24 Top Airbnb Alternatives Every Host Should Know in 2025

Are you a property owner looking for alternatives to Airbnb to list your home or vacation rental? Then you’ve come to the right place!

We’ve compiled a list of the 24 best alternatives to Airbnb for hosts in 2025. We'll cover everything from budget-friendly options to luxury-focused platforms, diving into services that offer unique marketing opportunities, prioritise sustainability, and cater to specific types of properties. 

Whether you're managing a cosy apartment, a family-friendly house, or a luxury villa, you'll find an Airbnb alternative that suits your hosting needs.

In this guide, you'll find:

• What are the most popular vacation rental sites?
• Top 24 Airbnb alternatives for hosts
• How to manage multiple booking platforms
• Conclusion
• FAQ

What are the most popular vacation rental sites?

The vacation rental industry is thriving, with the global market valued at $89.32 billion in 2023. Online booking platforms have played a major role in this growth, offering millions of listings worldwide and making it easier than ever for travelers to find unique accommodations. 

Here’s a look at the top vacation rental sites shaping the market today.

Airbnb

Airbnb is the largest vacation rental platform, with over 7.7 million listings worldwide. Since its launch, it has hosted over 1 billion guest arrivals, making it a go-to choice for travelers seeking anything from budget-friendly apartments to luxury villas. 

Vrbo (Vacation Rentals by Owner)

Vrbo, a part of Expedia Group, specializes in entire home rentals, catering to families and groups looking for privacy and space. 

It features over 2 million listings across 190 countries, with strong popularity in the U.S. and Europe. 

Unlike Airbnb, Vrbo does not offer shared spaces, making it a better option for those seeking full-property rentals.

Booking.com

Originally known for hotel bookings, Booking.com has expanded significantly into the vacation rental space. 

The platform boasts over 28 million total listings, with a growing share of vacation homes, apartments, and alternative stays. 

Operating in more than 220 countries and territories, it has built a dominant presence, particularly in Europe, where it continues to gain market share.

HomeAway

HomeAway, also under the Expedia Group umbrella, has merged with Vrbo but still operates under its own name in some regions. 

It features over 2 million properties and is particularly popular among families and large groups looking for comfortable, home-like accommodations. 

With a strong focus on entire home stays, HomeAway remains a key player in the vacation rental market.

Source: Magnetic Strategy

As online booking continues to grow, vacation rental platforms are reshaping the way people travel. With more options, competitive pricing, and a focus on unique stays, these platforms offer travelers flexibility and convenience, ensuring that the vacation rental industry remains a major force in global tourism.

Top 24 Airbnb alternatives for hosts

When selecting these alternatives, we considered factors crucial for hosts such as:

• Hosting fees and commission structures
• Reach and target audience
• Property management tools and features
• Payment processing and payout schedules
• Host support and resources

Here's a quick overview of our top picks for hosts:

1. Vrbo (Vacation Rentals by Owner) - best for whole home rentals

Vrbo is a vacation rental platform specializing in entire home rentals, making it an excellent choice for hosts with standalone properties. As part of the Expedia Group, Vrbo offers strong visibility, particularly in North America and Europe. 

Unlike Airbnb, which allows shared spaces and private rooms, Vrbo only lists full properties, catering to families and larger groups seeking privacy.

Key features:

• User-friendly host dashboard with performance insights and booking management
• Expedia Group integration, increasing exposure through bundled travel packages
• Customizable cancellation policies, allowing hosts to choose their own refund terms
• Damage protection options to safeguard against guest-related property damage
• Premier Host program for top-rated listings, boosting visibility and credibility

Platform fees:

Vrbo offers two pricing models:

• Pay-per-booking: Hosts pay a 15% commission per booking (higher than Airbnb’s typical 3% host fee)
• Annual subscription: A flat fee of $499 per year, ideal for frequent hosts looking to save on commission fees

Tip for hosts: Because Vrbo focuses on whole-home rentals, it often attracts longer stays and higher-value bookings compared to Airbnb. Hosts can maximize their earnings by highlighting family-friendly amenities or features that appeal to group travelers, such as multiple bedrooms, outdoor spaces, and kitchens.

