Best Airbnb Alternatives: 16 Options for Property Managers

Many travellers and property managers search for Airbnb alternatives to find better commission rates, specialised features, or access to different guest markets. While Airbnb dominates the short-term rental industry, dozens of competing platforms offer unique advantages for both guests and property owners.

The best Airbnb alternatives include established platforms like Vrbo and Booking.com, luxury-focused services such as Plum Guide and OneFineStay, and niche sites like Glamping Hub and Outdoorsy. Each platform serves different traveller preferences, property types, and booking needs.

Whether you manage city apartments, countryside cottages, or unique accommodation, these platforms help you reach more guests and diversify your booking channels. From lower commission rates to better calendar management tools, exploring alternatives to Airbnb can significantly improve your property management business.

1) Vrbo

Vrbo stands as a top alternative to Airbnb for holiday rentals. The platform focuses on entire homes rather than shared spaces, making it ideal for families and groups.

Travellers can find everything from beach cottages to mountain cabins on Vrbo. The platform often offers more choices than Airbnb in many destinations.

Users search by location and dates, then filter results by price, amenities, and property type. Each listing features photos, descriptions, and guest reviews.

Property owners on Vrbo typically rent out second homes or investment properties. This often results in higher-quality furnishings and better maintenance.

Guests pay booking fees that are usually similar to Airbnb’s fees. Payment protection covers both travellers and hosts during transactions.

Vrbo’s search filters help guests find pet-friendly properties, waterfront locations, or homes with pools. The site also curates special collections of unique properties.

Customer service supports guests through phone and email. Vrbo has operated since 1995, giving it extensive experience in the holiday rental market.

2) Booking.com

Booking.com is one of the most established Airbnb alternatives. The platform offers millions of properties worldwide, including hotels, apartments, and holiday homes.

The site provides a straightforward booking process with clear pricing. Users can filter results by property type, price range, and amenities.

Many listings show exact costs upfront without hidden fees. Booking.com’s massive inventory and reliable customer service set it apart.

The platform covers destinations across the globe, from major cities to remote locations. Their mobile app makes booking and managing reservations easy.

Many properties offer flexible cancellation policies. This gives travellers peace of mind when booking in advance.

Guest reviews help users make informed decisions. Property owners can list private rooms or entire homes, creating competition with Airbnb.

The site’s established reputation makes it a trusted choice for leisure and business travellers. Booking.com maintains its traditional hotel booking roots while expanding its offerings.

3) Plum Guide

Plum Guide positions itself as a luxury alternative to Airbnb. The platform only accepts about 3% of property applications, ensuring high-end accommodations.

Each property must pass 150 specific criteria before joining. Plum Guide’s team uses a proprietary algorithm and hospitality critics to inspect properties and interview hosts.

This thorough vetting process eliminates lower-quality options. The service caters to travellers seeking premium, handpicked accommodations.

Properties on Plum Guide are stylish and well-appointed, appealing to guests who prioritise quality. The platform operates in countries like the United Kingdom, Italy, and Spain.

Plum Guide offers both short-term city break rentals and longer-term letting options. Pet-friendly properties are available for travellers with animals.

The platform focuses on luxury and curation, setting it apart from mainstream alternatives. Guests willing to pay premium prices receive guaranteed quality and personalised service.

4) Homestay

Homestay offers travellers a chance to experience authentic local living. The platform connects guests with hosts who share their homes, creating genuine cultural exchanges.

Homestay focuses on real homes where families live. Guests often stay in spare bedrooms while hosts continue their daily routines.

This setup provides an authentic glimpse into local life that hotels cannot match. The platform appeals to budget-conscious travellers, with prices significantly lower than traditional accommodation options.

Many hosts include breakfast or other meals, adding extra value. Homestay works well for solo travellers and students studying abroad.

The social aspect helps combat loneliness while exploring new destinations. Hosts often provide local recommendations and insider knowledge about their neighbourhoods.

The booking process emphasises personal connections over luxury amenities. Travellers should expect comfortable but lived-in spaces rather than Instagram-worthy interiors.

Communication with hosts before booking helps ensure expectations align. Safety features include host verification and guest reviews.

Homestay operates in over 160 countries, making it useful for international travel. Most properties cater to longer stays, though short-term options exist in popular destinations.

5) Kid & Coe

Kid & Coe specialises in family-friendly holiday rentals worldwide. The platform focuses on properties that cater specifically to families with children.

Each listing includes detailed information about child-friendly amenities. Properties often feature items like cots, high chairs, and toy collections.

