How to Make an Application like Airbnb [+8 Best Airbnb Alternatives]

While Airbnb does hold a strong position in the market, it’s important to note that it may not always be the most budget-friendly option. For those who prefer to travel on a budget, several emerging Airbnb alternatives in the rental and travel industry offer competitive pricing and a range of unique accommodations.

While Airbnb is a reliable source and holds a high position in the traveling and rental industry, it can be pricey for those who wish to enjoy longer vacations. Additionally, not everyone wants to book a fancy hotel or villa; some prefer camping or high-quality urban rentals (we will look at the apps that offer these services later).

So, whether you are looking for Airbnb alternatives or are considering making apps like Airbnb, this article will give you all the information you need without extra dilly-dallying. Let us get right into it.

8 Best Airbnb Alternatives

Airbnb was founded in 2007, and ever since, it has revolutionized the vacationing and travel industry. While it is a multi-billionaire enterprise, other apps like Airbnb are gradually on the rise and are enjoyed by people.

In this list, we will provide you with the pros and cons of each apps like Airbnb. This will help you decide which platform to rely on for your next big vacation or camping trip! A small tip: It is always advisable to do a little bit of research before you make your final decision.

1. Vrbo

Vrbo is an online platform for vacation rentals. While it was originally known as Vacation Rentals by Owner, the short version is easier to say. Vrbo was founded in 1995 and gradually gained popularity as one of the top Airbnb alternatives. Vrbo offers many rental options, including cabins, beach houses, condos, lake rentals, and more. So, if you are planning a weekend trip away from your normal life for a bit of change, Vrbo offers homes that are perfect for trips like this.

With Vrbo, you can opt for additional features and amenities such as a full kitchen with appliances, extra bedrooms, back gardens, and so on. If you go for the slightly pricier option, you can gain additional options such as private jacuzzis and pools, hot tubs, and extra outdoor entertainment places.

Vrbo differs from Airbnb because It offers a loyalty program called Vrbo+. This program includes multiple travel companies within the Vrbo parent company. Through this loyalty program, points can be earned and redeemed rewards can be redeemed for travels booked through Vrbo.

Pros:

• Vrbo offers a large selection of vacation rentals in many areas all around the world.
• Most rentals are managed professionally, so you will experience more consistent management.
• Vrbo offers a loyalty program called Vrbo+.
• The Vrbo app features effective filters, making it easier for you to come to a decision.
• The application is secure and simple, and the booking process is easy and hassle-free for users.

Cons:

• • Depending on where you are and the services you require, it could be slightly higher as compared to Airbnb
  • Vrbo listings can provide you with larger rental properties that are more suitable for families than solo travelers.

Read more for creative app ideas: Revive Your Inner Genius: Top 55 Apps for Creative Thinking [2024].

2. Booking.com

Booking.com has certainly gained the attention of travelers and vacationers for a reason. Founded in 1996 in Amsterdam, it has joined the list of the leading digital travel companies and is part of the best Airbnb alternative list. While similar apps like Airbnb mainly offer vacation rentals, Booking.com, on the other hand, has many more perks.

On Booking.com, travelers and vacationers can book several services, including taxi bookings, city attractions, flights, car rentals, rental stays, and hotels. The Booking.com app features good user experiences, making it simple for vacationers and those looking for quick bookings without delay or hassle. Like all the Airbnb alternatives, Booking.com includes a portal that allows users to view properties for free. Additionally, there are discounts and more booking options for users to choose from.

Pros:

• com offers great resources for searching for unique accommodations.
• This app is suitable for all kinds of tourists, whether you like to travel around in a group or solo; it also gives you the option for the number of people you would like to travel with.
• The Booking.com app is user-friendly, with extensive filtering perfected to your past searches and preferences.
• Most properties offer free cancellation policies.
• Includes many discounts and budget-friendly solutions, targeting the right audience
• com offers several options for narrowing your search and has great global coverage.

Cons:

• Since Booking.com provides effective travel solutions on an international level, there may be fewer listings in rural locations.
• The Booking.com website is flooded with a lot of information that can overwhelm a few users.
• At times, the total price, including taxes and additional charges, isn’t entirely clear upfront. It might only become apparent during the final stages of booking.

Pros:

• Very affordable Airbnb alternative.
• A wide variety of price points, including many budget-friendly options.
• Listing allows campfires, large groups, fellow campers, and more.
• Pre-set filter options, making it easier for users to select their next destination for camping.

Cons:

• You must be careful of your surroundings and take care of your own belongings.
• You may not find a variety of lodging options beyond camping, which is why the name is hip “camp.”

Ideas for your next project: 55 Thriving Mobile App Ideas For 2024 (Your Guide to Help You Decide!)

