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How to Book Direct and Save on Airbnb Fees


How to Book Direct and Save on Airbnb Fees

Booking a holiday or short-term stay through Airbnb has become second nature for many of us in the UK. It’s fast, convenient, and often gives access to stunning, homely properties across the country. But what most guests don’t realise is that by booking through Airbnb, you’re often paying more than you need to, thanks to their service fees.

The good news? Many of those same properties are available to book directly with the host or property manager. And doing so can save you money, unlock better perks, and even give you a more personalised experience.

AtEason Stays, we specialise in short-term rentals across the UK, and we’re seeing more and more savvy travellers choosing to book Airbnb direct UK style—to cut out the middleman and get the best deal.

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about how to book directly, why it’s worth it, and how to do it safely.


What Are Airbnb Fees – and Who Pays Them?

When you book through Airbnb, you’re not just paying for the accommodation. You’re also paying Airbnb service fees, which are typically:

  • 14%–16% for guests
  • Plus a 3%–5% fee for hosts

That means your cosy £100-a-night stay might end up costing you £114–£116 a night instead. Over a week-long stay, that’s an extra £100 or more—money that could go toward dinner out, a day trip, or even a room upgrade.

By booking directly with hosts like Eason Stays, guests avoid those fees entirely. The price you see is the price you pay.


Why Book Direct?

Here’s what you gain by choosing to book Airbnb directly in the UK:

1. No Platform Fees

As mentioned above, this can save you 10–20% off the total cost of your stay.

2. Better Communication

Dealing directly with the host or property manager often means faster, more personal responses. No filters, no delays, no AI-powered auto-replies.

3. More Flexible Terms

Want to check in early? Stay an extra night? Direct bookings often allow for more flexible arrangements.

4. Local Recommendations

Most direct hosts love to share their favourite local restaurants, attractions, and hidden gems—something you’re less likely to get from a faceless platform.

5. Loyalty Discounts

Book with the same host or company more than once, and you’ll likely unlock discounts or extras that Airbnb can’t offer.


How to Find Airbnb Properties You Can Book Direct

Booking directly doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or trust. It just means knowing what to look for.

Here are a few practical ways to find and book directly:

1. Google the Property Name

Many Airbnb listings include unique names like “The Wigan Loft with Hot Tub” or “Stylish City Apartment near MediaCity.” Google that phrase, and chances are the host has a direct website where you can book.

2. Look at the Photos

Some hosts watermark their photos with their business logo or website. This makes it easy to track down their direct booking page.

3. Check the Host’s Profile

If the host is a business (like Eason Stays), their Airbnb profile may mention their brand name. A quick Google search can lead you to their website.

4. Ask the Host (After Booking)

If you’ve already booked on Airbnb, you can message the host and ask whether they have a direct booking option for next time. Most will be more than happy to provide details.


How to Book Direct Safely

Understandably, some guests are cautious about booking outside platforms like Airbnb. And while safety should always be a top priority, direct booking can be just as secure—if not more so—when done properly.

Here’s how to protect yourself:

✅ Book through professional websites

Legitimate hosts and management companies will have a secure website with an SSL certificate (that little padlock icon in the browser bar). It should look professional, clear, and easy to use.

Eason Stays’ direct booking

✅ Check for contact information

Reputable hosts will list an email, phone number, or even a booking calendar. If it’s too vague or hard to contact, it’s worth walking away.

✅ Read reviews

Even when booking directly, you can check guest reviews on Google, Facebook, or Airbnb before making a decision.

✅ Pay securely

Avoid bank transfers. Use secure card payments or recognised systems like Stripe or PayPal when available.


Real Example: Saving on a Wigan Stay

Let’s say you’re booking a 3-night stay in Wigan. On Airbnb, you find a lovely apartment for £120 per night. That’s £360 + ~15% Airbnb fees = £414 total.

You search the property name, find the official booking site for Eason Stays, and see the same apartment available for £360 flat, plus a complimentary late checkout as a thank-you for booking direct.

That’s a £54 saving—enough to cover dinner, drinks, or even part of your train fare.


Will You Miss Out on Protection?

One of the biggest reasons people stick with Airbnb is for the “AirCover” protection, which offers refunds or rebooking if something goes wrong.

But professional property managers like Eason Stays have their standards and guarantees. We maintain all properties ourselves, offer 24/7 guest support, and use verified payment providers to ensure peace of mind.

Our goal isn’t just to meet Airbnb’s standards—it’s to exceed them.


Direct Booking vs Airbnb: A Quick Comparison

FeatureAirbnb BookingDirect Booking (e.g. Eason Stays)
Guest Fees14%–16%£0
Direct CommunicationLimitedInstant, personal
Loyalty DiscountsRareOften available
Guest SupportAirbnb repsOn-the-ground team
Early Check-In / Late-OutLimitedMore flexible
PriceHigherLower

How Eason Stays Makes Direct Booking Easy

AtEason Stays, we operate high-quality short-term rentals across the UK—perfect for weekend getaways, work trips, or longer stays.

Our website lets you:

  • View live availability
  • Securely book with no service fees
  • Contact our support team directly
  • Access exclusive direct-booking discounts

If you’ve found one of our properties on Airbnb, chances are it’s also available directly on our site for less.

👉 Get your best price by booking direct today – click here


Final Thoughts: Is Booking Direct Worth It?

Absolutely. If you’re looking to save money, get better service, and enjoy a more flexible experience, booking direct is one of the smartest travel moves you can make.

It’s no wonder more and more guests are googling to book Airbnb directly UK and finding trusted hosts like Eason Stays who deliver more for less.

So next time you’re planning a trip—whether it’s for work, a family getaway, or a romantic escape—check if you can book direct first. Your wallet (and your host) will thank you.