Great ideas @Ann72 & @Branka-and-Silvia0. I’m for a “0”default as well. I’ve used the system as a guest and had my “2” turn into a “1” guest by the final confirmation. Then you feel like an idiot when you then contact the host to let them know there are two of you....
As a host, my space is a standard fee, with a capacity to fit up to four persons and an infant. However, the guest number and the breakdown matters, to the bed configurations that a guest can request. Or the setting up of cots etc. I’ve had to not allow a larger number when further communicating uncovers a larger number than the space can bear. That irritating “1” default is time wasting, requiring emails and messaging to clarify.
While AIrbnb alter the default “1” to a “0” and bring in a end of process pop up for numbers, how about a link to the hosts maximum number (their settings) and that guest booking number.
Example, if on the penultimate click, before “book”, if a guest puts in five guests (adults/children) and in a hosts guests numbers are set, at say “four” adults and children, another pop up appears, saying this listing cannot accept five adults/ children.
Wow. That would save deliberate oversights on numbers. Alert guests that any extra guests is against the listings rules. That then only leaves the obviously deceitful at play. Saves time... But they could then be told they can send an enquiry to the host, outlying their guest number query!
Win win... Four it removes time wasters and would allow a host to have a mature conversation with the potential booking guest.