- Entire home rentals only – perfect for privacy and space
- Easy-to-use app for booking, messaging, and tracking
- Available in 190+ countries with global listings
- Extra fees apply – check total cost before booking
Planning a vacation in 2025? With so many travel platforms available, finding a reliable site for booking stays is more important than ever. One name that keeps popping up is VRBO a well-known competitor to Airbnb. But is VRBO really worth your money and trust? This VRBO Review aims to give you an honest, clear picture of what to expect before you hit that “Book Now” button.
VRBO (Vacation Rentals By Owner) offers entire homes, cabins, condos, and beachfront properties for short-term rental. As travel bounces back stronger than ever in 2025, more people are opting for private stays over traditional hotels. This trend makes platforms like VRBO increasingly attractive, especially for group travel and family holidays.
In this VRBO Review, we break down the pros, cons, customer feedback, booking policies, and how it stacks up against Airbnb. Whether you're a solo traveller, a couple, or a large group, this review helps you make an informed decision before booking your next getaway.
What is VRBO?
VRBO stands for Vacation Rentals By Owner. Founded in 1995, it’s now part of the Expedia Group and focuses solely on whole-property rentals. Unlike Airbnb, VRBO doesn’t offer shared spaces – only private stays. This appeals to families, couples, and anyone valuing personal space.
Key Highlights:
- Entire homes only, no shared rooms
- Ideal for families, groups, or longer stays
- Global inventory including beach houses, cabins, and condos
The platform is user-friendly and comes with filters that let users narrow down listings by amenities, pet policies, location, and more. VRBO Review highlights show users often appreciate the transparency and simplicity in browsing.
VRBO vs Airbnb – How Do They Compare?
This VRBO Review highlights a key distinction between VRBO and Airbnb privacy. VRBO exclusively offers entire homes, making it ideal for travellers who prioritise space, quiet, and a home-like atmosphere. Airbnb, on the other hand, includes a mix of shared rooms, private rooms, and full properties, catering to a broader, often more social audience.
Service fees also differ, with VRBO generally charging between 6% to 12%, while Airbnb’s fees can range from 5% to 20%, depending on the booking type and location. In terms of guest experience, VRBO appeals more to families, couples, or professionals seeking a peaceful stay.
Airbnb, with its mix of host types and experiences, suits travellers looking for variety and community-based stays. While both platforms allow hosts to set their own cancellation policies, VRBO tends to attract more professional property managers, adding an extra layer of reliability for those booking longer or more structured trips.
| Feature | VRBO | Airbnb |
|---|---|---|
| Room Type | Entire homes only | Shared rooms & entire homes |
| Service Fee | Typically 6% – 12% | 5% – 20% |
| Guest Experience | Quiet, family-oriented | Social, more variety |
| Host Type | Often professionals | Mix of casual & professional |
| Cancellation Policies | Vary by host | Vary by host |
This VRBO Review shows that travellers wanting privacy and quieter environments may prefer VRBO, while Airbnb suits those seeking variety and interactive stays.
VRBO Booking Process – Simple or Frustrating?
Booking through VRBO is a smooth and user-friendly process, making it a popular choice among travellers seeking full-home rentals. This VRBO Review confirms that users can either book instantly or contact the host for more details before confirming.
You simply enter your destination, travel dates, and the number of guests to begin your search. The platform offers a range of filters to narrow down results whether you're looking for pet-friendly homes, beachfront villas, or luxury stays. Each listing clearly shows the price breakdown, house rules, and amenities, helping users make informed decisions.
One of the most appreciated features is the transparent booking system, which includes service fees and cleaning charges upfront. Many travellers praise VRBO’s streamlined checkout and reliable confirmation process. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a long-term stay, VRBO makes it easy to find a suitable property and lock in your booking without hassle.
Steps to Book:
- Select your destination, dates, and guest count
- Filter for pet-friendly, beachfront, or luxury homes
- Review the price breakdown, house rules, and amenities
- Choose “Book Now” or “Ask Host a Question”
Instant confirmation is available for most properties. You also get receipts and itinerary emails for records.
What Types of Properties Are Available on VRBO?
VRBO offers a wide variety of properties including beachfront villas, mountain cabins, city apartments, luxury condos, and spacious family homes. This versatility makes it perfect for all types of travellers whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a group holiday, or a peaceful workcation. According to many VRBO Review comments, guests often highlight the cleanliness, comfort, and unique charm of the properties, with plenty of space to relax and feel at home wherever you choose to stay.