Many homes provide safety equipment such as stair gates and socket covers. The company hand-picks every property, ensuring higher quality standards.

Properties undergo thorough inspections before being listed. Kid & Coe operates in popular family destinations in Europe, North America, and other regions.

The booking process is straightforward with clear information about child-related items. Parents can see photos of family features before making a reservation.

The platform focuses on entire homes, giving families more space and privacy. Properties range from city apartments to countryside cottages and beach houses.

6) Glamping Hub

Glamping Hub specialises in outdoor accommodations that blend camping with modern comforts. The platform connects travellers with unique properties like safari tents, yurts, treehouses, and eco-lodges.

Travellers can experience nature without sacrificing comfort. Properties range from luxury tents with beds to dome structures with electricity and heating.

Users search by location, dates, and property type. Each listing includes photos, amenities, and guest reviews.

Glamping Hub offers accommodations across multiple countries. Popular options include cabins in forests, glamping sites near national parks, and unique structures like converted shipping containers.

Most properties include features like proper toilets, kitchens, or dining areas. The platform targets travellers seeking authentic outdoor experiences with modern conveniences.

Pricing varies widely depending on location and luxury level. Basic glamping sites cost less than luxury safari tents with full amenities.

The website makes filtering results by features easy. Travellers can search for pet-friendly options, properties with hot tubs, or locations near hiking trails.

7) Sonder

Sonder operates differently from traditional Airbnb listings. The company owns or leases all properties on their platform instead of relying on individual hosts.

This approach creates guaranteed standards across all Sonder properties. Guests can expect consistent quality similar to hotels, including luxury bedding and mini toiletries.

Sonder combines the space and pricing benefits of vacation rentals with the reliability of hotel-style service. The platform appeals to guests who want vacation rentals without worrying about inconsistent standards.

Each Sonder property meets specific quality requirements before listing. Properties include apartments and homes in major cities.

The company focuses on urban locations rather than rural or resort destinations. Booking through Sonder removes uncertainty about cleanliness, amenities, and overall quality.

Prices may be higher than budget Airbnb options, but many travellers value the consistency. Sonder works well for business travellers and others who prioritise standardised accommodation experiences.

8) FlipKey

FlipKey is a vacation rental platform owned by Tripadvisor. The platform launched in 2007 and became part of Tripadvisor Rentals shortly after.

The site features over 830,000 properties across 190 countries, giving travellers plenty of options. Property owners can list their homes for free, while FlipKey takes a 3% commission from bookings.

Guests pay a booking fee between 8% and 16% of their total booking cost. FlipKey focuses on vacation rentals, making it useful for families or groups planning longer holidays.

Properties range from beach houses to mountain cabins. Users can access reviews and travel information from the broader Tripadvisor community.

This integration helps travellers make informed decisions. FlipKey offers customer support and handles payment processing for both guests and hosts.

The platform provides insurance options to protect bookings in case of cancellations or other issues.

9) Cottages.com

Cottages.com focuses on holiday cottages across the UK and Ireland. The platform specialises in self-catering properties, from cosy countryside retreats to seaside escapes.

The site offers detailed property descriptions with high-quality photos. Each listing includes information about local attractions and amenities.

Many properties welcome pets, making it easier for families travelling with dogs or cats. Cottages.com features properties in popular destinations like the Lake District, Cornwall, and the Scottish Highlands.

The platform also includes lesser-known locations for quieter getaways. The booking process is straightforward with clear pricing.

The site shows availability calendars and allows direct contact with property owners. Customer service helps with enquiries and booking issues.

Most properties are privately owned holiday homes, giving travellers access to unique properties with character. The platform attracts visitors looking for authentic British holiday experiences.

User reviews and ratings help guests make informed decisions about bookings.

10) OneFineStay

OneFineStay offers luxury vacation rentals with a focus on premium properties and exceptional service. The platform specialises in high-end homes and flats in major cities around the world.

Each property goes through a strict selection process. OneFineStay only accepts homes that meet their quality standards for design, location, and amenities.

The company provides white-glove service, including professional cleaning, fresh linens, and local recommendations. Many properties also come with welcome gifts and toiletries.

OneFineStay operates in destinations like London, New York, Los Angeles, and Paris. Their inventory focuses on upscale neighbourhoods and unique architectural properties.

The platform caters to travellers who want hotel-level service in a private home setting. Prices tend to be higher than typical Airbnb listings due to the luxury positioning and extra services.

