typically I share my name and any companions` names while stating I want to stay at their place to explore Palermo, for example. Following this, you`ll await confirmation from the Airbnb host which usually takes less than one day.
Payment and expected fees on Airbnb
One thing I don’t favor about Airbnb is that, depending on your nation and currency, the costs you see when selecting your lodging sometimes don’t embrace the cleaning fee and taxes until you go to the payment page. If you pay in dollars, the cleaning fee may not be covered and will considerably augment your bill.
The Airbnb commissions are divided between what it charges the guest and the host. It’s always calculated from the subtotal of the reservation and is usually 3% for the vast majority of hosts.
The guests, meanwhile, tend to pay a charge to Airbnb that’s below 14%, also calculated from the reservation subtotal, which is the price per night plus cleaning fee and costs for additional guests included.
Though, the commission that Airbnb charges the host or customer is never visible, as the platform embeds this fee within the overall listed price for the accommodation. If upon seeing the total cost of the Airbnb listing it exceeds your budget, you can opt not to complete the reservation.
If you decide to proceed, payments on Airbnb can be made in different styles based on the country where the payment account is located. You will never have an issue if you pay by credit, debit, or prepaid card, as they are accepted everywhere in the world.
Several countries accept payments through digital wallets like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Paypal.
Airbnb Cancellation Policies
There are several policies regarding cancellations on Airbnb for guests. My guidance is, prior to booking, to examine the cancellation policy of the specific accommodation.
If your Airbnb has flexible cancellation terms, you can cancel completely free of charge up to 24 hours before arrival. If you cancel later, you will have to pay the price of the primary night solely, and if you decide to leave the accommodation earlier, you will be reimbursed the price of the nights you haven’t used. It is, without a doubt, the best cancellation policy on Airbnb you can find.
The more lenient choice allows for cancellation up to 5 days ahead of arrival without costs; if cancelling later, you`ll need to pay for the full cost of the first night and receive only 50% of the price per night for remaining dates. The same applies if choosing to depart earlier than planned.
There is also a strict cancellation policy on Airbnb. In this situation, you can only cancel without costs for the following 48 hours after making the reservation. If you cancel later and up to 7 days before your arrival, you will receive a refund of 50% of the price per night. If you cancel the reservation less than 7 days in advance, you won’t be refunded.
Then there are specific cases; if your booking is for an extended stay of 28 nights or more, and you want to receive a full reimbursement, you will need to cancel at minimum 28 days before your arrival date. If not, you will need to pay the first month of the reservation in its entirety.
Ultimately, you`ll also come across the 30-day and 60-day Super strict cancellation guidelines. In these situations, the cancellation has to be made 30 or 60 days beforehand individually to receive 50% of the cost for every night from that date, otherwise you won`t be refunded.
My recommendation is to examine the conditions of that accommodation and determine, according to its cancellation policy, whether it is worth taking the risk or not, especially if it isn’t flexible. Usually, the most inexpensive Airbnbs have the strictest cancellation policies .
How safe is Airbnb?
Airbnb is dependable. I have never encountered any problems with Airbnb. Yes, booking with individuals rather than companies can indeed produce a bit of unease at first, but since everything is managed through the platform, it makes it safe. Ultimately, you have a company behind the reservation that responds in case there are any problems or incidents.
No matter if the experience in a lodging scheduled through Airbnb satisfies expectations, Airbnb is safe. They will not impose a higher or lower charge, and they guarantee accommodation at the destination, even if the host doesn’t appear, as I will explain later .
advantages of Airbnb
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I also highly value the wide diversity of lodging options available on the platform, since you can rent anything from a room to an entire apartment or house in nearly any location worldwide.
Additionally, it offers me security, since Airbnb acts as an intermediary for payments, which provides me significant assurance. Something else I appreciate is that if the host fails to appear or cancels the booking at the last minute, Airbnb searches for an accommodation with equal or better qualities to ensure you have somewhere to stay.
What is the Airbnb app for?
The Airbnb mobile app allows users to accomplish exactly the same tasks as the desktop version. It’s free and compatible with all operating systems, making it an excellent tool for locating lodging anytime, anywhere.
With the Airbnb mobile app, you can browse accommodations for your next getaway and book them conveniently and efficiently. Additionally, it allows you to save your preferred lodgings so you can later decide which one to reserve, contact the host, and read and add reviews. There is essentially no difference from the Airbnb website, except for the visual presentation.
However, what I appreciate most about it is being able to locate the address of your lodging quickly when you have arrived at the destination. Logging into the website from your phone can be difficult, so if you forgot to jot down the address before beginning your trip, having downloaded the Airbnb app is beneficial .