VRBO's listings include a wide range of property types:
- Beachfront villas
- Mountain cabins
- City apartments
- Luxury condos
- Family homes
This makes it ideal for nearly every type of trip. Whether you want a romantic escape, a group reunion, or a quiet workcation, VRBO has a suitable property. Many users in this VRBO Review report satisfaction with the cleanliness, uniqueness, and spaciousness of the rentals.
VRBO Cost Breakdown: What You Really Pay
When booking through VRBO, the listed nightly rate is only part of the total cost. A VRBO Review reveals that to understand the full price, travellers must consider added fees, which can significantly raise the final amount. When booking on VRBO, the total price is often much higher than the nightly rate alone.
You’ll usually pay extra costs like a cleaning fee ($50–$250+), a service fee (6%–12%), taxes (varies by region), and possibly property damage protection or a refundable deposit. According to this VRBO Review, some hosts also charge extra guest fees.
For example, a five-night stay at $150 per night could end up costing around $1,140 after all applicable charges. A useful tip from any thorough VRBO Review is to always review the full price breakdown before confirming. Booking weekly or monthly can lower per-night rates, and some hosts offer early-bird or long-stay discounts to help reduce overall costs. Here’s what typically gets added:
1. Nightly Rate
- The base cost set by the host.
- Varies depending on season, location, and property quality.
2. Cleaning Fee
- A one-time fee covering professional cleaning after your stay.
- Can range from $50 to $250+ depending on the property size.
- Not included in the nightly rate.
3. Service Fee
- Charged by VRBO for platform use and customer support.
- Typically 6% to 12% of the booking subtotal.
- Displayed clearly during checkout.
4. Property Damage Protection
- Optional or required insurance covering accidental damage.
- Usually $59 to $99 one-time fee.
- Some hosts may take a refundable security deposit instead.
5. Taxes
- Varies by city, state, and country.
- Includes occupancy, lodging, or tourism taxes.
- Often calculated at checkout.
6. Extra Guest Fees
- Some listings charge additional amounts per guest beyond a certain number.
- Usually $10–$25 per extra person, per night.
Example Cost Calculation (for a 5-night stay)
| Description | Cost |
|---|---|
| Nightly Rate (5 nights @ $150) | $750 |
| Cleaning Fee | $120 |
| Service Fee (10%) | $87 |
| Property Damage Insurance | $79 |
| Taxes (12%) | $104 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $1,140 |
Important Tips:
- Always click “View Price Breakdown” before booking.
- Compare similar properties; higher fees don’t always mean better quality.
- Weekly or monthly bookings often reduce nightly rates and fees.
- Some hosts offer discounts for early or long-term bookings.
VRBO Cancellation and Refund Policy
Before booking on VRBO, it’s crucial to check the host’s cancellation policy. Options range from flexible to strict, affecting your refund if plans change. Some listings offer full refunds up to 14 days before arrival, while others don’t. This section breaks down the policy types and tips to avoid cancellation hassles.
VRBO lets hosts choose from several cancellation policies:
- Flexible
- Moderate
- Firm
- Strict
This VRBO Review urges travellers to double-check the cancellation policy before booking. Some hosts offer full refunds up to 14 days before arrival, while others are non-refundable. Trip insurance is also available during checkout for extra protection.
Many users appreciate the option to filter listings by cancellation policy, allowing them to choose flexible travel options. However, complaints arise when hosts don't respond to refund requests quickly. As noted in this VRBO Review, it's always best to communicate via the app for proper documentation and support.
| Product Image | Product Name | Top Rating | Claim Your Discount |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Vrbo | Get It Now |
Customer Support Experience
Customer service in VRBO Reviews gets both praise and criticism. On the plus side, VRBO provides 24/7 support via live chat, email, and phone. This gives travellers peace of mind, especially during last-minute changes or emergencies. Many users say their problems, such as cancellations or incorrect listings, were resolved professionally and respectfully.
However, during peak travel periods or complex cases like property damage disputes or refund requests, response times can be slower. Some customers report waiting several days for resolution, particularly when third-party insurance or host approval is involved.
Another common issue highlighted in VRBO Reviews is communication gaps between the platform and hosts. While VRBO mediates, the resolution often depends on how responsive and cooperative the host is.
To minimise problems, users are advised to:
- Read all reviews of the host and property carefully
- Confirm details like cancellation terms and amenities in writing
- Use the platform’s messaging system for clear communication
Doing this reduces the chance of needing customer support in the first place.
