Airbnb Guest Messages that get You 5-Star Reviews
If you’re still writing custom messages to every Airbnb guest and answering the same questions over and over, it’s time to streamline your communication. Creating clear, automated Airbnb guest messages can save you hours each week, improve your guests’ experiences, and lead to better reviews.
In this guide, I’ll show you the five essential messages every host should send, when to send them, and how to automate them using built-in Airbnb tools or third-party software. Plus, I’ve included a free download of ready-to-use message templates to help you get started.
I’ve tested these systems at my rental in Hawaii, Kona Landing, and they’ve been a game-changer.
Guest Messages Short-Term Rental Hosts Need
A big part of what makes platforms like Airbnb and VRBO so appealing is the personal touch. Guests want to feel like they’re staying in someone’s well-loved space—not a faceless hotel.
That experience begins with communication. Clear, consistent guest messaging builds trust, sets expectations, and prevents confusion. Both Airbnb and VRBO allow hosts to save and schedule guest messages, and these tools have become increasingly user-friendly over the past few years.
If you’re not using automated messaging yet, you’re missing an opportunity to elevate your hosting while freeing up your time.
5 Must-Send Automated Messages for Airbnb Hosts
These are the five most important messages to set up and schedule within Airbnb’s native tools or with the help of automation software.
Learn how to set up automated guest messages on Airbnb.
1. Booking Confirmation
This is your guest’s first touchpoint. Confirm the reservation, thank them for booking, and direct them to review your house rules or guest guide. Invite questions or special requests so they know you’re approachable.
2. Pre-Arrival Message (24 to 48 hours before check-in)
Include directions to your property, check-in times, and access instructions for the lockbox or smart lock. This is also a great time to remind guests of parking info, Wi-Fi details, or what to expect at arrival.
3. Check-In Follow-Up (within 24 hours of arrival)
Touch base to make sure everything went smoothly. Ask if they need anything else. This message gives them a chance to mention any issues early, which helps you address concerns before they affect your review.
4. Checkout Reminder (night before departure)
Reinforce the checkout time and share reminders about any expectations, like stripping beds, running the dishwasher, or locking up. Keep the tone warm and thankful.
5. Post-Stay Thank You and Review Request
After confirming everything looks good at the property, send a final message thanking them for their stay. If you’ve left them a review already, let them know and ask if they’d be willing to leave one too.
Common Guest Questions You Should Save as Quick Replies
Beyond your core automated messages, it’s smart to have responses saved for common questions that pop up mid-stay. This keeps your tone consistent and saves you from typing the same thing over and over.
Examples of good messages to have saved:
Can I check in early or check out late?
This is one of the most common requests, so it helps to have a saved reply ready. Decide if early check-in or late checkout is a courtesy or something you charge for, and set clear boundaries. Keep in mind your cleaner needs enough time to clean and do laundry between guests—cutting into their schedule might not be an option.
Where should we eat or go out while we’re here?
Guests love local recommendations. While Airbnb allows hosts to curate a local guide, a better approach is to create your own blog post with your favorite restaurants, bars, and attractions. You can then link it in your guest messages, your welcome book, or even on printed materials in your home to drive traffic to your website for future direct bookings.
Can we get a discount?
You’re running a business, not a flea market. While you can always use your judgment, it’s totally okay to say no to discount requests. Just write your personal policy once, save it, and use it as your default response—friendly, firm, and consistent.
What are some fun things to do with kids nearby?
This is a great opportunity to go above and beyond. Curate a local family-friendly guide and link to it in your messages or your welcome materials. You can also monetize this section through affiliate links or local referral partnerships. Here's how I approach personalized guest experiences to make every stay more memorable.
What’s the Wi-Fi password?
This is the number one question you want to answer before it's asked. Place it front and center using a printed sign like one of these. Guests will appreciate how easy it is to find, and you’ll avoid the extra message.
How can we stay in touch with you?
Use your follow-up messages to build your brand beyond the stay. Encourage guests to follow you on Instagram, tag your rental in photos, or sign up for your newsletter. It’s a subtle way to stay top of mind—and earn future bookings.
The Best Tools to Automate Airbnb Guest Messages
Airbnb has come a long way in offering built-in message scheduling, but if you manage multiple properties or want more customization, there are excellent tools available.
Hospitable
Formerly Smartbnb, Hospitable is one of the top platforms for message automation. It supports customizable message flows, real-time replies to guest questions, and even multi-language messages. Plans start around $25/month.
Hostaway
A full property management system for multi-listing hosts. Includes robust automation tools, channel manager, calendar sync, and analytics.
OwnerRez
Best for hosts who take direct bookings. Combines CRM tools with scheduling, email templates, and full integration across Airbnb, VRBO, and others.
Guesty for Hosts
Ideal for solo hosts. It’s simple, intuitive, and offers seamless integration with Airbnb’s messaging system.
Superhost Tools
Budget-friendly and focused on messaging alone. At $5 per listing per month, it’s a great starter option if you’re only looking to automate guest communication.
Airbnb Scheduled Messages
Airbnb’s built-in tool is often enough for one or two properties. You can create templates and send them automatically based on check-in or checkout dates.
More Than Messages: Setting Clear Expectations with Visuals
While messages are your front line of communication, your space should also speak for itself. Adding clear visual reminders can help reinforce policies and reduce guest questions.
A few of my go-to strategies:
Use printed signs around the house for Wi-Fi info, check-out instructions, or quiet hours
Create a custom Airbnb welcome book that answers FAQs, includes local recommendations, and sets the tone for a great stay
Think through the entire guest experience from arrival to departure, and anticipate common friction points before they happen
It’s also worth reviewing what not to do as an Airbnb host so you can avoid miscommunications or rookie mistakes that affect your reviews.
If you’re building or refining your hosting systems, I’ve put together a list of short-term rental resources to help you manage everything from automation to guest gifts.
Download My Free Guest Messaging Template
To save you even more time, I’ve written all the messages covered in this article—plus a few extras—for you to copy and paste.
This free guide includes booking confirmations, check-in instructions, post-stay follow-ups, and more. Just tweak to match your voice, and you’re ready to go.
