How to Get Around Airbnb Party Restrictions

Can You Party In An Airbnb? What is Airbnb's Party Policy?

Unfortunately, the short answer is No. In August 2020, Airbnb announced its Global Party Ban, which might have been great for some hosts as they were fed up with the problems Airbnb parties were causing them, but on the other hand, has put some unwanted restrictions on other hosts and guests. Having gatherings and parties was a major win for Airbnb compared to Hotels.

As Airbnb itself quotes: 

• Parties are now prohibited on all future bookings
• Occupancy at Airbnb listings will be capped at 16 people. This is primarily relevant to larger homes that we previously allowed to list as able to accommodate 16+ people. 
• We are currently scoping a potential exception process for specialty and traditional hospitality venues (i.e. boutique hotels)
• Guests will be informed about Airbnb’s party rules and informed that they may be legally pursued by Airbnb if they violate our policy. This work is currently being operationalized and will be rolled out in the near future.

Does this mean the era of partying in Airbnb is over? Well, not exactly…

Does Airbnb Check the Number of Guests?

Airbnb does not check the number of guests coming to the property. However, you need to choose the number of guests beforehand, and if more guests show up at the property, it can be problematic if the hosts see you or some neighbor reports it. this can lead to your account being banned. So I do not suggest it.

But if you are going to have more than 16 people at the house for your party, the first step is to choose a big Airbnb that could fit all the guests. I would still look for properties that can host at least 16 people in this case.

How to Get Around Airbnb Party Restrictions

Find a property

If you are having a party, it means that you are more than 16 people. Otherwise, you could have just booked an Airbnb for 16 or fewer people, and although partying is not allowed, the host should expect some noises from 16 people gathered in a place as it is only normal.

I would still suggest you go for big properties that can accommodate many people, especially the ones that have big terraces, gardens, and swimming pools. 

I highly suggest you choose any property that is not in the city center. Choose properties that are not apartments and are not surrounded by many neighbors. Houses in rural areas are perfect,

Contact the Hosts

Hosts are way more flexible than you think. In order for you to have a better understanding of this, I will start with an example.

We have recently added a feature to our RatePunk Browser Extension that allows users to ask for a discount on Airbnb, and we saw 80% success. Meaning that 80% of the hosts agreed to lower the price as we requested. This is the latest proven way to get Airbnb discounts.

This feature works on Airbnb (Screenshot below), and is very easy as you just need to enter the nightly rate you are willing to pay and a personalized message will be sent to the host asking to lower the price for you.

Now, if you have done your research and found the right property for your party, there is no better way than asking the host directly for party permission, as the hosts are very flexible and might be ok with hosting a party.

Many hosts would even be happy to avoid paying Airbnb fees and would let you book the property with them directly and have your celebration. 

Make sure to follow some tips for a better experience.

As a note: Check if the property is listed on Vrbo, as they have less strict restrictions than Airbnb. For more comparison, read about Airbnb vs Vrbo blog post. 

How to book an Airbnb for a Party?

Be Honest

The first step is to be honest, and tell the host you are trying to through a party. Specify how many people are going to be there, what time the party starts and ends, and any other information that you think the hosts need to know.

Be Trustworthy 

There is a big chance that it is not your first time trying Airbnb, and as you already know, hosts can also review guests after they stay at their property.

If you have many good reviews from previous hosts, your chances are higher that the host would accept your request for the party. 

Treat the House as if it is yours

Let's say everything went well, and you have booked the place for your party, It is necessary that you leave the property in good condition. Make sure nothing is broken; the property is tidy and looks the way when you first checked in.

This way, you will be trusted for the next time you decide to have a gathering at the property. 

You may be interested in the following:

• Airbnb Risks for Guests
• Airbnb Tips for Guests
• Airbnb Pros and Cons
• All About Airbnb Long-Term Stay