Property owners benefit from OneFineStay’s full-service management approach. The company handles guest communication, cleaning, and maintenance.

This makes it attractive for homeowners who want rental income without daily management responsibilities.

11) Vacasa

Vacasa is a professional property management company handling short-term rental properties for homeowners. The platform manages over 30,000 properties across North America and Europe.

Property owners can list their homes with Vacasa, and the company manages guest communications, cleaning, and maintenance. This full-service approach appeals to hosts who want rental income without daily management tasks.

Guests booking through Vacasa find professionally maintained properties with consistent quality standards. The company provides 24/7 guest support and local teams in most markets.

Vacasa charges property owners a commission that usually ranges from 25% to 35% of rental income. This rate is higher than self-managed platforms but includes services like professional photography, pricing optimisation, and marketing.

The platform focuses on holiday homes in popular tourist destinations. Travellers can find beach houses, mountain cabins, and countryside retreats through Vacasa’s website and mobile app.

Competition from companies like Awning, Evolve, and AvantStay has intensified in the property management space. Each offers similar services with varying fee structures and market coverage.

12) Outdoorsy

Outdoorsy specialises in recreational vehicle rentals instead of traditional holiday homes. Travellers can book motorhomes, campervans, caravans, and travel trailers through this platform.

The service connects vehicle owners with renters across the UK and other countries. Users can find options from basic campervans to luxury motorhomes with full amenities.

Each rental comes with insurance coverage and 24/7 roadside assistance. Outdoorsy manages payments and provides customer support throughout the booking process.

Outdoorsy attracts travellers who want mobility and flexibility during their trips. Renters can change locations easily and explore multiple destinations without booking separate accommodation.

The platform offers detailed vehicle descriptions and photos. Reviews from previous renters help users choose suitable options.

Prices depend on vehicle type, season, and location. Many listings include camping equipment like bedding, cookware, and outdoor chairs.

This option works well for families or groups seeking adventure holidays. It suits those who enjoy camping but want more comfort than a tent provides.

13) Agoda

Agoda is a global online travel booking platform offering millions of properties across more than 200 countries and territories. The site connects travellers with property owners and hotel operators, featuring everything from budget accommodation to luxury resorts and holiday rentals.

The platform lists properties ranging from city centre apartments and beachfront villas to countryside cottages and boutique hotels. Agoda covers popular destinations worldwide, with particularly strong coverage in Asia-Pacific, Europe, and the Americas.

Users can search for properties using filters like location, dates, number of guests, property type, and amenities. The site provides detailed property descriptions, photo galleries, and verified guest reviews to help travellers make informed decisions.

Agoda typically charges commission to property owners rather than booking fees to guests, making it attractive for price-conscious travellers. The platform offers 24/7 customer support in multiple languages and secure payment processing for all bookings.

Property managers benefit from Agoda’s massive global reach and marketing power. The site provides extranet tools for managing listings, responding to reviews, adjusting rates, and tracking bookings through their property management dashboard.

Agoda focuses on competitive pricing and frequently offers deals and promotions, making it popular with both leisure and business travellers. The platform has operated since 2005 and is part of Booking Holdings, giving property managers access to a well-established distribution channel.

14) 9flats

9flats acts as an aggregator that searches multiple vacation rental companies to find accommodation options. The site compiles listings from various sources, including major booking platforms and rental companies.

9flats functions more like a search engine for holiday rentals. It gathers options from different platforms to present users with a wider range of choices in one place.

The platform covers destinations across Europe and other international locations. Travellers can search for flats, apartments, and other rental properties without visiting multiple booking sites.

9flats simplifies the booking process by collecting results from different sources. Users can compare prices and options more efficiently than searching each platform separately.

The site displays properties with basic information like photos, pricing, and availability. Users then book directly through the original listing platform.

9flats doesn’t host the properties themselves but connects travellers with existing rental listings. The platform serves as a starting point for those exploring various accommodation options.

15) Misterb&b

Misterb&b is a booking platform for LGBTQ+ travellers seeking safe and welcoming accommodations. The service connects guests with hosts, often from the LGBTQ+ community.

The platform operates similarly to Airbnb but focuses on inclusive spaces. Hosts understand the unique needs of LGBTQ+ travellers and offer environments where guests feel comfortable.

The website features properties ranging from private rooms to entire homes across major cities worldwide. Many hosts provide local insights about LGBTQ+-friendly venues, events, and neighbourhoods.

