✦ Guest Communication

20 Common STR Guest Questions
& Response Templates

Copy-paste professional responses for the questions every Airbnb host gets. Each template includes a pro tip on how to automate the reply so it never takes your time again.

📅 Updated May 2026 ⏱️ 12 min read 📋 20 templates
40%
of messages are repetitive check-in questions
15+
hrs/week hosts with 3+ properties spend on messaging
90%
of common questions can be fully automated
🔑

Check-In Questions

The most repetitive category — and the most automatable.

1 WiFi Password
What's the WiFi password? 😊
Response Template
Hi [Guest Name]! Great question — you'll find the WiFi details on the card on the kitchen counter, but here they are just in case: Network: [WIFI_NETWORK] Password: [WIFI_PASSWORD] Works on all floors. Let me know if you have any trouble connecting — it's been rock solid, but happy to help if anything's off.
How to automate: Include WiFi credentials in your pre-arrival message (sent 24h before check-in) AND in a welcome card printed at the property. An AI messaging system like Staylix detects "wifi," "internet," or "password" keywords and auto-replies instantly — no host action needed.
2 Door / Lockbox Code
I'm at the property — what's the door code / where's the key?
Response Template
Welcome, [Guest Name]! So glad you've arrived. Here's how to get in: [IF SMART LOCK] Door code: [CODE] — just enter it on the keypad and the lock will click open. [IF LOCKBOX] Lockbox is on the [left/right] side of the front door. Code is [CODE] — the key inside opens the main door. The code is unique to your stay and deactivates automatically at checkout. Any trouble, call/text me directly: [HOST_PHONE] Enjoy your stay! 🏠
How to automate: Send access codes in your check-in message, triggered automatically 2h before check-in time. Smart lock integrations (Schlage, August, Yale) can generate unique codes per reservation and deliver them without any manual step. Set a "door code" keyword trigger as a fallback.
3 Parking Instructions
Where do I park? Is there assigned parking or a garage?
Response Template
Hey [Guest Name]! Parking details: [CHOOSE ONE:] You have one dedicated spot — it's [location description, e.g., "the second space from the left in the underground garage"]. No permit needed; your vehicle is registered for the stay. — OR — Street parking is free and unlimited right in front of the building. No permit required in this zone. If you need a second spot, there's a [paid lot / free overflow area] at [cross street], about [X] steps away. — OR — There's a shared garage — enter from [street name]. The gate code is [CODE]. Your assigned space is #[NUMBER]. Let me know if you need anything else!
How to automate: Include a "Parking" section in your check-in guide with a pin-drop map link. Trigger an automatic reply when guests message keywords like "park," "parking," or "car." Once in your saved template library, this requires zero effort per booking.
4 Check-In Time Flexibility
What time can we check in? Can we check in early?
Response Template
Hi [Guest Name]! Standard check-in is at [CHECK_IN_TIME]. [IF EARLY CHECK-IN POSSIBLE:] The property looks good for an earlier arrival! You're welcome to check in any time after [EARLY_TIME]. The place will be all ready for you. [IF EARLY CHECK-IN NOT AVAILABLE:] Unfortunately, [previous guests check out at 11am / we have a turnover this morning], so the full space won't be ready before [CHECK_IN_TIME]. That said, you're welcome to drop your bags at the property from [BAG_DROP_TIME] if that helps — just let yourself in and leave them in the entryway. Looking forward to having you! Let me know if you have any other questions before arrival.
How to automate: This one benefits from checking your calendar before replying. An AI messaging system can check if the day before has a checkout, determine early check-in availability, and reply accurately — without you manually checking. That's the difference between a saved template and true automation.
5 Early Arrival — Bags / Storage
Our flight lands at 9am but check-in is at 3pm. Can we drop our bags somewhere?
Response Template
Of course, [Guest Name]! Early arrivals are no problem for luggage. You're welcome to swing by and drop your bags in the entryway any time after [BAG_DROP_TIME] — use the same door code that's in your check-in instructions. The rest of the property will be getting cleaned, but the entry area is available to you. If that's not early enough, [LUGGAGE_STORAGE_OPTION — e.g., "there's a Bounce luggage storage location at [ADDRESS] that's convenient for your area"]. They're inexpensive and reliable. We'll have everything fully ready by [CHECK_IN_TIME]. Have a wonderful morning in [CITY]!
How to automate: Detect "early," "bags," "luggage," "flight lands," or "arrive before" in guest messages and send this template. Include your local bag-storage option as static text — once set, it never changes. Early arrival questions are almost always the same ask: "can we come early?"
📍

Local Tips

Personalized recommendations that make guests feel taken care of.

