AvantStay and Sonder both offer short-term rental accommodations with a focus on technology and customer service. AvantStay provides upscale amenities and a focus on properties in the US and Mexico, while Sonder offers a more global reach and transparent pricing with no standard cleaning fees. However, both companies face challenges with consistent cleanliness and customer service, according to user reviews. The best choice depends on the traveler's destination, budget, and priorities regarding amenities and pet policies.
| Attribute | AvantStay | Sonder |
|---|---|---|
| Property Locations and Availability | 1,500+ properties across 100+ destinations in the United States and Mexico (Aspen, Beverly Hills, Coachella Valley, Dallas, Fort Lauderdale, Hawaii, Los Cabos, Miami, Nashville, Palm Beaches, Phoenix, Punta Mita, San Antonio, Scottsdale, Sedona, and Key West, FL) | Apartments and hotels in over 40 cities around the world |
| Average nightly rate | Varies based on date and location | In 2018, Sonder's average daily rate across cities was $201. The average daily rate ranged from $100 a night in Montreal to $300 a night in London, working out to $129 per bedroom. For Sonder The Industrialist, the typical room rate in the past month was $176.72 USD, compared to the city's average of $301.97 USD. At Sonder Testaccio in Rome, the rate is $222/night. |
| Cleaning Fees | Available when booking; price breakdown provided before booking | Sonder has removed all standard cleaning fees across their portfolio. |
| Cancellation policy | Varies by property; Full refund within 24 hours of booking (if check-in is 21+ days away); 50% refund if canceled 21-59 days before check-in; Non-refundable if canceled less than 21 days before check-in. Key West, FL properties with a minimum 28-night stay: full refund (less booking fee) if canceled 90+ days before check-in. | You can cancel your Sonder account anytime. For STA/Hotel Reservations, you may cancel at any time and may be entitled to a refund based on the cancellation policy at the time of booking. Sonder offers two booking rates: an economy rate that is non-refundable and a flex rate that is fully refundable under certain terms. |
| Check-in/Check-out process | Check-in at 4 PM, check-out at 11 AM; smart locks with unique entry codes | Standard check-in is 4 PM and check-out is 11 AM. Several days before your stay, you'll receive check-in instructions by email, with details like your unit number and access code. Sonder uses keyless entry. Early check-in and late check-out may be available for an additional fee, and can be booked via the Sonder app. |
| Customer service responsiveness | 24/7 customer service via SMS, email, and phone; dedicated local team | Sonder offers 24/7 customer service via a digital concierge. You can contact customer service through the chat feature in the app. A 24/7 customer service line is also available. |
| Amenities offered (e.g., kitchen, laundry, Wi-Fi) | Fast Wi-Fi, smart locks, quality linens, fully stocked kitchens, smart TVs, workout equipment, work-from-home spaces, outdoor spaces with pools, hot tubs, BBQ setups, fire pits, games (ping pong, billiards, foosball) | Sonder provides amenities such as stocked kitchens, linens, and coffee. Many Sonder rentals have kitchens, refrigerators, and laundry machines. Some properties may offer luggage storage and fitness rooms. Each Sonder includes designer details, keyless entry, and fast, free Wi-Fi. |
| Property condition and cleanliness | Aims for exceptional quality and cleanliness with a rigorous cleaning checklist and pre- and post-stay audits. Some reviews mention issues with cleanliness and maintenance. | Sonder aims to provide a consistent standard of designer details in every unit. They offer on-demand housekeeping services for a fee. |
| Accuracy of property descriptions | Generally accurate as highlighted in guest reviews | Sonder provides exact addresses and detailed information about the surrounding neighborhood. |
| Security and safety measures | Digital locks, noise monitors, security cameras, Trust & Safety team | Sonder leverages a managed security service provider for security management of their cloud infrastructure. They use AWS data centers with ISO 27001 and SOC 2 compliance. Sonder has security measures such as "Check on Me" and "Track my Journey". Sonder maintains a Vulnerability Disclosure Program. |
| Pet policies | Many accommodations are pet-friendly (up to 2 dogs); additional fees and deposits may apply | Pet policies vary by location. Some Sonder locations do not allow pets. The Hillsboro powered by Sonder allows 1 pet up to 50 lbs, with a $120 pet fee per stay. Cats are not allowed. Sonder by Marriott Bonvoy Skyline Apartments LoHi does not allow dogs. |
| Parking availability | Often available | Parking availability varies by property. Vehicles may only be parked in designated parking spaces. Paid parking may be available and must be reserved in advance. |