I still remember my first Airbnb disaster. Three guests, zero communication, and a scathing 2-star review that nearly killed my hosting dreams before they started. The guest complained about "feeling abandoned" and "not knowing basic property information." That painful lesson taught me something crucial: great hosting isn't just about clean sheets and stocked kitchens.


A joyful couple shares laughter during their wedding ceremony in San Ramon, Costa Rica.
Photo by George Chambers on Pexels

I still remember my first Airbnb disaster. Three guests, zero communication, and a scathing 2-star review that nearly killed my hosting dreams before they started. The guest complained about "feeling abandoned" and "not knowing basic property information." That painful lesson taught me something crucial: great hosting isn't just about clean sheets and stocked kitchens.

According to recent data from Airbnb's official hosting resources, properties with proactive host communication see 40% higher guest satisfaction scores and 60% fewer mid-stay inquiries. The difference between mediocre and exceptional hosting often comes down to one thing: strategic welcome messages that guide, inform, and delight guests throughout their journey.

This comprehensive guide provides 150+ categorized welcome message templates that transform ordinary stays into review-worthy experiences. Each template is designed for SMS, WhatsApp, or messaging platform delivery, keeping messages concise while maximizing impact. From pre-arrival excitement building to checkout review encouragement, these proven templates help hosts create seamless guest experiences that consistently earn 5-star reviews.

Pre-Arrival Welcome Messages (Templates 1-25)

Pre-arrival messages set the tone for your guest's entire experience, building excitement while providing essential logistics.

Pre-arrival welcome messages are communication sent 24-48 hours before guest check-in to confirm details, build anticipation, and provide essential property information that ensures smooth arrival.

  • "Hi [Name]! Can't wait to welcome you to [Property Name] tomorrow! Check-in is at 3 PM. I'll send detailed instructions at 1 PM. Weather looks perfect for exploring downtown. Any questions before your arrival? - [Host Name]"
  • "Welcome to [City], [Name]! Your cozy retreat awaits tomorrow at [Address]. Parking is free in the driveway. I've stocked your favorite coffee (saw it in your profile!). Check-in details coming soon. Safe travels!"
  • "[Name], your [City] adventure starts tomorrow! I've prepared a local guide with my favorite restaurants within walking distance. Check-in is seamless with smart lock access. Weather calls for light jacket. Excited to be your host!"
  • "Hi there! Tomorrow's the big day. Your home away from home at [Property] is ready. I've left fresh flowers and local treats. Check-in after 3 PM using the code I'll send. Any dietary restrictions for the welcome basket?"
  • "[Name], welcome to our neighborhood! Your stay begins tomorrow. I've curated a playlist of local artists for your arrival. Smart TV setup is simple - Netflix logged in. Grocery store is 2 blocks north. Questions?"
  • "Almost here! Your [Property Type] is spotless and ready. I've tested all amenities this morning. WiFi password is [Password]. Local coffee shop opens at 7 AM next door. Check-in instructions coming at 1 PM sharp."
  • "Hi [Name]! Weather update: pack layers for tomorrow. Your heated space will be cozy. I've left extra blankets and hot chocolate. Check-in is contactless but I'm available 24/7 for anything you need."
  • "[Name], your [City] home base is prepped! I've arranged late check-in since your flight arrives at 10 PM. Door code works anytime after 3 PM. Uber from airport takes 15 minutes. Welcome snacks waiting!"
  • "Welcome message incoming! Your stay starts tomorrow at [Address]. I've created a digital guidebook with QR codes for easy access. Pool towels are in the hall closet. Excited to share my favorite local gems with you!"
  • "[Name], final preparations complete! Your space includes dedicated workspace with ergonomic chair. WiFi speed is 200 Mbps - perfect for video calls. Coffee station fully stocked. Business center printer available if needed."

Tip: Consider recommending travel-sized toiletries or packing cubes to help guests organize for their upcoming stay.

Arrival Day Welcome Messages (Templates 26-50)

Arrival day messages provide step-by-step guidance for seamless check-in while maintaining excitement about the guest experience.

