1. Airbnb
Airbnb is one of the most popular short-term vacation rental companies, with over 6 million listings. The platform lists rentals in major cities and rural areas across the globe. Instead of staying in a hotel, Airbnb connects users with unique listings by local hosts. Amenities can vary and stays may be paired with excursions via the app’s Airbnb experiences feature.Pros | Cons |
A popular platform with some off-the-beaten-track locationsGet to know locals by staying with hosts familiar with the area | Amenities vary with each listingThere are no in-person customer service representatives |
2. FlipKey
Similar to Airbnb and Vrbo, FlipKey allows you to find and book vacation rentals listed by hosts around the world. You can browse thousands of listings, read reviews from previous guests, and compare prices and amenities. Since FlipKey is owned by TripAdvisor, users who book a short-term vacation rental through this company have access to the travel guides and recommendations they need to create a travel itinerary.Pros | Cons |
Individual hosts offer unique staysYou can read verified reviews from previous guests and contact the owners directly | May have to pay extra fees for cleaning, service or taxesIssues with the property or owner aren’t covered by FlipKey guarantee |
3. Glamping Hub
Glamping Hub focuses on providing an authentic, immersive experience for guests who want to enjoy the outdoors without sacrificing comfort and convenience. The term glamping refers to a glamorous camping experience that combines the best parts of nature with the modern conveniences of a vacation home.Pros | Cons |
Guests can enjoy running water, electricity and air conditioningListings include yurts, treehouses and luxury cabins | Does not always provide hotel-like amenities like WiFiMay only be available in more remote or rural locations |
4. Booking.com
Booking.com not only helps you find and book homes and hotels, but also helps you find flights, car rentals, taxis and attractions in popular destinations around the world. Whether you want a relaxing retreat or an off-grid adventure, Booking.com has something for everyone. You can also take advantage of deals and discounts that are exclusive to this vacation rental site.Pros | Cons |
Offers options in a wide range of locations and price rangesProvides customer reviews and ratings that help users make informed decisions | May charge higher fees than other platforms or booking directly with hostsMay have some inaccurate or outdated information about the listing, such as old photos |
5. Tripping.com
Similar to Plum Guide, Tripping.com helps travelers find and compare vacation rentals from different providers. The site lists over 12 million properties in 190 countries, making it one of the largest search engines for vacation rentals.Travelers can also benefit by visiting the Tripping blog where they’ll find location guides and travel advice on how to make the most out of their vacation.Pros | Cons |
Enjoy access to listings from multiple platformsFilter by amenity to get exactly what you’re looking for | May have to deal with different booking policies and cancellation fees from each siteMay not get the same level of customer service as hotels |
6. Vrbo
Vrbo caters to travelers who want nothing less than a home away from home. Enjoy more space, privacy and amenities than you would in a typical hotel room or host-based accommodation. Worry less and relax more with features like online booking, 24/7 customer support and flexible cancellation policies.Pros | Cons |
Enjoy privacy with entire rental units instead of sharing space with your hostListings offer space and privacy that’s great for families | Listings can be more expensive due to renting the whole unitMay have to follow strict rules and policies set by the host |
7. Homestay
Homestay connects travelers with local hosts who offer accommodations and cultural experiences. Travelers can enjoy authentic and affordable stays in destinations around the world while also supporting local communities. The vacation site is different from other platforms because it focuses on creating meaningful connections between travelers and hosts, rather than just providing a place to sleep.Pros | Cons |
A great option for students and others who want to be a part of a communitySaves money on lodging during extended travel | Potential lack of privacy and safety concernsNot able to guarantee the experience will be as described online |
8. Sonder
Sonder provides access to boutique apartments in major cities around the world. If you are looking for a streamlined, no-nonsense stay in an urban location, look no further. Young professionals, solo travelers and couples may enjoy the walkability of these rentals as well as the site’s in-person customer service representatives available 24/7.Pros | Cons |
Choose from a variety of layout options like studios or one bedroomsEnjoy a predictable accommodation experience | Listings are only available in popular urban areasSubject to noise pollution because they are in populous areas |
9. TrustedHousesitters
TrustedHousesitters is a service that allows homeowners to leave their property (and pets) in your care while they’re away. As a house sitter, you will be expected to perform various tasks such as watering plants, feeding and walking pets, collecting mail, and keeping the house secure. House sitting is beneficial for both parties because the homeowners can enjoy their trip without worrying about their home, and the house sitters can save money on accommodation while enjoying a local’s home.Pros | Cons |
Save money on accommodationsEnjoy the company of animalsExperience life like a true local | You’re responsible for both the property and the pets Limited flexibility in travel plans due to caring for animals |
10. Homestayin
Homestayin connects you to thousands of host families worldwide. Travelers book a room in a host’s home and are able to share meals and experiences with them.With each booking, the company contributes to a UNICEF program to feed malnurished children in Africa. The platform caters to students, interns and young professionals on international business trips.Pros | Cons |
Stay with local people when traveling new placesYou can learn about the local culture, language and customs from your hosts | May not get along with your host and there is little privacyMay have to follow the rules and expectations of your host, such as curfew, chores, or meals |