6 Restaurant Recommendations
Do you have any restaurant recommendations nearby? We love [casual/upscale/local spots].
Response Template
Great timing — [NEIGHBORHOOD] has some really good spots. Here are my actual favorites (places I go myself, not just tourist picks): 🍽️ [RESTAURANT_1] — [2-sentence description, e.g., "Best brunch in the area. The outdoor patio fills up fast on weekends — try to go before 10am or after 1pm."] 🍽️ [RESTAURANT_2] — [e.g., "Casual Italian, open late, BYOB. Perfect for a relaxed dinner without a reservation."] 🍽️ [RESTAURANT_3] — [e.g., "Local favorite for coffee and pastries — worth the 10-minute walk."] For broader options, [NEIGHBORHOOD_GUIDE_LINK / "the guidebook on the kitchen counter"] covers my full list with hours and price ranges. Enjoy — eat well! 🙌
How to automate: Build a "local recommendations" template with your 5–8 genuine favorites. Any message containing "restaurant," "food," "eat," "dinner," or "lunch" triggers it automatically. The key is writing the template once with real local knowledge — automation handles the delivery forever after.
7 Grocery Stores / Essentials
Where's the nearest grocery store? And is there a pharmacy nearby?
Response Template
Hey [Guest Name]! Here's your quick essentials map: 🛒 Groceries: • [STORE_NAME] ([DISTANCE/TIME], e.g., "2-min walk, 24hrs") — full grocery store, best for a real shop • [CONVENIENCE_STORE] ([DISTANCE] — quick snacks and basics 💊 Pharmacy: • [PHARMACY_NAME] ([DISTANCE]) — [HOURS, e.g., "open until 10pm daily"] ⛽ Gas: • [GAS_STATION] on [CROSS_STREET], about [X] min by car Google Maps has all of these if you search "[YOUR_ADDRESS]" and tap "Nearby." Anything else you need, just ask!
How to automate: Trigger on "grocery," "supermarket," "pharmacy," "drugstore," "CVS," "Walgreens," or "essentials." This template is pure static information — fill it in once and it auto-fires correctly every time. Consider including it in your pre-arrival message proactively so guests don't even need to ask.
8 Activities & Things To Do
We're visiting for the weekend — what are the best things to do around here?
Response Template
Love it — [CITY/NEIGHBORHOOD] is great for a weekend. Here's what I'd actually do: For your first evening: → [ACTIVITY_1, e.g., "Walk [STREET/AREA] — best vibe in the neighborhood, especially after 7pm."] During the day: → [ACTIVITY_2, e.g., "[MUSEUM/PARK/MARKET] is worth 2–3 hours if you haven't been."] → [ACTIVITY_3, e.g., "The [FARMERS MARKET/SUNDAY MARKET] runs [DAYS] at [LOCATION] — really good local scene."] Don't miss: → [HIDDEN_GEM, e.g., "[VIEWPOINT/LOCAL_SPOT] — most visitors miss it. [SHORT_DIRECTIONS]."] If you want a more comprehensive list by category (outdoors, nightlife, families, etc.), I've got a full guide in the property — it's the folder on the coffee table. Have an amazing trip!
How to automate: Trigger on "things to do," "activities," "what to do," "weekend," or "recommendations." An AI system can also personalize the response based on context clues — if a guest mentions they're traveling with kids, a dynamic reply adapts. Static templates miss these nuances; AI messaging catches them.
9 Transportation / Getting Around
What's the best way to get around? We don't have a car. Is Uber/Lyft available?
Response Template
Totally manageable without a car from here! Here's how most guests get around: 🚗 Rideshare: Uber and Lyft are both active in the area. Average wait is [X] mins. For airport runs, budget [~$X] each way to [AIRPORT_NAME]. 🚇 Public Transit: [IF APPLICABLE] The [BUS_LINE / METRO_LINE] stops at [NEAREST_STOP], about [X] min walk. $[FARE] per ride, or download the [TRANSIT_APP] app for day passes. 🚲 Bike Share: [IF APPLICABLE] [BIKESHARE_NAME] docks are [LOCATION]. The [NEIGHBORHOOD_BIKE_PATH] is really pleasant if the weather cooperates. 🚶 Walking: Honestly, [WALKABLE DESTINATIONS] are all easy on foot from here — [DISTANCE_EXAMPLE]. Happy to give you point-to-point directions to anywhere specific — just ask!
How to automate: Trigger on "uber," "lyft," "rideshare," "subway," "bus," "transit," "no car," or "getting around." Transportation info is static and doesn't change often — write the template once per property and it handles hundreds of booking cycles without a single manual reply.
10 Emergency Contacts
Is there a number we can call if there's an emergency at the property? Or a 24-hour contact?
Response Template
Absolutely — here are the numbers you need: 🔴 Property Emergency (call/text 24/7): [HOST_PHONE or EMERGENCY_LINE] Response time: I aim to respond within 15 minutes, day or night. For anything urgent, calling is faster than messaging. 🏥 Nearest ER: [HOSPITAL_NAME] — [ADDRESS] ([X] min by car/rideshare) 🚒 Non-emergency police/fire: [LOCAL_NON_EMERGENCY_NUMBER] (Call 911 for any real emergency — this is for non-urgent situations) 🔧 Property issue during odd hours: Text the number above and I'll get you sorted. For things that can wait until morning, a message is fine. Hope you don't need any of these — but good to have them! 🙂
How to automate: Trigger on "emergency," "urgent," "24 hour," "contact," or "number to call." This template should also be pre-loaded in your digital welcome guide so guests have it on arrival without asking. Emergency info is a trust signal — guests who feel covered are more likely to leave 5-star reviews.
📋

