Practical English Guide

How to Write an Airbnb Message

Communicate clearly with a host before, during, or after a stay.

The essential idea

A useful Airbnb message gives the host enough context to answer quickly. Keep communication on the booking platform, identify the stay or property when needed, and focus each message on a clear question, update, or problem.

Your message will vary across the trip: before booking you may check suitability, before arrival you may confirm logistics, and during the stay you should report problems promptly with evidence and a reasonable requested solution.

What makes it effective?

Contextual

Explain whether the message concerns booking, arrival, the stay, or checkout.

Concise

Ask focused questions instead of requesting information already in the listing.

Timely

Report changes and problems as soon as practical.

Documented

Keep important details and agreements in the platform conversation.

A step-by-step method

    1

    Check the listing

    Review the rules, amenities, directions, and check-in information first.

    2

    Open with context

    Mention the booking dates or current stage of the stay.

    3

    State the point

    Ask the question or give the update in the first lines.

    4

    Add useful evidence

    Include a time, photo, error message, or action already tried when reporting a problem.

    5

    Suggest the next step

    Ask for instructions, confirmation, or a practical solution.

Worked practical example

Situation: A guest cannot operate the heating on the first evening.

Writing task: Message during a stay

Hi Marcus, we’ve checked in successfully—thank you for the clear directions. We’re having trouble with the heating: the display is on, but the radiators are still cold after setting it to 21°C about an hour ago. I’ve attached a photo of the control panel. Is there another setting we should use, or could someone take a look this evening? Thanks for your help.

Why this example works

  • The message confirms the arrival context.
  • The problem and attempted action are specific.
  • A photo helps the host diagnose it.
  • The guest offers two reasonable next steps.

Useful phrases

Before booking

  • Could you confirm whether…?
  • Would the property be suitable for…?
  • I have read the house rules and wanted to check…

During the stay

  • We’ve checked in successfully.
  • We’re having trouble with…
  • I’ve attached a photo showing…

Arrange action

  • Is there anything we should try?
  • Could someone take a look?
  • Please let me know what you recommend.

Common mistakes to avoid

Improve this wording

Avoid: Urgent!!! Nothing works!!!

Use: The heating display is on, but the radiators remain cold.

Describe the observable problem calmly and precisely.

Improve this wording

Avoid: Can I check in early?

Use: Would check-in at 1 p.m. be possible on 12 May?

Give the exact time and date you need.

Improve this wording

Avoid: The flat isn't good.

Use: The bedroom window does not close fully; I’ve attached a photo.

Specific evidence gives the host something to resolve.

Before you finish

  • The purpose is clear from the opening.
  • All essential names, dates, numbers, and references are correct.
  • The tone is calm, courteous, and appropriate for the situation.
  • The reader can understand what should happen next.
  • The message does not ask for information clearly shown in the listing.
  • Problems include evidence and a reasonable requested action.

Keep building confidence for practical situations in English.

Explore all Practical English guides