Who Should Use VRBO?
VRBO is ideal for travellers seeking entire homes, privacy, and comfort especially those planning group trips, family vacations, or extended stays. Unlike platforms that offer shared spaces, VRBO focuses exclusively on full-property rentals. This makes it perfect for anyone who values personal space without hotel restrictions.
It’s especially useful for:
- Families: Kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and outdoor spaces make travelling with kids much easier.
- Friend Groups: Splitting costs across a group often results in cheaper per-person rates than hotels.
- Remote Workers & Digital Nomads: Quiet settings, Wi-Fi-equipped homes, and month-long discounts make VRBO a great “workcation” tool.
- Pet Owners: Many properties are pet-friendly, with fenced yards and no pet hotel stress.
- Romantic Getaways: Secluded cabins, beachfront cottages, or mountain lodges offer intimacy and charm.
If you value privacy, space, and home-like amenities, VRBO is a smart and flexible choice especially in 2025’s evolving travel landscape.
Is VRBO Safe to Use in 2025?
Yes, VRBO is generally considered a safe platform for booking holiday rentals, especially when users follow the recommended guidelines. This VRBO Review highlights several built-in safety features that build trust and protect travellers from common risks.
For starters, every listing includes verified guest reviews, providing honest feedback on cleanliness, communication, and accuracy an essential advantage highlighted in this VRBO Review to help travellers avoid misleading properties. Payments made through VRBO use a secure gateway, ensuring encryption of your card details and personal data.
As this VRBO Review points out, guests should never pay hosts directly, as doing so may forfeit any support or refund rights. Another key point in this VRBO Review is property damage protection available as a small one-time fee or refundable deposit, offering extra peace of mind during your stay.
To stay fully protected:
- Always communicate through VRBO’s platform
- Never share personal contact or payment info outside the app
- Read the cancellation and refund policy before booking
Following these steps ensures a safe, secure, and smooth booking experience on VRBO.
VRBO Mobile App Experience
The VRBO app earns high praise in this VRBO Review for its ease of use and smooth functionality. It’s crafted to simplify the travel planning process, making booking a holiday rental quick and stress-free. As highlighted in this VRBO Review, users can easily search for listings, save favourites, compare properties, and communicate directly with hosts through the app.
Whether you're booking solo or managing a group trip, the app makes coordination seamless. Many travellers note in their VRBO Review how helpful it is to receive real-time updates on payment tracking, reservation details, and check-in instructions all in one place.
Group organisers especially benefit from features like in-app messaging and mobile-friendly maps. This VRBO Review reinforces that the app provides clarity, convenience, and control from start to finish, making it an essential tool for a smooth travel experience.
- Save and compare listings
- Communicate with hosts
- Access booking details
- Get real-time updates
In this VRBO Review, users note that the mobile app simplifies last-minute changes, directions, and payment tracking. It’s especially handy for group organisers.
Where Can You Use VRBO? A Look at Its Global Reach
VRBO is widely used across the US but also has a growing international presence. In this VRBO Review, users often ask if the platform works outside America and the answer is yes. VRBO now lists properties in over 190 countries, including hotspots like Italy, France, Mexico, Australia, and Canada.
Whether you’re planning a beach escape in Bali or a ski trip in Switzerland, VRBO offers diverse options. However, as pointed out in this VRBO Review, inventory can vary by country. Remote or less touristy areas may have fewer listings, and booking policies, taxes, and service fees can differ by destination.
Always review the full property details before confirming. For global travellers who prefer full homes over hotels, VRBO remains a strong contender. This VRBO Review also recommends comparing availability and price with Airbnb to ensure you're getting the best value for international stays.
- VRBO operates in over 190 countries worldwide
- Best availability in the US, Canada, and Europe
- Listings vary by region, especially in remote areas
- Always check local policies, taxes, and booking rules
VRBO International Availability
| Country | Availability | Property Types | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | ✅ Very High | All types | Core market |
| Canada | ✅ High | Cabins, cottages, condos | Strong in major cities |
| Mexico | ✅ Moderate | Villas, beach homes | Tourist areas only |
| France | ✅ High | Apartments, chalets | Especially strong in Paris |
| Italy | ✅ High | Villas, flats | Popular in Rome & Amalfi Coast |
| Australia | ✅ Moderate | Holiday homes, apartments | Growing inventory |
| UK | ✅ Moderate | Cottages, flats | Expanding across regions |
| Japan | ❌ Limited | Rare listings | Not fully integrated yet |
| South Africa | ✅ Low | Safari lodges, homes | Niche but available |
VRBO Pros and Cons: Is It the Right Choice for You?
