The Best Alternatives To Airbnb For 2022

When Airbnb first hit the travel scene, its impact on the industry was momentous. Now travelers worldwide could access affordable, characterful, and comfortable homes while they travel rather than having to stay in bland and high-priced hotel rooms.

And post-pandemic their market share only seems to be expanding as remote workers embrace the freedom their new digital nomad working arrangement affords them.

But as Airbnb gained more and more of a foothold when it came to booking travel accommodations, problems for travelers soon began to arise. As well as safety concerns, users began to tire of hidden fees, expensive cleaning fees, and poor customer service when it came to cancellations.

If you are one of the travelers who is looking for an alternative to Airbnb accommodation for your next vacation, here are the other ways to book a vacation you should consider.

The Best Cheap Alternatives to Airbnb for 2022

Below we have detailed our top picks for professionally managed Airbnb alternatives that will allow you to find the perfect holiday homes the next time you travel. Whether you are looking for a higher standard of property, more professional service, or cheap alternatives to Airbnb, you should make sure to check out these options.

A Popular Airbnb Alternative is Vrbo

In many ways, you'll find that the process of booking rental homes and villas on Airbnb and Vrbo is very similar. But although the site is like Airbnb in many ways, you'll often find other affordable options which are not showing on the other site. And there may be some listings that appear on both sites, but have cheaper prices on Vrbo.

This is a great option for when you want to compare the offers of several different sites and make sure you are getting the best deal for your money. The site will also allow you to get a clear idea of your total cost, by factoring in all the accompanying fees into your "Total Price" quote.

However, similar to Airbnb, there is a convoluted cancellation policy which some may find offputting. The site is also restricted to rental properties which are stand-alone, meaning you can't shave some money off your rental by opting for a shared space.

Head to Booking.com for Straightforward, Cheap Alternatives to Airbnb

Booking.com is a no-nonsense property booking website that will allow you to book vacation rentals alongside flights and hotels. This straightforward listing site features a lot of long or short terms rentals in professionally managed buildings, so you will be facing a potentially more bland and corporate selection of accommodation.

But the fact that many of these properties are looked after by professional property managers and rental companies rather than being vacation rentals by owners may be reassuring those spooked by the security and safety concerns in recent headlines.

If you want a clear and easy way to compare your travel accommodation options for international travel and a professional level of service throughout the process, then this is one of the most hassle-free Airbnb competitors you will find.

Earn Reward Points while you Rent with Marriott Homes and Villas' Airbnb Alternatives

Marriot threw its hat into the home rental market in 2019 and has begun to build up a good portfolio of long-term rental accommodation options which should suit those looking to remain in a location for a while.

One of the most beneficial aspects of booking with Marriott Home and Villas is that, in contrast to other accommodation providers, Marriot give you reward points for choosing them!

You may even be able to book your rental using Marriot points you have already built up on your credit card spending, meaning you'll be able to stay there for "free." This has made the service a popular choice with travel hackers and frequent flyers who are looking for ways to maximize the return on their travel spending.

You'll be able to enjoy a very high standard of property, although as of yet the portfolio is still rather small compared to other travel accommodation providers.

HipCamp is one of the Best Cheap Alternatives to Airbnb

If you are looking for budget-friendly, cheap alternatives to Airbnb, then Hipcamp may be just the rental platform you are looking for. If you are a camping or glamping enthusiast then you'll find loads of accessibly priced rental experiences available in quirky out-of-the-way locations and cheap areas.

The accommodation might not meet the standards of most indoor bookings, but you'll save quite a bit of money and be able to enjoy more time enjoying and exploring the location you have traveled to. Rental experiences on the site include booking in a traditional campsite, glamping in a yurt, or spending the nights in a comfortable Airstream trailer.

Find Vetted Alternatives to Airbnb on The Plum Guide

If you worry about the quality of accommodation on Airbnb, then heading over to The Plum Guide could be a great way to ensure you can enjoy a top-of-the-line experience in your rental home.

Under 5% of property owners' rental listings make it onto this Airbnb Alternatives Site, which should you give you some idea of the standard of accommodation the site is working towards. Properties are strictly vetted against a criterion of 150 points covering everything from the quality of the bedsheets to how well the plumbing works.

Don't be put off if you are working with a tight budget, there are a wide range of destinations available across the globe with rentals at a variety of price points.

Summary - The Best Alternatives to Airbnb for 2022

Although Airbnb in many ways was the trailblazer in toppling the accommodation monopolies of hotels, that doesn't mean it is your only option the next time you book your vacation.

Check out our list of the best cheap alternatives to Airbnb above and make sure that you are getting the best rental space and the most value for your money the next time you book somewhere to stay.