Arrival day welcome messages are detailed instructions sent 2-3 hours before check-in time, providing specific entry procedures, immediate comfort items location, and first-day activity suggestions.

  • "[Name], welcome day is here! Check-in starts at 3 PM. Door code: [Code]. WiFi: [Network] Password: [Password]. Fresh towels in bathroom cabinet. I'm 10 minutes away if needed. Enjoy your stay!"
  • "Your [City] adventure begins now! Find the key in the lockbox (code [Code]) behind the blue planter. Ice maker is in the kitchen freezer. Local pizza menu on the counter. Welcome to your home away from home!"
  • "Hi [Name]! Ready for check-in? Smart lock code is [Code] - just press * after entering. Climate control panel is by the front door. I've left a bottle of local wine as a welcome gift. Cheers to your stay!"
  • "Welcome to [Property Name]! Entry is through the side gate (code [Code]), then front door code [Code]. Parking spot #3 is yours. Fresh coffee pods in the kitchen. Local guidebook on the dining table."
  • "[Name], you've arrived! Door opens with code [Code]. Light switches are labeled for easy navigation. I've left phone chargers by each bed. Grocery store receipt on fridge shows nearest location. Make yourself at home!"
  • "Check-in time! Code [Code] unlocks the front door. Thermostat is preset to 72°F but adjust as needed. Welcome basket includes local honey and artisan bread. Restaurant recommendations in the leather folder."
  • "Your retreat awaits! Lockbox code: [Code]. Key opens both front door and mailbox. I've started the fireplace for ambiance. Firewood supply is unlimited. S'mores kit in the kitchen for tonight's fun!"
  • "[Name], welcome home! Smart entry code: [Code]. Voice commands work for lights ("Hey Google, turn on living room"). I've queued up a relaxing playlist. Spa robes in the master closet. Unwind and enjoy!"
  • "Arrival day success! Code [Code] for entry. Backup key under the turtle statue if needed. I've left a local craft beer selection in the fridge. Bottle opener is magnetic on the side. Cheers to your getaway!"
  • "Welcome to your [City] base! Entry code: [Code]. Elevator to 3rd floor, unit 3B. Panoramic city views from the balcony. I've left telescope for stargazing. Light pollution map in the welcome folder."

Property Tour and Amenity Messages (Templates 51-75)

Amenity messages help guests maximize their stay by providing clear instructions for property features and entertainment options.

Property tour and amenity messages are detailed guides sent within 2 hours of guest arrival, explaining how to operate smart devices, kitchen appliances, entertainment systems, and unique property features.

  • "[Name], let's explore your space! Smart TV: press Netflix button on remote. Kitchen: coffee maker is programmed for 7 AM brew. Hot tub: switch is in the master bedroom. Pool towels in the hall closet. Enjoy every amenity!"
  • "Amenity tour time! Sonos speakers connect via Spotify app. Kitchen island has induction cooktop (touch controls). Washer/dryer combo: single button operation. Rooftop access via stairs - sunset views are incredible!"
  • "[Name], your tech-friendly space awaits! Alexa responds to "Play jazz music" or "Set timer 10 minutes." Smart fridge shows weather and traffic. Charging station by the bed has USB-C and wireless pads."
  • "Welcome to luxury living! Steam shower: press power, select temperature, enjoy 20-minute cycles. Wine fridge maintains perfect temperature. Outdoor kitchen has gas grill (propane full). Chef's knives are in the block."
  • "Your entertainment hub is ready! 75" TV has all streaming apps logged in. Gaming console controllers are charged. Board game collection in the ottoman. Popcorn maker instructions on the counter."
  • "[Name], maximize your comfort! Memory foam mattress has adjustable base (remote in nightstand). Blackout curtains are motorized (wall switch). White noise machine has 10 settings. Sleep well tonight!"
  • "Fitness enthusiasts welcome! Home gym access code: [Code]. Equipment sanitized daily. Yoga mats in the closet. Protein shakes ingredients in the fridge. Workout playlist ready on Spotify."
  • "Your workspace is optimized! Monitor connects via USB-C cable. Ergonomic chair adjusts with lever under seat. Printer paper in the drawer. Video call backdrop options behind the desk."
  • "Outdoor paradise awaits! Fire pit ignites with push button. Marshmallows and skewers in the kitchen. Outdoor speakers connect via Bluetooth. String lights turn on at sunset automatically."
  • "[Name], kitchen mastery begins! Espresso machine: single button operation. Cast iron skillet is seasoned and ready. Spice collection includes local favorites. Recipe cards for regional dishes in the drawer."

