Hiding keys under your doormat or flower pot is a little dated, don’t you agree? Imagine having your guest struggle to find your cryptic key hideout spot when you cannot physically hand over the keys to them. Terrible!
This is why self-check-in is compulsory for an Airbnb listing. We understand that picking out a lockbox that gives extra security in a sea of choices can be overwhelming.
Thankfully, this article will cover everything about Airbnb lockboxes and give you some recommendations.
What is an Airbnb Lockbox?
A lockbox is a device that stores keys in a safe compartment/box. It is a tool that has been used for years by realtors, business managers, and also Airbnb hosts to provide remote access to their properties or homes.
It is a small device that can be easily looped around your door knobs or mounted to the wall or fence of your Airbnb rental.
What Are the Benefits of Using an Airbnb Lockbox?
A lockbox attached to your Airbnb rental has many benefits, including the following:
Time And Resources
With the self-check-in benefit that the lockbox provides, hosts are no longer required to meet and greet guests. Of course, having the host on the ground is a great reception to welcome the guest.
But imagine a case scenario where there was a flight delay or traffic that spans over hours, and the host has to keep waiting for the guest – this equals a lot of wasted time, which is part of human resources. Sometimes, hosts have to hire a house manager to meet and hand over keys to guests.
Safety
As the world is moving into the post-pandemic era, it is still essential to maintain some health precautions. Contactless check-ins are one of the great ways to curb or prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
The lockbox eliminates the need for physical exchange; this way, your guest are assured of their safety and are less worried about coming in contact with any virus.
Security
We know how hard it is to find the perfect spot to hide your keys. The lockbox offers better protection for your keys, and the chances of break-ins are very low or non-existent.
Privacy
Some guests prefer privacy, especially those on business trips. With a self-check-in device like the lockbox, they can settle in at their own pace with no host hovering over them while they explore the property.
What Are The Types Of Lockboxes?
Lockboxes come in different shapes and sizes. Also, it varies in terms of strength, size, and dial format. Let us explore the various types:
Dial Locks
Dial locks are similar to the locks you will find in a gym locker room or high school. They are one of the sturdiest lockboxes you can find.
The dial wheel spins around to form a combination code that opens the lockbox. It can be pretty stressful for some guests. However, it is proven to be the hardest to breach.
Wheel Locks
A wheel lockbox typically has four to six scrolling wheels with numbers from 0-9 or alphabets. These numbers or alphabets encode a combination pin that ranges from four digits to long mixed codes.
Users or guests can scroll on each wheel to get the combination that secures the box. It is easy to figure out for guests but easily breachable.
Push-Button Locks
Regarding guest convenience and ease of use, push-button locks are the best options.
Push-button lockboxes open with a combination code set beforehand. It is straightforward to use but also prone to security breaches as passcodes can be predictable.
Best Lockbox for Airbnb
Finding the right lockbox requires careful consideration to find the one that best serves the user experience and ensures safety. Here are our best host Airbnb lockbox recommendations:
1. Master Lock 5400D, Portable Airbnb Lockbox
Coming in highly rated with over 20,00 Amazon reviews, the Master Lock 5400D is a worthy recommendation.
The 5400D lockbox is well-suited for both outdoor and indoor use. It has an L-shape feature, with the top section measuring 0.3 inches by 1.56 inches by 2.95 inches. You can overlook the numbers; it has a big internal capacity that can hold up to five keys.
It is easy to install; you can loop it around your door knob without technical effort. However, a mounted lockbox version is known as Master Lock 5401D.
Amongst its numerous perks, the 5400D has a protective cover to ensure the dials don’t freeze. Since it’s vinyl-coated, you can be sure it won’t scratch the door. For increased security, this model allows you to set a four-digit combination.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Simple installation process Weatherproof covering Durable construction Light up dial | You have to replace the battery every few months. |
2. Igloohome Smart Lock Box 3
The Igloohome Smart Keybox 3 is the perfect blend of what you should look for in an Airbnb lockbox. It is stress-free and ensures a seamless key handover.
Igloohome Keybox has intelligent features you can rarely find in other lock boxes. One of its most popular features is the innovative agloPIN technology: hosts/guests can gain access without downloading an app. Login codes are generated via SMS, Facebook Messenger, and Whatsapp.
This feature also lets you choose the pin code and its validity period. Let’s say a guest will stay for three nights; you can customize the pin code to reset after then automatically. For optimum security, the lockbox relocks automatically and triggers an alert if not locked for a specific period.