2. Booking.com - best for diverse property types

While known for hotel bookings, Booking.com has expanded into vacation rentals, offering hosts access to a large, diverse audience.Unlike Airbnb and Vrbo, which focus solely on vacation rentals, Booking.com allows side-by-side listings with hotels, attracting travelers who may not typically browse short-term rental platforms. This exposure makes it a strong choice for hosts in high-traffic tourist destinations.

Key features:

• Instant booking only – no request-to-book option, streamlining reservations
• No guest service fees, making listings more attractive to budget-conscious travelers
• Wide global reach, operating in 220+ countries and territories
• Built-in translation services for easy communication with international guests
• Robust analytics dashboard to track bookings, revenue, and performance
• Opportunity to list alongside hotels, increasing visibility for vacation rentals

Platform fees:

Booking.com charges 10-25% commission per booking, which is higher than Airbnb’s standard 3% host fee but includes premium exposure to a global audience. Guests do not pay additional service fees, potentially making properties more appealing.

Tip for hosts: Hosts in popular tourist destinations can maximize visibility by optimizing their listings for Booking.com’s search algorithm. Offering flexible cancellation policies and competitive pricing can help attract travelers who typically book hotels, but may be open to a vacation rental alternative.

3. Expedia - best for package deal exposure

Expedia allows hosts to list their properties alongside flights and car rentals, potentially increasing visibility. This platform is a major online travel agency (OTA) that allows vacation rental hosts to list their properties alongside flights, car rentals, and hotels, increasing visibility and attracting travelers booking complete trip packages. Differing from Airbnb, which focuses exclusively on vacation rentals, Expedia integrates rentals into its travel bundles, making it a great option for hosts looking to reach a broader audience.

Key features:

• Integrated with Expedia Group, meaning listings appear on Vrbo, Hotels.com, and other Expedia-owned sites
• Exposure to package travelers, attracting guests booking flights, hotels, and car rentals together
• Advanced revenue management tools, including dynamic pricing options
• 24/7 customer support for both hosts and guests
• Loyalty program integration, allowing guests to use Expedia Rewards for bookings

Platform fees:

Expedia charges hosts 15-20% commission per booking, which is higher than Airbnb’s typical 3% host fee but offers broader exposure through Expedia’s vast travel ecosystem.

Tip for hosts: To increase bookings, consider offering special rates for package deals. Many travelers booking through Expedia are looking for convenience and discounts when bundling accommodations with flights or car rentals. Highlighting long-stay discounts or flexible cancellation policies can also make your listing more competitive.

4. Plum Guide - best for high-end properties

Plum Guide is a high-end vacation rental platform that focuses exclusively on luxury properties. A distinction that makes Plum Guide stand out from Airbnb and other platforms is their rigorous vetting process, ensuring that only the most exceptional homes are featured. This exclusivity makes it an attractive option for hosts with premium, design-forward properties who want to cater to a high-end clientele.

Key Features:

• Strict vetting process, with only 3% of homes accepted
• Professional photography and listing creation to showcase properties at their best
• Dedicated concierge support for both hosts and guests
• Luxury traveler audience, often booking for special occasions and long stays
• Higher nightly rates, thanks to the platform’s premium positioning

Platform fees:

Plum Guide charges hosts 3-15% commission per booking (with up to 12% being put on the customer, depending on the property and location. This is comparable to Airbnb’s 3% host fee, but properties are marketed to a more affluent guest base, potentially leading to higher earnings per stay.

Tip for hosts: Since only 3% of homes are accepted, Plum Guide hosts join an exclusive group of high-end rental providers. If your property has unique architecture, designer interiors, or premium amenities, you’ll have a strong chance of standing out. To improve your chances of being selected, focus on flawless presentation and luxury guest experiences.

