Template

The Complete Airbnb Welcome Book Template (Copy, Customize, Send)

Most welcome books fail because they try to be everything. They become 20-page documents that guests never open, or three-bullet text messages that leave out the one thing the guest actually needs. This template covers the 15 sections every welcome book should have, with fill-in-the-blank language you can copy and adapt.

Complete Airbnb welcome book template

Why teams choose SceneHost

  • The welcome book that works is visual, scannable, and honest — it tells guests what they need when they need it.
  • Cover 15 essential sections: Welcome, WiFi, Parking, Check-In, House Rules, Appliances, Amenities, Local Recommendations, Emergency Contacts, Checkout, Trash & Recycling, Thermostat, TV & Streaming, Coffee Maker, and Safety.
  • Use the template as a PDF, Google Doc, or embed it inside a SceneHost 360° guide so guests see instructions in the context of the room.
  • Pro tips throughout: include a photo of the host, put WiFi first, use checklist format for checkout, and keep it to 6–10 pages.

1. Welcome

First impressions are formed in the first 60 seconds. Your welcome message sets the tone for the entire stay. Include a photo of the host or property manager — it turns a generic document into a personal introduction.

Template: Welcome to [Property Name]. We're glad you're here. This [apartment/cabin/beach house] is set up to be your home base while you're in [City/Area]. If something isn't working or you can't find what you need, text us at [Phone Number]. Check-out is [Day] at [Time].

2. WiFi

It's the #1 most asked question. Put it first, make it impossible to miss. Include the network name, password, router location, and a note about the QR code on the fridge for auto-connect. If you have a backup network or guest network, list it here — international guests especially appreciate knowing the network is reliable.

3. Parking

Parking anxiety is real. Guests arriving at night need to know exactly where to go. Include your parking spot number/location, guest parking location, street parking rules, and oversize vehicle policy. Include a photo of the parking area from the street view.

4. Check-In

Even if you sent instructions before arrival, guests forget. Repetition prevents confusion. Include the entry code, key location, door instructions, late arrival info, and trouble-shooting tips like pressing the clear button first if the code doesn't work.

5. House Rules

Rules are easier to follow when guests understand the reason behind them. Include no smoking, no parties, quiet hours, shoes policy, and extra guest policy. Don't list 20 rules. Five firm, clearly explained rules beat a laundry list.

6. Appliances

Every property has one appliance that works differently. Identify it and explain it. Include dishwasher, washing machine, dryer, stove, and microwave instructions. Take photos of the exact buttons and settings you want guests to use.

7. Amenities

Guests paid for amenities. Make sure they know what's included and what isn't. List included items like WiFi, streaming services, linens, coffee, and extras like beach chairs or bikes. Also note what's not included like daily housekeeping or laundry detergent.

8. Local Recommendations

Generic lists from Google Maps are useless. Guests want the places you actually go. Include coffee, breakfast, dinner (casual and nice), grocery, pharmacy, and emergency room. Add a "skip it" note if there's a famous local spot that's overrated — guests trust honesty more than cheerleading.

9. Emergency Contacts

Guests need to know who to call before they panic. Include host/property manager, 911, local non-emergency police, urgent care, hospital, and poison control. If you're in a country where guests might not know the emergency number, make it the largest text on the page.

10. Checkout

Checkout instructions prevent surprise charges and last-minute messages. A checklist format is more effective than a paragraph. Include checkout time, late checkout policy, and a checklist: start dishwasher, take out trash, turn off lights, set thermostat, lock doors.

11. Trash & Recycling

Every city has different rules. Guests don't want to guess. Include trash bin location/color/pickup day, recycling guidelines, compost info, and bulk item policy. Include a photo of the bins.

12. Thermostat

Thermostat confusion leads to messages, energy waste, and uncomfortable guests. Include thermostat location, recommended settings for summer/winter/away, and how-to instructions. If you have a smart thermostat, include the app name.

13. TV & Streaming

Guests want to watch something within 5 minutes of sitting down. Include TV location, remote location, streaming apps (already logged in), how to switch inputs, and cable/satellite info. Take a photo of the remote with the important buttons circled.

14. Coffee Maker

Morning coffee is non-negotiable for many guests. Include coffee maker brand/type, location, supplies, step-by-step instructions, and water source. If you provide a specialty setup, include a link to a 30-second video.

15. Safety

Guests sleep better when they know where things are. Include fire extinguisher location, smoke/CO detector locations, first aid kit, flashlight, exits, and emergency meeting point. Include a photo of the fire extinguisher location.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should a welcome book be?

As long as it needs to be and no longer. Most effective welcome books are 6–10 pages. Anything over 15 pages won't get read.

Should I send it before arrival or leave it in the property?

Both. Send a link before arrival so guests can plan. Leave a printed copy or QR code in the property for reference.

Can I include a 360° tour in my welcome book?

Yes, if you use SceneHost. The tour and the welcome book are the same experience. In other platforms, you link out to a separate tour.

What if I have multiple properties?

Create a master template, then duplicate and customize for each property. The structure stays the same; the details change.

Should I update it seasonally?

Yes. Local recommendations, amenity availability, and even thermostat defaults change with the seasons. A stale welcome book is worse than no welcome book.

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