I regularly stay in Airbnbs by myself. My top tip for solo travelers is to book for 2 people — even if it costs more.
A travel reporter shares a personal safety strategy for solo travelers using Airbnb, which involves booking for two guests to avoid signaling that they are alone. The author argues that the extra cost is a worthwhile investment for peace of mind and personal security.
Why it matters
It highlights the ongoing safety concerns for solo travelers in the gig economy and provides practical, albeit unconventional, advice for navigating short-term rental risks.
The reporter is a seasoned solo traveler with an important tip about booking Airbnbs alone. Joey Hadden/Business Insider I'm a frequent solo traveler who prefers staying in Airbnbs over hotels. When I book an Airbnb for a solo trip, I say it's for two guests so hosts don't know I'm alone. Sometimes booking for two costs extra, but I'm willing to pay more because it makes me feel safer. A treehouse in Ontario's wine country, a converted wine barrel in Switzerland, and a repurposed lifeguard tower in Miami — I've booked them all through Airbnb. As a travel reporter, I've slept in accommodations throughout the US, Canada, and Europe. I typically opt for Airbnbs over hotels because I've found that they offer more unique experiences. More often than not, I travel solo .
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