Why Should I Use Self Checking For My Airbnb?

[Devin-and-Sarah0]

Hi bnb community, I keep reading about how I should use self checkin for my Airbnb. Is this necessary? What are the benefits to switch to smart locks etc. 

[Alice595]

@Devin-and-Sarah0  For me I use a combination of a self check-in and in person check-in.  The advantage of self check-in is but not limited to

(1) Check-in time can be very late. Some guests don't arrive until after mid night.

(2) Flexible arrival time for guests. Sometimes guests may not arrive at the ETA provided for various reasons.

(3) Save a host time. A host does not have to arrange time to meet the guests for check-in

(4) Reduce the stress. When a guest is delayed for some reason and not able to check-in at specified time, the host is stressed during waiting.

(5) With Smart lock for check-in, there is enhanced security because the code can be changed after each booking. A key could be copied and get lost etc.

(6) Some guests prefer self check-in because they may feel uneasy for whatever reasons. 

[Devin-and-Sarah0]

Thank you!

[Annie235]

The first time I used self check-in as a host Airbnb notified me that the guest had checked in.  Since then I have had no notification and had to contact the guest to find out if they had checked in.  Have I missed something where it asks if I want to be notified or has Airbnb stopped doing this?

[Sarah977]

@Annie235  I've never heard of Airbnb notifying hosts when a guest checks in. How would Airbnb know if the guest had checked in? How did you receive that notice? 

No, I don't think you are missing anything.

[Annie235]

When the guest clicks on start check-in I am sure airbnb sees that.  They send them the link.

[Sarah977]

@Annie235  I've never been a guest, so I wasn't aware of that feature. It sounds like something most guests wouldn't bother to do. It isn't a requirement.

[Annie235]

I'm out of town currently so they have to use it and in my confirmation to them I also tell them that. There are photos that tell them the lock box code and where it is, directions to the unit with photos.  It is apparently new and wonderful.  I just want to know when they have arrived.