5. Homestay - best for hosts offering cultural experiences

Homestay is a community-driven vacation rental platform that connects travelers with local hosts for a more immersive experience. This platform focuses primarily on hosted stays, where guests share a home with their host. This makes it an excellent option for hosts who enjoy cultural exchange and want to offer a more personal touch to their hospitality.

Key features:

• Host-led stays, emphasizing interaction and cultural exchange
• Lower fees for guests, making it an affordable alternative to Airbnb
• Verification system to ensure trustworthy host-guest connections
• Longer stay potential, often attracting students, interns, and travelers on extended trips
• Flexible booking policies, allowing hosts to set their own house rules and terms

Platform fees:

Homestay charges hosts a 3% commission per booking, similar to Airbnb’s host fee. Guests pay a 15% service fee, which is lower than many competing platforms, making Homestay an affordable option for budget-conscious travelers.

Tip for hosts: To stand out on Homestay, highlight unique local experiences, cultural insights, or skills you can share with guests. Whether it’s offering cooking lessons, language practice, or guided city walks, personal touches make your listing more attractive to travelers looking for an authentic stay.

6. Hipcamp - best for rural and nature-based properties

Hipcamp is a popular platform for outdoor stays, connecting travelers with private campsites, cabins, treehouses, and other nature-focused accommodations. Designed for campers and adventure-seekers, it provides an alternative to traditional vacation rentals by focusing on unique outdoor experiences. With a growing demand for off-the-grid stays, Hipcamp offers a great opportunity for landowners, farmers, and rural property owners to monetize their space.

Key features:

• Diverse property types, including campsites, glamping tents, yurts, and eco-lodges
• Easy listing process, allowing hosts to rent out undeveloped land or existing outdoor accommodations
• No guest service fees, making stays more affordable for travelers
• Community-driven reviews and host support, ensuring a positive experience for both parties
• Flexible booking and cancellation policies, giving hosts control over availability and pricing

Platform Fees:

Hipcamp charges hosts a 10% commission per booking, which is lower than many traditional vacation rental platforms. Since guests don’t pay a service fee, listings remain competitively priced and appealing to budget-conscious travelers.

Tip for hosts: To attract more bookings, highlight the natural features and outdoor activities available on or near your property. Features like hiking trails, fishing spots, stargazing opportunities, or wildlife viewing offer unique experiences that make your listing stand out in the competitive outdoor travel market.

7. Sonder - best for professional hosts with multiple properties

Sonder is a hospitality-focused vacation rental platform that partners with property owners to offer professionally managed, apartment-style accommodations in urban locations. Unlike peer-to-peer rental platforms, Sonder operates more like a boutique hotel, ensuring consistent branding, high-quality stays, and streamlined guest experiences. It’s an ideal choice for hosts looking for a hands-off investment with professional property management.

Key features:

• Full-service management, handling everything from guest communication to maintenance
• Hotel-style consistency, offering premium furnishings and amenities across all locations
• Seamless tech integration, including contactless check-in and smart home features
• Dedicated customer support, ensuring a smooth experience for both guests and property owners
• Operates in over 40 cities worldwide, providing opportunities for multi-city property management

Platform fees:

Sonder works on a lease-based or revenue-sharing model, meaning hosts typically lease their properties to Sonder or receive a percentage of booking revenue. Fees and earnings vary based on location, property type, and agreement structure, making it different from traditional commission-based platforms.

Tip for hosts: If you own multiple urban properties or want a more passive hosting experience, Sonder’s professional management model can help maximize occupancy and simplify operations. Investing in design-forward, high-quality interiors can also increase your property's appeal in this hotel-inspired rental market.

8. Outdoorsy - best for RV and campervan owners

Outdoorsy is a peer-to-peer rental platform designed specifically for RV and campervan rentals, which makes it a great option for hosts looking to monetize their motorhomes when not in use. With a growing interest in road trip travel and van life, Outdoorsy connects owners with adventure-seekers looking for a unique and flexible way to explore.

