Personalised. Authentic. Inexpensive: More and more travellers are choosing Airbnb and co.

Result

Summer is travel season. In recent weeks, numerous Germans packed their bags and traveled both domestically and abroad. While the anticipation of relaxation and new experiences was high, the price of a day's vacation often reached record levels. Faced with these high costs, many travelers tried to keep their expenses under control. Booking vacation apartments and houses that allow for self-catering proved to be an increasingly popular method for many. For three out of five vacationers, renting a vacation property through platforms like Airbnb, VBRO, or Booking.com represents an attractive option for saving on their vacation budget. A majority across all life stages can envision this option, with those under 25 and families with children showing particular interest.

Reasons

The growing interest in self-catering holiday apartments reflects – besides the hope of saving money – a desire for flexibility, independence, and comfort. Travelers are also increasingly seeking individual and authentic experiences where they can immerse themselves in the local culture and surroundings. This type of accommodation allows guests to structure their day according to their own preferences and feel at home while abroad. The ability to prepare their own meals not only saves money but also provides autonomy over their time and allows them to eat exactly what they fancy. Furthermore, the spacious accommodations of most holiday properties offer an atmosphere where couples can enjoy undisturbed time, families can spread out, seniors can find a relaxing environment, and every traveler can fully appreciate the advantages of their destination.

Forecast

The broad acceptance across different life stages indicates the sustained success and continued appeal of self-catering vacation rentals in the travel market. However, challenges such as the lack of affordable housing for locals, potential noise pollution, changes in neighborhood structure, increased dependence on tourism, and the loss of traditional accommodations must be addressed promptly. If this doesn't happen, conflicts between locals and tourists will increase, and more destinations will restrict or completely prohibit vacation rentals. Platforms will become even more focused on catering to the individual needs and interests of their guests. Some platforms already offer "unforgettable activities with locals." These range from a traditional tea ceremony and an introduction to fly fishing to opportunities to spend a game night together, go out, or attend a religious service.