How to Check in Airbnb: How Check in Works, What to Expect, and How to Have a Positive Airbnb Experience
You’ve booked your Airbnb stay and you’re preparing to travel. Now, the first step to a great Airbnb experience is a smooth check in process. If you’re wondering how to check into Airbnb in general, you’ve come to the right place. This simple guide walks through the general check-in process and common issues to avoid.
Airbnb check in is likely the first interaction you have with your host as a booked guest. Making sure the check in process goes smoothly is pretty simple, and it is explained below.
As someone who’s stayed at numerous Airbnbs over the years, I know the check-in process can set everything off on the right foot. Let’s dive in.
The Airbnb Check in Process
Airbnb’s check in process is simple. Here is how it works.
You reserve your Airbnb, and receive a confirmation email. On the Airbnb platform, the reservation page will now include information about check in and check out.
Next, your host will contact you (usually 48 hours in advance) to share further details about checking into the property. They might include full address, directions, and parking instructions in their message.
Last, you can ask questions before your trip. Remember, it’s good to plan in advance so everything goes smoothly!
Want to dive deeper? Keep reading for a break down of what to expect from the point of booking your reservation to checking in and stepping into your Airbnb, step by step.
Tips to Make Check in Smooth Before You Travel
Before you head out the door on your travels, review Airbnb’s policies and any instructions sent by your Airbnb host. If you have questions about navigating to the property or parking, you can ask Airbnb hosts for directions ahead of time.
Know the check in time of your vacation rental, and as much as possible arrive on time. If you require early check-in you can ask your host. Hosts are not required to provide early check in times, but they may be willing to accommodate your request.
Give the host advanced warning, and if possible ask about check in times before you book. That way, you know up front if a different check in time is available.
Where to Find Airbnb Check in Instructions
Check is is easy through Airbnb. Once you’ve booked your Airbnb you will receive a booking confirmation email with reservation details. This lets you know you’re officially set to stay for your upcoming travels.
You’ll also receive a reservation reminder email leading up to your visit with important details of your reservation.
You can review check in and check out information before your trip starts under your Trips tab. On the Airbnb platform or Airbnb App on your phone click Trips to view your reservation > Things to Know > then click the Check in and Check out tab for a full breakdown of instructions.
Your host should also send you specific check in instructions before your Airbnb booking date. If you notice you haven’t received these instructions within a couple days of your upcoming trip, contact your host to inquire.
Communicating with Airbnb Host During Check in
Your host will provide instructions for check in a couple days before your trip once you’ve confirmed reservation. Usually the check-in information includes lock box instructions, detailed instructions on where to enter, where to park in the rental property, and need-to-know information about your stay.
You also have the host’s phone number if you need to contact them when you arrive. Just keep in mind the local time when contacting your host.
Another easy way to connect with your host is by introducing yourself with a personalized message. Also, if you want to make a great first impression with your booking request I share examples and free templates.
Arriving at Your Airbnb for Check in
You’ve arrived at your Airbnb, what should you expect? The best way to have a smooth check-in process is the following:
Step by Step Guide of How to Check in to Your Airbnb:
- Read the check in instructions before you arrive.
- Allow time to arrive at the check in time.
- If you are delayed and anticipate a late arrival let the host know.
- Park in designated parking areas only.
- During the self-check-in process, locate the guest access and determine if there is a key lockbox or access code to enter.
- Contact the host with any questions.
- Let the host know you checked in successfully.
- Review the welcome message from your host and follow house rules.
How to Park at Your Airbnb
Park in the designated parking space or zone. This prevents any issues with neighbors or local parking ordinances. Always make sure your car is locked and secure. Contact host if you have questions about parking.
Entering Airbnb During Check in
If your host lives on the property they may meet you in person to give you your keys. Otherwise, they will provide some type of key lockbox, smart lock, or door entry code for you to access the rental property.
Once you’ve successfully entered the property, it is great to let your host know you are all set. Then, they can rest easy knowing everything went smoothly with your arrival. This is another way to create a positive rapport between you and the host.
What to do if Your Host is Unresponsive
Sometimes hosts don’t respond to your first message, or you might have poor cell phone service making it tough to reach them. You will have the full address of property and detailed instructions before you arrive, and this can help in the event you can’t reach the property’s owner with questions right away.
If you’re having issues reaching the host throughout your stay and you need assistance, you can go to the Reservations page on Airbnb and use the Get Help tab to connect with the company.
How to Follow Airbnb Host Rules
The host rules are usually posted inside Airbnbs. Be sure to locate your copy of your house rules and follow the rules throughout your stay. Just like check-in, hosts provide check-out time details that need to be followed so the next guest can settle in. If you have questions about the rules you can always reach out. The general theme with Airbnb is that you should be able to contact the host throughout your stay.
Why You Should Leave Feedback and Reviews
If you’ve had a great Airbnb check in experience, leaving positive reviews is a solid way to show appreciation for your stay. It is also a good way to show future hosts that you are a contributing member of the Airbnb community. All in all, leaving positive reviews gives you social proof on the platform.
You can leave a review through your Airbnb account. You can continue to contact the host through your message thread until the end of your booking, and after you leave a review they will be able to see and respond.
Final Tips
One big advantage of Airbnb is how easy and fun it can be to check in and have a relaxing stay. It is worth making the most of your stay from start to finish, and the check in process is a big part of that. After all, where you stay during your travels ends up being a big part of the experience.
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