Tip: Suggest portable phone stands or laptop cooling pads for guests who need to work efficiently during their stay.

Local Area and Experience Messages (Templates 76-100)

Local recommendation messages provide insider knowledge that helps guests discover authentic experiences beyond typical tourist attractions.

Local area and experience messages are personalized recommendations sharing insider knowledge about nearby restaurants, attractions, transportation options, and hidden gems within walking distance or short drives from the property.

  • "[Name], insider local tips! Best breakfast: Maple Street Cafe (2 blocks east). Hidden gem: Sculpture garden behind the library. Uber picks up quickly here. Avoid Main Street during rush hour (4-6 PM)."
  • "Your neighborhood guide! Grocery: Fresh Market (open 24/7, 3 blocks north). Coffee: Local roastery with WiFi (perfect for morning work). Evening drinks: Rooftop bar with city views (reservations recommended)."
  • "[Name], local foodie secrets! Taco truck parks on 5th Street (Tuesday-Saturday, cash only). Farmers market Saturday mornings. Wine tasting: family vineyard 10 minutes south. I've left driving directions."
  • "Adventure awaits nearby! Hiking trail entrance: 15-minute walk through the park. Bike rentals: $20/day at the corner shop. Kayak launch: follow River Road 2 miles. Weather perfect for outdoor activities!"
  • "[Name], cultural experiences abound! Art gallery walk: first Friday monthly. Live music: jazz club Thursdays (no cover). Local theater: community productions year-round. Tickets often available day-of."
  • "Shopping and services guide! Boutique district: 3 blocks west (unique local designers). Pharmacy: 24-hour CVS on Elm Street. Dry cleaning: same-day service at Corner Cleaners. ATM in the lobby downstairs."
  • "[Name], family fun recommendations! Children's museum: interactive exhibits, open until 5 PM. Park playground: new equipment, shaded seating. Ice cream: homemade flavors at Scoops (try the lavender honey)."
  • "Nightlife navigator! Happy hour: 3-6 PM at Harbor View (half-price appetizers). Dancing: live DJ Fridays and Saturdays. Late night eats: 24-hour diner serves breakfast anytime. Uber surge pricing after 2 AM."
  • "[Name], wellness and relaxation! Spa services: day passes available at the resort. Yoga classes: drop-in friendly, mats provided. Meditation garden: free access, beautiful at sunrise. Healthy meals: farm-to-table restaurant next block."
  • "Transportation made easy! Bus stop: corner of Oak and 2nd (route 15 downtown). Bike share stations: app download QR code on fridge. Parking: street cleaning Tuesdays 8-10 AM. Airport shuttle: call 24 hours ahead."

Mid-Stay Check-In Messages (Templates 101-125)

Mid-stay messages ensure continued guest satisfaction while offering additional services without being intrusive.

Mid-stay check-in messages are comfort and satisfaction inquiries sent on day 2-3 of longer stays, focusing on guest needs while offering additional services or maintenance support as needed.

