Airbnb has become one of the most popular ways to travel in recent years. And for good reason! Staying in an Airbnb can be a much more personal and intimate experience than staying in a hotel.
But since you’re staying in someone’s home, it’s important to do your research before booking and make sure you’re comfortable with your host. Taking the time to ask these questions will save you a lot of headaches later!
31 Questions to ask your potential Airbnb host before you hit the “book” button:
- What is the total cost of the rental and are there any additional fees?
- What is included in the rental price (e.g. linens, towels, dishes, etc.)?
- How many people can comfortably stay in the accommodation?
- What is the check-in and check-out process?
- What are the house rules?
- Is the home pet friendly?
- Is smoking allowed on the property?
- What kind of breakfast, if any, is included in the rental price?
- Does the accommodation have WiFi? If so, is there an additional fee for usage?
- Is there a TV in the accommodation? If yes, is there a cable or satellite connection?
- Is there air conditioning or heating in the accommodation?
- Are there any loud noises that guests should be aware of (e.g. construction work)?
- Is there off-street parking? If so, is there an additional fee?
- What attractions are there nearby?
- What are some of the best restaurants in the area?
- How close is the listing to [insert name of attraction or neighborhood you want to be close to]?
- Is the listing located in a safe neighborhood?
- What transportation options are available nearby?
- When was the last time the listing was updated?
- What amenities are included in the listing?
- What is the cancelation policy if I need to cancel my reservation?
- Can I request extra towels/linen if I need them during my stay?
- Are there common areas that I can access during my stay (e.g. living room, garden)?
- [For private rooms only]Will I have my own key/code to enter the house/apartment/building?
- [For shared rooms only] What time do quiet hours start/end every night?
- Can I use the kitchen for cooking?
- How far is your place from [insert name of place of interest or neighborhood
- Do you have any tips for first-time Airbnb guests?
- Do you have any pets I should be aware of?
- How long have you been hosting on Airbnb?
- Who can I contact in case of an emergency (e.g., the owner’s phone number)?
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Airbnb hosts check on you?
Airbnb hosts are not required to check up on you during your stay, but many do anyway. They may want to make sure you have everything you need or that you’re having a good time.
If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact your host. They will be more than happy to help you!
Can an Airbnb host come in unannounced?
Airbnb hosts cannot come in unannounced. If a host needs to enter the home for any reason, they must first notify the guests of their intent and provide a reasonable amount of time for the guests to prepare for the host’s arrival. This is to ensure the privacy and comfort of all guests.
Should you communicate outside of Airbnb?
There are a few reasons why you should communicate with your Airbnb hosts and guests exclusively through the Airbnb platform:
It keeps all communication in one place and makes it easier for Airbnb to help with any issues.
It’s safer for both hosts and guests, as outside communication can easily be misunderstood or lost.
It can help build a stronger community among Airbnb users, which can lead to more positive experiences for everyone involved.
Can Airbnb hosts have cameras?
Airbnb hosts are allowed to have cameras on their properties as long as they list them in their listing description and make sure guests are aware of them.
Cameras can provide additional security for hosts and guests. However, it’s important to respect the privacy of guests and use cameras for security purposes only.
Conclusion
Asking these questions before you book your stay can help ensure you have a positive experience with your Airbnb host. Communication is key when it comes to renting someone else’s home, so don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as you need to until you feel comfortable!
