Overview
Automated messages send at the perfect time without manual effort. Set up rules to automatically send booking confirmations, check-in instructions, review requests, and more. Save time while ensuring guests receive timely, consistent communication.
How Automation Works
Each automated message rule has three components:
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Trigger | When to send (event or time-based) |
| Conditions | Which reservations qualify |
| Action | What message to send and how |
Trigger Types
Event-Based Triggers
| Trigger | Fires When |
|---|---|
| Booking Created | New reservation is made |
| Booking Confirmed | Reservation status changes to Confirmed |
| Booking Cancelled | Reservation is cancelled |
| Payment Received | Payment is recorded |
| Check-In Complete | Guest completes pre-check-in |
Time-Based Triggers
| Trigger | Example |
|---|---|
| Before Check-In | 3 days before, 1 day before, 4 hours before |
| On Check-In Day | At 10am on arrival day |
| During Stay | 2 days after check-in |
| Before Check-Out | 1 day before departure |
| After Check-Out | 1 day after, 3 days after checkout |
Creating an Automated Message
-
Go to Automation Settings
Settings > Automation > Message Rules
-
Click Create Rule
Start a new automation
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Name Your Rule
Descriptive name like "Check-In Instructions - 1 Day Before"
-
Select Trigger
Choose event or time-based trigger
-
Set Conditions
Define which reservations this applies to
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Choose Template
Select message template to send
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Select Channel
Email, SMS, WhatsApp, or auto-detect
-
Activate Rule
Enable the automation
Setting Conditions
Conditions filter which reservations receive automated messages:
| Condition | Options |
|---|---|
| Properties | All, specific properties, or property groups |
| Booking Source | Airbnb, Booking.com, Direct, etc. |
| Reservation Status | Confirmed, Pending, etc. |
| Guest Type | New guest, Repeat guest |
| Stay Length | Minimum/maximum nights |
| Tags | Has specific tags |
Common Automation Examples
Pre-Arrival Series
- 7 days before - Welcome email with property guide
- 3 days before - Pre-check-in link request
- 1 day before - Check-in instructions and access codes
- Check-in day 10am - "We're ready for you" + late check-in contact
During Stay
- Check-in + 4 hours - "Everything okay? Let us know!"
- Stay day 3 - Mid-stay check for long stays (7+ nights)
Post-Stay
- Check-out + 1 hour - Thank you message
- Check-out + 2 days - Review request
- Check-out + 30 days - Return discount offer
Payment Automation
- Payment due - 3 days - Payment reminder
- Payment received - Payment confirmation receipt
Testing Automations
-
Use Test Mode
Enable test mode to preview without sending
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Send Test Message
Send to yourself or a test reservation
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Review Variables
Ensure all placeholders fill correctly
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Check Timing
Verify trigger time is appropriate
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Activate
Enable rule for production use
Managing Automation Rules
Rule Status
- Active - Running and sending messages
- Paused - Temporarily disabled
- Draft - Not yet activated
Viewing Activity
- See which messages were sent by each rule
- View success/failure counts
- Track delivery and open rates
Best Practices
- Start simple - Begin with 3-4 essential automations
- Don't over-communicate - Quality over quantity
- Time it right - Consider time zones and guest schedules
- Test thoroughly - Always test before activating
- Monitor performance - Check delivery and response rates
- Iterate - Improve based on guest feedback
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