Key features:

• Specialized RV and campervan marketplace, catering to road trip travelers
• Built-in insurance coverage for both hosts and renters, providing peace of mind
• Flexible rental options, including stationary rentals or one-way trips
• 24/7 roadside assistance, adding an extra layer of security for both parties
• Host dashboard with booking management tools, making it easy to track rentals and revenue

Platform fees:

Outdoorsy takes a 20-25% commission per booking, which covers insurance, roadside assistance, and platform support. While higher than some vacation rental platforms, this fee ensures comprehensive protection and assistance for hosts.

Tip for hosts: Increase your rental appeal and income by offering add-ons like camping gear, bike racks, or local guidebooks. Many renters are first-time RV users, so providing helpful extras and personalized recommendations can improve their experience and lead to better reviews and repeat bookings.

9. Onefinestay - best for luxury home owners

Onefinestay is a luxury vacation rental platform specializing in high-end, personally-vetted properties in select destinations. Designed for homeowners seeking a hands-off, premium hosting experience, Onefinestay offers white-glove service, including professional property management and concierge support. With a focus on boutique-level hospitality, it caters to travelers looking for an upscale alternative to hotels.

Key Features:

• Strict vetting process, ensuring only the most exceptional homes are listed
• Full-service property management, including guest screening, cleaning, and maintenance
• Personal concierge services for all bookings, enhancing the guest experience
• Luxury branding, attracting high-end clientele willing to pay premium rates
• Operates in select cities and resort destinations, maintaining exclusivity

Platform fees:

Onefinestay operates on an unspecified revenue-sharing model, typically taking 40% or more of booking revenue in exchange for full-service management and marketing. While the commission is significantly higher than other platforms, it eliminates the need for hosts to handle daily operations.

Tip for hosts: Onefinestay is best suited for luxury homeowners who want passive income without compromising on service or guest experience. To attract more bookings, focus on high-end amenities such as private chefs, spa services, or unique architectural design, as these details appeal to the platform’s discerning guests.

10. Vacasa - best for comprehensive property management

Vacasa is a full-service vacation rental management company that handles everything from marketing to maintenance, making it an attractive option for property owners who want a hands-off hosting experience. With professional management and dynamic pricing tools, Vacasa helps maximize occupancy and revenue while taking care of daily operations.

Key features

• Full-service management, including guest communication, housekeeping, and maintenance
• Dynamic pricing algorithms to adjust rates based on demand
• Local teams that provide on-the-ground support and market expertise
• Centralized booking system with distribution across major travel platforms
• 24/7 guest support for exemplary customer service

Platform fees:

Vacasa typically charges a management fee ranging from 25-35% of the nightly booking rate. While higher than commission-based platforms, this fee covers full-service management, allowing hosts to earn passive income without handling operations themselves.

Tip for hosts: Vacasa's local teams can provide valuable insights into market trends and pricing strategies. Using their expertise can help optimize your property’s performance and keep occupancy rates high, even in slower seasons.

11. 9flats - best for hosts targeting European travellers

9flats is a vacation rental platform similar to Airbnb but with a stronger focus on European markets, making it a great option for hosts with properties in popular European destinations. With a mix of private rooms, apartments, and entire homes, it caters to a broad range of travelers, including budget-conscious guests looking for affordable alternatives to hotels.

Key features:

• Strong presence in European cities and travel hubs
• Listings include private rooms, shared spaces, and entire properties
• Secure payment system with various currency options
• No guest service fees, making properties more attractive to budget travelers
• Integration with major travel search engines for increased exposure

Platform fees:

9flats charges hosts a 15% commission per booking, similar to other major vacation rental platforms. Since guests don’t pay additional service fees, competitive pricing can be a key advantage on this platform.

Tip for hosts: To attract more bookings, highlight cultural elements or proximity to European landmarks in your listing. Travelers on 9flats are often looking for authentic European experiences, so showcasing local attractions, historic sites, or regional traditions can make your property stand out.

