
The goal is to “cut down on the number of messages to respond to, copy-pasting or rewriting instructions for every guest,” Airbnb explains in a blog post.
AIRBNB CHECKOUT INSTRUCTIONS OFFLINE
The check-in guides will also be automatically saved offline within the app, so you can still access them without a data connection. Now, given this new check-in process, Airbnb will urge hosts to follow its rubric and make detailed guides. These instructions are typically inconsistent from host to host, and are really dependent on how thoughtful the host wants to be. Because hosts aren’t always around to help you find your way into an apartment or house, they often rely on attaching some prewritten block of text in a message sent in-app or as an email. Airbnb wants to cut down on check-in horror storiesĪirbnb is building its new process right into its app as an opt-in, step-by-step guide hosts can create using photos and text instructions. Struggling to find time to manage your Airbnb? From check-ins and check-outs to cleanings and guest communication, hosting takes time! If you’re looking for a little support, /c to learn about our Airbnb property management services in Ottawa and Gatineau. If you can’t accommodate their request for an early check-in/late check-out, could you offer luggage storage for a small fee instead? This option is a great compromise that should keep your guest happy. Often, guests have time between their check-in/check-out and flights, and don’t want to lug a heavy suitcase around while they kill time. If you do decide to bend the rules, you may charge the guest an extra fee for the change. Will it interfere with the cleaning schedule? Will it interfere with another guest’s stay? Is it something you feel comfortable with? These are all things to consider when deciding whether or not to allow early check ins/late check outs. Sometimes, a guest may request an early check-in or a late check-out to accommodate an early arrival or a late departure. You can touch base with them to make sure everything has gone smoothly. Make sure they know that they can reach out to you with any questions they may have. Send out your check-out instructions a day or two before your guest checks out. If your Airbnb uses a lockbox, your guest will need to return the key to the lockbox. At this point, your guest has already checked in and is more familiar with the property. The check-out process is typically much easier. If guests are coming at night, leave a light on outside! It will help them find your property safely, and makes it easier for them to get sorted with the lockbox/keypad. We recommend that you check to make sure that your lockbox is where it should or that the smart lock batteries aren’t running low. If you don’t hear from them, touch base to see if they’ve checked in okay or have any questions about help checking in. Make sure you are available during the check-in time to answer any questions your guest may have. You may know your property well and not pick up on details that someone else might find confusing.Ĭommunication is key. When in doubt, ask a friend to test out your check-in instructions. You can even add photos to your check-in instructions through Airbnb! Include all of the crucial information, and try to put yourself in the guest’s shoes. If you want to ensure a smooth self check-in process, you’ll want to make sure the instructions you provide are clear as day.

Keep in mind your guests might be tired from a long trip, and are probably excited to get settled in in private! This is a great time to go over any house rules and answer any questions they may have. If you are meeting the guests at the property for key handover, you’ll have the opportunity to give them a warm welcome and a quick tour of the Airbnb. Your guests will be thankful for the stress-free arrival – and ready to settle into a relaxed vacation in their Airbnb suite! It can help to make the process smoother and more comfortable for them. Self check-ins are typically the preferred method of check-in (as opposed to host-led) because it saves everyone time.īy enabling self check-in, you’re giving your guest more privacy. With self check in, your guests can get into your Airbnb property using a key lockbox, smartlock or keypad on the day of their arrival.

So if you want great reviews, start with optimizing your check-in process!

The goal is to make the process as simple and stress-free as possible on both ends. Keep in mind, often when your guests show up, they’re tired – maybe they’ve been driving for hours, or travelling with children. Your guests are looking for an easy and efficient check-in process so that they can get settled in. Airbnb has changed the way guests check into their vacation suites.
