Whether you’re travelling across the country or planning your next overseas adventure, finding the right Airbnb can make all the difference — especially when you’re travelling with little ones. At Kooshy Kids, we know how much families value comfort, cleanliness, and peace of mind when it comes to accommodation. So here’s what we personally recommend looking for when booking your next stay.

1. Choose Hosts Who Prioritise Cleanliness

A sparkling home listing is great — but what really matters is how thoroughly the space is maintained between guests. Look for properties where the host clearly outlines their cleaning process and includes essentials like fresh linens, sanitised surfaces, and professionally cleaned bathrooms.

What we recommend: Choose listings that show up-to-date reviews specifically mentioning cleanliness. Hosts who go out of their way to include these details often put the same care into the rest of the guest experience.

2. Look for Well-Ventilated Spaces

Good airflow is key to a comfortable stay. Stuffy rooms, strong chemical smells, or windows that don’t open can leave you feeling unwell or uncomfortable — especially on longer trips. A fresh, well-ventilated home supports better sleep and an overall calmer environment.

What we recommend: Prioritise listings with windows you can open, fans, or properties that mention air conditioning, air purifiers, or natural ventilation.

3. Safety Features Shouldn’t Be Optional

When travelling with kids, small details like a secure front door, child-safe staircases, working smoke alarms, and first-aid kits are essential. You shouldn’t have to worry about whether the space you’re staying in is safe and well-equipped.

What we recommend: Always check the “safety features” section of a listing, and if it’s not mentioned, message the host directly. We also suggest using Airbnb’s “Family-Friendly” filter and reading through reviews that reference safety and peace of mind.

4. Read Between the Lines of Reviews

Guest reviews are one of the best ways to get a real feel for what a property is actually like. They can give insight into cleanliness, noise levels, location safety, and the host’s communication style.

What we recommend: Focus on recent 4- and 5-star reviews that go beyond generic praise. Look for specific mentions of “felt safe,” “very clean,” “great for kids,” or “quiet at night.”

5. Go With Hosts Who Show They Care

Little things like a handwritten welcome note, thoughtfully stocked kitchen, or toys left out for the kids say a lot about the kind of experience you’ll have. We always look for hosts who clearly take pride in their space and prioritise comfort and ease for guests.

What we recommend: Choose listings with a personal touch — they’re often the ones that leave you feeling most at home. If you’re unsure, send the host a message before booking and see how they respond.

6. Don’t Hesitate to Ask Questions Before Booking

If you’re unsure about something, it’s better to ask. Whether it’s about air quality, access to a washing machine, or what kind of cleaning products they use, a good host will be happy to answer.

What we recommend: Send a friendly message asking about anything important to your family — you’ll often get a feel for how responsive and helpful the host will be during your stay, too.

Final Thoughts

At Kooshy Kids, we believe that comfort starts with where you stay. A safe, clean, and welcoming Airbnb can make your travel experience smoother, especially when you're travelling with kids. Taking just a few extra steps before booking can make all the difference in how well your family rests and recharges while you're away.

Let us know your go-to tips for finding the perfect stay — and don’t forget to pack your Kooshy favourites for extra comfort on the journey.