Misterb&b includes safety features and community guidelines to protect both guests and hosts. The platform maintains strict policies against discrimination and works to ensure positive experiences for all users.

Travellers can read detailed profiles of hosts and properties before booking. The service includes guest reviews and ratings to help others make informed decisions.

The platform charges booking fees similar to other vacation rental sites. Prices change depending on location, property type, and amenities offered by individual hosts.

16) HometoGo

HometoGo works differently from most vacation rental platforms. Instead of listing properties directly, it searches across multiple booking sites at once.

The platform compares over 17 million rooms from partners like Airbnb, Booking.com, and TripAdvisor. Users can browse options from more than 200 countries in a single search.

This approach saves travellers time. They can view prices and availability from different platforms side by side.

HometoGo acts like a search engine for holiday rentals. It shows results from various websites, making it easier to find the best deals and compare options quickly.

The platform covers accommodations worldwide. Whether someone wants a city flat, beach house, or mountain cabin, they can compare choices from multiple sources.

Users benefit from seeing different pricing options without visiting many websites. This search method helps travellers make informed decisions about their bookings.

The site displays results clearly, showing prices, locations, and availability from partner platforms. Travellers then book directly through their chosen website after comparing all options.

How to Choose the Right Short-Term Rental Platform

Choosing the right platform depends on your travel needs, safety preferences, and cost considerations. Each platform targets different guest types and offers various fee arrangements that affect your booking experience.

Identifying Your Travel Needs

Different platforms serve distinct traveller groups and accommodation preferences. Airbnb works well for unique properties and urban stays, appealing to younger guests seeking special experiences.

The platform’s user-friendly interface suits first-time users. Booking.com targets business travellers and international guests who prefer apartment-style accommodations.

This platform offers extensive filtering options for specific amenities. Vrbo specialises in family-friendly properties and larger group bookings.

Vrbo attracts guests looking for privacy and whole-home rentals. Consider your group size when choosing platforms.

Families with children often prefer Vrbo’s focus on entire properties. Solo travellers might find better options through Airbnb’s range of room types.

Location matters too. Urban destinations typically perform better on Airbnb, while rural or vacation home markets often see stronger results on Vrbo or regional platforms.

Safety and Trust Considerations

Verification systems differ across platforms. Most major sites require identity verification through government-issued documents.

Some platforms also verify payment methods and contact information. Review systems give insights into property quality and host reliability.

Look for platforms with detailed review processes that allow guests to rate cleanliness, accuracy, and communication. Insurance coverage varies between platforms.

Some offer host guarantee programmes, while others provide guest refund protection. Research what coverage applies to your booking.

Secure payment processing protects both parties from fraud. Reputable platforms handle all transactions and release payments only after check-in.

Avoid platforms that encourage direct payment to hosts. Customer support availability matters during emergencies.

Choose platforms offering 24/7 support through multiple contact methods. Response times and resolution quality can vary between services.

Understanding Fee Structures

Platform fees affect your total booking cost. Most sites charge guests service fees ranging from 6% to 15% of the booking subtotal.

Host fees are often separate charges that property owners pass along to guests. These usually range from 3% to 5% of the booking value.

Payment processing fees apply to most transactions. Credit card payments usually have higher fees than bank transfers or digital wallets.

Cancellation policies affect potential refunds. Flexible policies give full refunds with advance notice, while strict policies may only provide partial refunds or credits for future bookings.

Additional charges include cleaning fees, security deposits, and local taxes. These aren’t always included in initial price displays.

Review the total cost breakdown before confirming your booking. Some platforms offer membership programmes that reduce booking fees for frequent users.

Consider your travel frequency when evaluating these options.

Key Benefits of Exploring Airbnb Alternatives

Using different booking platforms gives travellers access to more types of places to stay, unique local experiences, and chances to save money. These platforms often meet specific needs that mainstream sites might miss.

Broader Selection of Accommodation Types

Alternative platforms specialise in unique property types that Airbnb doesn’t always offer. Some sites focus on glamping experiences, while others feature luxury villas or countryside cottages.

Travellers can find options like converted barns, treehouses, or historic castles. RV rental platforms offer motorhomes and campervans for road trips.

Co-living spaces cater to digital nomads who need long-term stays with work facilities. Many alternative sites also feature eco-friendly properties with solar power, composting toilets, and sustainable building materials.

These options attract environmentally conscious travellers who want to reduce their impact while exploring new places.

