Finding the Best Short-Term Housing
Whether you need a temporary spot while apartment hunting, a rental for travel within the U.S., or a place for your entire stay, short-term housing options like VRBO and Hotels.com can be a lifesaver. Let's break down your best short-term housing choices and help you find the right fit!
How to Pick the Right Option for You
Our top pick: Simplicity and value
VRBO (Vacation Rentals by Owner) offers everything from private rooms to entire apartments and houses. It’s ideal if you want a space that feels more like home.
4.8 Homebase rating
✅ Feels Like Home – Most VRBO rentals have kitchens, laundry facilities, and more space than a hotel
✅ Budget-Friendly for Longer Stays – Hosts often give discounts for weekly or monthly rentals, and you can save money by cooking your own meals
✅ Variety of Choices – From shared homes to private apartments, there's something for every budget and preference
❌ Inconsistent Experiences – Each property is unique, so read reviews carefully to avoid surprises
❌ Extra Fees – Similar to hotels, you may run into extra fees, so check the total price before booking
Our top pick: Simplicity and value
Hotels often offer reliability and convenience. They’re great if you’re only staying for a few days or prefer a hassle-free experience. Search thousands of hotels in across the U.S. with Expedia or Hotels.com.
4.8 Homebase rating
✅ Reliable & Easy Check-In – No need to coordinate with a host; just book and check in at the front desk
✅ Amenities Included – Free breakfast, housekeeping, gyms, and business centers can make your stay more comfortable
✅ Great for Short Stays – Perfect if you only need a place for a few nights while you get settled
❌ Higher Costs for Extended Stays – Hotels can get pricey if you need to stay for weeks or months
❌ Smaller Space & No Kitchen – Most hotel rooms are compact and don’t include full kitchens, which can make long stays less comfortable
❌ Limited Flexibility – Unlike VRBO, you usually can’t negotiate long-term discounts or customize your stay as much
Use Trusted Platforms
Secure your stay through reliable sites like VRBO, Expedia, or Hotels.com
Read Reviews
Look for feedback on cleanliness, safety, and host communication
Check the Location
Make sure it’s near public transport or your university to save time and commuting costs
Ensure Payment Works Internationally
Some bookings require full payment upfront, so make sure your credit or debit card works in the U.S.
Questions? Answers.
No. With Adro, you can open an account without an SSN, so it’s the perfect choice for international students.
Adro allows international wire transfers with no fees on inbound wire transfers as well as fast processing. Your family can send money directly to your U.S. account, so you get it quickly.
You can pay rent, buy groceries, pay tuition, and use it for online purchases just like a regular U.S. checking account.
Yes! Adro offers tools that help you start building your credit score, even if you don’t have an SSN yet.
With Adro, you can sign up online and get your account details instantly. Your debit card will arrive shortly after!
To open an account with Adro, you'll need:
- A valid passport
- A student email or approved visa
- A phone number (can be international or U.S.)
- A U.S. address (for receiving your debit card)
Get Started Today
Don’t wait until you arrive in the U.S. to set up your bank account.