Problems with Airbnb – How to contact Airbnb
No platform provides a perfect experience, so you may encounter problems with Airbnb at some juncture. In this scenario, I advise contacting the platform directly to explain the issue so they can offer a solution promptly.
Additionally, reach out to them if you have tried to solve an issue with the host and have not received a response or come to an agreement. In that scenario, it is best to contact Airbnb.
How to cancel a reservation in Airbnb
Canceling an Airbnb booking is simple and can be done quickly. You need to log in and go to “My trips” on Airbnb and click on the reservation you want to end. When the page opens with all the details about that reservation, scroll down and click on “Modify,” if you only want to make adjustments, or “Cancel” if you want to completely call it off. Airbnb will ask you to confirm that you want to cancel the reservation; click “Yes” and that is all. You will get an email confirming the cancellation.
Depending on the method of payment used, the reimbursement may take around 10 days provided you are eligible for it as stipulated by the cancellation policy of that booking.
What to do if the Airbnb host cancels the reservation at the last minute
When an Airbnb host cancels the reservation, the guest automatically receives a full refund. But when the cancellation occurs 24 hours before or the host simply doesn’t show up and you are already at the destination, you must contact Airbnb.
Airbnb will provide you with two alternatives: refunding your money so you can find lodging yourself, or booking one for you that is comparable or superior to the one you paid for.
From my experience, I can assure you this is extremely rare. In over 30 different Airbnb stays, I have never encountered a host who didn`t show up.
How to make a claim with Airbnb
If your experience utilizing the platform has been unfavorable and you desire to initiate a claim with Airbnb, you will need to contact them through your user profile.
You will have to log in and visit the Help Center to contact them or call the Airbnb phone numbers +1-415-798-2174 or +1-877-532-2356 for USA or +44 203 318 1111 for UK if you want assistance.
How to contact Airbnb
To communicate with Airbnb, you must first sign in then navigate to the Help Center located bottom right of the website, though calling is quickest: +1-415-798-2174 or +1-877-532-2356 for USA or +44 203 318 1111 for UK.
Please note that the Airbnb support phone number and other contact methods (Airbnb chat, contact form, phone, etc.) may differ depending on your location.
Contacting Airbnb by phone allows for quickly solving problems.
How to deactivate or delete an Airbnb account
If you want to permanently get rid of or temporarily deactivate your Airbnb account, you will need to sign in and navigate to the “Manage account” section. Airbnb will verify your identity for security purposes before deleting or pausing the account and will automatically cancel all confirmed reservations regardless of whether you are a host or a guest.
If you opt to eliminate your Airbnb account, this action is irreversible and all your data will be automatically deleted. So, if in the future you want to rebook with Airbnb, you will have to generate a new account. Here is an Airbnb coupon to conserve on your first booking!
If, instead of eliminating, you choose to make your Airbnb account inactive, it will be concealed but you can regain access to it in the future .
Airbnb reviews
As I have informed you, I have utilized Airbnb on many occasions and have had both positive and negative experiences, although the good ones far outweigh the bad ones. To ensure you gain a real understanding of what this platform is about, I`ll share with you opinions about Airbnb from myself and my friends and relatives.
Beforehand, I wish to offer some advice. Always examine the Airbnb reviews from other travelers and trust particularly, lodging and hosts that have received plenty of positive reviews.
Renting a room on Airbnb – My experience
Leasing a room on Airbnb is the most affordable choice, but also the riskiest, since experiences can differ greatly.
During my trip to Cuba, I decided to reserve a room in Havana through Airbnb and I met an extremely thoughtful host. Upon my arrival, she offered me a fresh drink and proposed places to see and eat. She also told me a little about the history of the city, its traditions, and lifestyle. I was delighted. Booking a room on Airbnb was a success that time.
But I have also had negative experiences. For example, when I booked a room on Airbnb in an apartment with children in Iceland. The children entered the room, left toys on the floor, and made significant noise. That was not a good experience with Airbnb because I lacked privacy and couldn`t rest comfortably either. But it wasn’t a major issue.
However, my brother once experienced unsatisfactory lodging while utilizing Airbnb. He rented living quarters in Tenerife on an island where many inhabitants resided. The residents were constantly socializing and creating noise. As he informed me, the living space itself wasn`t too sanitary, and he didn`t feel at ease there, so he decided to depart in the middle of the night. This is an extreme scenario that I have never encountered, but it`s accurate that if you search, you will discover negative Airbnb reviews of all kinds.
