Top 7 short-term rental sites for digital nomads

Curtis Duggan -

For digital nomads, finding the perfect place to stay is crucial. Unlike regular travelers, digital nomads need more than just a bed to sleep in. They require reliable Wi-Fi, comfortable workspaces, and often, a community of like-minded individuals. In this article, we will explore the top 7 short-term rental sites that cater specifically to the needs of digital nomads. From budget-friendly options to luxurious stays, these platforms have something for everyone.

Key Takeaways

  • Selina offers a mix of accommodations and co-working spaces in various countries.
  • Flatio provides furnished apartments with flexible rental terms for digital nomads.
  • RemoteBase focuses on verified Wi-Fi and essential amenities for remote work.
  • Nomad Stays offers stays in over 80 countries with a minimum stay of seven days.
  • Airbnb is convenient but may not be the best option for stays longer than a month.

Selina

Selina stands out for its focus on creating a community among digital nomads. Their properties often include communal spaces, co-working areas, and even wellness and recreational activities. This makes Selina more than just a place to stay; it's a place to connect, learn, and grow. If you're a digital nomad seeking a balance between work, play, and personal growth, Selina is a great choice.

Flatio

Flatio is a user-friendly platform for booking rentals around the world. It stands out as the largest marketplace for mid-term rentals, offering hand-picked accommodations that meet the needs of digital nomads.

One of the key features of Flatio is its legally binding lease agreement, which protects both tenants and landlords. This agreement can also serve as proof of address and is useful for visa applications, making it a practical choice for digital nomads.

Flatio's pricing calendar makes it easy to find suitable housing for a few months or longer. The platform has earned a 4.7 rating on Trust Pilot and is growing in popularity. The website is straightforward and offers a transparent pricing policy, so there are no surprises at the end of your stay.

Flatio is ideal for digital nomads who prefer to travel slowly, offering rentals from 1 to 12 months. The website is easy to navigate, allowing you to filter properties by specific amenities.

Flatio uses a reciprocal review system where both tenants and landlords are rated. This focus on trust ensures that the apartment will look exactly as it does online. If not, you get a full refund and seven days of free hotel accommodation.

Currently, Flatio is mainly active in Europe, so options outside of Europe might be limited.

RemoteBase

RemoteBase is a unique platform that helps digital nomads find great rental deals through a monthly newsletter. They don't own or manage properties but instead scour the internet to find the best deals on accommodations worldwide. This can save you up to 76% on your stays.

RemoteBase offers both free and premium newsletters. The free version provides access to a variety of discounted properties, while the premium version offers even more exclusive deals. This makes it a great resource for those who are flexible with their location and looking to save money.

  • Free monthly newsletter
  • Premium newsletter with exclusive deals
  • Savings of up to 76%
RemoteBase is perfect for digital nomads who can plan a couple of months ahead and are looking for budget-friendly options.

If you're tired of overpriced options, RemoteBase is a fantastic alternative to booking monthly digital nomad accommodation.

Nomad Stays

Nomad Stays is a top choice for digital nomads seeking short-term rentals. Operating in over 80 countries, this platform is designed with the needs of digital nomads in mind. They offer essential amenities like verified Wi-Fi and co-working spaces. Whether you prefer a bustling city or a quiet countryside, Nomad Stays has options for you.

  • Minimum stay: 7 days
  • Stay duration: 1 week to 3 months
  • Commission-free bookings
Nomad Stays ensures all accommodations are vetted specifically for nomad needs, making it easier to find quality stays worldwide.

Airbnb

Airbnb is a household name when it comes to finding a place to stay while traveling. From single-room apartments to big villas, Airbnb offers a wide range of temporary accommodation options. You can book both short-term and long-term rentals, making it perfect for digital nomads, traveling professionals, or those looking for a longer vacation.

Airbnb started in 2007 in a San Francisco bedroom and has grown into one of the biggest websites for vacation home rentals. It is valued at over $91 billion and has more than 150 million users and over 4 million hosts. This company pioneered the path for short-term rental sites and continues to be a huge player in the industry.

  • Flexibility: Book both short-term and long-term rentals.
  • Affordability: Competitive pricing for various types of accommodations.
  • Safety: Verified listings and profiles, secure payment platform.
Airbnb changed how the world travels, making shared spaces and privately managed holiday rentals as enticing as upscale hotels.

Homelike

Homelike is a platform designed to make you feel at home no matter where you are. It offers a wide selection of monthly rentals that are perfect for digital nomads. These rentals come fully furnished and include all the amenities you need, such as a fully equipped kitchen, Wi-Fi, and a workspace.

Homelike is available in over 500 cities across Europe, making it a great choice for those looking to stay in one place for a while. The platform also offers various filters to help you find the perfect place, whether you're looking for pet-friendly options or no-deposit rentals.

Homelike is ideal for digital nomads who want a comfortable and convenient place to stay without the hassle of long-term commitments.

Key Features

  • Fully furnished apartments
  • Equipped kitchen, Wi-Fi, and workspace
  • Available in over 500 European cities
  • Pet-friendly and no-deposit options available

VRBO

VRBO, short for Vacation Rentals By Owner, is a top choice for digital nomads seeking unique vacation rentals. The platform offers a wide range of properties, from standard furnished apartments to secluded log cabins and tiny homes. VRBO is Airbnb’s biggest competitor, acting as the middleman between vacationers and homeowners.

One of the standout features of VRBO is its search functionality. You can filter your accommodation search much more thoroughly than on other platforms, allowing you to find the perfect place. However, VRBO specializes in entire homes or apartments, so you won't generally find rooms or campsites.

For digital nomads and remote workers, VRBO offers property options with essential amenities like fast Wi-Fi and dedicated workspaces. The platform also provides significant monthly and weekly discounts for long-term stays, making it ideal for those who need flexible digital nomad accommodation options.

If you’re an adventurous digital nomad looking for vacation rentals, then VRBO is for you. With a vast selection of properties, you can select your place according to your preferences.

Conclusion

Finding the right place to stay is crucial for digital nomads. The sites we covered offer a variety of options to suit different needs and budgets. From cozy apartments to co-living spaces, there's something for everyone. These platforms make it easier to find reliable Wi-Fi, comfortable workspaces, and community vibes. So, whether you're planning a short stay or looking for a longer-term home, these rental sites can help you find the perfect spot to live and work. Happy travels!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of using rental sites for digital nomads?

Rental sites for digital nomads offer several benefits, including verified Wi-Fi, co-working spaces, and affordable rates. These platforms cater to various travel preferences and provide flexible stay options.

How do I choose the best rental site for my needs?

Consider what you need most, like reliable internet, a good location, or affordable prices. Check reviews and compare the amenities each site offers to find the best fit for you.

Is Airbnb good for digital nomads?

Airbnb is convenient and often offers discounts for weekly or monthly stays. However, it may not be the best option for stays longer than a month due to ethical concerns.

What makes Selina a good choice?

Selina offers a mix of comfortable accommodations and co-working spaces. It's ideal for digital nomads who want a community vibe and reliable amenities.

Why should I consider Nomad Stays?

Nomad Stays operates in over 80 countries and focuses on the needs of digital nomads. They offer verified Wi-Fi, co-working spaces, and flexible rental periods.

Can I find long-term rental options on these sites?

Yes, many of these platforms offer long-term rental options. It's best to check each site for specific terms and conditions.

Are these rental sites affordable?

Most of these sites offer a range of prices to fit different budgets. You can often find affordable options, especially for longer stays.

Do these sites offer any special deals?

Some sites offer discounts for longer stays, such as weekly or monthly rates. Always check for any special deals or promotions before booking.