12. Homelike - best for hosts offering extended stays

Homelike specializes in longer-term rentals of 30+ days, making it an excellent choice for hosts looking to attract business travelers, remote workers, and digital nomads. Unlike short-term vacation rental platforms, Homelike focuses on fully furnished apartments that offer the comfort and flexibility professionals need for extended stays.

Key features:

• Listings cater to business travelers, expats, and digital nomads
• Operates in 500+ cities, offering a broad market for long-term rentals
• Secure online booking and payment system with invoicing options for corporate clients
• Flexible rental agreements with customizable lease terms
• No need for short-term rental permits, as the platform focuses on extended stays

Platform fees:

Homelike charges an undisclosed percentage of the total renting fee, depending on the location and property type. Since the platform focuses on monthly stays, hosts can benefit from lower turnover and more consistent income compared to short-term rentals.

Tip for hosts: Homelike attracts corporate guests and remote workers, so emphasize business-friendly amenities like fast WiFi, dedicated workspaces, and proximity to public transport or coworking spaces to make your listing more competitive.

13. Glamping Hub - best for unique outdoor accommodations

Glamping Hub is a specialized vacation rental platform catering to travelers looking for unique outdoor accommodations, such as treehouses, yurts, safari tents, and eco-lodges. With the rise of glamping (glamorous camping) as a popular travel trend, this platform provides an excellent opportunity for hosts to market nature-focused stays that offer both comfort and adventure.

Key features:

• Focuses on glamping-style accommodations, including luxury tents, cabins, and domes
• Attracts eco-conscious and experience-driven travelers
• Listings include detailed descriptions and high-quality images to showcase unique stays
• Hosts have control over pricing, availability, and guest communication
• Global reach, featuring properties in multiple countries and natural destinations

Platform fees:

Glamping Hub charges a 4% host fee per booking, significantly lower than many vacation rental platforms. Guests pay an additional 6-12% service fee, which covers platform operations and customer support.

Tip for hosts: To stand out, highlight what makes your property unique – whether it's an off-the-grid experience, panoramic views, or luxury outdoor amenities. Guests on Glamping Hub are looking for something extraordinary, so emphasizing comfort-focused features like heated tents, private hot tubs, or stargazing decks can make your listing more appealing.

14. Kid & Coe - best for family-friendly property owners

Kid & Coe is a family-focused vacation rental platform designed for travelers with children. Unlike general vacation rental sites, Kid & Coe curates child-friendly properties that offer safety, comfort, and convenience for families. This makes it an excellent choice for hosts who want to attract parents looking for stress-free stays with amenities tailored to young children.

Key features:

• Specialized in family-friendly accommodations, ensuring properties meet child-safety standards
• Listings include detailed descriptions of kid-friendly amenities like cribs, playrooms, and baby gates
• Curated selection of homes, making it a trusted resource for families
• Hosts can showcase their property’s suitability for different age groups
• Flexible booking options, allowing for longer stays that fit family travel schedules

Platform fees:

Kid & Coe charges a 10% or 15% commission per booking, which is competitive compared to general vacation rental platforms. Guests also pay a service fee, which varies based on the length and total cost of their stay.

Tip for hosts: To attract more bookings, highlight child-specific amenities like cots, high chairs, toy collections, or fenced outdoor play areas. Families often prioritize convenience and safety, so emphasizing kid-friendly features in your listing can make your property stand out to parents searching for the perfect stay.

15. Marriott - Best for professionally managed, high-end vacation rentals

Marriott's Homes & Villas is a vacation rental platform offering a curated selection of premium and luxury homes. Each property is professionally managed and meets Marriott's high standards for design, comfort, and safety. This platform is ideal for hosts with upscale properties seeking to reach Marriott's extensive customer base.

