How to create a 5-star Airbnb check-in process
A guest’s Airbnb experience begins the moment they book their stay. By touching base, streamlining the check-in process, and providing everything they need to know in advance, you will have already provided your guests with a 5-star service before they even arrive.
Our top tips below are easy to follow, and will ensure both a great experience for your guests and you as a host.
Table of Contents
Streamline the check-in process
As a host it’s up to you to make the check-in process as seamless as possible.
- Provide clear and concise instructions: Prepare a check-in document or instruction booklet you can send your guests prior to their arrival. This shows you are professional and experienced in hosting, as well as preempting any questions guests may have.
- Offer self-check-in options: There are plenty of safe key storage solutions on the market. Offering a self-check-in option allows guests freedom and privacy with regards to their arrival time.
- Utilise technology, such as keyless entry systems: Where possible, removing the need for a physical key can be a stress reliever for both Airbnb hosts and guests. Just make sure to send through instructions securely.
Top tip: Be mindful of guests that arrive at night or in the dark, as the property or surrounding areas may look different to instructions or pictures. If you have left a key in a secure place, make sure it’s easily accessible.
Prepare the Airbnb Space for Check-in
Once guests have checked in, it’s time for them to relax, unpack and unwind. Ensuring the space is prepared adequately is important in making them feel welcome and enhancing their stay.
- Ensure the space is clean and organised: First impressions count for a lot. Often the first thing guests want to do is freshen up and unpack after travelling. By making the space easy to relax in, guests will feel immediately at ease.
- Stock bathroom items, such as towels and toiletries: Often guests travel light or forget toiletries. Providing essentials is a simple service, but can really make a big difference to an experience.
- Offer additional amenities, such as snacks or beverages: Small touches go a long way. Going above and beyond for your guests makes the experience more personal and will be appreciated.
Top tip: Let guests know that snacks and beverages are complimentary — they’ll thank you for it!
Create a welcoming atmosphere
As a host you can tailor your Airbnb experience towards your guests — which may be why they chose your stay in the first place. Small, unique touches often mean the most.
- Personalise the space with decor and artwork: Make the space your own. Often guests choose an Airbnb property based on its uniqueness. Don’t be afraid to showcase your style!
- Leave a personalised note or welcome basket for guests: It doesn’t have to break the bank, but a welcome basket with a few breakfast essentials is a thoughtful and useful touch.
- Consider offering a tour of the space or a brief introduction: If you are able to, it may be a good idea to introduce yourself to your guests and offer them a tour of the property or area. If your guests decide to take you up on the offer, it can be great for networking and future referrals.
There are Airbnb property management companies that can support you with this. Frank Porter, for example, offer property management for rentals in Dubai, while GuestReady specialises in the London area. Alternatively, Airbnb has a hosting partner programme that may be of use to you.
Top tip: Provide some handy guides about how guests can use sound systems, TVs, or any electronic devices.
Anticipate Guest Needs
Staying one step ahead of what your guests may want or need makes them feel catered for and can mitigate any inconveniences whilst they’re there. It’s a good idea to read reviews and implement changes for future stays.
- Provide information on local attractions and restaurants: Most guests will appreciate handy tips from someone who knows the local area well. Recommending five top restaurants, cafes, or things to do is a big help.
- Offer recommendations for transportation or parking: If you have a designated parking spot make sure it’s highlighted on your listing. It can be very advantageous, especially if travelling as a family or in a restricted parking area.
- Address any potential issues or concerns before they arise: Not every listing is perfect at all times. Make sure guests are kept well informed about their stay — honesty is the best policy.
Top tip: As well as providing a good check-in service, you should also anticipate the check-out process. Give clear information about where you want keys to be left.
Follow up after check-in
Once your guests are checked in, keeping in contact provides a friendly service. They may be apprehensive about messaging you with any queries, so opening the conversation can be of reassurance.
- Check in with guests after their arrival: A quick message just to check in can go a long way and shows guests you’re thinking of them.
- Offer additional assistance or recommendations: If there is anything your guests have mentioned when booking or checking in, don’t be afraid to follow it up with a message.
Top tip: Once guests leave or have checked out, view increases the chances of them leaving you feedback. don’t just wait for them to give you feedback — you can also write a review about them. Provided the guests have been a pleasure to host, giving them a positive review can encourage them to do the same for you.
