In recent years, with the rise of rental platforms like Airbnb, more and more people are choosing to stay in vacation rentals during their travels, rather than traditional hotels. In addition to the possibly lower accommodation costs, staying in vacation rentals can also help avoid contact with other people compared to busy hotels. However, in terms of safety, vacation rentals may pose some concerns compared to hotels with security systems in place. Let’s take a look at what experts have to say.
According to a report by The Huffington Post, U.S. travel preparedness expert Cheryl Nelson compared the differences in safety between hotels and vacation rentals, with vacation rentals falling notably short.
Nelson mentioned that many hotels have security and front desk personnel monitoring around the clock, which vacation rentals like Airbnb do not have. If you encounter any issues at a vacation rental, there usually isn’t a manager or staff present, and there may not be other rooms available for you to switch to, unlike hotels where staff are usually available at all times to assist.
However, in recent years, companies like Airbnb have taken measures to improve the safety of vacation rentals, such as prohibiting gatherings in rentals and providing safety checklists.
Jeremy Prout, Director of Safety Solutions at International SOS, a medical and security services company, stated that staying in vacation rentals is generally safe. Like booking any accommodation, travelers must ensure they understand the risks of the surrounding environment and take precautions commonly taken when staying elsewhere.
Here are some recommendations provided by multiple experts regarding vacation rental safety:
Travel safety consultant Kevin Coffey suggests that after checking into a vacation rental, take some time to familiarize yourself with the surroundings, locate all exits, and ensure doors can open in case of a fire. Also, check the availability of first aid kits and fire extinguishers, and mentally prepare an emergency escape plan.
Prout suggests that you can explore the area where your vacation rental is located by walking around or looking at a map to identify the nearby police stations, fire departments, hospitals, pharmacies, and other emergency resources.
Nelson recommends inquiring with the host if surveillance cameras are installed. To protect your privacy, you may need to scan the interior of the property to ensure you are not being monitored by hidden cameras.
Airbnb explicitly prohibits the use of hidden cameras or other recording devices and requires hosts to disclose the presence of any such devices. While recording devices may be allowed in public areas, they are not permitted in private spaces like bedrooms and bathrooms.
Coffey mentioned that hidden cameras are often found in areas where privacy is expected, such as smoke detectors in bedrooms, light fixtures in bathrooms, or even alarm clocks by the bedside. You can use smartphone apps to check for hidden cameras connected to Wi-Fi.
Security expert Marcus Hutchins has shared methods to identify hidden cameras. For example, shining a bright light, like a cellphone flashlight, onto an alarm clock can reveal a faint blue light if a miniature camera is installed inside. This indicates that a hidden camera has been covertly placed in the alarm clock.
Nelson advised that for the security of your passport, electronic devices, jewelry, and other valuables, you should inquire if the vacation rental provides a safe box. Sometimes, you may need to bring your own padlock for additional security.
Coffey recommends using portable safes and ensuring that valuables are not visible through windows. If your car is parked outside, valuables should be removed from the vehicle to prevent theft.
Safety expert Cathy Pedrayes mentioned, “You can also bring a camera to monitor your valuables, just remember to take it down before checkout.”
Nelson added, “Check to ensure that every floor of the rental property has properly functioning smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.”
Rental booking platforms like Airbnb allow hosts to indicate if smoke or carbon monoxide detectors are installed in the property, but it is advisable to verify their functionality upon arrival.
Coffey suggested, “You can also purchase portable smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and carry them with you during travels.”
Coffey mentioned that if you are staying in a street-level apartment or a location with many windows, you may consider installing additional door and window security devices. You can inquire with the host or personally inspect if alarms and outdoor motion lights are installed.
He noted that portable detectors are not very expensive and can emit an alarm if someone attempts to break in. Similarly, carrying extra locks can enhance security.
When traveling, it’s best to inform your loved ones of your whereabouts. You can send a text to them when checking into a vacation rental to let them know your location. Coffey also suggested enabling the tracking feature on your phone so your family members know your whereabouts.
Pedrayes said, “You can designate certain individuals to call in case of emergencies. Before arriving at a location, you should be aware of emergency phone numbers. Additionally, check if there is Wi-Fi or cellphone signal available locally to know how to seek help in case of emergencies.”