Should You Add a Safe to Your Airbnb? Here’s What Hosts Need to Know

Valerie called into the Hosting Hotline with a great question: she’s looking for a programmable guest safe—like the kind you find in hotel rooms—that guests can use to secure their valuables during their stay. But when she tried to find one online, it wasn’t as straightforward as she expected.

We love this question because offering a safe is a thoughtful amenity that can elevate the guest experience—especially in shared spaces or properties with higher nightly rates. But like any amenity, it comes with operational considerations. Here’s what we walked through with Valerie:

1. Find the Right Safe

We found a highly rated Amazon Basics security safe that mimics hotel functionality with a programmable keypad. Bonus: it’s under $150 and easy to return if it’s not a fit.

2. Guest Communication Is Key

Make sure instructions are crystal clear. Include photos (and even a video) in your digital or printed guidebook that explain how to use the safe, how to set the code, and what to do if they forget the code.

3. Mounting and Accessibility

Safes should be securely mounted to prevent theft. Be mindful of placement—guests of all sizes and ages should be able to access it easily. Think about clearance for opening the door fully and any furniture nearby.

4. What If They Forget the Code?

You’ll need a backup access plan. Whether it’s a master key stored securely on-site or with your team, make sure you’re not caught off guard when (not if) a guest forgets their code—especially if they leave something important behind.

5. Turnover and Inspection Protocols

Add “open and inspect safe” to your cleaning checklist. Is it empty? Is it unlocked? Has it been reset for the next guest? Guests will leave passports, money, phones—you name it—in there, so don’t skip this step.

6. Lost Item Procedures

If something is found, what’s your process? Who do you contact? How long will you hold it? What if it’s medication or cash? Having a documented policy (and sharing basic info in your guest guide) will save you stress later.

7. Liability Considerations

Make sure your insurance policy is up to date and that your guest guide clearly states that you are not responsible for items left in the safe. It’s all about setting expectations and protecting both you and your guests.

Final Thoughts

Adding a safe can absolutely increase guest trust and satisfaction—just make sure you’ve thought through the setup, support, and follow-up. With the right system in place, it’s one more way to stand out and go above and beyond.

Want Help Pricing Your Property Like a Pro?

If you’re unsure how to set your cleaning fee, bake it into your rate, or just feel stuck when it comes to pricing your property confidently… you’re not alone. That’s exactly why we’re hosting our upcoming Priced & Profitable Bootcamp.

We’ll walk you step-by-step through how to:

• Understand what your competitors are doing (and doing wrong)
• Read your market data so you can stop second-guessing
• Set a base price that actually works
• Use tools like PriceLabs with confidence
• Make your listings stand out so guests want to pay more

Ready to stop guessing and start pricing with purpose?
Save your seat today!

👉 thanksforvisiting.com/bootcamp

We can’t wait to help you price your property the smart, sustainable way.

Have More Questions? We’d love to hear from you! Submit your hosting questions to the Hosting Hotline and tune in to the podcast for answers. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for more tips: @thanksforvisiting_.

Download a transcript of this episode.

Resources:

• Proper Insurance | Book your FREE risk assessment today!
• Want to learn how to price your property? | Save Your Seat for the Priced & Profitable Bootcamp!
• Are you a brand-new host? | Get the Hosting Handbook today!
• Subscribe to our YouTube Channel | How to Set Up Your Airbnb Bathroom (Beginner’s Guide!)