Airbnb is an online marketplace that connects people who want to rent out their homes or properties with people looking for accommodations in specific locales. It was founded in 2008 by Brian Chesky, Nathan Blecharczyk, and Joe Gebbia. The name Airbnb is a contraction of "Airbed and Breakfast," which reflects the companys origins. Airbnb is the most well-known company for short-term housing rentals.

Airbnb offers a platform from which people can rent their spare rooms and properties to guests. The company acts as a broker and charges a commission from each booking. Airbnb has rules designed to protect both guests and hosts. For example, threats, violence, and abuse toward others (sexual and otherwise) are not tolerated. Neither are dangerous animals, undisclosed weapons, or explosive devices. Legally owned, permitted weapons of various types are allowed but they must be secured and disclosed to hosts prior to arrival.

Airbnb has expanded its travel offerings to include local activities programs called Experiences. In 2020, Airbnb launched its Frontline Stays program to lodge first responders during the COVID pandemic. Airbnb also offers Airbnb for Work, which has everything needed to do your job on the road, from top-rated places and collaborative spaces to team-building Experiences and administrative tools that make managing travel easier than ever.

Airbnb is a cost-effective way to travel and offers a variety of accommodations, including vacation homes, private rooms, shared rooms, and even hotel rooms. Airbnb is a community built for belonging and has a global Community Support team that is at the ready 24/7 in 11 different languages.