Online travel agencies changed how travelers book, and listing across several of them diversifies your income, widens your reach, and reduces the risk of depending on one platform. Here are seven leading OTAs — their histories, key features, and fees — to help you decide where to list.
Airbnb
Founded in 2008 with 7M+ listings worldwide, Airbnb pioneered peer-to-peer stays. Its simple booking flow, host-protection programs, and reviews make it a default for new and experienced hosts. Hosts typically pay around a 3% fee per booking.
Vrbo
Connecting homeowners and travelers since 1995 and part of the Expedia Group, Vrbo focuses on whole vacation homes for families and longer stays. It offers either an annual subscription or pay-per-booking (roughly 5–8% per reservation).
Booking.com
Founded in the Netherlands in 1996 and now 29M+ listings, Booking.com draws millions of daily visitors, including international and business travelers. It’s commission-based, typically 10–25% per confirmed booking, with no upfront fees.
TripAdvisor
Started in 2000 as a reviews platform, TripAdvisor Rentals taps 490M+ monthly visitors and cross-lists on FlipKey and Holiday Lettings. Fees are commission-based, around 3–5% per booking.
Homes & Villas by Marriott
Launched in 2019, this premium platform leverages the Marriott brand and Bonvoy loyalty base for upscale, verified properties. Commission runs around 15% per booking.
Hopper
Known for price-prediction flight booking, Hopper expanded into stays. Unusually, it charges hosts no commission and guests no service fee — instead taking discounted net rates and applying a dynamic markup.
Google Travel
More aggregator than OTA, Google Travel surfaces listings from partners like Airbnb and Booking.com to travelers who start their search on Google. There’s no direct fee — you list through one of its partners.
Each platform suits different audiences and property types. Weigh your target guest, property type, location, and how much control you want over the listing when deciding where to list.