Policy Questions

Set clear expectations before issues arise.

11 Check-Out Procedure
What do we need to do before we leave? Do we need to strip the beds or anything?
Response Template
Hi [Guest Name]! Checkout is easy — here's the short list: ✅ Check out by [CHECKOUT_TIME] ✅ Leave used towels in the [bathroom / laundry area] ✅ Load any dirty dishes into the dishwasher and start it (or rinse and stack) ✅ Dispose of any trash in the [TRASH_LOCATION] ✅ Make sure all windows/doors are closed and locked ✅ Leave the keys / door code card [WHERE — e.g., "on the kitchen counter"] That's genuinely it. No need to strip beds, vacuum, or deep clean — the cleaning crew handles everything else. Thanks for staying — hope it was a great trip! If you have a moment to leave a review, it really does make a difference for us. 🙏
How to automate: Send checkout instructions automatically the night before departure (around 8pm) regardless of whether the guest asks. Trigger a second send on "checkout," "check out," or "leaving" keywords. Pre-emptive checkout messages reduce friction and improve review rates — guests don't feel surprised by expectations.
12 Cancellation Policy
What's your cancellation policy? Can I get a refund if I need to cancel?
Response Template
Hi [Guest Name]! Happy to clarify — here's how cancellations work for this booking: 📅 Cancel [X]+ days before check-in: Full refund (minus the service fee, which Airbnb processes) 📅 Cancel [Y–X] days before: [PARTIAL REFUND TERMS, e.g., "50% refund on the nightly rate"] 📅 Cancel within [Y] days: Unfortunately, the reservation is non-refundable at that point. [IF FLEXIBLE:] That said, if something unexpected comes up, reach out to me directly. I can't guarantee anything, but I'm willing to work with guests on genuine emergencies when the calendar allows. The full policy is on your booking confirmation page on Airbnb as well — that's always the authoritative version if there's any discrepancy. Anything else I can help with?
How to automate: Trigger on "cancel," "cancellation," "refund," or "change dates." Be precise with the policy details — vague templates that say "check your booking" frustrate guests. A good automated response answers the question completely. Automation handles the timing of the reply; the template handles the quality.
13 Extra Guests
We have a friend who might join us for one night — is that okay? Do you charge extra?
Response Template
Hi [Guest Name]! Thanks for asking (always appreciated — really). [IF WITHIN MAX OCCUPANCY:] The property sleeps up to [MAX_GUESTS], so one extra person is totally fine. No additional charge for that — enjoy having your friend join! [IF EXTRA FEE APPLIES:] The listing is set for [BASE_GUESTS] guests. We do have a [$ AMOUNT] per-night fee for additional guests beyond that. I can send you a modified booking request through Airbnb to cover the extra night — just let me know you'd like to proceed. [IF AT MAX CAPACITY:] Unfortunately, the property is already at its maximum capacity of [MAX_GUESTS] for safety and insurance reasons. I'm sorry I can't accommodate an extra guest on this one. Let me know how you'd like to handle it!
How to automate: Trigger on "extra guest," "additional person," "friend joining," or "plus one." This is a case where the right answer depends on context (current guest count vs. max occupancy) — an AI messaging system can check current reservation data and select the correct template variant automatically.
14 Noise & Quiet Hours
We're planning a small get-together. What are the rules around noise?
Response Template
Hi [Guest Name]! Thanks for checking — really glad you asked. Quiet hours are [START_TIME, e.g., 10pm] to [END_TIME, e.g., 8am]. During that window, we ask that music and conversation be kept to indoor levels that won't carry to [neighbors / adjoining units / nearby properties]. For the get-together: small gatherings of [GUEST_LIMIT, e.g., the booking party + a few friends] are fine. What we want to avoid is anything that becomes a full party or disturbs the neighbors — that's the line. [IF NO PARTIES POLICY:] To be clear: the listing has a no-events/no-parties policy (it's in the house rules), so we do need to keep it to a low-key gathering. If the neighbors reach out to us about noise, we'll need to ask you to wrap it up — but as long as everyone's considerate, you should be fine. Have a great time!
How to automate: Trigger on "party," "gathering," "friends over," "noise," or "guests coming." Sending a clear, friendly noise policy response proactively (when these keywords appear) actually prevents noise complaints — guests who know the rules before their gathering are far less likely to violate them.
15 Pet Policy
Are pets allowed? We'd love to bring our dog.
Response Template
Hi [Guest Name]! 🐾 [IF PETS ALLOWED:] Great news — we do welcome well-behaved pets! There's a [$ AMOUNT] pet fee per stay to cover additional cleaning. A couple of quick notes: please don't let them on the furniture, and make sure any messes in the yard are cleaned up before checkout. If you want to add the pet fee to your booking, Airbnb should let you update it — or I can send a modification request. Just confirm the [breed / size if applicable] and we'll get you sorted. [IF NO PETS:] Unfortunately, this property is pet-free — we have guests with allergies who stay regularly, so we have to keep that policy consistent. I'm sorry I can't make an exception on this one. [OPTIONAL: "If you're looking for a pet-friendly alternative in [AREA], [X resource] is a good place to search."] Thanks for understanding!
How to automate: Trigger on "pet," "dog," "cat," "animal," or "bring our [animal]." This is a binary policy question — the answer is always the same. Pure automation candidate. If you allow pets, consider adding a "pet welcome pack" (waste bags, towel, water bowl) and mention it in the automated reply — it's a memorable detail that drives reviews.
🔧