Before locking in your next stay, it's important to weigh both the strengths and limitations of any travel platform. In this VRBO Review, we break down the pros and cons of using VRBO in 2025. While it offers privacy, professional listings, and properties across the globe, there are trade-offs such as added fees and limited budget options. Whether you're planning a family getaway or a remote working retreat, understanding these key points will help you decide if VRBO is the right fit for your trip.
Pros of VRBO
- Entire Home Rentals Only
VRBO only lists full properties, so you’ll never have to share with strangers. This is perfect for families, groups, or couples looking for complete privacy. - Advanced Search Filters
You can narrow results by number of bedrooms, pet-friendly homes, beachfront properties, and more. This makes finding the ideal stay fast and simple. - Great for Longer Stays
Many travellers use VRBO for extended getaways or remote work setups. Spacious homes and kitchen facilities make longer trips more comfortable. - Professional Property Managers
A large number of VRBO hosts are professionals, which increases listing reliability, consistent communication, and overall guest satisfaction. - Global Reach
VRBO properties span across 190+ countries, covering top US destinations and international favourites for every type of traveller.
Cons of VRBO
- No Shared Accommodation
Unlike Airbnb, VRBO doesn’t offer shared rooms or single-bed rentals. This limits options for solo or ultra-budget travellers. - Extra Fees Add Up
Service fees (6–12%), cleaning charges, and property protection fees can push your total well above the nightly rate. - Inconsistent Host Experience
Though many hosts are professionals, some users report slow responses or issues with property accuracy depending on the host. - Limited Local Culture
VRBO doesn’t focus on cultural immersion or local tours like Airbnb Experiences, so you may miss out on deeper local interaction. - Cancellation Policies Vary Widely
Each listing sets its own cancellation terms. Some offer generous refunds, while others are strict. It's important to read the fine print.
VRBO Competitor Comparison
When booking a holiday rental in 2025, choosing the right platform can make all the difference. While VRBO is a leading choice for full-home rentals, it competes with several major platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, Expedia, Agoda Homes, and traditional hotels. Each offers a different experience depending on your travel needs, from solo getaways to group adventures. According to this VRBO Review, the platform continues to be a preferred option for travellers who value privacy, space, and a more curated stay.
This section breaks down how VRBO stacks up against its top competitors in terms of property types, privacy, pricing, and booking experience. According to this VRBO Review, travellers often choose VRBO for its consistent privacy and spacious accommodations. Whether you’re after space, savings, or service, this VRBO Review comparison helps you find the best platform for your next trip.
VRBO competitor comparison table
| Platform | Best For | Property Type | Privacy | Booking Style | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VRBO | Families, groups, long stays | Entire homes only | High | Instant + Host Contact | 6–12% + Cleaning |
| Airbnb | Solo travellers, flexible stays | Shared & entire homes | Varies | Instant + Host Contact | 5–20% |
| Booking.com | Hotels + vacation stays | Hotels, hostels, vacation homes | Medium | Mostly Instant | Often included |
| Expedia | Convenience + hotel-style bookings | Hotels + VRBO listings | Medium | Instant | Clear at checkout |
| Agoda Homes | Budget travellers, Asia-focused | Apartments, homes | Medium | Instant | Low to moderate |
| Hotels | Short stays with full service | Traditional hotel rooms | Low to medium | Instant | Usually bundled |
VRBO vs Airbnb
Airbnb and VRBO are the giants of short-term rentals, but they serve slightly different audiences. This VRBO Review shows that VRBO specialises in whole-home rentals, making it perfect for families, groups, and travellers who value privacy.
Airbnb, on the other hand, offers a broader variety from shared rooms to luxury villas making it better suited for solo travellers, couples, and those seeking more social or local experiences. According to this VRBO Review, those who prefer peaceful stays and full property access often lean toward VRBO over Airbnb.
- VRBO: Entire homes only, more professional listings
- Airbnb: Offers shared spaces, diverse price points
- Audience: VRBO suits families; Airbnb suits social and budget travellers
- Experience: VRBO offers peace and privacy; Airbnb offers local flavour
VRBO vs Booking.com
Booking.com is primarily a hotel and accommodation aggregator but now also includes vacation rentals. VRBO is still the go-to for full homes, while Booking.com focuses on flexible accommodation types, including hostels, apartments, and resorts.