Other features
- You can easily observe the coming and going of your visitor remotely.
- The Igloohome lockbox is controlled via a smartphone if you’re within range.
- It is optimized for shackling on doorknobs and mounting on firm structures.
Side tip: if the internal batteries run out, you can jump-start the lock with a power bank.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Waterproof Syncs with Airbnb You can grant access when you’re away Comes with changeable shackles | Difficult to use in low light conditions Possible battery drainage It is a little pricey |
3. Delswin Wall Mounted Key Airbnb Lockbox
The Delswin is a secure lockbox for Airbnb/Vrbo owners on a limited budget, and also suitable for sharing an apartment/house with friend
It is heavy-duty steel with a waterproof design, making it suitable for indoor and outdoor use. The lockbox has a four-dial lock that offers thousands of combinations. It is hard to open with any guesswork code.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Waterproof and safe You can mount it on any solid surface Inexpensive Good storage capacity | The 4-digit combination scroll |
4. Master Lock 5440D Bluetooth Portable Airbnb Lockbox
The Master Lock 5440D is one of our upper-range Airbnb lockbox recommendations.
It has smart features that enable smartphone access through Bluetooth or with a temporary or permanent code. The 5440D makes it easy to keep track of who visits and when through the App.
The device triggers tamper alerts if the user has unsuccessful keypad entry attempts. Also, you can view the lock history, re-lock activity, guest addition, and low battery alerts.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Durable design Gives access without a secondary key card Large storage capacity to hold multiple keys Waterproof Long life battery is easily replaceable. | The app can be difficult to use It is pretty expensive |
5. KeyGuard SL-590 Wall Mount Airbnb Lockbox
The SL-590 is the best solution for vacation rentals, homeowners, and realtors who need to store their keys safely. It has a large metal body where you can store access cards, keys, and other items. You can either choose an easy-to-remember alphabet or number combinations.
Another big plus is that it can be installed on a flat surface or the wall.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comes with secure push-button locks Features a large storage capacity Easy to install | There are concerns about the construction – not 100% waterproof |
Where Can I Buy An Airbnb Lockbox?
You can purchase Airbnb lockboxes from hardware stores close to you. However, online stores have a wider range of options that you can browse through. Here are some popular sources:
eBay,
Where Should I Install My Airbnb Lockboxes?
There are two main spots where you can install your Airbnb lockbox; you can fix it to your door knob or on the wall. But then, you want to avoid placing your lockbox in a public place, especially for burglars. This rules out doorknobs.
Having it fixed to the wall is more secure – because it offers location flexibility. However, finding the right location can be tricky as you do not want it too hidden or exposed. Finding the right balance between discreet and accessible is vital.
Private residences
It is recommended that you avoid installing your Airbnb lockbox in an area visible to the main road.
Consider a not-so-discreet spot like
- Along the wall,
- Within your garden area(if you have one)
- Backyard, preferably close to something easily recognizable.
These spots are for easy accessibility for the guest. The goal is to have it hidden but still easily found by guests.
Apartments
You will have to consult with your building manager or landlord to find out their policies concerning lockboxes. Be sure to aim for somewhere not open to everyone.
How Do You Do a Self-Check-In With Lockbox Airbnb?
It is a simple process that both the guest and host can follow easily:
- Place the key inside the lockbox
- Set the code combination and send it with details to the guest
- As a guest, you can find the location and code for the lockbox contained in the message from your host.
- Once you find the lockbox and enter the code, you have the keys to your rental home
- For added security, the host should consider changing the code after each visitor leaves.
Introducing Airbnb Smart Locks
What if we told you that you no longer have to juggle a bunch of keys? Of course, lockboxes are a step up from the days of hiding keys under your flower pot or foot mat — but what if you get to eliminate keys?
Smart Locks are a high-tech security system that eliminates the need for traditional keys. It is an electronic system controlled by a wireless signal from a smartphone or code. This system avoids complications like forgotten keys or passcodes while providing guests with a contactless self-check-in system. Read our in-depth article on Smart Locks and best picks to know more.
Checkout Our Other Articles On Airbnbuniverse.com
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, using a lockbox is a great way to ensure the safety and security of your Airbnb rental property. It allows easy and secure access for your guests while keeping your property safe from unwanted access or theft.
Remember to always prioritize the safety of your guests and property by investing in a reliable lockbox.