Key features:

• Access to over 200 million Marriott Bonvoy members, allowing guests to earn and redeem loyalty points
• Professionally managed homes vetted for quality and consistency
• Integration with Marriott's global reservation system for hassle-free booking experiences
• 24/7 guest support to ensure a high standard of service

Platform fees:

Marriott charges a 15% commission on the nightly rate and cleaning fees, excluding taxes. Hosts typically partner with approved property management companies to list their homes.

Tip for hosts: To attract Marriott's discerning guests, ensure your property offers premium amenities and adheres to high standards of cleanliness and design. Partnering with a reputable property management company can help maintain these standards and enhance guest satisfaction.

16. Hopper Homes - Best for tech-savvy travelers

Hopper Homes is a rapidly growing vacation rental marketplace within the Hopper travel app, known for its price prediction technology. The platform offers a diverse range of properties and appeals to a tech-savvy audience seeking competitive rates.

Key features:

• Integration with Hopper's app, which has over 100 million users.
• Price prediction tools to help guests find the best deals.
• User-friendly mobile booking experience.
• Access to a unique customer segment, with many users exclusively booking through Hopper.

Platform fees:

Hopper Homes charges a 14% commission, calculated on the booking subtotal, which includes the nightly rate and any additional fees, excluding taxes,, which covers platform operations and support. The exact rate may vary, so hosts should consult Hopper for specific details.

Tip for hosts: To stand out on Hopper Homes, consider implementing dynamic pricing strategies to align with the platform's price-sensitive user base. Highlighting unique features and positive reviews can also boost your property's appeal.

17. Agoda - Best for global exposure

Agoda Homes is a segment of Agoda, a global online travel agency, offering a wide range of vacation rental properties. It caters to a diverse audience, including families and solo travelers, seeking both short-term and extended stays.

Key features:

• Extensive global reach with properties in numerous countries.
• Flexible cancellation policies to accommodate travelers' needs.
• User-friendly platform with multilingual support.
• Integration with Agoda's broader travel services, including flights and car rentals.

Platform fees:

Agoda Homes operates on a commission-based model, with rates varying depending on property location and other factors. Hosts should review Agoda's terms to understand the specific fee structure.

Tip for hosts: To maximize bookings on Agoda Homes, make sure your property listing is detailed and includes high-quality photos. Offering flexible cancellation policies and competitive rates can also attract a broader range of travelers.

18. HomeToGo - Best for multi-platform exposure

HomeToGo is a vacation rental search engine that aggregates listings from various providers, offering travelers a comprehensive platform to compare and book accommodations worldwide. With a vast selection of properties, it appeals to diverse traveler preferences and budgets.

Key features:

• Increased exposure by syndicating listings across multiple vacation rental websites
• Smooth integration with major property management systems (PMS) for easy calendar and rate synchronization
• No exclusivity required, allowing hosts to list properties on other platforms simultaneously
• Performance analytics tools to track bookings, pricing trends, and market demand
• Customizable pricing and availability settings to maintain full control over bookings

Platform fees:

HomeToGo operates as a marketplace, connecting travelers with various vacation rental providers. The fees and commission structures depend on the individual providers and their terms. Hosts should review the specific terms of the provider they choose to list with.

Tip for hosts: To boost your property's visibility on HomeToGo, ensure your listing is detailed with high-quality photos and comprehensive descriptions. Competitive pricing and positive reviews can also improve your property's ranking in search results.

19. Blueground - Best for fully furnished, long-term rentals in major cities

Blueground is a property management platform specializing in fully furnished, professionally managed apartments for mid-to-long-term stays. It caters primarily to business travelers, remote workers, and expatriates, offering hosts a hands-off rental experience with steady occupancy in major urban centers.

Key features:

• Full-service management, including guest screening, maintenance, and housekeeping
• Guaranteed rental income through long-term lease agreements
• Professional furnishing and staging to ensure high-quality, move-in-ready properties
• Automated booking and pricing tools to optimize revenue
• Exclusive listing in high-demand city locations, targeting corporate clients and extended-stay travelers

Platform fees:

Blueground's pricing includes rent and a service fee, which covers utilities, internet, and maintenance. The exact rates vary based on location, property size, and length of stay. Hosts partnering with Blueground should discuss specific terms directly with the company.

