Gone are the olden days of relying solely on a human travel agent who had allll the secret knowledge of the travel universe at their fingertips.

These days, travel agencies are massive online companies such as Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com, Expedia, and the like. In just a few clicks from the comforts of your couch, you can have instant access to thousands of stunning properties.

Online Travel Agencies

Out of all the options for booking short-term and vacation rentals, Airbnb is leading the pack of online travel agencies (“OTA’s”). Think about it. We call rentals by their company name (“I’m booking an Airbnb”), just like we call tissues “Kleenex,” paper copies “Xeorox,” or the process of internet searching, “Googling.” These popular brands have managed to make their way into our everyday vernacular.

Most people don’t know there are ways to save big when booking on the OTA’s.

So here’s our #1 travel tip when booking on Airbnb (or any OTA).

#1 Travel Tip When Booking on Airbnb

Don’t book on Airbnb. (gasp!)

What?! But I’ve GOT to book on Airbnb.

This may come as a surprise, but no you don’t.

There’s actually a way to get the SAME property and the SAME stay for less cash.

It’s called Booking Direct.

The History of Booking Direct

In March of 2020 when the world shut down and travel came to a halt, Airbnb made a decision that resonated across the globe- they allowed guests to cancel their reservations with a 100% refund. Now, I’m not arguing with that decision. Honestly, I thought it was the right call.

But while Airbnb was bending over backwards to take care of their guests, they left hosts high and dry without a penny in compensation. Suddenly, hosts everywhere were angry and left scrambling to figure out how to cover their own bills and mortgages.

That moment was an eye-opener for hosts. Airbnb had drawn a line in the sand, showing their true loyalty. While they were quick to look out for guests, Airbnb made it clear that hosts were on their own.

Hosts around the world started to rethink their approach. We realized that putting all our eggs in Airbnb's basket was a risky game. We knew we needed to create businesses that weren't solely reliant on Airbnb for our livelihoods.

Hosts started exploring new ways to attract guests, ones that didn't leave them at the mercy of a single platform. They began to carve out their own paths, ones where hosts called the shots and set the rules.

How Risky is Booking Direct?

Not everyone feels comfortable leaving the safety net of the big platforms of Airbnb and VRBO. They claim to provide “insurance,” which is more like a-ssurance at best.

But think about it this way: when you check into a hotel, you put down a security deposit or authorize a credit card for incidentals. That’s standard procedure. And along with your reservation come terms, conditions, and policies according to that hotel.

Does booking a hotel feel risky to you? Probably not. Booking direct carries a similar level of risk.

Sure, if you scour the internet long enough, you'll come across nightmare stories about direct bookings or hotel stays gone awry. That's why we recommend hosts who are seasoned pros and utterly trustworthy.

Booking with Airbnb may feel like an added layer of security, but don’t be fooled. AirCover, Airbnb’s “insurance,” doesn’t guarantee you compensation should something go wrong with your stay. You’re at their mercy, crossing your fingers and hoping for the best.

Booking direct does make you subject to a hosts’ stated terms, so it’s a good idea to make sure you understand their cancellation policy, house rules, etc. before you book.

If you’re really serious about travel protection, snag yourself some travel insurance. Some large credit card carriers actually provide built in travel protection, too.

But for those who are willing to take the limited risk, there are advantages to booking direct.

Why should I book direct?

1. The biggest perk to booking direct is all the money you can save. There are no service fees! By cutting out the middleman (aka Airbnb), you can get the same great for up to 10-15% less.

2. When you book direct, you are supporting local. You’re putting money directly into your host’s pockets all while saving yourself money. It’s a win-win.

3. Often times, hosts will offer special incentives for booking direct. Don’t hold me to this, but many hosts go above and beyond for their VIP guests.

How to Find a Host who Offers Direct Booking

You won’t find every host on Airbnb or VRBO offering a book direct option- at least not yet. But it’s become a growing trend, so keep your eyes peeled!) Hosts who do allow direct bookings can’t exactly plaster banners on their Airbnb listing to say, “Hey! Forget Airbnb and come book direct with us!” That’s a surefire way to get kicked off the platform.

But there are tricks of the trade that savvy travelers already know to get the same great stay for less.

1. The OTA’s are your Search Engine

I want you to think of the OTA’s (“Online Travel Agencies”) as powerful search engines. They’re like the Google of the travel world. Take advantage of them. Peruse Airbnb’s website, check available dates, and pour over the reviews. Finding a host you can trust is key.

You’re now the detective looking for buried clues in a listing that could save you cash. Here’s a few places to start:

• Read the host's name and profile.

You might be able to find a business name, LLC, or social media handle by clicking on the host’s profile.

Sometimes you’ll find the business name listed AS the host.

• Check the names of cohosts.

When you scroll through an Airbnb listing, look towards the bottom of the screen for a section entitled “Meet your Host.” And right below the host’s general info, it will show any co-hosts that assist in managing the rental.

We generally put our listings under the names of our property owners, but check out the example below. All Belong Co is listed as a cohost on the account.

• Search the listing photos for clues.

You might see a picture of a logo in a listing. Or a name mentioned in a photo caption. I know a host who displays a picture of a letter board in their property with their business name on it.

However you get their business or LLC name, you’ve got the info you need for what’s next.

Next Steps

Next, I want you to take that business name and type it into a Google search. See what pops up. Does the host have a website? Have they been featured in any media publications? If you found a social media handle, peek at their account.

Does the host seem like the real deal- reputable and professional? Do they have lots of glowing Google reviews? Are you comfortable with their cancellation policies?

If all signs point to green, find a way to contact that host outside of Airbnb to inquire about booking direct. Many times you can reserve your stay straight from their website, but if not, drop them a line and see where it takes you.

Our #1 travel tip?

Find them on Airbnb.

Then book direct.

To search & book any of our All Belong Co properties direct, click here.

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