Your guide to creating digital guest guidebooks 

TL;DR

• Definition: A digital guidebook is an online resource accessible on any device, replacing outdated paper manuals.
• Value: It reduces repetitive questions, improves review scores, and opens revenue streams through upsells.
• Format: The most scalable option is a web-based Guest App that requires no download.
• Creation: You can build one in minutes by syncing your PMS data, customizing your branding, and sharing a single link.

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If you’re running a short-term rental business in 2025, a digital guest guidebook is one of the fastest ways to enhance the guest experience, reduce repetitive questions, and drive more 5-star reviews.

This online resource provides your guests with everything they need to know about your property, the local area, and how to best enjoy their stay. Unlike traditional paper manuals, digital guidebooks are accessible via smartphones or tablets, ensuring your guests get an interactive, up-to-date experience that they can easily share with fellow travelers.

Why use a digital guidebook?

A digital guidebook is more than a convenience. It’s an operational asset.  

• Operational efficiency: Drastically reduce the time spent answering questions about Wi-Fi, check-in, or appliance usage.
• Cost reduction: Eliminate the need for printing, re-printing, and replacing worn-out paper manuals.
• Scalability: Update information across multiple listings instantly without visiting the property.
• Revenue growth: Use the platform to promote services like late check-outs or mid-stay cleans.

What goes into a digital vacation rental guidebook?

Your guidebook should be a comprehensive “source of truth” for guests. Here’s a recommended structure for a high-performing guide: 

The must-haves

• Welcome message: Set the tone immediately. A warm, friendly intro makes guests feel expected and valued.
• Arrival & check-in: Clear instructions on how to access the property, including key codes or lockbox locations.
• Wi-Fi & property details: Put the Wi-Fi password front and center. Include instructions for appliances (thermostats, coffee makers, hot tubs).
• House rules: Clearly outline expectations regarding noise, pets, smoking, and parties to prevent issues before they start.
• Emergency information: Local numbers for police, fire, and medical services, as well as your emergency contact info.

The nice-to-haves

• Local recommendations: Curated tips for restaurants, attractions, and hidden gems. This positions you as a local expert.
• Transportation: Maps, parking rules, and links to local transit or taxi services.
• FAQs: Pre-emptively answer common questions specific to your property.

The superior solution: Guesty Guest App

While you can create a static PDF or a basic document, these formats lack interactivity and are difficult to update. For professional hosts and property managers, Guest App offers a dynamic, fully integrated solution.

The Guest App is a branded, web-based portal that guests access via a simple link — no download required. It unifies the entire guest journey, from registration to checkout.

Why the Guest App outperforms static guides:

• One link, one portal: Guests get a single link for check-in forms, rental agreements, and your digital guidebook.
• Language localization: The app automatically allows guests to access information in their preferred language, reducing communication barriers.
• Personalization: You can customize portals for different properties, guest groups, and brands, ensuring a tailored experience.
• Smart compliance: It integrates critical tasks like ID validation and document collection directly into the welcome flow.

How to create your guest guidebook with Guesty

Building a guidebook doesn’t need to be a design project. With Guesty, it is a streamlined process:

1. Configure your Guest App 

Access the Guest App settings in your Guesty dashboard. Because it is web-based, you don’t need to worry about app store approvals—it is instantly accessible via a link.

2. Centralize your content 

Instead of typing out details manually, Guesty pulls existing data from your listing details (like photos, amenities, and house rules) to populate the core of the guide.

3. Customize and brand 

Add your logo and brand colors to ensure the guidebook feels like a premium extension of your business. You can create multiple check-in forms and customize the Terms & Conditions with dynamic variables.

4. Add local flair and upsells 

Input your curated local recommendations. Prepare for upcoming features by planning upsell offers, such as early check-ins or local experiences, to monetize the guest journey.

5. Automate distribution 

Set up an automated message workflow to send the Guest App link to guests immediately after booking or prior to arrival.

Turning your guidebook into a marketing asset

Your guidebook is a prime piece of real estate. Use it to drive revenue and loyalty:

• Upsell services: Promote late check-outs, extra cleaning, or equipment rentals directly within the app. 
• Direct booking conversion: Include a subtle CTA or a discount code for their next stay if they book directly with you.
• Review generation: A smooth, informative stay leads to better reviews. Use the end of the guide to politely ask for a 5-star rating.

Sample guest message

Unsure how to introduce the guide? Use this template:

“Hi [Guest Name], we can’t wait to host you! To make your arrival smooth, here is a link to your personalized Guest App: [Link]. It includes your check-in instructions, Wi-Fi password, house rules, and our favorite local dinner spots. No download needed — just click and go!”

Personalized guidebooks for 5-star reviews

A beautifully presented and useful guest guidebook will significantly enhance your guest experience, leading to more positive reviews and repeat bookings. This dynamic tool not only serves to inform and guide your guests but also acts as an extension of your short-term rental business’s service and brand. By investing time and effort into creating a detailed and user-friendly digital welcome guidebook, you’re investing in your guests’ overall satisfaction and your vacation rental business’s success.

FAQs