To avoid potential issues, considering reviews provided by previous travelers can provide insight into realistically what may be encountered, as certain deals listed on Airbnb may not accurately portray actual conditions. Generally, when renting just a room I aim to secure affordable hotel accommodations, as I feel more at ease in such settings compared to living with strangers, despite also having positive experiences staying in private rooms through Airbnb.
Renting an apartment on Airbnb – My opinion
Renting an apartment on Airbnb is undoubtedly the best option. It’s more expensive, but you have privacy, you can enjoy all the facilities without problems, and you don’t have to share anything. This is also no just with apartments; you can also rent a house on Airbnb to have more space, especially if you are traveling as a family or in a group.
When able, I opt for booking entire lodgings since this ensures privacy, heightened security, and reassurance when away. Except once: I scheduled an apartment in Bilbao which differed greatly from photographs, proving smaller than projected. It was dirty, the entrance failed to close properly, and all day I smelled cooking from the restaurant just below. However, the rest were positive experiences.
I firmly advise prearranging lodging on Airbnb, as you will likely have a favorable encounter. Yet always examine the reviews provided by past travelers, since they can greatly assist your decision about what accommodation suits you best.
Long-term Airbnb rentals – My experience
On two occasions, I opted to rent long-term housing units on Airbnb. The first was when I relocated to the USA, during the initial three months, while I found a permanent residence. By selecting a long-stay Airbnb, I was able to save a notable amount compared to staying in a hotel, and I also had more flexibility compared to renting an apartment with the usual one-year commitment here.
The second time was for a month, also in the US, because my lease contract was about to expire and they wanted me to renew it for another 12 months. As I wasn’t certain if I was going to continue living in that area or not, due to my job, I decided to rent an apartment on Airbnb until I knew exactly which area I wanted to live in permanently.
Both times my experiences were good, and it was great because I saved a large sum of money, which gave me extensive flexibility to locate suitable living quarters. The most beneficial aspect of Airbnb is that long-term deals can be found on the platform.
Airbnb FAQS
Here are the most frequent inquiries I receive pertaining to what Airbnb is and how it functions.
What is Airbnb?
Airbnb is an accommodation booking platform. The platform works to connect property owners and travelers.
What types of lodging can you find on Airbnb?
On Airbnb, you can find lodging options ranging from private rooms to entire houses and apartments.
How to pay for an Airbnb
The commonly used and accepted mode of payment on Airbnb is via credit, debit, or prepaid card. Some nations also permit Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Paypal as options.
Is it possible to cancel an Airbnb reservation?
All Airbnb bookings can be voided, but subject to the cancellation policy, some, all, or none of the money may be refunded.
What occurs if the host cancels my Airbnb reservation at the last minute?
If the home provider cancels the arrangement, the guest will receive a complete reimbursement. In the event that the home provider terminates the arrangement 24 hours before or when travel has already begun, Airbnb will offer two alternatives: a full refund to enable looking for other lodging independently, or they will find an equivalent or better accommodation. In any circumstance, contact with Airbnb will be necessary.
Is booking through Airbnb considered safe?
Airbnb acts as an intermediary between home providers and visitors, handling payments and resolutions if any problems or disagreements arise between the two parties.
How to contact Airbnb
You will need to sign into your Airbnb account and access the Help Center to receive customized assistance or call +1-415-798-2174 or +1-877-532-2356 (USA) or +44 203 318 1111 (UK).
Is Airbnb legal?
Renting any type of housing through Airbnb is legal if the property owner pays the income from leasing the real estate. In any case, the responsibility lies with the owner and not with Airbnb or the guest.
Where to acquire an Airbnb discounted voucher
If wanting to get an Airbnb discount voucher, you must click on this connection.
How to leverage the Airbnb promo code
Upon accessing this connection, you will need to complete a registration, and then you will instantly have credit to dedicate to your first scheduled stay. When finalizing this reservation, where the payment method is shown, you must apply the promotional code to deduct that amount from the reservation cost.
How to earn money by renting homes on Airbnb
To generate income using Airbnb, one option is becoming a host and offering lodging in a private room to travelers exploring your city. Revenue can also be gained as a guest by distributing invitations to unregistered users seeking to utilize the platform.
And that covers everything. I hope you now understand how Airbnb operates and can see how safe Airbnb is, similar to if you were staying in a hotel. Airbnb offers many advantages: it allows you to interact with locals, get cheap Airbnbs, stay in places where there aren’t many hotels, rent full apartments on Airbnb… In short, lots of options, so if you haven’t used the platform yet, don`t hesitate, and save with this Airbnb coupon.
And remember: a skilled photographer can do wonders for even the worst lodgings, but there is no way to deceive on Airbnb’s reviews, so trust what other travelers tell you.
Wishing you the best during future lodgings booked through Airbnb!
