Should You Advertise Discounted Airbnb Rates on Socials?

Running an Airbnb means balancing visibility and value. Naturally, hosts want to fill dates and keep income steady. But when bookings are slow, it’s tempting to take to Instagram or other social platforms and start promoting discounted rates directly. Here's why that might not be the best move.

At first glance, it seems harmless—smart, even. You're reaching your audience, offering a deal, and potentially filling empty nights. But there’s a hidden cost. Advertising discounts publicly can hurt how people perceive your listing. It tells followers that your space isn't in demand, which makes it look less desirable. Worse, you start to train your audience to wait for deals instead of booking at full price.

Instagram is a brand-building tool. It’s where you shape the identity of your space—through photos, tone, and lifestyle appeal. Using it to promote sales like a clearance rack undercuts that brand. It can shift your Airbnb from a unique, desirable getaway to just another option people might try if the price is low enough.

Plus, Airbnb’s own platform is designed to handle discounting in smarter ways. Their algorithm factors in things like demand, availability, and user behavior. They push your listing when you offer a last-minute discount or a longer stay promotion. This targeted approach gets your deals in front of people who are already looking to book, without cheapening your brand in public.

That doesn’t mean you should never offer a deal. Discounts can help in slow seasons or to fill last-minute gaps. But let Airbnb do the heavy lifting. Use Instagram to keep your brand strong—show off the experience, highlight unique features, share guest testimonials. Keep the vibe aspirational.

If you really want to offer exclusive deals to loyal followers, use private channels like email or direct messages. That way, you maintain value perception while still offering incentives to your most engaged audience.

In short: Keep discounts behind the scenes. Let the platform do its job. And use social media to build desire, not devalue your space.