Manage Early Arrivals and Late Departures with Ease

In short-term rentals and holiday hosting , flexibility can mean the difference between a five-star review and a guest  complaint . But when guests arrive early or leave hours after checkout , it can disrupt your cleaning schedule and cause unnecessary stress.

The good news? With the right tools and communication, you can easily handle early arrivals and late departures , keeping guests happy and operations running smoothly.

Here we'll explore practical tips for effectively managing early arrivals and late departures, turning potential problems into opportunities to delight your guests.

Why Flexibility Matters at Check-in and Check-out

Today's travelers often face unpredictable flight schedules , train delays or last-minute plans . By offering options for early arrivals and late departures—even if it's just through luggage storage or recommendations—you can significantly improve the guest experience.

Properties that anticipate and manage this challenge typically achieve:

• Improved guest satisfaction and better reviews
• Less stress and fewer questions before arrival
• Higher chances of repeat bookings

Tips for managing early arrivals and late departures smoothly

1. Set expectations from the beginning

Clear communication prevents misunderstandings before they happen. From the moment of the booking:

• Add standard check-in and check-out times in automated confirmation emails.
• Include frequently asked questions (FAQs) that explain what happens if guests arrive early or need to check out late.
• Use pre-arrival messages to set expectations and share options

Example:

“Dear (Guest Name), we look forward to welcoming you! check-in is from 3:00 PM, but if you arrive earlier, we'd be happy to recommend nearby luggage storage options. Details below.”

2. Offers secure luggage storage

A major headache for guests is not knowing where to leave their luggage before check-in or after check-out . Even if you can't offer this service at your property, you can solve the problem by recommending a secure luggage storage service.

Stasher connects travelers with local shops and hotels that offer safe and secure luggage storage.

• Thousands of convenient locations near tourist areas, stations, and your property.
• Insurance included for added peace of mind.
• Easy online booking with instant confirmation.

3. Automate communication with digital tools

If you already use Check-in Scan to simplify registration, take advantage of that automation:

• Send guests automated messages explaining options for early arrivals or late departures.
• Include links to luggage storage services and local suggestions in those emails.
• Use smart locks or access codes that are activated only during the established check-in hours to prevent premature entry.

Automation means fewer manual messages and less last-minute stress

4. Plan buffer time for cleaning and changeovers

Early arrivals and late departures can disrupt your cleaning schedule, so:

• Add an hour's buffer between check-outs and check-ins whenever possible
• Inform guests that early or late access may not be possible without prior arrangement.
• Offer guaranteed early or late access as a paid upgrade — many guests will be willing to pay for this amenity.

5. Create a local guide to “kill time”

When you can't offer early arrival or late departure, show that you care by giving them alternatives .

Include the following in your digital guide or automated messages:

• Nearby cafes coworking spaces , and parks
• Attractions where they can spend a few hours
• Stasher 's nearest drop-off point for secure luggage storage

6. Charge or offer benefits strategically

Charging a small fee for guaranteed early check-in or late check-out can discourage casual requests and help you plan better .
Alternatively, you can offer it as a loyalty benefit for repeat guests.

By presenting it as a convenience , you maintain a good relationship while protecting your schedule.

Turning a challenge into a positive guest experience

Managing early arrivals and late departures doesn't have to be a headache. By setting clear expectations , providing convenient options like Stasher for luggage storage, and automating as much as possible with tools like Check-in Scan , you can reduce stress and keep guests happy .

The result? Better reviews, smoother operations, and more time to focus on what really matters: creating a memorable experience for your guests.

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Ready to simplify your guests' arrivals and departures?

Sign up for Stasher 's host referral program to share luggage storage links with your guests — and earn rewards while you do it!

Visit stasher.com/hosts for more information.