Airbnb Vs Short-Term Let: The Ultimate Guide

Dreaming of a summer abroad? Whether you’re studying, working, or just fancy a change of scenery, finding the right place to stay is key. It sets the tone for the whole trip.

If you’re looking for flexibility and character, or stability and simplicity, Airbnb and short-term lets are your top choices, each offering a different experience. To help break it down for you and find your perfect fit, here's a simple guide on choosing the best option for your needs.

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What’s the difference between Airbnb and a short-term let?

Airbnb is a platform that connects you with short-stay rentals that are often privately owned homes or apartments. You can book by the day, week, or month online or via the user-friendly app and is widely used by tourists, holiday-makers, and long-stay travellers. 

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Short-term lets are usually rented through an agency or private landlord, ranging from a few weeks to a few months. Short-term lets are typically more structured than renting an Airbnb as you’ll likely be bound by a tenancy agreement. 

Airbnb: The flexible favourite

Pros

• Flexible booking: Stay for a few nights, a few weeks, or a few months with no long-term commitment.
• Fully furnished: There’ll be no need to furnish your space in an Airbnb. They’ll have everything from tea towels to wi-fi, and all the kitchenware you'll ever need.
• Unique spaces: You can find anything from quirky studio apartments to villas with pools, remote cabins, and even yurts, if that's what you're into.
• Instant booking and reviews: It’s easy to browse, compare, and reserve based on user feedback.

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Cons

• Higher costs: Airbnb runs on nightly rates and service fees, which can add up quickly (especially in peak season).
• Inconsistency: Quality can vary between listings and photos can be unreliable. With Airbnb, you're not given the opportunity to view the property before booking. 
• Availability: In popular destinations, you’ll have to book quite far in advance as the best places get snapped up quickly.
  

Short-term lets: The stable option

Pros

• Cost-effectiveness: Monthly rentals often come at a better price than Airbnb, particularly for longer-term stays.
• Local experience: Short-term lets are often more integrated into residential areas, which is perfect if you're looking to live like a local.
• Fewer fees: There's no service charges and you'll be in direct contact with the agency or landlord.

Cons

• Less flexibility: Tenancy agreements and contracts may require a minimum stay, tying you into the property for an agreed amount of time. This can be upwards of a month.
• Fewer extras: Short-term lets may not supply Wi-Fi, utilities, and cleaning fees. These will typically come at an additional cost.
• Slower booking process: Often requires deposits, references, contracts, and paperwork. 

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Which one’s right for you?

There is no right or wrong answer, so the best option is the one that suits your needs the most. Ask yourself these questions:

How long are you staying?

• Less than a month? Airbnb is your best bet.
• One to three months? A short-term let could save you money.

Do you need flexibility?

• Airbnb is easier to book and cancel if your plans change.
• A short-term let could lock you in for a fixed term. 

What’s your budget?

• Airbnb tends to be pricier as they charge by the night, but include utilities.
• Short-term lets are cheaper in terms of rent, but include upfront costs and utilities.

Do you want your space to feel like a home or a hotel experience?

• Airbnb offers a curated, personal space that feels more like a home.
• Short-term lets are more residential and functional. Think of them as a blank canvas that serves a purpose.

Take the hybrid approach

Still not sure what you want? No problem. Starting off with an Airbnb rental lets you settle in and explore the area and help you to decide where you want to go from there with no ties. Once you’re used to the area and you’ve decided that’s where you want to stay, go for a short-term let to save money. Win, win. 

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It all comes down to what you want in your space for your trip. Airbnb is perfect for comfort, flexibility, and convenience, whilst a short-term let serves value, functionality, and a more authentic experience. Your choice depends on budget, length of stay, and how much structure (or spontaneity) you want in your summer abroad.