11. Vacasa
Vacasa offers full-service solutions for homeowners and guests. The platform has local teams of housekeepers, maintenance staff and property managers who ensure quality and safety standards. With listings across 30 countries and regions, Vacasa has a variety of vacation experiences, from beachfront condos to mountain cabins and more.Pros | Cons |
Take a 3D tour of listings before bookingEnroll in optional insurance coverage and damage protection | Prices fluctuate during the busy season of the destinationNot yet available everywhere in the world |
12. Tripadvisor
Tripadvisor is so much more than a short-term vocational rental database. The popular site helps travelers plan trips, book accommodations and share their experiences in an effort to educate the next wave of guests.The platform has millions of reviews and opinions from real travelers who have visited hotels, restaurants and attractions, allowing users to compare prices and book accommodations, flights, car rentals and tours from a variety of providers.Pros | Cons |
Take advantage of a large database of user informationBook your entire travel itinerary all in one place | Some information is outdated and unable to be verifiedPrices can be inflated due to it being a third-party platform |
13. OYO Rooms
OYO is a network of 157,000 hotels and homes in 35 countries. The chain partners with existing hotels and provides them with branding, quality control and operational support.It caters to a wide array of travelers, such as couples, families, solo adventurers and young professionals, by offering various types of rooms, prices and amenities.Pros | Cons |
Loyalty program and discounts for frequent customersEasily book, check-in and cancel online | Inconsistent quality and service across different locationsLow ratings and reviews on some platforms |
14. Outdoorsy
Outdoorsy is a platform that connects RV owners and renters, allowing them to explore the open road in comfort and style. Outdoorsy has a variety of RVs to choose from, including motorhomes, trailers, campervans and more. Outdoorsy also provides 24/7 roadside assistance, insurance options and a secure payment system.Pros | Cons |
Enjoy the flexibility and convenience of RV travelProvides insurance coverage, roadside assistance and customer support | You may not have the luxury of a home with four wallsMay not be a great option for those wanting to stay in urban are |
15. Onefinestay
Similar to the Plum Guide, Onefinestay boasts a collection of luxury vacation listings across the globe. On top of that, it provides 24/7 support, local tips and curated experiences. Every listing is inspected by an in-person team to ensure that guests get their money’s worth.Pros | Cons |
Listings are professionally managed by OnefinestayProvides concierge services you would find at a hotel | Expensive price points for travelers Mainly in popular urban areas so other destinations are unavailable |
16. HomeToGo
HomeToGo is a search engine for vacation rentals that allows users to compare offers from different providers and find the best deal for their travel needs.Listings cover over 200 countries and regions, offering a wide range of destinations and accommodation types. It also provides useful information and tips for travelers, such as destination guides, travel trends and inspiration.Pros | Cons |
Can compare prices and availability of different providers in one placeAccess to exclusive offers and discounts | Users may encounter hidden fees from some providersCancellation policies and customer service standards can differ widely |
17. Wimdu
Wimdu is a platform that connects travelers with hosts who offer accommodation in their homes, along with local knowledge and guidance. It is a great option for travelers seeking short term rentals during their European vacation.Pros | Cons |
Cancellations the day before may be capable of full refunds, depending on provider’s policiesGreat option for an extended European vacation | Amenities can vary with each listing and hostMay be difficult to find an entire unit to enjoy on your vacation |
18. 9flats
On 9flats, you can choose from a variety of apartments, villas, guest houses or houseboats offered by individuals worldwide. You can also enjoy the benefits of having a personal host who can provide recommendations about your destination.Pros | Cons |
Communicate directly with the host and get tips and recommendationsEnjoy a more authentic experience than staying in a hotel | May have to share the space with other guests or the hostMay have to follow the house rules and respect the host's privacy |
19. Agoda
Agoda offers a variety of choices for varying vacation budgets, preferences and needs. Travelers can book pet-friendly, family-friendly or eco-friendly homes. Agoda strives to support local communities and businesses by promoting sustainable tourism.Pros | Cons |
Provides a rewards program for frequent travelersTravelers learn about sustainable tourism and local environments | May encounter misrepresentation with listingsMay have to pay extra fees and taxes depending on the location |
20. Kid & Coe
Kid & Coe specializes in family-friendly accommodations and experiences. Unlike most travel platforms, Kid & Coe offers curated properties that are designed to meet the needs and preferences of parents and children. Whether it's a spacious villa with a pool, a cozy apartment with toys and books, or a farm stay with hands-on activities, they have something for every family.Pros | Cons |
Listings are specially curated for family travelBaby equipment is often provided in the accommodation | May have to pay a higher price than other travel websitesMay have to book well in advance, as properties are in high demand |
21. Hipcamp
Hipcamp connects people who love nature with unique outdoor accommodations. Hipcamp helps you book tent camping sites, RV parks, cabins, glamping and more. Don’t forget to check out their blog for the ultimate camping inspo.Pros | Cons |
Access to unique campsites that are not available in public campgrounds Support local landowners and help them preserve their land and generate income | May have to pay more than you would for a public campground or RV parkMay be subject to poor road access, wildlife encounters or weather issues |