A Manhattan resident who spent a year living in Airbnbs across America has shared insights into their nomadic lifestyle. In September 2024, they and their partner embarked on a 365-day journey, covering 16,000 miles and visiting 30 states and cities. After years in a cramped Manhattan apartment, they sought a break from city life and high rent, selling most of their furniture and packing into a Samsonite suitcase.
Their adventure began with a desire to escape the confines of city life and expensive rent. They sold most of their furniture, packed their belongings into a Samsonite suitcase, and created an Airbnb wishlist titled “The Next Adventure”. The platform’s flexibility allowed them to plan a unique route, staying in places like Gatlinburg, Tennessee; Destin, Florida; and Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Lessons from the Road
The writer, a poet and remote worker, found the experience both challenging and inspiring. They learned about the American environment, domestic travel, and the art of choosing the perfect Airbnb. One highlight was visiting Flagstaff during International Dark Sky Week, where they witnessed the world’s first dark sky city and its stunning constellations. As a city dweller, the clarity of the constellations in Flagstaff left a lasting impression.
Their journey also taught them the importance of research and planning. They recommend using Airbnb filters to find properties with specific amenities, like dishwashers and laundry facilities. Reading reviews is key to avoid surprises, and flexible dates can open up more options and better prices. Filters for accessibility features, like grab bars, were also invaluable for inclusive travel.
Maximizing Savings and Connections
To save money, the couple opted for longer stays, taking advantage of Airbnb’s monthly discounts. They saved at least 15% across all cities, with some locations offering up to 25% off. They also suggest contacting hosts directly to negotiate prices and gather local insights. On Airbnb, stays of 28 or more nights automatically earn a monthly-stay discount, which was key for their budget.
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The writer emphasizes the value of connecting with hosts. They created personalized templates to introduce themselves and learn about the area, which led to local recommendations and a more authentic travel experience. This approach also helped them ensure a good fit with the property and host. Even when they didn’t book a property, their outreach often resulted in valuable local tips and conversations.
Their packing strategy included essential items like a Dagne Dover tote bag for organization, a travel mug, and slippers for a homey touch. They also brought a travel journal to document their adventures and stationery to write thank-you notes to hosts. The tote bag’s organization and the travel mug became indispensable for their daily routines.
Research and Local Insights
The writer emphasizes the importance of thorough research before booking an Airbnb. They suggest looking into local events, seasonal changes, and neighborhood specifics to ensure a well-informed decision. For example, they recommend checking for difficult street parking or age restrictions at certain properties. Reading reviews from lowest to highest can also save time and provide a clearer picture of potential issues or highlights. Understanding local quirks, like parking challenges, helped them avoid inconveniences.
Their stay in New Orleans during Mardi Gras season is a prime example of how research can enhance the experience. By securing tickets to local events and staying in a classic shotgun-style home, they were able to immerse themselves in the city’s culture. One of the best stays they had was in New Orleans for all of January, driving in on New Year’s Eve and celebrating at R Bar, fully adopting the city’s lively spirit.
Packing and Personal Touches
Packing efficiently is key for a year-long journey. The writer recommends a personalized toiletries bag, a reliable tote for organization, and a travel mug for early morning drives. To make each Airbnb feel like home, they suggest bringing small luxuries like slippers and stationery for thank-you notes. A travel journal is also essential for documenting adventures and reflecting on experiences. Their Bombas slippers and Papier stationery added a personal touch to each stay, making it feel more like home.
