Guest Guide

Guest guide for small hosts: Simple solutions for 1–5 properties

Small hosts need simple, effective guest guides that don't require hours of setup. Use templates, focus on essentials, and scale as you grow.

GuestGPT AI virtual concierge chat interface in guest guide answering guest questions
GuestGPT: AI-powered virtual concierge in every guest guide. Guests can ask questions and get instant answers.
For Airbnb & STR hostsUpdated Updated this month
guest guide for small hostssmall host guidesimple guest guidebeginner guest guide

Key takeaways

  • Start with templates to save time and ensure nothing is missed.
  • Focus on essentials: check-in, WiFi, house rules, local recommendations.
  • Keep it simple—you can always add more later.
How to use this guide: review the takeaways, implement the practices that fit your property, and use Host Pilot to create and share your guest guide.

Use your guest guide for small hosts with Booking.com automation

Booking.com automation and guest guide messages for guest guide for small hosts

Whether you are building a guest guide for small hosts or refining an existing one, you can connect it to Booking.com and use the same guide link in automated messages. Guests get consistent answers and you get fewer repeat questions, no matter which channel they booked on.

Common problems hosts face

  • Guest guide creation feels overwhelming and time-consuming
  • Uncertain where to start or what to include
  • Tools seem designed for large portfolios, not small hosts
  • Want professional results without hiring help

What good solutions should include

  • Templates designed for small hosts to get started quickly
  • Focus on essential sections without overwhelming complexity
  • Affordable tools that scale as you grow
  • Simple process: customize template, add your info, share link

Practical tips from experienced hosts

  1. Start with a template and customize it with your property details.
  2. Focus on essentials first: check-in, WiFi, house rules, local recommendations.
  3. Add photos and personal touches to make it yours.
  4. Update your guide quarterly as you learn what guests need.

Action step: Pick one practice from this guide to implement this week. Test it with your next booking and measure the impact on guest questions and reviews.

Options compared

Choose the approach that fits your needs.
OptionBest forWhy it works / doesn't
Build from scratchTime-consumingTakes hours, easy to miss sections, inconsistent results.
Enterprise toolsOverkillDesigned for large portfolios, too complex and expensive for small hosts.
Simple templatesJust rightQuick to set up, includes essentials, scales as you grow.

Where Host Pilot fits

  • Use simple templates designed for small hosts with 1–5 properties.
  • Get started quickly without overwhelming complexity.
  • Scale your guides as you add more properties.

FAQ

Do I need a guest guide if I only have one property?+

Yes, even for one property, a guest guide reduces questions, improves reviews, and saves you time. Templates make it quick to set up.

How long does it take to create a guest guide?+

With a template, you can create a basic guide in 30–60 minutes. Add your property details, photos, and local recommendations, then share the link.

Can I use the same guide for multiple properties?+

You can use the same template, but customize each property with specific details: address, photos, parking, and property-specific house rules.

Related guides

Ready to create your guest guide?

Use this guide to build an effective guest guide for your property. When you're ready, Host Pilot can help you create mobile-friendly guides with QR codes, local recommendations, and easy updates.

New: Automation setup service

Airbnb + Booking.com automations done for you

We set up guest messaging, pricing nudges, and guide sharing across Airbnb, Booking.com, Vrbo, and direct sites—plus light marketing to boost your online presence.

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We include a branded guest guide link in every automation so guests self-serve before they message you.