Both Airbnb and Booking.com are popular platforms for booking accommodations, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Airbnb offers a wider range of unique properties and experiences, while Booking.com is known for its ease of use and detailed information. Users should carefully consider their priorities and preferences when choosing between the two platforms.
| Attribute | Airbnb | Booking.com |
|---|---|---|
| Price per night | The average nightly rate for an Airbnb in the United States is $140, but can range from less than $50 to over $1000 per night. Globally, the average Airbnb price in 2021 was $137 per night. Prices vary significantly based on location, property type, and demand. | Varies depending on location, property type, and amenities. Prices are transparent, but resort fees may apply. |
| Cleaning Fee | The median cleaning fee for a one-night stay is $75. The fee covers the cost of cleaning, laundry, and restocking supplies. | Property managers can charge cleaning fees, which are added to the booking cost and deducted upfront. |
| Service Fee | Hosts typically pay around 3% of the booking subtotal under the split-fee model. Guests can be charged up to 14.2% of the booking subtotal. In a host-only fee structure, the host may pay around 15%. | Commission-based for hosts, ranging from 10% to 25% of the total booking amount. |
| Cancellation policy | Airbnb offers various cancellation policies, including Flexible, Moderate, Firm, and Strict. Flexible: Guests can cancel up to 24 hours before check-in for a full refund. Moderate: Guests can cancel up to 5 days before check-in for a full refund. Firm: Guests can cancel up to 30 days before check-in for a full refund. Strict: Guests may receive a full refund if they cancel within 48 hours of booking and at least 14 full days before check-in. Cancellation policies may vary for long-term stays (28+ nights). | Offers different policies: fully flexible, partially refundable, and non-refundable. Hosts can define tailored terms. |
| Location accuracy | Airbnb expects hosts to accurately represent the property's location. | Some users have reported inaccurate location information. Cross-checking with other sources is recommended. |
| Check-in process | Hosts can offer in-person greetings or self-check-in options. Self-check-in involves using a key lockbox, smart lock, or keypad. Airbnb sends check-in instructions to guests three days before arrival if self-check-in is enabled. | Allows flexible check-in times and self-check-in options. Clear check-in and check-out times should be provided. |
| Communication with host | Airbnb encourages hosts to be responsive and answer questions promptly. Hosts should respond to guests within 24 hours. Guests and hosts can communicate through the Airbnb messaging platform. | Built-in messaging system for hosts and guests. Hosts should respond promptly, ideally within 24 hours. |
| Cleanliness | Airbnb expects hosts to maintain a high standard of cleanliness and ensure the property is free of health hazards. Cleaning involves laundry, vacuuming, and sanitizing surfaces. | Requires properties to maintain a minimum cleanliness score of 6 out of 10. |
| Accuracy of listing description | Airbnb expects the property, location, and amenities to match the listing description. Discrepancies between the description and guest experience can lower the listing's accuracy score. | Strives for accuracy, but some users have reported discrepancies. |
| Amenities offered | Common amenities include Wi-Fi, a kitchen, air conditioning/heating, and essentials like toilet paper, soap, towels, and linens. Top amenities searched for by guests are Wi-Fi, a pool, a hot tub, free parking and a kitchen. | Listings should include a complete and accurate list of amenities. |
| Responsiveness of host | Being a responsive host involves promptly replying to inquiries and answering guests' messages. A high response rate can lead to more bookings and Superhost status. | Tracked through a 'Reply Score,' which is visible to guests. |
| Overall value for money | Value for money depends on various factors, including price, location, amenities, and cleanliness. | Popular platform due to ease of use and detailed information. Users should carefully check all details. |