Well, good for you I guess, and keep doing whatever works for you.

Personally I see a distinction between four backpackers with their own savings and incomes, and a family of four with two kids who have their own mattresses and silk liners and are willing to share a bed, but then I don't expect people to accommodate me because of this.

That's why I send a message before asking to book and simply ask if it is possible and if it would be acceptable to them before going ahead and trying to book.

If they say no that's perfectly fine. No problem at all.

We've had some truly wonderful experiences and made some great friends with our hosts along the way, and I love the Airbnb platform because of this.

We certainly don't expect everyone to be ok with having a family as guests, and that's fine. That's the beauty of being able to contact someone and converse with them first.

In fact we're currently staying for two weeks in Delhi at a place that's technically for two people. One kid in the bed with us, one on our mattress on the floor. We were completely upfront with our host, and he was happy to accommodate us. We have accommodation, he has a booking for two weeks. He's a lovely guy and everyone is happy.

But each host to their own of course.