SplitStay, a Belgian travel-tech start-up backed by the Start it KBC accelerator, has launched a platform allowing travellers to share hotel rooms and apartments with compatible guests at events.
The service targets festivals, sports tournaments, trade fairs and conferences, where accommodation costs have surged in recent years. Founder Ruben Vanhees says nightly rates around major events like the Olympic Games or large tours can jump by up to 1,000%.
“Accommodation has quietly become one of the biggest barriers to attending live events,” said Vanhees. “For many people, that’s simply out of reach.”
Users create profiles listing their trips and preferences. AI suggests potential roommates based on destination, dates and shared characteristics including age, language and interests. Guests still book through existing platforms like Booking.com or Airbnb, but use SplitStay to find someone to split the cost. The company takes a small fee on the overall booking.
The platform is initially targeting the MICE sector through partnerships with event organisers, ticketing platforms and event management providers. Europe is the first focus market, drawing on the region’s existing sharing-economy habits.
Vanhees tested the concept at the Travel Massive conference in Vietnam, where participants shared a villa. “Living together for a few days created a small community, and the feedback from everyone involved was overwhelmingly positive,” he said.
The company aims to add a networking dimension to business events. “Some of the most valuable conversations at events don’t happen in the conference hall, but at breakfast or late at night back at the accommodation,” said Vanhees.