Unique Local Experiences

Smaller booking platforms often work closely with local property owners who provide personal touches. Hosts on these sites may offer homemade breakfasts, guided tours, or cooking classes using regional ingredients.

Some platforms connect travellers with local families who share meals and cultural experiences. House-swapping sites let people live like locals by staying in someone’s home while the owner travels elsewhere.

Pet-sitting platforms allow travellers to stay for free while caring for local animals. This creates meaningful connections with communities and provides authentic experiences that hotels cannot match.

Potential for Cost Savings

Alternative platforms often charge lower booking fees than major sites. Many smaller companies keep overhead costs down and pass these savings to customers through reduced service charges.

Direct booking with property owners removes platform fees entirely. Some alternative sites also offer loyalty programmes or discounts for longer stays.

House-swapping eliminates accommodation costs, while pet-sitting provides free lodging in exchange for animal care. These options can save hundreds of pounds on longer trips, making travel more affordable for budget-conscious travellers.

Conclusion

Finding the right accommodation platform depends on your travel needs and preferences. These 16 alternatives to Airbnb offer diverse options, from luxury villas to budget-friendly stays.

Each platform has unique strengths for different types of travellers. Whether you want boutique hotels, glamping experiences, or traditional holiday rentals, these alternatives offer competitive pricing and often better availability.

Many provide specialised services like pet-friendly properties or business travel accommodations. The variety ensures every traveller can find suitable options.

Property investors and managers looking to maximise rental potential should consider listing on multiple platforms. JF Property Partners helps property owners navigate the short-term rental market.

Our expertise in property investment and management makes us valuable partners for those entering the holiday rental business. Contact us at info@jfpropertypartners.com, call +44 7457 427143, or visit our website to discuss your property investment opportunities.

Their team understands the complexities of managing properties across various booking platforms and can help optimise your rental strategy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many travellers have questions about finding alternatives to Airbnb, from regional availability to pricing and unique features. These platforms offer different strengths depending on your travel needs and budget.

Is there an alternative to Airbnb in the UK?

Yes, several excellent alternatives serve UK travellers. Booking.com offers extensive holiday rental options throughout Britain with reliable booking systems.

Plum Guide specialises in luxury properties across major UK cities. They hand-pick each home to ensure high standards.

Homestay connects visitors with local families for authentic British experiences. This option works well for cultural immersion.

What’s a good alternative to Airbnb?

Vrbo stands out as a strong overall alternative. It focuses on whole properties rather than shared spaces.

Booking.com provides excellent customer service and familiar booking processes. Their platform includes both hotels and holiday rentals.

Plum Guide offers premium accommodations with professional photography and detailed descriptions. Each property undergoes strict quality checks.

Can you list affordable home-sharing websites like Airbnb?

Homestay typically offers lower prices than traditional platforms.

Staying with local families reduces accommodation costs significantly.

Booking.com frequently runs promotional deals and offers price matching.

Their rewards programme provides additional savings for repeat customers.

Vrbo sometimes has better rates for longer stays.

Weekly and monthly discounts help reduce per-night costs.

What are the leading platforms for unique stays other than Airbnb?

Plum Guide curates distinctive properties with character and style.

Their homes feature unique architecture and premium amenities.

Kid & Coe specialises in family-friendly properties with special features.

These homes include toys, safety equipment, and child-focused amenities.

Homestay gives authentic cultural experiences through local family accommodation.

Guests gain insight into British daily life and customs.

Who is Airbnb’s biggest competitor?

Vrbo serves as Airbnb’s primary competitor in the holiday rental market.

The platform has operated since 1995 and maintains a large global inventory.

Booking.com competes strongly through its established hotel booking platform.

They have expanded into holiday rentals and maintain strong brand recognition.

Both platforms offer millions of properties worldwide and compete directly with Airbnb’s core services.

What are the most popular peer-to-peer lodging websites with similar features to Airbnb?

Vrbo matches Airbnb’s core functionality with property searches and instant booking. Hosts and guests can communicate easily through built-in tools. Their mobile app offers a similar user experience.

Homestay connects travellers with local hosts using a peer-to-peer model. The platform includes messaging and booking management features.

Booking.com’s holiday rental section offers peer-to-peer bookings in addition to hotel reservations. Users can access reviews, photos, and secure payment processing on the platform.

Related Articles

• What Is an Airbnb? How It Works and Why Travellers Use It
• How Does Airbnb Work in the UK? Booking, Fees & Rules
• How to Become an Airbnb Host in the UK
• How to Start an Airbnb Business Without Owning Property UK