Sick of Airbnb? Here Are 11 Alternative Rental Platforms You Should Try Instead

If waking up to the sound of grazing animals in the English countryside—à la Jeremy Clarkson on Amazon Prime—is your idea of a vacation, have a plow through Farm Stay. The platform is a non-profit, farmer-owned partnership designed to bring countryside rentals to travelers seeking something off the beaten track. There is no commission charged on their listings, and you’re actually encouraged to book directly with the farmers for the best rates. Available only in the U.K.

A top choice for backpackers looking to make local friends, Couchsurfing members can open up their homes to strangers, and likewise, stay in other members’ homes when they travel. Overnights are free, and thus, there’s a good chance you’ll be crashing on a sofa, but some luck out with their own room and dinner to boot. Started in 2004, Couchsurfing has 12 million members, with the goal of social activity and cultural exchange on the travel agenda.

Another popular backpacker option, Hostelworld, is your portal for hostel booking. This type of accommodation is typically low-cost thanks to shared dormitories, communal bathrooms, and living spaces, however, these days the options are wider. Travelers wanting daytime camaraderie but nighttime solitude can opt for private rooms at a slightly higher price. Eighty percent of Hostelworld’s customers are under 35 and most travel solo meaning they favor hostels over hotels for the social aspect. The app also allows them to join a hostel’s chat group, make friends before arriving, and RSVP to link-up events.

Animal lovers can take care of someone’s beloved pet and, in return, get to stay in their home for free. TrustedHousesitters lists homestays in 130 countries around the world, along with pet profiles for verified sitters to shower a fur baby with TLC. You’ll feed, clean, and walk animals while keeping their owners up to date—it’s a win-win for both sitter and pet parents. An annual membership is required, and that covers a free direct line to a dedicated team of veterinary nurses to help you quickly clear up any pet queries.

However, be careful using this site internationally, as some countries view housesitting as working, rather than a vacation, and may be a violation of your visa.

Alternatively, do the visit without a furry friend. For anyone who’s seen The Holiday, you’ll know how this works. Home Exchange allows guests to list their homes for possible exchange with 270,000 others. Simply sign up and pay an annual $220 membership fee for verification and access, and browse everything from Californian mansions with sexy pools to quaint English countryside cottages (basically, are you a Cameron or a Kate?). It’s not just for singles ready to mingle, though: members can search homes for families, couples, and pets, too.

If you’re an avid traveler, there’s a high chance you’ve already used Booking.com. The platform has been going strong since 1996, and today is one of the largest travel marketplaces for accommodation options (approx 28 million!), travel experiences, and transportation. Whatever stay you dream of, the wizards at Booking.com can make come true. Think Japanese ryokans, Costa Rican treehouses, Thai villas, and Swiss chalets. Plus of course all your standard hotels. More stays mean more rewards if you sign up for the Genius loyalty program. The interface is easy to use, and most stays have flexible cancellation policies.

Eat, Pray, Love your way through Asia, and let Agoda be your guide. The platform blends travel experience and transportation alongside a vast array of accommodation offerings. It has an especially big presence in Southeast Asia, where it was founded and headquartered, so fans of jungle and beach villas are in for a treat, but the app also operates worldwide. What’s great about Agonda is its partnership with local airlines and rideshare services for seamless booking and sweet deals.

These tiny houses with massive floor-to-ceiling nature views have been a social media hit in recent years, and ironically, they’re all about disconnecting from digital devices (each cabin comes with a lock box to stash your phone in). Situated within a two-hour drive of major US cities such as Atlanta, NYC, LA, Chicago, Dallas, and Seattle, you’ll check in for a staycation with a far-away feeling. Easy to book, affordable, and with no hidden extras, Getaway is a great alternative to hotels and Airbnb.