Early Check-in at Airbnb Explained

Airbnb has revolutionized the traveling industry, offering many accommodations that are often cheaper and more authentic than traditional hotels.

Airbnb is all about creating unique and personal experiences for travelers worldwide.

One aspect that often troubles travelers is early check-in, an important concern, especially for those arriving at odd hours or with a tight itinerary.

In this article, we will take a closer look at checking in before the appointed time at Airbnb, exploring what it means, how to request it, and what to expect.

So, let’s dive in and get to know the nitty-gritty of early check-in at Airbnb.

What Is “Early Check-In” at Airbnb

It is the ability to check into your Airbnb rental before the standard arrival time, usually around 3 pm.

It can be an appealing option for guests who have early flights or are arriving in the morning and want to drop off their bags and start exploring the city.

However, checking in prior is not always guaranteed. It depends on the host’s availability and willingness to accommodate your request.

Before requesting an early check-in, it’s vital to understand the rules and etiquette surrounding this option.

Requesting an Early Check-in

Firstly, it’s important to communicate with your host before requesting early check-in. In your initial message, explain why you want to arrive early and ask if it’s possible.

If the host is willing to accommodate your request, they will let you know and may ask for more information, such as your flight details or estimated arrival time.

Don’t take it personally if the host cannot accommodate your request. They may have another guest checking out on the same day or need extra time to clean and prepare the space for your arrival.

In this case, respecting their decision and waiting until the standard time is best.

If the host does agree, it’s important to be considerate and arrive at the agreed-upon time. Don’t show up early without giving the host notice, as they may still be managing the space.

Equally, don’t arrive late, as this may cause problems if the host has other commitments.

How to Register on Airbnb Website for Early Check-in

The steps for registration are as follows:

1. Log in to your Airbnb account.
2. Navigate to the listing where you want to register for your early arrival.
3. Click on the “Edit” button located under the listing’s title.
4. Scroll down to “Check-In” and click on the “Add Early Check-In” button.
5. Set the time and date that you want to reach, and enter any applicable fees.
6. Click on “Save” to finalize your registration.

Note that it is subject to availability and may incur additional fees. Make sure to communicate with your host beforehand to ensure a smooth and timely process.

Additional Fee for Arriving Early

Some hosts may charge an additional fee for checking in before your time slot. This fee will be outlined in the listing and should be paid before your arrival.

If you’re unsure whether the fee applies, check the listing or ask the host.

Another option for early arrival is to use Airbnb’s new feature, Early Bird Check-In. This feature allows guests to check in for a fee as early as 9 am.

Hosts can opt-in to this feature, which is available for guests to add on during the booking process.

It’s important to note that not all hosts will offer this feature, so it’s always best to check with your host before making a request.

Pros and Cons

The feature of early check-in is great if you’re traveling with the flow without particular plans. But there’s always a possibility of things going wrong.

Let’s discuss some of the key pros and cons of this feature.

Pros of Early Check-in at Airbnb

1. Convenience: It allows guests to drop off their luggage and settle into the accommodation earlier than the standard check-in time, giving them more time to explore the city or rest after a long journey.
2. Flexibility: It can give guests more flexibility in their travel plans, allowing them to adjust their itinerary accordingly.
3. Avoiding crowds: Checking in early can help guests avoid crowds and lines at popular tourist destinations, as they can start exploring earlier in the day.

Cons of Early Check-in at Airbnb

1. Potential inconvenience for hosts: It may not be possible if the previous guests have not checked out yet, which can cause inconvenience for the host.
2. Additional cost: Some Airbnb hosts may charge an extra fee for it, which can increase the overall cost of the stay.
3. Impact on cleaning schedule: Arriving early can disrupt the cleaning schedule of the host, which may impact the quality of the cleaning or delay the availability of the accommodation for the next guests.

Alternatives of Early Check-in at Airbnb

If you cannot secure an early spot, other options are available. You could store your luggage at a nearby luggage storage facility or the airport.

Many airports offer luggage storage services for a fee, which can be a convenient option if you have a late flight.

Alternatively, you could explore the city and take advantage of Airbnb’s Experiences. Experiences are unique activities hosted by locals that allow you to explore the city and get to know the culture.

Experiences can range from cooking classes to guided tours and are a great way to make the most of your time in the city before checking into your Airbnb rental.

Hacks for Hosts to Prepare Their Property for Early Check-in

Preparing your Airbnb rental property for guests arriving earlier can be challenging, especially if guests are checking out on the same day.

However, there are several hacks that you can use to streamline the process and ensure that your rental property is ready. Here are some tips:

Create a Detailed Cleaning Checklist

Create a detailed cleaning checklist that includes all the tasks needed before the next guests arrive.

This can include tasks such as changing bed sheets, cleaning bathrooms, and restocking supplies.

Use Cleaning Tools Efficiently

Use cleaning tools such as vacuums and mops efficiently to save time and energy. For example, use a cordless vacuum to quickly clean floors and a multi-purpose cleaner to clean surfaces.

Hire Professional Cleaning Services

Consider hiring professional cleaning services to help you clean your rental property quickly and efficiently. This can be especially helpful if you have a large property or multiple properties to clean.

Stock Up on Supplies

Keep your rental property stocked with essential supplies such as toilet paper, towels, and soap. This can help you avoid running out of supplies and having to make last-minute trips to the store.

Best towels for Airbnb

Streamline Check-In Process

Use technology such as smart locks to streamline the check-in process for guests arriving earlier than their given time.

This allows them to check in at their convenience without coordinating with you directly.

Using these hacks, you can quickly and efficiently prepare your Airbnb rental property for early arrivals quickly and efficiently, without sacrificing quality or guest satisfaction.

Conclusion

In summary, early it is a popular request among Airbnb guests, but it’s not always guaranteed.

It is important to communicate with your host before requesting and considering their schedule and needs.

If early arrival is not possible, other options, such as luggage storage and Airbnb Experiences, are available.

With a little planning and communication, you can maximize your Airbnb experience and enjoy your trip to the fullest.