Reply to an early check-in request

Message templateFor guestsSend: As soon as a guest asks to arrive earlyBy HostCalmlyUpdated Oct 30, 2026How we write templates Report an error

Short answer

Reply to an early check-in request within a few hours, without promising a yes. Thank the guest, explain that you'll confirm once the cleaner finishes, restate the standard check-in time and offer practical guidance on luggage and somewhere nearby to wait. Then follow up as soon as you know, even if the answer is no.

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Guest's first name

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Rental name

Check-in time

Your first name

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Hi [Guest name], Thanks for letting me know your plans. I'd be glad to have you settle in early if I can. The home is cleaned and reset between every stay, so I can only confirm an earlier time once the cleaner has finished at [Rental name]. I'll message you here as soon as I know, and I'll aim to give you a clear answer before you set off. Standard check-in is from [Check-in time], so it's safest to plan around that time for now. If you arrive before the home is ready: - Luggage: if bags can be dropped off early, I'll include the details in my follow-up. Thank you for your patience. I'll be in touch soon. [Your name]

4 parts still in [brackets]

When to send it

Send it as soon as the request comes in, even though you don't have the answer yet. A quick, honest reply lets the guest plan their day. Then check with your cleaner and send the follow-up the moment you know, whether it's a yes or a no.

Tips

Don't say yes until the cleaner confirms. A "probably" that becomes a "no" disappoints guests more than a short wait for a clear answer.
Never tell a guest to try the door early "just in case." They may walk in during the clean.
If you charge for early arrival, keep it on the platform. Airbnb's Request an early check-in time (opens in a new tab) article tells guests there might be extra charges, and the Pricing and payment transparency (opens in a new tab) policy says hosts may not ask guests to send payments outside Airbnb.
If the answer is no, restate the standard time and offer the luggage and waiting guidance again.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to allow early check-in?

No. Airbnb's guest help article on early check-in explains that the host confirms whether an earlier arrival is possible.

Can I charge for early check-in?

Airbnb tells guests there might be extra charges, such as paying extra cleaners to get the home ready sooner. If you charge, make the amount clear up front and keep the payment on the platform.

What should I tell guests who arrive before the home is ready?

Give clear, honest options: whether bags can be dropped off and a nearby place to wait. Don't let anyone in while cleaning is in progress.

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