A vacation rental guide is a comprehensive resource typically provided to guests staying at a rental property. It contains essential information about the property and local area, as well as guidelines to ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay. For property owners and managers, offering a well-crafted guide is crucial as it helps enhance the guest experience. It also reduces misunderstandings and minimizes potential issues during guests’ stays.
Typically, the guide is provided to guests either electronically before their arrival or as a physical copy available at the rental property. In many cases, it can also be accessed from the vacation rental’s official website. To make this happen, property owners or managers can use a dedicated vacation rental website builder with features that allow them to upload and display the guide in a user-friendly and engaging way, whether as a page users can view or as a document they can download.
Apart from answering guests’ common questions, a vacation rental guide can also help them feel welcome and make them better informed about your property and the surrounding area. Here’s a detailed look at some of the must-include information your vacation rental guide should have.
When creating a vacation rental guide, start with a warm welcome. A personal greeting from you as the host sets a positive tone for the stay. It also offers you an opportunity to share a brief history of your place or a story about the property to give guests a sense of connection. This personal touch can be just a few paragraphs, but it can make them feel special and appreciated.
The main content of your vacation rental guide should include the essential information about your property such as the following:
Address: For the address, list the property's full address along with contact information. This is crucial for easy reference, deliveries, or in case of emergencies.
Check-in and Check-Out Procedures: It’s also best to provide step-by-step instructions for both the check-in and check-out processes. Provide details on how to access the property, where to find keys or key codes, and any specific instructions for when guests leave. Specify the check-in and check-out times and any flexibility you may offer.
House Rules: It is also very important to list your house rules. This helps set expectations and is a good way to ensure that guests respect your property. Include important guidelines, such as no smoking and no pets rules, and any quiet hours they need to observe. Also, highlight any penalties for breaking these rules to avoid misunderstandings.
Wi-Fi and Connectivity: To ensure that your guests have no problem connecting to your complimentary internet connection, clearly state the network name and password for your Wi-Fi. Include troubleshooting tips for common connectivity issues. If you have multiple networks or additional services, also provide the necessary login information and instructions.
Appliance Use: Finally, provide instructions for using common appliances such as the thermostat, television, washing machine, dishwasher, and other amenities. Providing clear instructions can help prevent misuse and potential damage.
As a precaution, also indicate in your property guide the location of safety equipment and features like fire extinguishers, emergency exits, and first aid kits. Include any specific safety instructions relevant to your property, such as how to use the fire extinguisher and the location and contents of the first aid kits. Additionally, provide a map of the property highlighting these safety features.
Moreover, make sure to list the contact numbers of local emergency services such as the police, fire department, and hospitals. Also include the addresses of these services and any special instructions for reaching these services like nearby landmarks or transportation suggestions. When creating a section about safety and emergencies in the vacation rental guide, highlight and place it where guests can easily find the important information.
If you want to help guests care for your rental property like their own, it’s a good idea to give them information about how to best do this. In the guide, include clear instructions for garbage disposal and recycling. Specify pick-up days, locations of bins, and any sorting requirements. Providing clear guidance is important to help guests abide by local waste management regulations.
Consider adding suggestions about how guests can maintain property cleanliness during their stay. Include simple tips about cleaning up spills and stains effectively and general tidiness to help keep your property in good condition. Additionally, guests may find it helpful to know where cleaning supplies are stored on the property. So, make sure this information is included in your vacation rental guide, too.
As a property host or manager, you can provide guests with information about the local establishments, which can help them have a pleasant stay. It also helps guests find what they need if they’re unfamiliar with the area. List the essential services near your property, including grocery stores, pharmacies, and medical facilities. Include their addresses, contact numbers, and operating hours if possible. Knowing where to find these services quickly can be incredibly helpful for guests.
Additionally, put details about local public transportation, taxi services, bike rentals, and car hire options in the vacation rental guide. Make sure to include schedules, contact information, and any tips for getting around to help guests explore the area better. You can also highlight the most convenient and cost-effective methods of transportation.
Incorporating these essential details into your vacation rental guide can significantly enhance your guests' experiences. Anticipating their needs and providing clear, comprehensive information can help make them feel more welcome. These gestures can also encourage positive reviews and repeat bookings. So, make sure to include the details mentioned above along with pieces of information that are unique to your property and locale. A comprehensive vacation rental guide can help set the stage for a successful and stress-free stay for your guests.
