The short-term rental industry is booming, but so is the competition. Whether you're a new host or a seasoned Superhost, consistently attracting bookings and earning glowing reviews requires more than just a clean property. It calls for smart systems, thoughtful extras and clever tweaks that delight guests and save time - like using a digital guidebook, for example!
These 20 Airbnb hacks for hosts combine proven strategy with practical implementation to help you stand out, optimise operations, and elevate every guest experience. Read on or skip to a specific Airbnb hack:
- 1. Surprise guests with flexible check-in and check-out times
- 2. Spy on your competition (legally)
- 3. Refillable shampoo, conditioner and soap dispensers
- 4. Utilise digital welcome books
- 5. Add a sofa bed to boost occupancy options
- 6. Track how you rank against the competition
- 7. Write public review responses
- 8. Create a memorable first impression on arrival
- 9. Follow up after check-out with a kind note
- 10. Remove high-maintenance furnishings
- 11. Buy tea and coffee in bulk–refill stylishly
- 12. Install a key lock box or smart lock
- 13. Open up random single nights
- 14. Partner with local businesses for guest vouchers
- 15. Automate everything you can
- 16. Aim for Superhost status
- 17. Be hyper-responsive to messages
- 18. Take professional, eye-catching photos
- 19. Always ask for a review
- 20. Put together a thoughtful welcome basket
Want to take a short cut to Superhost status? Create a digital guidebook today and easily enhance the guest experience!
1. Surprise guests with flexible check-in and check-out times
One of the most appreciated Airbnb hacks for guests is having flexibility around arrival and departure times. Travellers often face unpredictable schedules due to transport delays or last-minute plans, and being able to arrive early or stay late can relieve a great deal of stress.
- Install a smart lock or lockbox to enable 24/7 self-check-in and check-out.
- Allow early check-ins or late check-outs when your cleaning schedule allows it.
- Mention this flexibility in your listing to encourage bookings.
When guests don’t feel rushed, they’re more likely to leave a 5-star review.
Pro tip: Check out our blog 17 ways to increase your bookings on Airbnb.
2. Spy on your competition (legally)
If you want to outperform your competition, you first need to understand them. This Airbnb hack for hosts is all about research and strategic analysis – and it's perfectly legal.
- Use platforms like AirDNA, PriceLabs or Beyond to review competitor listings, occupancy, pricing trends and demand.
- Study top-rated listings in your area to identify what amenities or features make them successful.
- Learn from their reviews: what do guests praise or complain about?
The more insights you gather, the more refined your own listing, pricing, and guest experience will become.
3. Refillable shampoo, conditioner and soap dispensers
Thoughtful touches go a long way – especially when they’re sustainable. Providing refillable toiletries is an easy hosting hack that makes your rental feel both professional and environmentally friendly.
- Choose stylish, wall-mounted dispensers for your bathroom.
- Fill them with high-quality toiletries – not the cheapest options available.
- Keep a spare refill set in your cleaning cupboard for fast top-ups between guests.
Guests will appreciate the luxury hotel-style experience and your commitment to reducing plastic waste.
4. Utilise digital welcome books
Say goodbye to messy binders and outdated paper guides. Digital welcome books are now a must-have Airbnb hack for hosts who want to streamline communication and provide a seamless guest experience.
With Touch Stay’s digital guidebooks, you can:
- Provide everything from check-in instructions to appliance how-tos, all in one place.
- Share local recommendations, FAQs, emergency contacts, and Wi-Fi details with ease.
- Send guests a customisable link they can access on their phone at any time.
Touch Stay helps hosts reduce repetitive questions and gives guests exactly what they need, when they need it.
5. Add a sofa bed to boost occupancy options
Maximising the sleeping capacity of your property is one of the smartest Airbnb hosting hacks to increase bookings. You don’t always need more rooms – you just need flexible furniture.
- Choose a high-quality sofa bed or pull-out couch that offers comfort, not just utility.
- Promote the added sleeping capacity in your listing and photo captions.
- Store extra bedding in a labelled container or cupboard for convenience.
This tweak allows you to attract couples, small families, and friend groups alike.
Pro tip: Discover our step-by-step guide to successful hosting: The ultimate Airbnb host checklist
6. Track how you rank against the competition
You might have the perfect property – but if no one sees it, your calendar will stay empty. That’s why one of the most important Airbnb hacks for hosts is to monitor your ranking in Airbnb search results.
- Use Rankbreeze or similar platforms to measure how you rank for specific keywords or filters.
- Track listing performance after changes to your title, description, photos or pricing.
- Compare your position with other listings in your area.
Monitoring performance allows you to make data-driven changes that improve visibility and increase bookings.
7. Write public review responses
Responding to reviews isn’t just good manners – it’s a strategic hosting hack. Guests read reviews religiously, and your responses give them insights into your communication style and professionalism.
- Always thank your guests, even if their feedback is brief.
- Address any negative comments calmly and constructively to show you take concerns seriously.
- Use the space to reiterate positives or correct misunderstandings.
Well-written responses reassure future guests and build your credibility.
Pro tip: Discover how to get more 5-star reviews on Airbnb
8. Create a memorable first impression on arrival
First impressions set the tone for the entire stay – and guests often decide their rating within the first few minutes. That’s why getting the check-in and welcome experience right is essential.
Use Touch Stay’s First Impressions feature to:
- Send guests a clear, warm welcome message as soon as they arrive.
- Share arrival instructions with photos, videos or maps.
- Include personalised notes to make guests feel at home instantly.
- Get ahead of any snags quickly to ensure that coveted 5-star review.
The easier you make their arrival, the faster they relax – and the more likely they are to leave 5 stars.
