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Airbnb Check-In Instructions Templates

Copy-paste check-in messages to send ~24 hours before arrival with clear access steps for smart locks, lockboxes, doormen, in-person handoffs, and multi-step entry.

By HostPal Editorial TeamUpdated Jun 8, 2026
5 templates
The short answer

Five ready-to-send templates for the day-before check-in with exact access details. Use the variant that matches how guests actually enter: smart lock, lockbox, doorman, in-person handoff, or complex multi-step access.

Send a clear, calm access message about 24 hours before arrival so guests arrive relaxed and don’t need to call you. This pack covers the five common setups: smart lock (code or app), lockbox, an in-person key handoff, building doorman/concierge, and a complex multi-step entry with gates, elevators, or entry codes. Use the smart-lock variant when guests can enter directly with a code or mobile app; use lockbox if a physical box contains the key; use in-person handoff when you or an agent will meet them; use doorman when the building staff will let them in; and use the complex variant when they need a sequence of codes, gate passes, and unit directions. Replace the {{placeholders}} with your property-specific info, confirm the official check-in time {{check_in_time}}, include your contact number {{host_phone}}, and add any last-minute tips (parking, elevator codes, quiet hours). Keep messages short and actionable — first line says hello and arrival time, second line gives the access method, third line covers any extra steps, and final line offers a quick contact if anything goes wrong.

Template #1

Smart lock — code or app

self-check-insmart-lock24h-beforedirect-entry
Hi {{guest_name}}, welcome! Your stay at {{property_name}} starts tomorrow at {{check_in_time}}. You can enter directly with the smart lock.

Code: {{smart_lock_code}} (valid from {{check_in_start}} to {{check_out_end}}). If your phone prompts for the app, download {{smart_lock_app}} and sign in with this email: {{host_email}}.

Front door is at {{address}}; unit {{unit_number}}. Wifi: {{wifi_network}} / {{wifi_password}}.

If the code doesn't work, try locking/unlocking once more and re-entering. Text or call me at {{host_phone}} and I’ll respond quickly.
When to send: Send ~24 hours before check-in when guests unlock with a smart lock code or app.
Template #2

Lockbox with key

lockboxself-check-inkey24h-before
Hi {{guest_name}}, looking forward to hosting you at {{property_name}} tomorrow. Check-in anytime after {{check_in_time}}.

The key is in a lockbox at the front steps. Lockbox code: {{lockbox_code}}. The lockbox is attached to the black railing to the left of the main door. Pull down the cover, enter the code, and lift to open.

Address: {{address}}, unit {{unit_number}}. Wifi network: {{wifi_network}} / {{wifi_password}}.

If the lockbox is stuck or the code doesn’t open it, call or text me immediately at {{host_phone}} and I’ll come help.
When to send: Send ~24 hours before check-in when you provide a physical key in a lockbox.
Template #3

In-person key handover

in-personmeet-and-greetkey-handover24h-before
Hi {{guest_name}}, excited to host you at {{property_name}}! Arrival is tomorrow; check-in begins at {{check_in_time}}.

I (or my co-host {{cohost_name}}) will meet you at the property to hand over the keys. Please arrive between {{meeting_window_start}} and {{meeting_window_end}} and text me when you are 5 minutes away: {{host_phone}}.

Meeting spot: the main building entrance at {{address}}. If your plans change or you're delayed, please notify me as soon as possible so we can adjust.

Wifi: {{wifi_network}} / {{wifi_password}}. See you soon!
When to send: Send ~24 hours before check-in when you or an agent will meet the guest to hand off keys.
Template #4

Doorman / building concierge (short)

doormanconciergeshort24h-before
Hi {{guest_name}}, quick heads up for tomorrow’s arrival at {{property_name}}. Check-in after {{check_in_time}}. Tell the doorman/concierge your name and unit {{unit_number}}; they will buzz you in. If you have trouble, call/text {{host_phone}}.
When to send: Send ~24 hours before check-in when the building staff lets guests in (short, phone-friendly).
Template #5

Complex multi-step access

complex-entrygatescodesdetailed
Hi {{guest_name}}, welcome — check-in at {{property_name}} starts at {{check_in_time}} tomorrow. Entry involves a few steps; follow them in order for a smooth arrival.

1) Enter through the gate at {{gate_address}}. Gate code: {{gate_code}}. Drive through and park in spot {{parking_spot}}.

2) Use the elevator in Lobby B (press Basement + Unit {{unit_number}}) or take stairs to floor {{floor}}. Building door keypad code: {{building_code}}.

3) Once on the floor, the apartment door has a deadbolt and a smart lock. First, enter deadbolt code {{deadbolt_code}}, then use the smart lock code {{smart_lock_code}} to unlock the main latch. Wifi: {{wifi_network}} / {{wifi_password}}.

If any step fails, call or text me at {{host_phone}} with a photo and I’ll walk you through it right away.
When to send: Send ~24 hours before check-in when multiple gates/codes/elevators/staged steps are required for entry.

These templates are built to be copy-paste ready — swap the {{placeholders}} with your exact details, confirm the valid time windows, and send about 24 hours before arrival. Keep messages short, explicit, and friendly; guests appreciate one clear action to take. If your property has extras (parking passes, guest badges, or elevator reservations), add that as one extra short paragraph. Test any codes before guests arrive and keep your phone handy the first hour of check-in.

About this article

Written by the HostPal Editorial Team. Drafted with AI assistance and reviewed by a human before publishing.

Last updated Jun 8, 2026. Market data sourced from the HostPal Invest API; regulation data from the relevant municipal regulator. See our editorial standards · See an error? [email protected]

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