⚡️ FK: Instant Book vs Request

Crucial Guide: Instant Book vs Request for Faster Reservations

When you find the perfect place, you face a choice: do you click the yellow “Request to Book” button or the blue “Instant Book” button? This choice defines your speed and certainty. Successfully navigating the process means understanding the core difference between Instant Book vs Request. The best option for you depends on your trip timeline and communication preference.

Here is an easy breakdown of both systems and when to use them.

---

1. Instant Book: Speed, Certainty, Simplicity

The Instant Book feature is exactly what it sounds like: click the button, enter your payment details, and your reservation is confirmed instantly. No waiting for host approval!

Pros (The Upside)	Cons (The Trade-Off)
Lightning Speed: Confirmed in seconds, which is perfect for last-minute trips.	Less Host Vetting: The host doesn’t have a chance to review your profile beforehand.
Certainty: No risk of the host declining your request because their calendar is up-to-date.	Less Personal: You miss a chance to ask specific questions before booking.
Great for Simple Trips: Ideal for quick, uncomplicated stays where you don’t need a lot of host interaction.	Host Rules Still Apply: You must meet all the host’s listed rules (e.g., “no pets,” “4-person maximum”) or the host can cancel.

➡️ When to Use Instant Book

• You’re booking within 7 days: Speed is critical, and you need a place now.
• Your profile is robust: You have a photo and a couple of good reviews from past stays.
• The listing perfectly matches your needs: You don’t have any specific questions for the host.

---

2. Request-to-Book: Personal Touch, Better Match

The Request-to-Book feature means your reservation enters a pending status, and the host has up to 24 hours (though usually much less!) to manually approve or decline it.

Pros (The Upside)	Cons (The Trade-Off)
Better Host-Guest Match: The host vets your profile, and you get a chance to briefly introduce yourself.	Takes Time: You have to wait for the host’s response, which introduces uncertainty.
Chance to Ask Questions: You can send a quick message with your request (e.g., “Is the Wi-Fi strong enough for video calls?”).	Risk of Denial: The host might decline if the dates don’t work or your profile is empty.
Great for Complex Trips: Ideal for longer stays or unique accommodations that require more coordination.	Requires a Good Profile: Hosts are more likely to approve requests from well-filled-out profiles.

➡️ When to Use Request-to-Book

• You’re booking a long-term stay (14+ days): It’s courteous to connect with the host for a longer stay.
• You have a niche question: You need to confirm something specific about accessibility, parking, or amenities.
• The listing is a highly unique stay: These often require a quick introduction to ensure a good fit (e.g., staying in a historic building).

---

🤔 A Simple Flowchart for Decision Making

Start Here:	Do you need a place confirmed RIGHT NOW (same day/next day)?
If YES:	Is your profile complete, and do you meet all the House Rules? $\rightarrow$ INSTANT BOOK
If NO (You have a few days):	Do you have a specific question for the host, or are you staying for 2+ weeks? $\rightarrow$ REQUEST-TO-BOOK

By understanding these two core booking types, you can choose the option that gives you the quickest, smoothest, and most certain path to your perfect stay!