4. Vacasa

Vacasa is a famous international rental management company founded in 2009. This is one of those applications, like Airbnb, that take a completely different approach to vacation rentals. Instead of listing individual properties, it provides full-service vacation management that partners with homeowners to professionally manage their properties.

 

Pros:

• You get 24/7 guest support in case of any issues during your stay.
• Each property and place of stay is secured, and ensured that it is professionally cleaned.

You can gain access to more amenities like hot tubs, beach access, and private pools.

 

Pros:

• You get 24/7 guest support in case of any issues during your stay.
• Each property and place of stay is secured, and ensured that it is professionally cleaned.

You can gain access to more amenities like hot tubs, beach access, and private pools.

Cons:

• Their app may have limited listings for properties compared to other platforms.

Their cancellation process is known to be much stricter compared to the general rental services.

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5. Marriott Homes and Villas

Marriott Homes and Villas launched their home rental business back in 2019 and gradually became prevalent among frequent vacationers and travelers. This is why we have added it to the list of apps like Airbnb. Since it functions almost the same, it is a great alternative. On this rental service, you can redeem and earn Marriott Bonvoy points for future travel rentals. This can be a huge help for travelers who are looking for ways to cut down on their expenses.

Since other apps like Airbnb don’t offer reward programs, it can make it difficult for some travelers to redeem points and travel on a budget. This is why Marriot Bonvoy stood out through its rental points, making it easy to earn through credit cards and making the transferring option easy. One less painful thing that vacationers have to worry about.

Pros:

• You get to earn Marriott Bonvoy points for your stay, cutting down on some vacationing expenses.
• Offers many rental services and hotel-like amenities, including restaurants and in-room services.
• Much preferred for families or groups since it offers spacious and luxurious properties.

Cons:

• It’s not the best for solo travelers unless you like spacious places all to yourself!
• Although it does not have an app, its website is mobile-friendly. This does not mean that you gain the benefits of what an app gives users.
• Much pricier as compared to other apps like Airbnb

6. Plum Guide

This Airbnb alternative, Plum Guide, was founded in 2015. Recently, it has started to gain popularity as people are in dire need of vacation and travel rentals similar to Airbnb.

Plum Guide offers its own 150-point Plum Test. This means that all the vacation homes that pass this test guarantee that guests, visitors, and vacationers will have a satisfied time. They also offer hotel-like amenities, including WiFi, stocked kitchens, quality linens, towels, and more.

Pros:

• Plum Guide provides assurance that the status and kind of rentals match tier viewers’ and visitors’ trust. This ultimately promotes transparency and liability.
• This alternative provides high-quality lodging, such as luxurious and comfortable stays.
• The entire booking process on the website (it does not own an app) is straightforward.

Cons:

• Plum Guide does not own an app, and although its website is mobile-friendly, there can be complications if users do not have access to the internet or make personalized accounts.
• While it is a great alternative platform, it can be limited to certain regions or cities.

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7. Tripadvisor

Tripadvisor was founded in 2000 and was initially known as an online travel company. It allowed users to make hotel reservations and bookings for transportation, budget-friendly solutions, and more. Now, it is seen as one of the best Airbnb alternatives. It keeps up with popular global events and holiday seasons by providing users with a separate service called Tripadvisor Vacation Rentals. All you have to do is choose your location and check in and out. If you are in search of other apps like Airbnb, Tripadvisor is the go-to Airbnb alternative.

 

Pros:

• Tripadvisor offers a wide range of options, meaning that there is something for every kind of traveler and vacationer.
• This Airbnb alternative offers a simple and user-friendly app while it also owns a bonus site.
• It is suitable for all sorts of vacationers and travelers
• Users give authentic and valuable feedback, making the application and its services reliable.

 

Cons:

• • Some reviews can be biased, reflecting others’ experiences. But that is what reviews are: they are targeted toward a person’s own experience using services.
  • Some users have mentioned how certain reviews could be fake. While this can be a possibility, this does not mean it is true. You can always call their support team up to get authentic information.

Important to know: Why You Should Hire a Mobile App Development Company?

8. HomeExchange

Here is another great Airbnb alternative, HomeExchange. It offers services identical to those offered by vacationing platforms. What’s better? They also own an independent application, improving the overall user experience for those wanting to gain the best from their services.

HomeExchange offers GuestPoints, which is ideal for family travel. When you gain more GuestPoints, you can use them for your next trip or wherever you wish to stay.

Pros:

• They offer to stay at local homes, giving vacationers and travelers the authentic feel of their destination.
• The HomeExchange app gives access to a range of improved benefits and a network of homes globally.
• You can reduce accommodation costs.

The app offers a personalized experience. Based on your past destinations and stays, it gives you predictive suggestions of what you may like next.