  • "Hi [Name]! Hope you're enjoying day 2! Everything comfortable? Fresh towels available if needed. Weather looks great for exploring the waterfront today. Let me know if you need restaurant reservations - happy to help!"
  • "[Name], checking in on your stay! All amenities working well? I can arrange grocery delivery or housekeeping refresh if helpful. Local farmers market is Saturday morning - perfect for fresh ingredients!"
  • "Day 3 comfort check! How's the WiFi speed for your work calls? I have a mobile hotspot backup if needed. Coffee supply holding up? Local roastery delivers same-day if you're running low."
  • "[Name], hope you're loving the space! Any maintenance needs? I noticed rain in the forecast - umbrellas are in the hall closet. Indoor activity ideas in the welcome folder if weather changes plans."
  • "Mid-stay hello! Everything meeting expectations? I can recommend a great spa for relaxation or arrange bike rentals for tomorrow's adventure. Local wine tasting room offers private tours - interested?"
  • "[Name], quick check-in! Thermostat comfortable? I can adjust remotely if needed. Noticed you enjoyed the welcome wine - local vineyard offers tastings 2 PM daily. Transportation available if interested!"
  • "Hope day 4 is fantastic! Any supply needs? Fresh linens, toiletries, or kitchen essentials? I'm heading to the store later and happy to grab anything. Local concert tonight - tickets still available!"
  • "[Name], comfort status check! Hot water pressure good? I have a backup water heater if needed. Weather perfect for the hiking trail I mentioned - want me to pack a picnic lunch from the local deli?"
  • "Mid-stay service offer! Housekeeping refresh available (no charge for stays over 5 days). Laundry service pickup Tuesday/Friday. Restaurant reservations for tonight? I know the chef at several local spots."
  • "[Name], hope you're relaxed and recharged! Any technology issues? I can troubleshoot remotely or visit in person. Local art class offers drop-in sessions - materials provided, very beginner-friendly!"

Tip: Consider suggesting portable laundry detergent pods or travel-sized fabric softener for guests on extended stays.

Departure and Checkout Messages (Templates 126-150)

Checkout messages ensure smooth departure while encouraging positive reviews and future bookings.

Departure and checkout messages are final day communications providing simple checkout procedures, expressing gratitude for the guest's stay, and gently encouraging review submission while offering future booking incentives.

  • "[Name], checkout day! Simply leave keys on the counter and lock the door behind you (auto-locks at 11 AM). Thanks for being wonderful guests! A quick review would mean the world - safe travels home!"
  • "Final day farewells! Checkout is easy: dishes in dishwasher, trash in bins outside, keys on table. You've been amazing guests! If you enjoyed your stay, a review helps future travelers find us. 20% off your next visit!"
  • "[Name], hope your stay was perfect! Checkout by 11 AM: leave keys inside, door locks automatically. Your review helps other guests discover this special space. Already missing you - come back anytime!"
  • "Checkout morning! No rush - relax until 11 AM. Leave towels in bathroom, keys on counter. Thanks for treating our home with such care! A 5-star review would make our day. Safe journey ahead!"
  • "[Name], final morning in paradise! Checkout: keys on kitchen island, close all windows, lock door. You've been ideal guests! Share your experience with a review? Future stays get 15% discount code: WELCOME2024"
  • "Departure day wishes! Easy checkout: run dishwasher, keys on table, door auto-locks. Thanks for choosing us for your [occasion]! A quick review helps our small business thrive. Until next time!"
  • "[Name], hope memories were made! Checkout by 11: trash out, keys inside, enjoy final coffee on us. You've been fantastic guests! If we earned 5 stars, a review would be incredible. Come back soon!"
  • "Final farewell! Checkout is simple: leave everything as-is, keys on counter. Thanks for being respectful, kind guests! Your review means everything to future bookings. 25% off return visits - just ask!"
  • "[Name], checkout day gratitude! Easy departure: keys on dining table, lock door behind you. You've made hosting a joy! A review sharing your experience would be amazing. Safe travels, wonderful humans!"
  • "Last morning magic! Checkout: dishwasher running, keys visible, door locked. Thanks for an absolutely perfect stay! If you loved it here, a review helps others find their perfect getaway too. Return discount waiting!"

Emergency and Problem Resolution Messages (Bonus Templates)

Emergency response messages address common issues quickly and professionally, maintaining guest satisfaction during unexpected situations.

Emergency and problem resolution messages are pre-crafted responses for common issues like maintenance problems, technology failures, or weather emergencies, allowing hosts to respond immediately with professional solutions.

