Airbnb may be the most well-known short-term rental platform, but it’s far from your only option. Savvy hosts looking to increase visibility, bookings, and profitability are turning to multiple platforms—or Online Travel Agencies (OTAs)—to diversify their listings.
Whether you’re a solo host managing one property or a professional operator with a growing portfolio, this guide will walk you through why multi-channel distribution matters, what challenges to expect, and the best Airbnb alternatives available in Australia right now.
What Are OTAs?
OTAs (Online Travel Agencies) are digital platforms that allow travellers to book accommodation, transportation, or experiences online. For short-term rental hosts, OTAs serve as powerful marketing channels that connect you with a global audience looking for places to stay.
Popular OTAs include Airbnb, Booking.com, Vrbo, Expedia, and more.
Think of OTAs as the modern-day travel agent—with a search bar and reviews. They handle bookings, provide exposure, and often manage payments and customer support.
Why List Your STR Property on Multiple OTAs?
Relying on a single platform like Airbnb limits your reach. Here’s why diversifying across multiple OTAs is a smart strategy:
1. Increased Exposure
Each OTA has its own user base. Listing across platforms means your property is seen by more people—locals, internationals, business travellers, families, and more.
2. Higher Occupancy Rates
With a wider reach, you’re more likely to fill your calendar—even during off-peak periods.
3. Platform Stability
If your Airbnb account is suspended or a bug takes your listing offline, other platforms keep your revenue flowing.
4. Target Different Guest Segments
Different OTAs attract different types of guests. Diversifying allows you to reach families, luxury seekers, business travellers, and more.
What Are the Challenges of Multi-Channel Listings?
Of course, listing on multiple platforms isn’t without its complexities. Common hurdles include:
1. Double Bookings
Without real-time calendar syncing, you risk overlapping reservations.
2. Inconsistent Pricing or Policies
Each platform has unique fee structures and settings—aligning them takes time and attention.
3. Platform Learning Curves
Ranking well on Airbnb differs from succeeding on Booking.com or Vrbo.
4. Guest Communications
Managing inquiries, bookings, and reviews across platforms can get overwhelming—unless you’re using automation tools.
💡 Solution: Tools like Resly can streamline everything from calendar syncing to guest messaging, saving time and preventing costly errors.
Top Airbnb Alternatives in Australia
If you’re ready to expand beyond Airbnb, here are the top-performing platforms to consider—each offering unique benefits to Australian hosts.
1. Booking.com
- Property Types: Entire homes, private rooms, hotel-style accommodations
- Fees: 15.5%–18.5% (varies by region)
- Guest Reach: Huge global user base, ideal for international guests
- Distribution Perks: Listings also appear on Agoda, Kayak, Tripadvisor
Why List Here:
Booking.com offers unparalleled exposure, making it a top choice for centrally located or urban properties.
2. Vrbo (Stayz in Australia)
- Property Types: Entire homes only
- Fees: Around 14.2%
- Guest Reach: Great for families and longer stays
- Distribution Perks: Visibility across Expedia, Trivago, Wotif, Hotels.com
Why List Here:
Perfect for hosts with full-home rentals, especially in family-friendly holiday destinations.
3. Unique BNB Hosts
- Property Types: Professionally managed entire homes
- Fees: Approximately 10%
- Unique Offering: End-to-end short-term rental management
- Distribution Perks: Your property appears on Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, and also caters to insurance and corporate stays
Why List Here:
Unique BNB Hosts isn’t just a platform—it’s a full-service management agency that handles everything from pricing and styling to guest communication.
4. Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy
- Property Types: Luxury entire homes
- Guest Reach: Premium international travellers and loyalty program members
- Requirements: High standards for design, amenities, and service
Why List Here:
If your property fits the luxury profile, this platform offers access to a high-spending, brand-loyal audience.
Final Thoughts
Listing on multiple OTAs is one of the smartest ways to grow your short-term rental business—but it does require careful planning and ongoing management.
The good news? You don’t have to do it all yourself. Platforms like Unique BNB Hosts can manage the distribution, sync your calendars, and streamline guest communications.
Start small by listing on one or two new platforms, measure your results, and scale from there. With the right approach, multi-channel distribution can significantly boost both your bookings and your bottom line.
