Hidden Pitfalls of Vacation Rentals:
What to Know Before You Book an Airbnb or VRBO
Planning a dream getaway and thinking an online vacation rental is the perfect fit? You’re not alone; rentals can offer some perks, and it is possible to have a win from time to time.
But the truth is, booking a rental online is a gamble. And sometimes the odds aren’t in your favor.
While online vacation rentals like Airbnb and VRBO can be good for space, privacy, and local vibes, there are some real pitfalls, especially when mega-events roll into town (think Taylor Swift concerts or major sports championships). That’s when things can get messy fast.
Want the inside scoop on the best places to stay? Just reach out and we’ll share our favorite spots.
I want your trip to be nothing but amazing, so here’s my honest take on the risks of these rentals and a few pro tips to keep your plans smooth and stress-free.
The Event Effect: Price Spikes & Sudden Cancellations
Big concerts, festivals, and tournaments create serious demand…and some hosts can’t resist temptation. They see prices skyrocketing and suddenly cancel your booking (yes, even one you made months ago) to relist for more money.
Sure, platforms penalize hosts for canceling, but that won’t help when you’re standing in a sold-out city with only $900-a-night motels left.
No Professional Ally = No Backup Plan
When you book on a platform, you’re on your own. If something goes wrong, there’s no concierge or local agent fighting for you. Travel advisors, on the other hand, are there for you, and have insider connections with hotels and property managers, which can save your trip when things hit the fan.
One House, One Chance
A house is just… one house. If the AC dies, the pipes start leaking or the pool turns green, you’re stuck. Hotels? They’ve got spare rooms, onsite maintenance, and backup generators to make sure their guests are comfortable if and when something goes wrong. Translation: way fewer “what now?!” moments.
Safety & Security: A Mixed Bag
That “dreamy villa” might just be catfishing you, and look nothing like the photos. Locks, security systems, safes, camera placement, even basic upkeep can be hit or miss. Unlike vetted hotels, verifying a rental’s true condition and safety can’t be done until after you’ve already paid and show up.
Fees That Sneak Up on You
Security deposits, cleaning fees, service fees, linen fees, taxes…sometimes they add up to more than the nightly rate itself! And just when you think you’re done, surprise! Your creative host adds another last-minute charge that wasn’t obvious when you booked. And if you challenge it or refuse to pay for it, you could easily end up with a bad review from the host.
Cancellation Confusion
Policies range from flexible to “kiss your money goodbye.” If a host cancels, the platform decides what you get back, which might not be enough to cover a last-minute hotel, especially when prices have doubled for that concert in town. To top it off, these disputes take time to resolve and energy you’d much rather be spending elsewhere.
Legal Surprises
HOAs, city rules, even insurance gaps can shut a property down mid-stay. Not exactly the kind of twist you want on vacation. Insurance coverage for hosts and guests can also be inconsistent…you may find gaps when you need protection the most.
Love vacation rentals and still want to use them? Here’s how to lower the risk:
- Read reviews, especially recent ones.
- Message the host before booking to test responsiveness.
- Screenshot everything: listing details, policies, and conversations.
- Consider “Cancel for Any Reason” travel insurance (CFAR has deadlines, so act fast).
- Choose professional property managers over one-off hosts.
- Have a backup plan (nearby hotels, alternate neighborhoods, extra budget for emergencies).
Why a Travel Advisor Is Your Secret Weapon
When events hit, demand goes wild. But relationships matter. Advisors can:
- Tap into hotel contacts, local managers and vetted rental sources for fast solutions.
- Help you choose reliable rental brands and secure backup options before you even pack.
- Compare real costs (including fees and risks) to find the best value for your sanity and your wallet, especially when big events are in town.
At the end of the day, vacation rentals can be an option, as long as you’re willing to take a chance and have a solid backup plan. But there are so many factors that can change things at the last minute. If you want someone to anticipate problems, find solutions, and keep your trip stress-free, we’re here for you.
Need a tailored game plan, a vetted rental, hotel alternative, or insurance advice? Let’s talk. We’ll make sure your vacation stays a vacation.
Relax, we’ll take care of everything,
Amy Westerman
President
The Curated Travel Collection
