Airbnb users have long been frustrated by the unexpected addition of cleaning and service fees at the checkout. Finally, Airbnb has listened and now displays the total price of a stay, including all fees (excluding taxes in some regions), from the very beginning of the booking process.
This “total price display” isn’t entirely new. Airbnb initially launched this feature six years ago in select areas of Europe, Australia, Canada, and Korea. In 2023, they expanded this by offering a toggle button for users in the U.S. and over 200 other countries and regions.
Now, this feature is standard globally. Airbnb stated on their website, “Guests everywhere will now see the total cost of their reservation, including all fees before taxes, when they browse listings in search results making it easier than ever for guests to compare options and book the stay that’s best for their budget.” They further emphasized the benefit to both guests and hosts, adding, “We know that clear, upfront pricing improves the Airbnb experience for both guests and hosts.” (Source)
This timely update coincides with new U.S. federal regulations targeting “junk fees” and hidden charges. These regulations, effective next month, require businesses to clearly display the total price inclusive of all fees before payment. This legal shift likely influenced Airbnb’s decision to make total price display the default.
Beyond price transparency, Airbnb has also introduced new tools to help users save money. These include search tips highlighting potential discounts for longer stays, such as adding extra nights for a reduced weekly or monthly rate.