Tip for hosts: If you own properties in major urban areas and seek a hands-off management approach, partnering with Blueground can provide consistent occupancy and professional upkeep. Ensure your properties meet the platform's standards for design and amenities to attract discerning clients.

20. ThirdHome - Best for luxury second-home owners looking for an exclusive exchange network

ThirdHome is an exclusive home exchange network designed for luxury second-home owners who want to maximize their property's value when not in use. Rather than traditional rentals, ThirdHome operates on a credit-based exchange system, allowing members to trade time in their properties for stays in other high-end homes worldwide. This platform is ideal for hosts who want to access a global collection of luxury properties without renting their home to the general public.

Key features:

• Luxury home exchange system, providing access to a curated portfolio of high-end properties
• "Key" credit system, where hosts earn travel credits by making their home available for other members
• No direct rental transactions, making it a more private and exclusive alternative to vacation rentals
• Properties in over 100 countries, including villas, estates, and yachts
• Strict membership requirements, ensuring all homes meet high-quality standards

Platform fees:

Members pay a one-time initiation fee and annual membership dues. Additionally, there is a nominal exchange fee for each stay, which is significantly lower than typical rental rates. Specific fee structures can be obtained directly from ThirdHome.

Tip for hosts: To maximize the benefits of ThirdHome membership, be sure that your property is well-maintained and available during peak travel seasons. High-quality photos and detailed descriptions can attract more interest from fellow members.

21. Wimdu - Best for urban vacation rentals with a strong European presence

Wimdu is a vacation rental marketplace that aggregates listings from various providers, giving hosts the opportunity to reach a global audience without listing exclusively on a single platform. It offers short-term rental opportunities for property owners looking to maximize bookings, particularly in urban destinations where demand for apartments and unique stays is high.

Key features:

• Access to over 350,000 vacation rental listings, increasing visibility for hosts
• Multi-platform exposure, as listings appear across multiple travel sites
• Automated price comparison tools to keep rates competitive
• Flexible listing options, allowing hosts to manage pricing and availability on their terms
• User-friendly dashboard for managing bookings, guest communication, and listing performance

Platform fees:

Wimdu operates as a broker, receiving commissions from every booking. The specific fee structure for hosts may vary, and it's advisable for potential hosts to review Wimdu's terms and conditions or contact their support for detailed information.

Tip for hosts: To maximise your property's appeal on Wimdu, highlight unique features and amenities that set your property apart. Additionally, maintaining competitive pricing and promptly responding to inquiries can improve your visibility and booking rates.

22. Tripadvisor - Best for leveraging reviews and traveler trust

TripAdvisor Rentals is a vacation rental platform that gives hosts access to millions of travelers worldwide looking for unique accommodations. As part of the TripAdvisor brand, it benefits from trusted reviews, extensive search traffic, and a strong reputation, making it a great choice for hosts who want to attract guests based on credibility and user feedback. The platform supports a wide variety of property types, from city apartments to beachfront villas, catering to different traveler needs.

Key features:

• Global exposure through TripAdvisor’s massive travel audience

• Built-in review system that helps build trust and attract more bookings

• Secure payment processing with fraud protection and guest verification

• Customizable cancellation and pricing options to optimize earnings

• Multi-platform listing distribution, increasing visibility on affiliated travel websites

Platform fees:

TripAdvisor Rentals uses a commission-based model, charging hosts a percentage per booking. The exact rate varies depending on location, property type, and other factors, so hosts should check the platform’s terms for specific details.

Tip for hosts: TripAdvisor Rentals thrives on user-generated content, so leverage your guest reviews to drive bookings. Regularly update your listing with recent testimonials, guest photos, and personalized host responses to build credibility.