Issue Handling

Fast, calm responses that protect your reviews when things go wrong.

16 Maintenance Request
The [faucet / toilet / door lock / light] isn't working properly. Can someone fix it?
Response Template
Hi [Guest Name], I'm really sorry about that — not the experience we want you to have. Thank you for letting me know right away. I'm on it. [I'm contacting our maintenance team now / Give me [X] minutes to troubleshoot remotely and see if there's a quick fix.] [IF QUICK FIX EXISTS:] Quick thing to try first: [TROUBLESHOOTING_STEP, e.g., "for the garbage disposal, there's a small reset button on the bottom — push it once and see if that clears it."] [IF SENDING SOMEONE:] I'm sending [our maintenance contact / a technician] over. They'll reach out to you directly at [GUEST_PHONE?] to confirm timing — should be within [X] hours. [IF CAN'T FIX IMMEDIATELY:] While we get this sorted, [WORKAROUND, e.g., "the hall bathroom has everything you need in the meantime"]. I don't want this to interrupt your stay more than necessary. Thanks for your patience — I'll follow up as soon as it's resolved.
How to automate (partially): Maintenance requests need a human in the loop — but automation handles the first response. Trigger on "broken," "not working," "isn't working," "fix," or "maintenance" to send an immediate acknowledgment within seconds. Speed of acknowledgment is what guests care about most. The actual repair is manual; the acknowledgment doesn't have to be.
17 Noise Complaint (From Guest)
There's a lot of noise from [neighbors / outside / upstairs] and we can't sleep. Can you do something?
Response Template
I'm really sorry, [Guest Name] — that's genuinely disruptive, and I understand. Let me see what I can do. [IF FROM A NEIGHBOR:] I'm reaching out to [the neighbor / building management] right now. I can't guarantee an instant result, but I want you to know I'm taking it seriously and making noise about it on your behalf (pun intended). [IF ONGOING / PERSISTENT:] If it continues past [TIME] and you haven't been able to sleep, please call me directly at [HOST_PHONE]. In a worst-case scenario, I want to make sure you're not left with a ruined night and no options. In the meantime: [PRACTICAL TIP, e.g., "white noise apps (I use 'Calm' personally) or running the fan at low speed can take the edge off street noise significantly."] I'm going to follow up with you in the morning to make sure everything settled down. So sorry again — this shouldn't be your problem to deal with.
How to automate (first response only): Trigger on "noise," "loud," "can't sleep," or "neighbors." The automated reply handles the acknowledgment and sets the expectation of response. Follow-up requires human action — but getting a response within 60 seconds at 2am (vs. waking up to an angry message at 7am) is what prevents a 3-star review.
18 Supplies Needed
We're running low on [toilet paper / dish soap / towels / coffee]. Can we get more?
Response Template
Hi [Guest Name]! Absolutely — let me sort that out. [IF EXTRAS ARE AT THE PROPERTY:] Good news — there should be extra [SUPPLY] in the [LOCATION, e.g., "cabinet under the bathroom sink / hall closet / pantry"]. Should be enough to see you through. If you can't find it, let me know and I'll confirm the exact spot. [IF NEED TO RESTOCK:] I'll arrange a drop-off. What's the best time for you today — would [TIME_WINDOW] work? I'll leave everything at [DOOR / DESIGNATED SPOT] so there's no need to be home. [IF SHORT STAY AND NOT PRACTICAL:] The nearest [STORE] is at [LOCATION], just [X] min away — they'll definitely have it and it's an easy run. Let me know if you'd prefer the drop-off option and I'll make it happen. Sorry you ran short — I'll make a note to up the starting supply for future guests.
