4 short-term accommodation websites (besides Airbnb) you should know

Airbnb might be the first name that comes to mind when booking or listing a short-term rental—but it’s far from the only option.

In fact, sticking to just one platform could mean missing out on bookings, better rates, or even your ideal guest. So why limit yourself?

Whether you’re a traveller hunting for the perfect stay or a property owner looking to maximise returns, diversifying your options is key.

To help you out, we’ve rounded up the top short-term accommodation websites in Australia. Let’s dive in!

What are short-term accommodation websites?

Short-term accommodation websites connect travellers with property owners, offering stays ranging from a single night to several months.

These platforms handle bookings, payments, and often provide insurance or support—making them a hassle-free option for both hosts and guests.

Unlike traditional hotels, short-term rentals often come with home-like comforts (think full kitchens, laundry, and local charm). For property owners, they can also deliver higher returns than long-term leases—if managed well.

Short-term accommodation websites in Australia

Not all booking platforms are created equal. Some cater to holidaymakers, others to business travellers, and some even specialise in luxury stays. Here’s a breakdown of the top players in Australia:

1. Airbnb

Pros:

• Control: Hosts can review bookings before accepting them.
• Trust: Verified guest/host profiles reduce risks.
• Insurance: Includes property damage and liability coverage.
• Lower Fees: Only 3% per booking (compared to some competitors).
• Popularity: Dominates the market, especially among younger travellers.

Cons:

• High Competition: Standing out can be tough with so many similar listings.

2. Booking.com

Pros:

• Massive Reach: The world’s most visited travel site means more exposure.
• No Guest Fees: Listings often appear cheaper, attracting more bookings.
• Last-Minute Bookings: Great for filling calendar gaps.

Cons:

• Higher Host Fees: 15% commission (paid by the owner).
• Instant Bookings: No option to screen guests beforehand.

3. VRBO (and Stayz)

Pros:

• Strong Reputation: Known for quality properties in Australia.
• Global Exposure: Part of Expedia, so listings appear on international sites.
• SEO Power: Ranks high in Google searches for Australian rentals.

Cons:

• Fees: 7-10% per booking, depending on payment method.
• Manual Calendar Updates: Doesn’t sync with other platforms.

4. FlipKey (by TripAdvisor)

Pros:

• Double Exposure: Listings appear on both TripAdvisor and FlipKey.
• Credibility: TripAdvisor’s trusted reviews boost guest confidence.

Cons:

• No Host Insurance: Unlike Airbnb, property damage isn’t covered.
• Higher Guest Fees: Can make listings seem pricier.

5. MadeComfy

Pros:

• Professional Management: Handles everything from listings to guest communication.
• Higher Returns: Can earn up to 40% more than self-managed properties.
• Exclusive Bookings: Access to corporate travellers and repeat guests.

Cons:

• Exclusive to MadeComfy Owners: Only available if you use their full service.

How to get started

Managing multiple listings sounds like a headache—updating calendars, adjusting prices, and handling guest queries across different platforms. But it doesn’t have to be.

Instead of juggling it all yourself, consider a professional property manager like MadeComfy. We’ll handle:

• Professional photography & listings
• Multi-platform synchronisation
• Guest communication & support
• Maintenance & emergency fixes

Ready to maximise your short-term rental?

Why settle for one booking platform when you could tap into multiple streams of guests? MadeComfy can do that for you.

Whether you’re listing a chic city apartment or a cozy coastal retreat, spreading your property’s exposure is the smartest way to boost bookings and rental returns.

Take the hassle out of hosting. CONTACT US at MadeComfy today and let the experts handle the rest.