Overview of VRBO and Airbnb
VRBO (Vacation Rentals by Owner), founded in 1995 and now part of the Expedia Group, primarily focuses on whole-home rentals. Airbnb, established in 2008, revolutionized travel by offering diverse accommodations, including shared spaces, private rooms, and entire homes.
Key Differences
Types of Accommodations
- VRBO: Exclusively offers entire properties - houses, condos, and apartments
- Airbnb: Provides a broader range including:
- Shared spaces
- Private rooms
- Entire homes
- Unique stays (treehouses, yurts, castles, boats)
Pricing and Fees
Base rate
+ Cleaning fee
+ Service fee
+ Local taxes
+ Optional fees (pets, extra guests, etc.)
= Total cost
- VRBO:
- 6-12% service fee to guests
- Subscription or per-booking fee for hosts
- Airbnb:
- 14-16% total between guest and host fees
- Additional cleaning fees may apply
Target Audience
VRBO caters primarily to:
- Families
- Large groups
- Longer-stay travelers
Airbnb appeals to:
- Solo travelers
- Budget-conscious guests
- Business travelers
- Adventure seekers
Safety and Security
"Trust and safety should be paramount when choosing a vacation rental platform." - Vacation Rental Expert
Both platforms offer protection:
-
VRBO
- Book with Confidence Guarantee
- 24/7 customer support
- Secure payment system
-
Airbnb
- AirCover for guests and hosts
- Identity verification
- Secure messaging system
User Experience
Booking and Platform Features
-
VRBO:
- Straightforward, easy-to-navigate website
- More flexible payment arrangements
- Customer support via phone and email
-
Airbnb:
- Modern, intuitive interface
- Interactive features
- Guest reviews and host profiles
- Direct messaging system
- 24/7 customer support
Cancellation Policies
Both platforms offer various cancellation options from flexible to strict. Airbnb's platform allows filtering properties based on cancellation policies.
Making Your Choice
Choose VRBO if:
- You're traveling with family or a large group
- You want an entire property to yourself
- You're planning a longer stay
- You prefer established vacation properties
Choose Airbnb if:
- You're open to shared spaces
- You want more budget-friendly options
- You're seeking unique experiences
- You travel frequently for business
- You want to book local experiences
Tips for Using Either Platform
- Read reviews thoroughly
- Communicate clearly with hosts
- Document everything upon arrival
- Book well in advance for peak seasons
- Compare total prices, not just base rates
For more information, visit the official websites of VRBO and Airbnb. Consider your specific travel needs, budget, and preferences when making your decision.