Request is still "pending host approval" even though it's been over 24 hours

[Lizzy32]

From what I can see on the website it says that hosts have 24 hours to respond to my request to stay with them. It's been over 24 hours and I've not heard anything, but also the request hasn't expired. Will this happen soon, automatically? Is it actually 24 hours or will it take a little bit longer to expire? I'm trying to book somewhere for a relatively soon trip to a university conference, and I'd love to stay with them if I can, but would obviously like to start looking for somewhere new to stay ASAP if that's not possible. 

[Kelly149]

@Lizzy32 if it's taking too long, do you have the ability to withdraw the request??

you could always call cs to get them to help you.

I don't think I'd want to stay with a host if it's been more than 24 hours and you haven't heard a peep out of them at all

[Melanie33]

While not excusing the host at this time of year it’s possible they are on holiday and not able to access their messages.  They should of course have made a plan if that is the case.

[Ian-And-Anne-Marie0]

@Lizzy32 

I believe that with your booking request you will have already made a payment and you are awaiting host approval. It is true that the host has 24 hours to either approve or cancel your request, and they need to provide some reason for that or incur penalties. They wouldn't want that.

You, on the other hand have 48 hours to cancel without any loss. If you cancel within 48 hours you will get a refund. What I would do is find an alternative accommodation, ENQUIRE with them if it would be OK to book for your chosen dates but you need to confirm some further details like; that you are are attending a university conference and you would like to know the easiest way to get to the conference from the accommodation and how long it might take...  Then nearer the end of your 48 hour period after awaiting any response from your first host, cancel your first host and book with your next choice subject to an acceptable answer.

You might also check with Airbnb why you have had no confirmation or cancellation of your booking request.