Printing a welcome booklet for your Airbnb guests is a great way to enhance their experience and maximize your chances of getting positive reviews. It makes your visitors feel comfortable and welcome while providing them with all the essential information about your accommodation. It’s also an opportunity to introduce them to local attractions, restaurants and other interesting activities to do around your accommodation. Here’s why and how to create an Airbnb welcome booklet, and the elements to include to ensure a perfect stay.
Why a welcome booklet, this nice little extra
When your guests arrive at your Airbnb listing, they may be tired after a long trip, or even stressed about settling into an unfamiliar place. A well-designed Airbnb welcome booklet allows them to get an overview of everything they need to know about your accommodation, without having to ask too many questions or search for information on their own.
A welcome booklet can:
- Facilitate arrival and stay : your guests will find clear information on arrival and departure procedures, the operation of the equipment, as well as the rules to respect.
- Strengthen the relationship with guests : a personalized booklet shows that you care about the comfort and well-being of your guests.
- Anticipate frequently asked questions : You can avoid repeated messages or calls by providing all the answers to the most common questions up front.
- Promote local businesses and attractions : a welcome booklet is an opportunity to share your recommendations and create links with the local community.
What your welcome booklet absolutely must contain
To be useful and complete, your welcome booklet must address several essential aspects of your guests’ stay. Here are the most important sections to include.
1. Practical information about your accommodation
Contact details and details
Start by including your contact information (or that of a trusted person if you are absent) so that guests can contact you if necessary. Consider adding:
- Your phone number
- Your email address
- The times when you can be reached
- An emergency number to contact in the event of a serious problem (fire brigade, police, etc.)
Arrival and departure instructions
Be clear about arrival and departure procedures. Provide specific information on:
- Arrival and departure time authorized.
- THE instructions for returning keys at the end of your stay (key box, access code, hand delivery, etc.).
- THE rules to follow when leaving : empty the trash, put away the dishes, close the windows, etc.
Equipment user guide
Take the time to describe how the equipment in your home works, especially if it is not intuitive. Here are some examples of equipment to cover:
- Television and internet box : explanation of the remote control, available channels, Wi-Fi code.
- Air conditioning or heating : how to adjust the temperature.
- Household appliances : washing machine, dishwasher, oven, etc.
- Safety devices : alarms, smoke detectors, etc.
2. Internal rules of your Airbnb
The internal regulations are one of the most important points for a smooth stay. Clearly detail what is and is not permitted in your accommodation:
- THE hours of silence (especially if you are in a building or residential area).
- There pet policy (whether you accept them or not).
- L’use of common areas : swimming pool, terrace, parking.
- THE rules regarding smoking (in the accommodation or in specific areas only).
- There waste management : sort the trash, where to throw it, collection days, etc.
3. Tips for enjoying the surroundings
Your guests will probably appreciate having some local recommendations for discovering the region. This is also an opportunity to show them that you know the area well and that you want them to make the most of their stay.
The best restaurants and cafes
Offer a selection of your favorite restaurants, including varied options for all budgets and tastes (local, international, vegetarian cuisine, etc.). Consider mentioning:
- THE hours of operation restaurants.
- THE types of cuisine proposed.
- There distance on foot or by car from your home.
Activities to do in the surrounding area
Your guests may not be familiar with the area, and a little guidance can really make their lives easier. Suggest ideas for activities depending on the season and interests:
- THE parks or natural sites to visit: hiking trails, beaches, forests, etc.
- THE museums or monuments interesting histories.
- THE local events (markets, festivals, concerts) during their stay.
Useful shops and services
Tell guests where they can find basic services near your accommodation:
- Supermarkets and grocery stores
- Pharmacies
- Banks and ATMs
- Gas stations
- Bus stops or train stations
4. Personalized recommendations for a unique welcoming touch
A welcome booklet should not only be functional. Take the opportunity to add a personal touch that will make your Airbnb memorable. Here are some ideas:
- A personalized welcome message to your guests, explaining why you have decided to welcome them to your home and how you want to make their stay pleasant.
- Tips from locals : a hidden café with a beautiful view, a little secret hike, or a lesser-known beach. This can give a feeling of exclusivity to your guests.
- Local partnerships : if you know any businesses or service providers (such as bike rentals, tourist guides, or yoga teachers), don’t hesitate to offer discounts or special offers for your guests.
Some tips for a successful Airbnb welcome booklet
1. Update it from time to time
The information in your booklet must always be up to date. Be sure to review it periodically to check that business hours have not changed, that your local partners still offer discounts, or that your equipment has not evolved.
2. Use a welcoming and caring tone
Although the booklet contains important instructions, keep a friendly and caring tone. A tone that is too formal or authoritative can give the impression that you don’t trust your guests. Remember that this document is there to guide them, not reprimand them.
3. Include photos and illustrations
Adding a few photos of your accommodation, its history if you wish, local attractions or even maps can make the booklet more attractive and easy to read. This also makes it easier to see certain instructions, such as the location of keys or trash cans.
4. Multiply languages if necessary
If you regularly welcome foreign guests, consider offering a few pages of your booklet in several languages, at least in English. You can also include links to local tourist guides available in other languages to help them better explore the area.
Small effort, big impact!
Creating an Airbnb welcome booklet isn’t a complicated task, but it’s a gesture that can make a huge difference to your guests’ experience. This document not only makes their stay more pleasant and smooth, but also demonstrates your professionalism and your commitment to offering them the best possible stay. Remember, happy guests are the key to receiving positive reviews and building customer loyalty.
By taking the time to write a complete, clear and welcoming welcome booklet, you show your guests that you have thought of everything for their comfort.