Use Our Free Airbnb Guidebook Template

BY MIKEL HUBBARD

FORMER HGTV PRODUCER | CO-FOUNDER, THE HOST CO |
OWNER, TIMES EIGHT PROPERTY & DESIGN

Looking to add a guidebook to your short-term rental?

Guidebooks not only help share house rules - they can be a key way to introduce guests to your Host Co store. We recommend adding your guidebook to your store to send guests “through the gift shop” on the way to your guide.

The Host Co has made it easy for you by creating a premium customizable guidebook template (see below).

Want a simpler text-only guidebook? No problem! Use our basic guidebook template to share a simple Google Doc instead.

Below is a step-by-step guide for duplicating, customizing and sharing the premium template. The basic template has step-by-step instructions included, and the walkthrough video above shows how to set up both.

Step 1: Duplicate the Template

In Notion, locate The Host Co template and click the 'Duplicate' button in the top right corner to make an editable copy.
You’ll need a Notion account, which is free—sign up to get started.

Step 2: Personalize Your Guidebook

Delete placeholder text, like "Host Co Guidebook Template," and replace it with a title like "Welcome to Our Home."
Remove the template introduction meant for Host Co users, as this is not necessary for your guests.

Step 3: Customize Visual Elements

Change the cover image by uploading your own or selecting from the Notion gallery or Unsplash.
You can replace the emoji with your listing’s logo or an Airbnb logo by uploading the file.

Step 4: Insert Your Custom Links

Add your Host Co store link in the designated bold sections. Use hyperlinking to make phrases like "click here" lead directly to your store.

Step 5: Provide Local Information

Update the template with your location, Wi-Fi details, emergency contacts, and house rules.
Modify the Google Maps link by copying and pasting your exact location from Google Maps to the Notion guidebook.

Step 6: Table of Contents and Sections

Don’t worry about the table of contents—it updates automatically as you add or delete sections.
Delete irrelevant sections like transportation options if they don't apply to your listing.

Step 7: Add Custom Sections

To add new sections, click the '+' button where you want the new information.
Scroll down to the type of content block you’d like to create.
- Example: Use the "Toggle heading 3" option to create new headings like "Parking Instructions,” or the “Emoji” section to add an emoji.

Step 8: Update Amenities and Checkout Information

Edit the amenities and checkout sections with your specific offerings and instructions.
Link these sections to your Host Co store where guests can purchase services like late checkouts.

Step 9: Local Recommendations and Concierge

Tailor the local recommendations to your area, including restaurants, bars, and tourist spots.
Utilize the AI Concierge service in your Host Co store to offer itinerary planning for guests.

Step 10: Finalizing Your Guidebook

Once you've customized the template, click 'Share' in Notion, copy the view-only link.
In your Host Co store, add the guidebook as an external link and pin it to the top. Note: You’ll need a Host Co Pro Plan to share links in your store.

Step 11: Share with Guests

When guests book your listing, send them the link to your Host Co store with the guidebook at the top.
Incorporate a mention of your guidebook (via your Host Co store) in your welcome message. Here’s a crafted example that you can personalize:
"Thanks for booking {your listing name} for your upcoming trip. We'll be in touch a day in advance with check-in instructions. Below is a welcome guide with more info on the house/area if you need it!
{your store link}
Through our store, you can also add an early check-in, late check-out, an extra guest (more than 2), or to take advantage of local services like a massage or private yoga class. All in the link above!
Thanks for booking and feel free to reach out if you have any more questions."
They can view the guidebook and purchase any additional services you offer through the Host Co platform.

Conclusion

A well-crafted guidebook not only serves as a resource for your guests but also as an opportunity for upselling your services. By following these steps, you can create a customized and interactive guidebook that enhances the guest experience and can increase your earnings through the Host Co platform.

Remember, this is a general guide. Be sure to tailor each section to your listing and what you offer, and delete or add any sections you’d like. If you need further assistance or have questions about modifying the template, reach out to us at support@thehost.co.

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