In 2024, travelers across the U.S. turned to Airbnb for everything from spontaneous weekend getaways to extended remote work stays. Whether booking a quiet cabin in the woods or a sleek city loft, Airbnb continued to offer one of the widest selections of vacation rentals in the country. But how did users actually feel about the experience?
As a frequent traveler and avid explorer of unique stays, I spent much of last year diving into Airbnb’s offerings across the U.S. In this blog, I’ll share honest reflections from 2024 about what worked, what didn’t, and what you should keep in mind if you’re considering Airbnb in 2025.
Why Airbnb Still Works for Many Travelers
One of the biggest draws of Airbnb is variety. In 2024, I booked six different properties from a boho studio in Austin to a family friendly house in the Smoky Mountains. Across the board, the options felt more personalized than your average hotel room.
Most listings came with full kitchens, comfy living spaces, and even thoughtful extras like board games or welcome snacks. For travelers who value comfort and character, Airbnb often delivers a more “lived-in” feel compared to traditional hospitality.
For the Flexible Explorer
If you’re someone who enjoys a local, neighborhood vibe over polished lobbies and bell service, Airbnb remains a top choice. Many travelers I spoke with loved how each stay brought them closer to the culture of a city especially when paired with Airbnb experiences, like food tours or artisan workshops hosted by locals.
The Reality Check: What Travelers Noticed in 2024
While Airbnb offered memorable moments, not everything was picture perfect. Based on my own experiences and conversations with fellow travelers, here are a few things to keep in mind:
1. Consistency Isn’t Guaranteed
Not all listings are equal. While some hosts go above and beyond, others offer the bare minimum. One traveler in Los Angeles noted that the “minimalist aesthetic” in her rental was more a coverup for sparse amenities. Another in Denver mentioned an unexpected cleaning fee that wasn’t clearly communicated.
2. Support When You Need It
Airbnb customer service showed mixed results in 2024. Some users received fast, helpful resolutions; others were left waiting. A friend whose host canceled last-minute in Chicago had to book a hotel instead. Airbnb refunded the cost eventually, but it took a few days and several follow ups.
3. Pricing Transparency
While base prices can look attractive, final totals often include cleaning fees, service charges, and taxes. What looked like a $120/night stay could easily turn into $180+ after fees. It’s something every traveler should factor in when comparing hotels.
Popular U.S. Stays That Won Travelers Over in 2024
Despite the occasional hiccup, travelers in 2024 had some incredible things to say about specific types of stays:
- Coastal retreats in Florida and California were top-rated for their views and proximity to the beach.
- Tiny homes and A-frame cabins in Oregon, Montana, and Vermont were favorites for weekend getaways.
- Urban lofts in New York, Boston, and San Francisco received praise for walkability and design.
What made these listings special wasn’t just the space but the host’s attention to detail, local recommendations, and fast communication.
The Rise of the Airbnb Gift Card in Gifting Trends
A surprising trend in 2024 was the rise of the Airbnb gift card as a go-to for birthdays, weddings, and even corporate perks. It gave recipients the flexibility to choose their destination and timing. For the recipient, it felt more like an experience than a product, a trend we expect to grow even more this year.
Booking Smart: Tips from 2024’s Most Satisfied Guests
Here’s what smart Airbnb users did to get the best experience last year:
- Checked reviews thoroughly: Especially for newer listings. Red flags included poor cleanliness, slow responses, or unexpected rules.
- Messaged hosts in advance: Clear communication builds trust and often leads to little perks like early check-in or local tips.
- Used filters wisely: Travelers filtered for things like pet-friendliness, Wi-Fi speed, or parking availability depending on their trip.
- Read the fine print: Some properties had strict cancellation or cleaning policies important to understand before confirming a stay.
What Travelers Hope to See from Airbnb in 2025
After a year of navigating both high points and challenges, many users shared their hopes for the platform:
- More transparency on fees upfront
- Improved Airbnb customer service response times
- Easier search options for Airbnb experiences near your booked stay
- Enhanced trust and safety tools, especially for solo and first-time travelers
Overall, guests appreciated the brand’s creativity and global scale but wanted improvements in consistency and support.
Should You Book Airbnb in 2025?
If you’re a traveler who values local flavor, unique stays, and the ability to book something that feels different from every other trip you’ll likely find value in Airbnb. However, if consistency, strict service standards, and immediate assistance are top priorities, you may want to compare Airbnb with hotel options more carefully.
In 2024, the platform proved that it’s still relevant, still imaginative, and still capable of delivering amazing travel moments. But it also reminded us to do our homework, set realistic expectations, and book with both eyes open.
What Makes Airbnb Worth Considering This Year
Airbnb remains one of the most dynamic travel platforms in the U.S., offering access to homes that are as diverse as the people who stay in them. Whether you’re giving a trip via an Airbnb gift card, planning a romantic weekend, or signing up for a pottery class through Airbnb experiences, the platform continues to be a valuable tool for those who love to explore.
Just remember: every trip is a little different, and with Airbnb, that’s part of the adventure.
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