How to automate: Trigger on "running low," "out of," "need more," "ran out," or specific supply names ("toilet paper," "towels," "soap"). The automated first response buys time and gives guests a self-serve option. Update your starting supplies after this pattern repeats — the right inventory prevents the message in the first place.
19 Temperature / HVAC Problems
The heat/AC isn't working, or it's too hot/cold and we can't figure out the thermostat.
Response Template
Hi [Guest Name]! Sorry about that — let's fix it. Quick troubleshooting first: 1. The thermostat is [THERMOSTAT_LOCATION]. Make sure it's set to [HEAT/COOL] mode (not "Fan Only") and that the target temperature is set [higher/lower] than the current room temp — it won't kick on otherwise. 2. Check that the mode switch [IF APPLICABLE, e.g., "on the side of the unit"] is set to [COOL / HEAT] for the season. 3. [IF SMART THERMOSTAT:] If the screen is off, press it once to wake it. The app is [APP_NAME] if you prefer to control it from your phone — I can share access. [IF ISSUE PERSISTS:] If none of that works, let me know immediately. Sleeping in extreme heat or cold isn't acceptable and I'll arrange either a technician or [CONTINGENCY, e.g., "portable AC units / space heaters that I keep for exactly this situation"]. Current outdoor temp is [SEASON-RELEVANT COMMENT] so I want to make sure you're comfortable. Text me directly if this isn't resolved in the next 20 minutes.
How to automate: Trigger on "hot," "cold," "heat," "AC," "air conditioning," "freezing," "thermostat," or "temperature." HVAC questions are 80% thermostat confusion — automated troubleshooting resolves most of them without a callout. Include a photo of the thermostat in your welcome guide to prevent the question entirely.
20 Appliance Help (TV, Washer, Etc.)
We can't figure out how to use the [TV / washer / espresso machine / smart home devices].
Response Template
Hi [Guest Name]! Happy to walk you through it. [FOR TV:] TV Quick Guide: • Use the [BRAND] remote — the black/silver one on the [LEFT/RIGHT] side of the coffee table • Press the power button, then [SOURCE/INPUT] until you see [HOME SCREEN] • For Netflix/streaming: [BUTTON SEQUENCE or "press the Netflix button directly"] • Streaming accounts already logged in: [LIST SERVICES, e.g., Netflix, Hulu, Disney+] [FOR WASHER/DRYER:] Washer: Load clothes → add detergent from [LOCATION] → select [NORMAL/QUICK] cycle → press Start. Dryer: Transfer clothes → check lint trap [LOCATION] → select [MEDIUM] heat → press Start. Takes about [40–50] min. [FOR OTHER APPLIANCES:] There should be a quick-start guide in the [APPLIANCE MANUAL FOLDER in the kitchen drawer / binder on the shelf]. Let me know which appliance and I'll send you the exact steps. [FOR SMART HOME:] The [HUB / APP] is [PLATFORM, e.g., Google Home / Amazon Alexa]. Say "[WAKE WORD], turn on the living room lights" — it responds immediately. I can walk you through anything else, just describe what you're trying to do!
How to automate: Trigger on "TV," "Netflix," "remote," "washer," "dryer," "espresso," "Alexa," "Google Home," or "how do I use." Build a separate quick-guide template per major appliance and serve the relevant one based on keyword match. Better: include a QR code in your welcome binder that links to a property-specific guide with photos — reduces these messages by 70%.

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