9. Follow up after check-out with a kind note
Post-stay communication is often overlooked, but it’s a powerful way to leave a lasting impression. This small Airbnb hack takes just moments but can significantly increase the chances of a glowing review.
- Thank your guests personally for choosing your place.
- Mention how much you’d appreciate their feedback.
- Let them know you’d love to host them again.
A gentle, thoughtful follow-up helps guests feel valued long after check-out.
10. Remove high-maintenance furnishings
Less really is more – especially when it comes to furnishings that require constant cleaning, repair, or delicate handling. Streamlining your décor makes it easier for guests to enjoy the space and for cleaners to prepare it.
- Choose sturdy, easy-to-clean furniture with minimal maintenance.
- Avoid items with delicate fabrics or finishes that stain or tear easily.
- Replace overly decorative pieces with functional, attractive alternatives.
Reducing hassle makes your hosting life simpler and your property more reliable.
11. Buy tea and coffee in bulk – refill stylishly
Guests always appreciate the ability to make a hot drink – but it’s the presentation that turns ordinary into memorable. Instead of basic sachets, upgrade your beverage station for maximum impact.
- Purchase quality tea and coffee in bulk to reduce waste and costs.
- Store them in glass jars or ceramic containers for a stylish, hygienic look.
- Include mugs, a teapot or cafetiere, and maybe a few local biscuits.
This simple Airbnb hack is a small investment with a big payoff in guest satisfaction.
12. Install a key lock box or smart lock
Relying on in-person key handovers is outdated – and often impractical. For busy hosts, installing a smart entry system is one of the most important time-saving Airbnb hacks.
- Choose a reliable smart lock or lock box and change the code between stays.
- Add clear instructions to your Touch Stay guidebook or message thread.
- Ensure backup access in case of emergency.
Self-check-in improves the guest experience and simplifies operations for you.
13. Open up random single nights
Even if you usually enforce a minimum stay, offering one-night stays occasionally can help fill awkward calendar gaps and boost your occupancy rate.
- Look for one-night gaps between existing bookings and manually open them.
- Price single nights slightly higher to cover increased cleaning costs.
- Promote flexibility in your listing to appeal to last-minute travellers.
It’s a clever way to squeeze more revenue out of your available nights.
14. Partner with local businesses for guest vouchers
Elevating your guest experience isn’t just about what’s inside your home – it’s about connecting travellers with the best your area has to offer. This Airbnb hack for hosts builds relationships and adds immense value to guests.
- Collaborate with cafés, restaurants, tours or wellness providers.
- Offer exclusive discounts or vouchers for your guests.
- Include details in your welcome book or booking confirmation.
Guests love local recommendations, and it gives your listing a unique, curated feel.
Touch Stay digital guidebooks are the perfect place to show off your favourite local spots!
15. Automate everything you can
Time is a host’s most precious resource – and automation gives you more of it. Whether managing one property or 10, automation helps deliver a consistent, high-quality guest experience without the burnout.
- Use tools like Hospitable to automate check-in and check-out messages.
- Sync calendars with cleaning services via Turno or Breezeway.
- Automate dynamic pricing with PriceLabs or Wheelhouse.
Work smarter, not harder.
16. Aim for Superhost status
Becoming a Superhost should be every Airbnb host’s goal. It earns trust with new guests, improves your listing visibility, and often leads to higher occupancy and income.
- Keep your response rate high and avoid cancellations at all costs.
- Provide a flawless guest experience consistently.
- Regularly monitor your hosting dashboard to stay on track.
Superhost status isn’t just a badge – it’s a signal that you run a professional, reliable operation.
Want to know more about how to achieve and maintain Airbnb Superhost status? Check out our guide: Airbnb Superhost status explained.
17. Be hyper-responsive to messages
In the age of instant messaging, slow responses are a deal-breaker. Guests want to feel heard and helped quickly – especially in the booking phase.
- Set up auto-replies to acknowledge inquiries instantly.
- Use the Touch Stay AI chatbot or FAQs, customised with personal touches.
- Reply as quickly as possible to build confidence.
Being responsive doesn’t just boost bookings – it builds trust and comfort.
18. Take professional, eye-catching photos
Your photos are your storefront. Guests will scroll past even the best properties if the photos are poor quality, poorly lit or uninspiring.
- Hire a professional photographer experienced in short-term rentals.
- Stage your space with natural light, fresh flowers, and tidy surfaces.
- Capture every room, key amenities, outdoor areas, and unique features.
This Airbnb hack pays for itself with more clicks, more views, and more bookings.
19. Always ask for a review
Reviews don’t just happen – sometimes you need to nudge them. Even happy guests may forget unless you make a polite, timely request.
- Add a reminder in your departure message.
- Mention that reviews help you grow your hosting business.
- Keep the tone friendly and grateful, not pushy.
More positive reviews = more bookings, better ranking, and higher trust.
20. Put together a thoughtful welcome basket
First impressions count – and nothing says “welcome” like a basket of thoughtful goodies. This classic Airbnb hack for hosts goes a long way in creating emotional connections.
- Include local treats, a bottle of wine, or snacks for kids.
- Add a handwritten card with your guests’ names and a friendly message.
- Keep it small but meaningful – it’s the gesture that matters.
Guests feel appreciated from the start and are far more likely to leave rave reviews.
Great hosting isn’t about luxury – it’s about care, consistency, and clever tools. From automations to welcome baskets and digital guidebooks, every one of these Airbnb hacks is designed to help you win more bookings, delight your guests, and earn those crucial 5-star reviews. With Touch Stay in your toolkit, you're one step closer to effortless, standout hosting.
Try the ultimate Airbnb hack - a Touch Stay digital guidebook!
Create your guidebook in minutes (not hours!) to elevate the guest experience and start reclaiming your precious time!
