Essential Safety Tips for Your Airbnb Stay

With the rise of platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo, more travelers are opting for short-term rentals over traditional hotels. This trend has accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic due to the relative isolation a private home offers. However, vacation rentals come with unique safety concerns.

1. Inspect for Hidden Cameras

Ask your host about any security cameras on the property to ensure transparency. Airbnb and Vrbo have policies against hidden cameras, especially in private areas like bedrooms and bathrooms. Use a Wi-Fi scanner app like Fing to detect devices connected to the network. Inspect smoke detectors, light fixtures, and other potential hiding spots. Use a flashlight to look for reflections from camera lenses and consider covering suspicious objects.

2. Secure Your Valuables

Inquire if the property has a safe for storing valuables. Items such as passports, electronics, and jewelry should be stored securely. If no safe is provided, consider bringing a portable one. Brands like Pacsafe offer anti-theft items, including travel safes. Keep valuable items out of sight, especially from windows, and remove belongings from your car to prevent break-ins. If needed, use a portable camera to monitor your belongings, ensuring you remove the camera before checking out.

3. Verify Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Check that each floor has working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Platforms like Airbnb allow hosts to list these features and confirm they are functional upon arrival. Consider bringing portable detectors for added safety.

4. Familiarize Yourself with the Property

Walk around the rental to understand its layout. Identify all doors, windows, and emergency exits. Create a mental escape plan in case of fire, and locate the first aid kit and fire extinguisher. Ensure all entry points are secure, and consider your travel companions’ needs, especially if you’re with children.

5. Enhance Security with Personal Alarms

Bring portable door and window alarms for extra protection, especially in street-level apartments. Portable motion detectors and locks can further secure your rental. A portable door-stop alarm can be very effective.

6. Enable Tracking and Stay Connected

Share your rental address and reservation details with trusted friends or family. Enable tracking on apps like Find My Friends, which is particularly important for solo travelers. Ensure you have emergency contacts and know local emergency numbers. Confirm you have Wi-Fi or cell service and a way to communicate in an emergency, especially if you’re not fluent in the local language.

7. Plan for a Safe Stay

Research your destination thoroughly before booking. Choose properties from reputable hosts, read guest reviews, and familiarize yourself with the local area using tools like Google Street View and CrimeMapping.com. Check safety scores on apps like GeoSure, especially if you have specific concerns related to personal safety.

Conclusion

While short-term rentals can offer a comfortable and private alternative to hotels, they also require extra vigilance. These proactive steps allow you to enjoy a safe and secure stay at your Airbnb or Vrbo rental. Always stay informed and prepared, ensuring peace of mind throughout your travels.

Jim Magazine

James (Jim) Magazine is a Florida Board Certified Civil Trial lawyer who has spent his career helping injured victims. Jim is licensed to practice law in the State of Florida since 1990 and is also admitted to practice at the Appellate level and admitted to the United States Supreme Court.

Years of Experience: More than 30 years
Florida Registration Status: Active
Bar Admissions:
Clearwater Bar Association
West Pasco Bar Association