Cons:

• The amenities may vary from destination to destination, so you should be prepared for that.
• While HomeExchange does offer security, some users still can have concerns while staying in someone else’s home.
• Although most exchanges have insurance coverage, concerns can arise about potential damages or accidents during the exchange.

How to Make an App Like Airbnb?

Now that you know a couple of great Airbnb alternatives, and if you are interested in creating an app similar to Airbnb, here are some basic steps that you should follow:

Step 1: Create a Plan

Before you start creating an app, you need to brainstorm and have a solid plan. Look at the features and elements in the Airbnb app and notice the gaps. Where there is room for improvement, know who your target audience is. You can also keep your app open to solo and family travelers, ensuring that you list and budget according to that setting. A clear plan will help you stay on the path throughout development.

Step 2: Design (UX/UI)

This is when things get technical, literally. This is why we advise that you partner up with a proficient mobile app development team to bring your dream to life. You can either work with freelance developers, which would cost you more, or hire Appsleagues to help you get the job done with affordable and customized solutions. In this step, developers and designers work together to form your mobile application’s blueprint or layout. This also involves the overall user experience (UX).

Step 3: User-Friendly Interface

When you decide to hire a team of developers, they will know that they have to prioritize user-friendly designs and ensure seamless navigation. This step will include deciding what features to add and what changes must be made. This process can take a long time, so doing this all on your own will certainly be challenging.

Step 4: Finalize the Essential Features

Once your team of app developers has finalized the overall layout and navigation for creating an application like Airbnb, you can start to identify and gather user feedback and see what is preferred and expected from travel and vacation applications that the one you are cloning is unable to deliver. This will set you apart from the competitive market.

Step 5: Rigorous Testing

Before you launch anything for the world to see, you must undergo several tests to determine if further improvements are needed. This will help you spot any glitches and determine the loading speed, navigation, mobile-friendliness, device compatibility, bugs, and more.

Step 6: Your Airbnb Alternative App is Ready for Launch

This is when you let your application, like Airbnb, out for the world to see and benefit. However, the mobile application finalization process does not end here. Your app will need regular updates and further improvements if necessary. You could offer new features that further improve the app and respond to your customers and users on the app reviews section to show that you care about the development and improvement of your app. This is why hiring a professional mobile app development company is advised since this can be a long and ongoing process.

Step 7: Market your App

Create unique and fun ways to market your app to attract your target audience. You can use various platforms, such as social media, email marketing, website advertisements, and more, to bring your app to vacationers’ attention.

Step 8: Analyze and Stay Updated

Now that it is all done and your app is unleashed for the world to see, it does not mean that you sit back and relax just yet. This product may require improvement and optimization. For you to gain revenue-driven results, you will need to enhance your application’s performance as per the request of your loyal users for substantial growth. This is why it is recommended that you hire Appsleagues to get the job done right in the first go.

Are you interested in augmented reality? Read our blog, “A Guide On How To Build An Augmented Reality App In 2024,” to get the best insights.

Ready to Create an Application like Airbnb?

Of these 8 Airbnb alternatives, there are three that do not own an independent app for their services, which can result in several drawbacks, such as brand awareness, new promotions, offers, discounts, and more. While a mobile application. It acts as a gentle reminder to your users that your services still exist. Applications offer push notifications and personalized offers to users. With just a website, users will have to go on the web, search for your travel services, and then see what is up. That is a pretty long process and a major drawback.

If you want to view other apps like Airbnb or are interested in creating apps like Airbnb, Appsleague is the perfect partner for affordable and tailored solutions. With a seasoned team of mobile app designers and developers, your app will be delivered on time with little to no errors. With Appsleagues, you can own an Android and iOS-developed app. Get in touch with us today to start creating a plan for an Airbnb alternative app!

FAQ’S

Is there any app similar to Airbnb?

Yes, Vrbo is known as an Airbnb alternative. It is also known as Vacation Rentals By Owner and is often listed as Airbnb’s closest and biggest competitor.

Who are Airbnb’s biggest competitors?

Some of Airbnb’s competitors are Vrbo, Booking.com, Hipcamp, Vacasa, Marriott Homes and Villas, Plumguide, Tripadvisor, and HomeExchange. Vrbo is listed at the top since it is the closest to an Airbnb alternative.

Is Airbnb cheaper than Vrbo?

Vrbo charges guests 6% to 15% of the subtotal, taxes excluded. In contrast, Airbnb charges its guests 14% to 16% of the subtotal, including cleaning fees, nightly rates, and additional guests. However, the fees can change depending on the services considered extra.

Is Airbnb cheaper than hotels?

Depending on your location, demand rate, and season, Airbnb can be cheaper than hotels.