What is VRBO? A Complete Guide for Canadian Travelers and Homeowners

The way people travel has changed dramatically over the past two decades. Instead of relying solely on hotels, many travelers now book private vacation homes, condos, cottages, and unique stays. One of the platforms leading this shift is VRBO — a service that connects property owners with travelers looking for short-term rentals.

In this guide, we’ll explore what VRBO is, how it works, its history, benefits, and things to keep in mind for both guests and hosts. Whether you’re planning your next holiday in Canada or thinking about renting out your home, understanding VRBO can help you make informed decisions.

What is VRBO?

VRBO stands for Vacation Rentals by Owner. It’s an online marketplace where homeowners list their properties for short-term rentals, and travelers can book these spaces for vacations or work trips.

Founded in 1995, VRBO was one of the first companies to make it easy for property owners to advertise vacation rentals directly to guests. Today, VRBO is part of Expedia Group, a major player in the global travel industry, and operates alongside other platforms like HomeAway (which has since merged with VRBO in North America).

The platform focuses entirely on entire property rentals — unlike some competitors, you won’t find shared rooms. This makes it ideal for families, groups of friends, and travelers who value privacy.

How VRBO Works

The VRBO process is straightforward:

For Travelers:

1. Search for a property – Use the website or app to filter by location, price, amenities, and travel dates.

2. Review property details – Listings include photos, descriptions, availability calendars, and guest reviews.

3. Book and pay securely – VRBO processes payments through its secure system, protecting both guests and hosts.

4. Communicate with the host – Before arrival, you can send questions or coordinate check-in details.

5. Enjoy your stay – You’ll have access to the property for the agreed period.

For Hosts:

1. Create a listing – Upload photos, set nightly rates, and write a detailed description.

2. Set policies – Decide on cancellation terms, check-in times, and house rules.

3. Manage bookings – Accept reservations through VRBO’s platform.

4. Get paid – VRBO processes guest payments and sends earnings to the host, minus service fees.

VRBO in Canada

Canada is a top destination for travelers seeking natural beauty, urban culture, and seasonal getaways. From Banff’s mountain lodges to Prince Edward Island’s seaside cottages, VRBO properties cover every province and territory.

For Canadians, VRBO offers two main benefits:

• More options than hotels – Especially in rural or resort areas where hotels may be limited.

• Opportunities for income – Homeowners in popular tourist regions can generate revenue by renting their property.

Popular Canadian VRBO destinations include:

• Whistler, British Columbia (ski resorts and chalets)

• Muskoka, Ontario (lakeside cottages)

• Charlottetown, PEI (coastal homes)

• Montréal, Quebec (historic apartments)

Benefits of Using VRBO

For Guests:

• Privacy – Entire home rentals mean no shared spaces.

• More space – Multiple bedrooms, kitchens, and living areas.

• Local experience – Stay in residential neighborhoods rather than tourist zones.

• Variety of properties – From modern condos to log cabins.

For Hosts:

• Income potential – Earn from unused property.

• Flexibility – Choose when to make the property available.

• Global exposure – VRBO reaches millions of travelers worldwide.

• Support tools – Secure payment processing, booking calendars, and listing analytics.

Costs and Fees

VRBO charges service fees for both guests and hosts.

• Guests: Typically pay a booking fee (around 6–15%) added to the rental price.

• Hosts: Can choose between a pay-per-booking fee or an annual subscription.

It’s important to read the full fee breakdown before booking or listing, as prices vary based on location, property type, and rental length.

VRBO’s Safety and Trust Policies

For AdSense compliance and user safety, VRBO has strict policies in place:

• Secure payment system – Never send money outside the platform.

• Verified reviews – Only guests who have stayed can leave a review.

• Host verification – Identity checks help reduce fraud.

• Cancellation policies – Clearly outlined in each listing.

• 24/7 customer support – Assistance for booking issues or emergencies.

Guests should always communicate within VRBO’s messaging system to protect themselves from scams.

VRBO vs. Other Rental Platforms

While Airbnb and Booking.com also list vacation rentals, VRBO stands out because:

• It focuses only on entire property rentals — no shared rooms.

• It has been around longer, with a strong base of repeat hosts.

• It tends to attract families and long-term vacationers rather than short overnight stays.

8. Things to Consider Before Using VRBO

For Guests:

• Read reviews carefully – Past guest feedback can reveal any issues.

• Check location details – Some rural areas may have limited amenities.

• Understand cancellation terms – Policies vary from flexible to strict.

• Be aware of taxes – Many provinces require sales or lodging taxes on rentals.

For Hosts:

• Local regulations – Some Canadian cities have licensing requirements.

• Maintenance and cleaning – High guest turnover requires upkeep.

• Seasonal demand – Prices and bookings may fluctuate with seasons.

• Insurance – Consider additional coverage for short-term rentals.

How to List Your Property on VRBO (Step-by-Step)

1. Sign up for an account on vrbo.com.

2. Create a listing with professional photos and an accurate description.

3. Set pricing using VRBO’s tools or your own research.

4. Choose your cancellation policy and house rules.

5. Publish and promote your listing.

6. Respond quickly to inquiries to improve your ranking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is VRBO safe to use?
A: Yes — when you book and pay through the official platform, VRBO’s policies protect both guests and hosts.

Q: Can I book a VRBO in Canada for a weekend trip?
A: Absolutely. Many properties allow short stays, though some have minimum night requirements.

Q: How is VRBO different from Airbnb?
A: VRBO focuses only on entire property rentals, while Airbnb also lists shared rooms.

Q: Do I need a license to rent my home on VRBO in Canada?
A: Some cities require it. Check your local municipality’s short-term rental rules.

Q: Does VRBO allow pets?
A: It depends on the host. Many listings are pet-friendly, but always confirm before booking.

VRBO has been a trusted name in vacation rentals for nearly three decades. For Canadian travelers, it offers access to unique stays across the country, from mountain retreats to oceanfront escapes. For homeowners, it’s a chance to earn income while sharing their property with visitors from around the world.

By understanding how VRBO works — and by following its safety and booking guidelines — you can enjoy a smooth and secure travel experience.

Whether you’re packing for a weekend in the Rockies or listing your Muskoka cottage for the summer, VRBO continues to be a go-to platform for connecting people and places in the world of travel.