23. Google Vacation Rentals - Best for maximizing visibility through search-driven bookings

Google Vacation Rentals is a search integration feature that compiles vacation rental listings from various platforms and displays them directly within Google search results. This allows travelers to discover, compare, and book rentals with ease, increasing exposure for hosts without requiring direct listing management on Google itself.

Key features:

• Integrated search display, making properties more visible to travelers searching for rentals
• Direct booking links, driving traffic to the original listing platform
• Advanced filters, allowing guests to refine searches based on pricing, location, and amenities
• Global reach, leveraging Google’s massive user base for increased exposure

Platform fees:

Google does not charge hosts to appear in vacation rental search results. However, listing platforms (such as Airbnb, Vrbo, or Booking.com) may have their own commission fees. Hosts should review the fee structure of their chosen platform to understand any costs involved.

Tip for hosts: Since Google’s search results favor relevance and engagement, treat your vacation rental listing like an SEO-optimized webpage. Use clear, keyword-rich descriptions that highlight unique features, and make sure your property has a compelling title that includes location-based keywords travelers are searching for.

24. Homads - Best for mid-term rentals targeting professionals and relocations

Homads is a mid-term rental platform designed for hosts who want to attract professionals, relocating individuals, and long-term travelers. Specializing in stays ranging from one to six months, Homads fills the gap between short-term vacation rentals and traditional long-term leases. It offers a curated selection of homes and condos, helping hosts connect with responsible tenants who need stable housing.

Key features:

• Mid-term rental specialization, reducing frequent turnover and vacancy gaps
• Curated property listings, ensuring quality stays that attract serious renters
• Pre-screened tenants, including professionals on work assignments and individuals relocating
• Integrated support services, such as insurance claim connections and home tour scheduling
• Flexible pricing and rental terms, giving hosts control over their leasing strategy

Platform fees:

Homads allows hosts to list their properties for free. However, the platform may charge a service fee on confirmed bookings, which helps cover operational costs and tenant screening services. The exact fee structure varies based on location and property type, so hosts should review the platform’s terms for details.

Tip for hosts: To attract long-term renters on Homads, focus on creating a move-in-ready experience with fast WiFi, fully equipped kitchens, and work-friendly spaces. Since many tenants are relocating or on temporary work assignments, offering flexible lease terms and including utility costs in your pricing can make your property stand out and secure bookings more quickly.

How to manage multiple booking platforms

The vacation rental market offers more opportunities than ever for property owners and hosts. With so many platforms available, each catering to different types of travelers and hosting styles, listing on multiple sites can help maximize your reach and increase occupancy rates. However, managing multiple platforms effectively requires careful organization and the right tools.

To avoid double bookings and inconsistencies, consider using property management software (PMS) that syncs your availability across all platforms. Automated messaging tools can also help streamline guest communication, providing a smooth experience from inquiry to check-out. 

Additionally, pricing optimization software can adjust rates dynamically based on demand, keeping your property competitive across multiple marketplaces.

For an even better guest experience, use a Touch Stay digital guidebook to provide essential information, simplify communication, and further enhance your property's appeal. A well-crafted guidebook can reduce guest inquiries, improve reviews, and ultimately increase repeat bookings – all while saving you time.

By combining smart platform management with great guest communication, you can create an unforgettable experience that keeps your vacation rental business thriving. Happy hosting, and may your property become the next sought-after destination!

Conclusion

The vacation rental market offers more opportunities than ever for property owners and hosts. Each platform caters to different types of properties and hosting styles, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your rental business. Remember, success in vacation rentals isn't just about where you list, but how well you cater to your target guests and manage your property.

Consider trying multiple platforms to diversify your reach and maximise occupancy. And don't forget to leverage tools like property management software and guest communication apps to streamline your hosting operations. For an even more exceptional guest experience, consider incorporating a Touch Stay digital guidebook. This innovative tool can provide clear information, enhance communication, and potentially increase bookings and positive reviews.

Happy hosting, and may your property become the next sought-after destination!

Frequently asked questions