The move, powered by CarTrawler, signals Airbnb's push to become a full online travel agency, setting up competition with Expedia, its partner's likely future owner.
Airbnb has launched a car rental service in five countries, according to details identified by Skift and later confirmed by the company. The service, powered by CarTrawler, is now live in the U.S., France, Italy, Spain, and Australia.
This move marks Airbnb's latest step towards operating as a full-service online travel agency. CarTrawler, an Ireland-based B2B provider of ground transport, is central to this expansion.
The partnership comes as Expedia is reportedly set to acquire CarTrawler for $350 million, a development Skift reported in May. This acquisition means CarTrawler could soon become an Expedia brand, creating a scenario where it competes with its new partner, Airbnb, on car rental offerings.
Through the Airbnb CarTrawler Credit program, customers booking car rentals from brands such as Avis, Hertz, Budget, and Enterprise can earn up to 20% in Airbnb credits, capped at $200. These credits are valid for stays, experiences, and services, issued within 60 days of car return, and remain valid for two years.
The company has also introduced scheduled transit-hub pickups and appointed Maxime Renson as global head of Airbnb Services. This vertical, launched in May 2025, includes car rentals alongside other offerings like chefs and spa treatments, according to Skift.
The initiative positions Airbnb in direct competition with established online travel agencies like Booking.com and Expedia, expanding its reach beyond private accommodation.
For property owners, this expansion could mean increased traffic to the Airbnb platform, potentially broadening the pool of guests seeking accommodation alongside their travel arrangements.
Source
Skift — reported 17 July 2026. Read by the Amorielli news desk.