  • "[Name], so sorry about the WiFi issue! I've reset the router remotely - should be working in 2 minutes. If not, mobile hotspot is in the kitchen drawer (password: GUEST2024). Technician on standby if needed!"
  • "Apologies for the heating issue! I've contacted our HVAC service - they'll arrive within 2 hours. Space heaters are in the hall closet. I'll cover tonight's stay if not resolved quickly. Your comfort is priority!"
  • "[Name], sorry about the noise complaint! I've contacted the neighbors immediately. White noise machine in bedroom closet helps. If it continues past 10 PM, call me directly: [Phone]. Unacceptable situation - I'm handling it!"
  • "Hot water issue acknowledged! Plumber dispatched - ETA 90 minutes. Gym shower access available downstairs (code 1234). I'll provide full refund for today if not fixed promptly. Sincere apologies for the inconvenience!"
  • "[Name], power outage affecting the whole block! Utility company estimates 3-hour restoration. Flashlights in kitchen drawer, battery pack for phones on counter. Generator powering fridge. I'm monitoring the situation closely!"
  • "Lock malfunction reported! Locksmith en route - 45 minutes maximum. Spare key under the red flowerpot (left side of door). I'm personally coming over to ensure everything works perfectly. This won't happen again!"
  • "[Name], AC repair scheduled for this morning! Technician arrives at 9 AM, will be finished by 11 AM. Portable units cooling the space now. I'll be present to supervise. Thanks for your patience!"
  • "Storm damage update! Tree removal crew working now - power restored by evening. Backup generator running essentials. Restaurant delivery still available. I've arranged late checkout tomorrow if needed. Stay safe inside!"
  • "[Name], appliance replacement happening now! New dishwasher installed within 2 hours. Paper plates and cups provided meanwhile. I'm covering all meal costs today as apology. This level of service failure is unacceptable!"
  • "Security system false alarm! Police confirmed no issues - sensor malfunction. System disarmed remotely. Technician replacing faulty sensor this afternoon. Your safety and peace of mind are absolutely paramount to me!"

Seasonal and Holiday-Themed Messages

Seasonal messages create memorable experiences by acknowledging special occasions and local events throughout the year.

Seasonal and holiday-themed messages are customized communications updated quarterly to include relevant local events, weather considerations, and holiday-specific amenities that enhance the guest experience during different times of year.

  • "[Name], welcome to autumn in [City]! I've left pumpkin spice coffee and local apple cider. Fall foliage peaks next week - hiking trail map on the table. Cozy fireplace ready for chilly evenings!"
  • "Holiday greetings, [Name]! Christmas lights tour map in the welcome folder - starts at 6 PM nightly. Hot chocolate station set up in the kitchen. Local caroling group performs in the square Saturday evening!"
  • "[Name], spring has sprung! Cherry blossoms bloom this week - perfect for photos. I've left allergy medication just in case. Farmers market reopens Saturday with fresh local produce. Enjoy the beautiful weather!"
  • "Summer solstice celebration! [Name], beach towels and sunscreen provided. Local ice cream festival this weekend - free samples all day. Pool stays open until 10 PM. Don't forget to watch the sunset from the deck!"
  • "[Name], Halloween treats await! Candy for trick-or-treaters in the bowl (feel free to participate!). Haunted house tour tickets on the counter. Costume shop downtown if you need last-minute additions. Spooky fun guaranteed!"
  • "New Year's Eve excitement! [Name], champagne chilling in the fridge. Fireworks visible from the rooftop at midnight. Noise-canceling headphones available if you prefer quiet celebration. Here's to an amazing 2024!"
  • "[Name], Valentine's weekend romance! Rose petals and chocolate on the nightstand. Couples massage spa offers in-room services. Romantic restaurant reservations confirmed for 7 PM Saturday. Love is in the air!"
  • "Fourth of July festivities! [Name], parade route map and folding chairs provided. BBQ supplies stocked for grilling. Fireworks show at 9 PM from the waterfront - 5-minute walk. Red, white, and blue decorations included!"
  • "[Name], Thanksgiving gratitude! Local turkey trot race starts at 8 AM (registration available). Grocery store holiday hours posted on fridge. I'm thankful for wonderful guests like you. Enjoy the feast preparation!"
  • "Winter wonderland welcome! [Name], hot cocoa bombs and marshmallows in the pantry. Sledding hill 2 blocks away - sleds in the garage. Ice skating rink open daily. Warm up by the fireplace after adventures!"

