Planning a brief weekend getaway for a change of scenery? Or need to take a business tour to discuss a potential partnership? The most important question to ask is, “Where should I stay?”
Booking a good place to stay can take away half of your worries while traveling. You can enjoy a comfortable stay without disturbances or safety concerns. Staying at a hotel used to be the only option for many travelers. But since the inception of Airbnb in 2008, you can decide which one would be a better idea – Airbnb vs Hotel.
You may have heard some horror stories about both Airbnb and hotels from other travelers. So, doing your research before a trip can bring you peace of mind and save you trouble.
We know it’s not always easy to choose between Airbnb or hotel. So, we have brought you a genuine comparison between both options to help you make up your mind.
Airbnb vs Hotel: Cleanliness Factor
“Outer order contributes to inner calm.”
– Gretchen Ruben
When it comes to a comparison between Airbnb and a hotel room, the cleanliness of the premises is a crucial factor. After all, no one wants to live in a dirty place with clutter and trash around them.
Hotel room charges are usually inclusive of the cleaning fee. The facility has professional housekeeping staff to keep the premises clean. And they usually clean your room when you are away. But don’t worry, they don’t disturb you or damage your possessions especially when you stay at a reputable hotel.
On the other hand, Airbnb rooms don’t offer this option. You’d need to pay an additional cleaning fee of approx. $80-$150 depending on the property type and size. For this extra fee, the host only cleans the facility before you arrive and after you’ve left the place. So, you need to clean the place and take the trash out yourself during your stay.
It can be a hassle for many travelers.
Are Hotels Safer than Airbnb?
Safety is another major factor when choosing your accommodation.
We know that all fingers aren’t equal. And stereotyping Airbnb facilities isn’t a good idea. But it’s a harsh truth that hotels tend to offer a more secure atmosphere than many Airbnb properties. This is especially true when you stay at 4* or better-ranked hotels.
Airbnb rentals require extensive research. You need to choose a property in a safe neighborhood. But what if you’re visiting the place for the first time? Then you won’t know whether it’s safe or what kind of people you’d come across.
Airbnb company has developed a policy to address safety concerns. You can check out ratings, reviews, and the trust status of a property before making a reservation. But the system isn’t foolproof.
We found some Airbnb horror stories online and wish we never come across such people. A couple in Florida found a camera with an audio recorder in their rented room disguised as a smoke detector. Another traveling couple was attacked by the host in their room in the middle of the night.
This doesn’t mean every host is the same. No, no! You may get to meet some of the sweetest people when you rent an Airbnb. But the thing is you can’t be sure until you arrive there and get to know them.
But when it comes to hotels, you may feel safe in the presence of professional hotel security staff. You can do what you’re there for without worrying about the unknown hosts threatening your life.
Amenities
There’s no doubt hotels give off a luxurious vibe. There’s professional staff to greet you and ensure you are comfortable. You may get to enjoy a wide range of hotel amenities such as:
- Complimentary breakfast
- Toiletries
- Coffee maker with instant coffee packets
- Bathrobe
- Free Wi-Fi
- Fitness room
- Pool and spa
- Gym
- Indoor games
So, you can enjoy a wide range of facilities during your stay. Yes, it results in an increase in room charges. But if your budget allows it then these luxurious amenities are worth the money.
You may not be able to enjoy such a wide range of amenities in an Airbnb. Some luxurious rentals would give you access to a pool or a coffee kit. But in order to enjoy a comfortable and luxurious stay, you may prefer a 5* hotel.
What’s Cheaper? Airbnb vs Hotel
Yeah, the fee for the accommodation is an important factor. You don’t want to break the bank when traveling on a budget. So, let’s explore the factors that impact the charges for renting a room or an entire property.
· Length of Stay
Do you want to stay there for a short period? Let’s say 2-3 days? Or are you planning to stay for a few weeks?
For short periods, Airbnb is certainly not worth the effort. You don’t want to do key exchange, go grocery shopping, do research about the neighborhood, and pay an expensive cleaning fee for such a short stay.
You may rather find it easier to book a hotel room at a central location that has all your needs covered. This way, you can enjoy a comfortable stay for a cheaper price.
As for long-term stays, hotel rooms tend to be more expensive. With Airbnb, you can get a better deal with special discounts. Many hosts offer a 10-15% discount for a longer stay. But you need to discuss it directly with them to be sure.
· Size of the Group
You can choose between an Airbnb or hotel when traveling alone or with your partner. The price range of both options may be similar. But this isn’t the case when traveling in a large group.
You may need to book multiple hotel rooms for the entire group. Then you will have to do the socializing and fun in the hotel lobby which is never a good idea. So, it’s better to consider an Airbnb.
Look for an entire home in an Airbnb. Your group can be more comfortable there. You will have enough space to sleep, play games, and have fun.
What About Your Privacy?
When traveling to a new city, you are apprehensive of strangers. And rightly so! Thus, when choosing between Airbnb vs. Hotel, go for the option that better preserves your privacy.
First, you need to consider which type of property you want to get. Are you looking for a single room or a full residential property?
If you want a single room in someone else’s house, then you may have less privacy. There are hosts living there. If you are an introvert like me, you may prefer a hotel room. You would come across other guests and hotel staff when you leave the room. But there’s complete privacy in your room with no one giving you a dirty eye when you return late.
However, the atmosphere is different when you book an entire apartment or a house. You can enjoy unmatched privacy which is much better than a hotel. You are on your own and can comfortably enjoy the stay without interference.
Seeking a Unique Experience?
Staying at a hotel may be hassle-free and comfortable. You can enjoy sunbath and exercise at the fitness center. But if you seek adventure or some unique experiences, you may find a hotel experience quite boring.
Airbnb offers unique experiences for guests. For instance, you can rent different kinds of rentals to create memories on your trip. Outdoor cabins, lake houses, tiny houses, treehouses, camping, beach houses, and campers are super popular options.
Apart from unique housing options, you can enjoy several fun activities. Airbnb connects you with unforgettable activities hosted by locals from the area you intend to visit. Let’s take a look at some of these:
- Kayaking
- Boat tours
- Mushroom forage
- Crabbing
- Cooking class with local cuisine experts
- Wine cruise
- Aviator experience
- Learn pottery
- Hands-on farm life experience
- Personalized photography tours
Want to Blend in the Local Culture?
Traveling to a new place is the best way to learn about their culture. You get to explore a place you have never been to before. Also, it gives you a new perspective on life.
Traveling for business meetings may require you to stay in a hotel so you can focus on your work. But when traveling for fun, then a hotel room may not be a good fit. Yeah, you will find other travelers there, but they aren’t locals.
Living with an Airbnb host gives you the opportunity to blend in with the local culture. You can see closely how people live. You can get a less-touristy feel and get insights into the day-to-day lifestyle of locals.
So, Which One is the Winner?
In a debate between hotels and Airbnb, there’s no definite winner. It all depends on your choice and your needs during a trip.
With our detailed comparison, you can evaluate the factors that impact your decision of choosing accommodation. Then you can make the right choice to enjoy your trip to the fullest.
Cleanliness: Hotel
Safety: Hotel
Amenities: Hotel
Cost: Hotel for brief stays/Airbnb for longer trips
Hotel for smaller groups/Airbnb for bigger ones
Privacy: Hotel when looking for a single room
Airbnb when you book an entire house
Unique Experience: Airbnb
Living Like a Local: Airbnb
So, which factors matter the most to you? Are you a budget traveler or prefer comfort? What has your experience been like at hotels as well as Airbnbs? We’d love to hear your experiences!