Recommendations for Easier Check-outs
Do you often have problems when your guests check out? Let's talk about some ways to improve this process.
Ariana Carmona
Content writer
In many hostels, check-in times are not usually a problem. If you take the time (as I did) to check the House Rules or the Information section in the various sales channels between hostels, you will see that some hostels have extended check-in times until midnight, others even welcome guests 24 hours a day.
On the other hand, almost every accommodation prefers to check out between 11:00 and 12:00 at the latest. This restriction on check-out time is often a pain point in the reception process.
The big problem with check-out
A very common problem is that some guests do not respect the check-out time.
If you find that this happens regularly in your hostel, don't panic! Identifying and defining the problem is a great first step. The next step is to find out why it happens.
Many travelers misinterpret check-out time as the time they have to wake up, pack their bags, have breakfast, take a bath, and finally leave the room. Or even fall asleep!
What to do about this problem
First, communicate
There is a saying in Spanish that goes something like 'clear accounts keep friendships'. It is important to make all hostel rules clear, especially at check-in, but also before and during your stay.
Before the stay, on the booking channels you use, including your website and social media.
During the stay, with posters in rooms and common areas.
You can communicate the importance of a well-organised check-out, to ensure that rooms are clean enough to wait for new guests.
Charge for additional time
Many hostels offer late check-out for an additional fee. This can be a good option as it gives the guest the freedom to decide when they want to leave the room.
Going back to the previous point, it is important that it is clear to the guest that this additional fee will be charged and how much it will be.
The most important thing is that this policy is in line with the values and atmosphere of your hostel. Be flexible, but clearly define the boundaries (and communicate these to your guests) to better manage your business.
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