Creating Your Own Personalized Welcome Messages

Developing custom welcome messages requires understanding your guest demographics, property unique features, and local area advantages. Start by analyzing your most successful guest interactions to identify communication patterns that consistently earn positive feedback.

Tone identification begins with matching your message style to your property type and target audience. Luxury properties benefit from sophisticated, service-oriented language, while family-friendly spaces need warm, helpful communication. Business travelers appreciate concise, informative messages, whereas vacation guests respond to excitement and local adventure suggestions.

Information hierarchy prioritizes essential details first: check-in procedures, WiFi credentials, and emergency contacts. Secondary information includes amenity explanations and local recommendations. According to Hospitality Net research, guests retain only 3-4 key pieces of information per message, making prioritization crucial for effective communication.

Timing optimization ensures messages arrive when guests can best utilize the information. Pre-arrival messages work best 24-48 hours before check-in, allowing guests to prepare without feeling overwhelmed. Arrival day instructions should arrive 2-3 hours before check-in, giving guests time to plan their approach without the information getting buried in their inbox.

Personalization techniques transform generic templates into memorable experiences. Use guest names consistently, reference their trip purpose when known, and acknowledge special occasions mentioned in booking notes. Guests staying for anniversaries appreciate different recommendations than business travelers or family vacations.

Length guidelines balance comprehensive information with mobile-friendly readability. Keep individual messages under 500 characters for SMS compatibility, but don't sacrifice essential information for brevity. Break complex instructions into multiple messages rather than creating overwhelming text blocks that guests might skip entirely.

Mobile optimization ensures messages display properly across all devices and platforms. Test your templates on different screen sizes, avoid special characters that might not render correctly, and use simple formatting that works across SMS, WhatsApp, and messaging apps.

The most successful hosts continuously refine their message templates based on guest feedback and seasonal changes. Track which messages generate questions versus which provide complete clarity, then adjust accordingly. Regular updates keep information current and demonstrate ongoing attention to guest experience quality.

Remember that great welcome messages feel personal rather than automated, even when using templates. The goal is creating connection and confidence, helping guests feel welcomed and informed throughout their entire stay experience.

Conclusion

Effective welcome messages transform ordinary Airbnb stays into exceptional experiences that guests eagerly recommend and review. These 150+ templates provide the foundation for creating meaningful connections with guests while reducing host workload and preventing common miscommunications that lead to negative reviews.

Implementation success starts small - choose 5-10 core templates that match your property and guest demographics, then expand your message library based on guest responses and seasonal needs. The most successful hosts adapt these templates to reflect their unique personality and local knowledge, creating authentic communication that feels personal rather than automated.

Regular template updates based on guest feedback and changing local conditions ensure your messages remain relevant and helpful. Track which messages generate follow-up questions versus those that provide complete clarity, then refine accordingly. Remember, the goal isn't perfect messages - it's clear, helpful communication that makes guests feel welcomed and informed.

Download this template library and begin implementing your personalized welcome message system today. Your future 5-star reviews depend on the connections you create through thoughtful, proactive guest communication. Always ensure your messages comply with local telecommunications regulations and include appropriate opt-out language where required by law.

How often should I send welcome messages to Airbnb guests?

Send pre-arrival messages 24-48 hours before check-in, arrival instructions 2-3 hours before check-in time, and mid-stay check-ins for stays longer than 3 days.

What's the ideal length for Airbnb welcome messages?

Keep messages under 500 characters for SMS compatibility while including essential information. Break complex instructions into multiple shorter messages rather than overwhelming guests.

Should I personalize welcome messages for each guest?

Yes, use guest names, reference their trip purpose when known, and acknowledge special occasions. Personalized messages increase guest satisfaction and review quality significantly.

Can automated welcome messages hurt my hosting reputation?

Only if they feel robotic or generic. Well-crafted templates that include personal touches and relevant information actually improve guest experience and reduce host workload.

What information must be included in Airbnb welcome messages?

Essential details include check-in instructions, WiFi credentials, emergency contact information, house rules, and basic amenity locations. Local recommendations and personal touches enhance the experience.