Best time to book Airbnb: the ultimate guide (2025)

Finding the perfect Airbnb can be exciting, but securing it at the best price requires strategy. This comprehensive guide dives deep into the factors influencing Airbnb pricing and reveals the secrets to snagging the best deals. Discover how to maximise your Airbnb profits with smart pricing.

Whether you're planning a spontaneous getaway or a long-awaited holiday, we'll equip you with the knowledge to book your Airbnb with confidence. Learn about seasonal trends, market dynamics, and insider tips to maximise your budget and enjoy an unforgettable travel experience.

• What factors affect Airbnb prices?
• What is the best time to book Airbnb?
• How to avoid overpaying for Airbnb
• Tips to get the cheapest prices for Airbnb
• How and when should Airbnb hosts adjust their pricing?
• FAQs

What factors affect Airbnb prices?

Understanding what influences Airbnb pricing is crucial for both hosts and guests. Here are the key factors that impact rates:

• Seasonality and peak periods: prices typically surge during high season and popular travel times. Summer months in tourist destinations can see rates increase by 25-40% compared to off-season prices. Similarly, winter rates in ski resorts can be up to 60% higher than summer rates.
  
  
• Local events and festivals: major events can cause prices to spike significantly. During events like Glastonbury Festival or Edinburgh Fringe, local Airbnb prices can increase by 50-200%. Sports events, conferences, and concerts also drive up rates substantially.
  
  
• Day of the week: weekend rates are typically 20-30% higher than weekday rates in urban areas. This difference is even more pronounced in popular weekend getaway destinations, where Friday and Saturday night prices can be up to 50% higher.
  
  
• Location and demand: properties in prime locations or areas with limited accommodation options command higher prices. Urban centres and tourist hotspots typically maintain higher baseline prices throughout the year.
  
  
• Last-minute availability: contrary to what many expect, last-minute bookings don't always mean better deals. Properties that remain available close to the date might either be overpriced or have issues that make them less desirable.
  
  
• Length of stay: extended stays often qualify for weekly or monthly discounts, which can range from 10-30% off the nightly rate. Hosts prefer longer bookings as they reduce turnover costs and ensure consistent occupancy.

Want to enhance your guests' experience after they book? 

What is the best time to book Airbnb?

Recent booking data and market research reveal several key timing strategies for optimal Airbnb bookings:

• For standard stays: book 3-6 months in advance for the best combination of availability and competitive pricing. This window provides enough time to compare options while avoiding last-minute premium rates.
  
  
• For holiday periods: book 6-8 months ahead for major holidays like Christmas, New Year's, and Easter. Popular properties during these periods often book up 9-12 months in advance.
  
  
• For summer holidays: start looking 4-6 months before your intended travel dates. According to recent data, summer bookings made this far in advance are typically 10-15% cheaper than last-minute reservations.
  
  
• For business travel: book 2-4 weeks ahead for the best rates on short stays in business districts. Corporate areas often have more predictable pricing patterns and less competition from leisure travellers.
  Discover how to create the perfect welcome guide for business travellers.

How to avoid overpaying for Airbnb?

Compare prices across different dates

Look at rates for flexible dates around your preferred travel time. Shifting your stay by a few days can often yield significant savings, particularly for weekend stays.

Check alternative locations

Expanding your search radius by just a few kilometres can reveal properties with similar amenities at lower prices. Consider areas with good transport links rather than focusing solely on central locations.

Use filters strategically

Set your must-have amenities and price range first to avoid falling in love with properties outside your budget. Be realistic about which amenities you'll actually use during your stay.

Book at the right time

As mentioned earlier, timing is crucial. Avoid booking during peak demand periods unless absolutely necessary, and try to plan well in advance for popular destinations.

Tips to get the cheapest prices for Airbnb

Finding the best deals on Airbnb requires a strategic approach. Here are proven methods to secure lower rates:

• Use weekly and monthly discounts: book longer stays to take advantage of host discounts, which can reduce the nightly rate by up to 30%.
  
  
• Look for new listings: new properties often offer promotional rates to build up reviews. These can be 20-40% below market rate while hosts establish their reputation.
  
  
• Enable price alerts: set up alerts for your desired location and dates to monitor price changes and spot good deals quickly.
  
  
• Consider shoulder season: book just before or after peak season to enjoy similar weather conditions at significantly lower rates (often 30-50% less). Learn more about shoulder season here.
  
  
• Message hosts directly: for longer stays, politely inquire about potential discounts. Many hosts are willing to offer better rates for direct bookings, especially during slower periods.

Are you a host looking to provide exceptional guest experiences?

How and when should Airbnb hosts adjust their pricing?

Strategic pricing is crucial for maximising occupancy and revenue. Here's when and how hosts should adjust their rates:

Seasonal adjustments:

• Increase rates by 20-40% during peak season
• Lower prices by 15-25% during off-peak periods to maintain occupancy
• Adjust gradually between seasons to remain competitive

Special events:

• Research local events calendar well in advance
• Increase rates by 30-100% depending on event popularity
• Consider minimum stay requirements during high-demand periods

Last-minute adjustments:

• Reduce rates by 10-20% for unbooked dates within 7 days
• Maintain higher rates for premium properties even last-minute
• Use dynamic pricing tools to automate adjustments

Competitor monitoring:

• Review similar properties' rates monthly
• Adjust pricing to remain competitive while reflecting your property's unique value
• Consider your property's amenities and reviews when positioning pricing

Remember: While competitive pricing is important, providing an exceptional guest experience is crucial for maintaining high occupancy rates and positive reviews. Consider using Touch Stay's digital guidebook to enhance your guests' stay and reduce common queries.

Hosts! Ready to enhance your guest experience? 

FAQs