- VRBO: Whole-home rentals, no hotels
- Booking.com: Broad range – hotels to hostels
- Ideal For: VRBO suits long stays; Booking.com suits short stays
- Fees: VRBO adds service fees; Booking.com includes fees in price
VRBO vs Expedia Stays
Expedia Stays includes hotels and vacation homes listed by VRBO and other suppliers. VRBO offers more curated, property-owner-managed listings, whereas Expedia provides a hybrid of professional and hotel-style lodging. Since VRBO is owned by Expedia Group, the integration allows listings to overlap, but the booking experience differs.
- VRBO: More personal, direct host contact
- Expedia: Includes VRBO listings but adds hotel chains
- Target Audience: VRBO for privacy; Expedia for convenience
- Loyalty Program: Expedia Rewards is a plus
VRBO vs Agoda Homes
Agoda Homes is expanding its reach into vacation rentals, mostly in Asia. VRBO has a larger footprint in North America and Europe, with more consistent quality control. Agoda appeals to budget-conscious travellers and offers instant bookings on most listings.
- VRBO: Stronger in the US, Europe
- Agoda Homes: Stronger in Asia-Pacific
- Booking Type: VRBO allows host communication; Agoda prefers instant booking
- Audience: VRBO for families/groups; Agoda for solo/budget travellers
VRBO vs Hotels
Hotels remain the traditional choice for travellers who want predictable services like daily housekeeping and concierge support. VRBO competes by offering larger, more private spaces that are often more cost-effective for groups. It’s a matter of preference do you want services or space?
- Hotels: Great for short, service-based stays
- VRBO: Ideal for long stays, cooking, and privacy
- Price: VRBO can be cheaper per person for groups
- Privacy: VRBO offers a “home away from home” feel
Final Words
In conclusion, VRBO stands strong as a reliable platform for private, comfortable stays. This VRBO Review has explored every critical angle from booking and fees to safety and customer service. It offers a trustworthy option, especially for travellers seeking an entire home rather than a shared space.
Compared to Airbnb, VRBO feels more curated and less chaotic. It may not provide local experiences like Airbnb, but it excels in offering peace, privacy, and well-managed properties. Many users mentioned in this VRBO Review prefer the structured and straightforward nature of the platform, especially for longer stays or group bookings.
If you’re planning a trip in 2025 and value convenience over complexity, this VRBO Review suggests VRBO could be your go-to booking platform. Just read the listing details, understand the fees, and you’re set for a smooth, memorable travel experience.
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FAQs
What is the main difference between VRBO and Airbnb?
According to this VRBO Review, the key distinction is that VRBO only offers entire-home rentals, which is ideal for families or groups seeking privacy. In contrast, Airbnb provides shared rooms, private rooms, and entire homes, making it better suited for solo travellers or those on a budget who want a wider variety of lodging options.
Are there hidden fees when booking through VRBO?
Yes, the total cost often includes more than the nightly rate. You may pay extra for cleaning fees, service charges (6–12%), taxes, and sometimes property damage protection. Always review the full price breakdown before booking.
Is VRBO safe to use for bookings in 2025?
Yes, VRBO is generally safe. It offers verified reviews, secure payments, and 24/7 customer support. To stay protected, always communicate and pay through the platform and avoid off-app interactions.
Can I get a refund if I cancel my VRBO booking?
It depends on the host’s cancellation policy. VRBO hosts can choose from flexible, moderate, firm, or strict policies. Always check the policy on the listing before booking, and consider adding travel insurance at checkout for extra coverage.
How does VRBO compare with Booking.com or Expedia for vacation stays?
VRBO focuses on entire-home rentals, ideal for longer stays or group travel. Booking.com and Expedia offer a mix of hotels and vacation homes, which may suit travellers wanting shorter or service-based stays with instant booking.
Who should consider booking through VRBO?
VRBO is well-suited for families, large groups, pet owners, and remote workers seeking space, privacy, and a home-like setting. If your ideal stay involves a private property with amenities like a full kitchen or yard, this VRBO Review concludes that VRBO is an excellent option.
VRBO is a trusted vacation rental platform that specialises in full-home stays, making it ideal for families, groups, and long-term travellers. With properties in over 190 countries, it offers a wide range of options from beachfront villas to cosy mountain cabins. VRBO stands out for its privacy, ease of use, and detailed search filters.
