10 Ways to Save 20% on Your Next Airbnb or VRBO Rental (2024)

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Hi, my name is Kourtney, and I’vehosted over 3,000 guestsin oceanfront beach house Airbnb rentalson the Texas coast. I can share some tips that willhelp you save ~20%on accommodations for Surfside Beach Texas rentals on Airbnb or VRBO.

This time of year is extremely busy, as everyone is planning their next family beach vacation! 🏖️

As a host, here is the advice I share with my friends/familywhen they want to book a short-term rental:

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1. Find a house you love on Airbnb

Airbnb and VRBO are the easiest platforms to search widely and verify availability. I always recommend starting with Airbnb because it is the easiest to search and has the most reviews. Be sure to check VRBO also, as many hosts are only on one or the other.

2. Scroll down in search results

Scroll way downin search results on platforms. The listings at the top of search results have worked hard to get their listings a lot of traffic, and they are priced according. Hosts in a top listing position are less willing to offer discounts because they know they will have many more guests looking at the property soon.

Listings further down the listrarely get traffic, and are moreeager to work with you on priceto earn your booking.

3. Google to find the host’s direct booking website

Most properties have a vanity name in the title like “Blue Lagoon Cottage” or “Seven Oaks Bungalow”. Google that exact phraseto find the hosts’ direct booking site.

Airbnb/VRBO charge 18-25%, so hosts have to raise prices to list their rentals on those platforms. This meansprices are typically 20% lowerwhen folks book through our direct site.

If you can find their social media, even better!Like/tag the propertyon Facebook or Instagram and message the host through those platforms (see below).

4. NEVER instant book, always message first

If you can’t find a direct booking site for the property,never instant bookon Airbnb/VRBO,always message the hostthrough the platform first and tell them your budget for the trip (up to 15% less than quoted).

Note: Wait to do this until you are really ready to book, andsay you can book right nowif the host can meet your budget

Highlight yourpositive guest review historyon the platform, if you have it

Hosts will almost always offer a10% discountif a guest has good reviews and is willing to book immediately (good hosts want good guests and full calendars, not top dollar per night)

5. Maximize Sunday – Thursday nights

Plan travel tomaximize Sunday – Thursday night stays– many times these days are hard for hosts to book, soas a host, I’ll always check the math on offering a huge discount (30-40%)on the weekend rates if a guest is also staying Sunday – Thursday.

6. Loyalty Programs and Discounts

Don’t overlook the power of loyalty programs and newsletters from rental platforms. By simply signing up, you can tap into a world of exclusive discounts and accumulate points for future stays. It’s like a little secret between you and the platform – the more you stay, the more you save.

So, next time you’re browsing for that perfect getaway spot, remember to check if there’s a loyalty program or newsletter sign-up bonus. It’s a small step that can lead to big savings!

7. Off-Season Travel Benefits

Here’s a savvy traveler’s tip: aim for off-peak seasons. Not only do you dodge the Airbnb crowds, but you also get to enjoy significantly lower prices than on VRBO. It’s a win-win!

During these quieter times, hosts are more likely to offer attractive discounts to fill their properties.

So, why not plan your getaway when everyone else isn’t? You’ll get to experience the destination in a more authentic, peaceful way, and your wallet will thank you for it.

8. Group Travel Savings

Traveling with friends or family? Make it an opportunity to save! Group bookings often mean you can go for larger properties that, when the cost is split, turn out to be more economical per person.

Plus, it’s more fun when you’re sharing the experience (and the bill) with your favorite people. So, gather your group, pick a spot, and get ready to make memories without breaking the bank.

9. Long-Term Stay Discounts

If you’re planning an extended stay, this one’s for you. Many hosts offer discounts for longer bookings – we’re talking a week, a month, or even more. Also, since you only pay the cleaning fee once, it makes sense to get the most out of it!

This is perfect for those workations or extended vacations. Reach out to hosts and inquire about long-term stay discounts, typically 15-30%. You might be surprised at how much you can save, and it’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in a new place.

10. Travel Insurance and Cancellation Policies

Travel plans can be unpredictable, and that’s where travel insurance and understanding cancellation policies come into play. Opting for the right travel insurance can save you from unforeseen expenses, and being aware of cancellation policies can prevent losing money if plans change.

Always read the fine print and consider insurance options that best suit your travel needs. It’s about being prepared, so you can travel with peace of mind. Many hosts on Airbnb and VRBO offer a 10% discount for non-refundable reservations that can then be easily insured for a cost that is only a fraction of that discount, if you are concerned about your plans changing.