What Is Vrbo?
its short for “Vacation Rentals by Owner,” is an online marketplace that connects property owners with travelers seeking vacation rentals. It offers a variety of accommodations, from traditional suburban homes to unique stays like Costa Rica’s “Cockpit Cabana,” where guests sleep inside an airplane.
How Vrbo Works
Vrbo operates similarly to other vacation rental platforms but focuses on whole-home rentals, meaning guests won’t have to share spaces with the property owner or other travelers.
Vrbo’s History
- Founded as an independent vacation rental marketplace
- Acquired by HomeAway in 2006
- HomeAway and merged under Expedia Group in 2020
- Joined One Key Rewards in 2023, allowing guests to earn and redeem rewards across, Expedia, and Hotels.com
Why Choose Vrbo?
Benefits of Using Vrbo
- Privacy: Entire home rentals ensure no shared spaces
- Variety: Options range from mountain cabins to unique lodgings
- Cost-Effective for Groups: Multi-room rentals often cost less per person than hotels
- Amenities: Many properties include kitchens and laundry facilities
Potential Downsides
- Booking Process: Some rentals require approval from the owner before confirmation
- Stay Restrictions: Minimum or maximum stay requirements may apply
- Check-in Variability: Processes and amenities differ across properties
How to Rent on Vrbo
Step 1: Create a Vrbo Account
- Sign up with a name and email
- Optionally verify identity for better booking approval chances
Step 2: Search for a Rental
- Enter travel dates, location, and guest count
- Use filters for property type, amenities, and nearby activities
- Review descriptions, guest reviews, and cancellation policies
Step 3: Book a Property
- Two booking options:
- Request to Book: Owner must approve within 24 hours
- Instant Book: Immediate confirmation
- Payments processed securely through it
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Vrbo Premier Hosts
Premier Hosts are recognized for high ratings, low cancellation rates, and consistent bookings. Filtering searches for Premier Hosts can improve the likelihood of a smooth stay.
Payments and Security
- Vrbo accepts Visa, Mastercard, and American Express
- Never pay outside the platform to avoid scams
- Some hosts require security deposits or damage protection
Check-in and Check-out Process
- Check-in instructions (key codes, addresses, and host contact details) are sent three days before arrival
- Check-out instructions vary by property and may include specific cleaning requirements
Vrbo Safety Measures
- Guest Verification: Optional identity verification for increased trust
- Host Ratings: Premier Hosts are reviewed quarterly
- Secure Payments: Protection against fraud if payments are made through the platform
Surveillance Policies
- Indoor surveillance devices are generally prohibited (except for baby monitors or smart assistants)
- Outdoor security cameras and smart doorbells are allowed if disclosed to guests
Cancellation Policy
- Log into “My Trips” to request a cancellation
- Cancellation policies vary by property, from full refunds (if canceled at least 14 days before check-in) to nonrefundable bookings
What to Do if Issues Arise
If a property misrepresents its listing, is unsafe, or if a host cancels last-minute, Vrbo’s “Book with Confidence Guarantee” provides support. Guests can contact for assistance.
Ways to Save on Vrbo
- Book Longer Stays – Some properties offer discounts for weekly or monthly rentals
- Use Credit Card Travel Rewards – Cards like Chase Sapphire Reserve® allow travel statement credits
- Join One Key Rewards – Earn 2% back in OneKeyCash for future bookings
- Earn United MileagePlus Miles – Book through United’s portal to earn airline miles
- Travel Off-Peak – Prices are lower during less popular seasons
Vrbo vs. Airbnb
- Vrbo: Entire home rentals, no shared spaces
- Airbnb: Offers shared rooms, private rooms, and entire homes
- Pricing & Search Features: offers more advanced search filters, while Airbnb has a larger selection of properties
Final Thoughts on Vrbo
this is a great platform for those seeking private vacation rentals, especially for families and groups. While it lacks Airbnb’s shared space options, its focus on full-home rentals and unique properties makes it a strong alternative.
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Whether booking a cozy cabin or a beachside villa, Vrbo offers a variety of accommodations for travelers looking for privacy, comfort, and unique experiences.