What's your preferred check-in system and style?

[Bhumika]

Guest arrival and Check-In

Hi Everyone! 

Usually when the guests arrive at the listing, every Host has a different style and check-in system in place to greet guests and help them access the listing. Some Hosts prefer virtual check-in while some Hosts may like to meet their guests in person and guide them through the listing. 

Based on your hosting style and guest requirements, the check-in window for guests can also widely vary. While few Hosts accommodate a flexible check-in time for the guests, some Hosts may find that a standard check-in time works well for their listing. 

I'd like to invite our Hosts to share what's their hosting style when guests arrive to the listing. 

What's your preferred method and approach for guests checking into your property? How long is your check-in window? Is there a particular sweet spot? Do you offer flexible check in to your guests? Do you change the check-in times depending on the seasons?

Looking forward to your insights and suggestions! 🌻

[Greg2406]

Hi again Bhumika,

 Yes, guests tend to follow house rules.  

The binder is a simple 3/4" three ring binder.  Each section is tabbed so that the Guests can quickly turn to each section.  House Rules, Specialty Menu, Wine List, Things to do in the area; attractions, beaches, restaurants, nightclubs,.., and then restaurant menus.    Most guests read it all and write about it in our Guest Book.  Binder cover

[Miguel2294]

Hello Bhumkia

I am miguel from the Dominican Republic , in my case I prefer self check in , I leafy the keys in a smart lock box and give special instruction to the guess with a unique passcode for them to get the key and access to their accommodation .

sometime I have inconvenience with some guess because not all of them like or follow written instruction , how ever self check in is a success key for me 

[Bhumika]

Hi @Miguel2294 , Thanks for sharing your experience with the check-in process.  How do you usually handle instances where guests face difficulties despite the instructions?

On a side note, one of the Host from Dominican Republic is looking for help related to local regulations in the region. Would you be keen to help this Host? To help the Host you can click here to view the discussion : 👉 Airbnb Condo in Dominican Republic  👈

Many thanks Miguel! 🌻

[Miguel2294]

What I do is share a link containing a PDF file with all the instructions for their accommodation. This PDF includes details with photos on how to get there, how to check in by themselves, among other detail.

the same day of their check in I share with them the key pass code 

see the link with the details :

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1tOJI0rR9lrszzWDpofCIcoiW630XhOEC/view?usp=sharing

Regards

Miguel

[Bhumika]

That's a great idea ! @Miguel2294 Thanks for kindly sharing it with other Hosts 🌻

[Karen4192]

 am Karen from el Pso Tx.  We use the lockbox system and it has worked well  Guest are contacted before and on the day of arrival.  There is a property manager there to assist if there are probems which we haven't had with check ins.

[Bhumika]

That's amazing @Karen4192 ! It's great to hear that the check-in system is working well for you and guests. It's a bonus to have a property manager available for guests, just in case they have any queries. Have your guests ever needed to contact the property manager while they were staying? 😉

[Muhammad460]

My preferred check-in system combines convenience and personalization. Utilizing a digital lock or key box ensures guests can access the property independently, offering flexibility with arrival times. Simultaneously, a personalized welcome message or guidebook provides essential information and local tips, enhancing the guest experience from the moment they arrive. This approach balances ease of access with a warm, welcoming touch, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable start to their stay.

[Bhumika]

Thanks for sharing @Muhammad460 ! 

[Kyle880]

My entry has a keypad by Igloohome. It is linked to Airbnb. On the day of arrival, a unique code is generated and sent to the guest in an automated email. The guest then uses the keypad to admit themselves to my Airbnb space. It is not necessary for me to be present and interact with my guests at check in. This is very useful to me because I work an overnight shift and sleep during the day.

Only two guests have had difficulty admitting themselves. I gave one a physical key. The other was accidentally omitting the last step for entering the code. I updated my welcome letter to clarify the process and emphasize that last step. Fortunately they were later check-ins and I was awake and able to respond promptly.

[Bhumika]

Hi @Kyle880 , Thanks for sharing your process with us! Sounds like a very efficient plan! Have their been similar instances like you mentioned, once you've updated the welcome letter to clarify check-in process? How's it been since then? 

On a side note, I noticed that your listing is actually a historic home 😍 How did you come up with the idea of publishing it on Airbnb? Did you have to undergo restoration of certain aspects of the listing before opening it up for guests?

[Beatriz1008]

Hi Bhumika,

I just go with the flow, if the guest decided to check in by themself is ok;  If  they want to meet me is

ok as well.

Thanks,

Olgui P

[Beatriz1008]

I found out meeting them in person regardless of the time they show up makes my life a lot easier,  haven't had no issues so far.

Thanks !

[Bhumika]

That's such a balanced approach @Beatriz1008 ! What's the check-in window for your listing? Do you prefer a specific time for guest arrival or are they allowed to check-in regardless of a set time? 

[Laura6801]

Hi everyone,

I’m Laura from “Freda’s Treasure” in Par Cornwall.

We have a secure key lock at our home for guests to let themselves in however the majority of the time I like to be home to greet my guests and show them to their rooms and I think that the guests appreciate that more. This has proven to work really well.