Smart Locks for Airbnb Hosts: My Experience (and What I Recommend)

As an Airbnb host, I quickly learned that the right technology can make or break your hosting experience. One of the best upgrades I ever made was switching from traditional keys to a smart lock. Not only does it simplify guest check-in, but it also saves me time, keeps my property more secure, and creates a seamless guest experience.

In this post, I’ll share:

  • Why smart locks are the best option for short-term rentals
  • The lock I personally use and recommend for Airbnb
  • A few other smart lock options to consider

If you’d rather watch a step-by-step demo, I’ve also created a video showing how I set up a new guest code inside the Kwikset Halo app.

Why Smart Locks Are a Game-Changer for Airbnb Hosts

Handing over a physical key may feel simple, but it often leads to stress: lost keys, lockouts, the possibility of guests making a copy of your key, and late-night handoffs. Smart locks solve those problems and add a professional touch to your hosting.

Here’s why I believe smart locks are the best choice for Airbnb and vacation rental owners:

  • Custom guest codes → No more rekeying or hiding a key under the mat. Each guest gets their own unique code that is simple to set up with app that is attached to your lock.
  • Scheduled access → Codes only work during check-in and check-out times you set. You decide when the code will be activated and deactivated. Even if a guest shows up early without asking, they will not be able to get into the property with their code until the time you set up.
  • Cleaning crew codes → Give your cleaners their own permanent code so they can enter without bothering you. This also alows you to double check when the cleaners showed up and determine how long the cleaning took.
  • Access tracking → See who entered and when, right from the app on your phone.
  • Better guest experience → Self-check-in is fast becoming an Airbnb standard, and smart locks make it effortless.
  • Lock or unlock house property remotely → If your guest locks themselves out with too many wrong tries with the code, or forgets to lock up after they check out, you can unlock or lock the property right from your phone.

My Experience: From Yale to Kwikset Halo

When I first started hosting, I bought a Yale smart lock. Honestly, I couldn’t figure it out. It was probably user error, but after several frustrating tries, I gave up.

I decided to try the Kwikset Halo Wi-Fi Smart Lock, and to my surprise, I had it working perfectly on the very first try. It’s been reliable, easy to set up, and the app makes it simple to create and manage guest codes.

In fact, I recorded a quick demo showing how I set up a new code for a guest so you can see how easy the process really is. In the video I open up my Kwikset App and walk you through setting up a unique code for your Airbnb guests.

Which Smart Lock Should You Use for Your Airbnb?

There are plenty of smart lock options out there, and the right one for you may depend on your budget and design preferences. Here are a few solid picks:

No matter which you choose, a smart lock will save you stress and improve your overall hosting experience. (FYI, the links above are linked to my affiliate account and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.)

Ready to get your smart lock?

If you’re serious about being a confident host, upgrading to a smart lock is one of the smartest tech investments you can make. It protects your property, improves guest satisfaction, and makes hosting far less stressful.

Want to learn more tech tips and strategies for stress-free hosting? My course, Stay Success: Airbnb App Mastery, walks you through the entire Airbnb hosting app step-by-step so you can run your rental from your phone with confidence.
👉 Check it out here: https://staysuccess.org/airbnb-app-tutorial-course/

And if you haven’t already, watch my full smart lock demo here: Check Out My Youtube Channel!