Imagine this: your guests finally arrive at your holiday home after a long journey. But instead of starting their stay in a relaxed and positive mood, it begins with stress – because you are not there yourself and the key cannot be found. This first impression often determines how your guests feel about their holiday. The handover should always be secure and convenient so that your guests' stay is pleasant from the very beginning. In this article, we present various methods for key handover.
1. Personal key handover
The traditional and most direct method is, of course, to hand over the key in person on site – either by you or by a representative you trust.
Advantages:
This method allows you or your representative to speak to your guest face to face, answer questions directly, and establish a personal connection. It also ensures that the guest receives the correct key. Another plus point is that you have the opportunity to give the guest a brief introduction to the holiday home, which leaves a positive impression. You can find more tips on this in our article How to give your guests a positive holiday experience upon arrival.
Disadvantages:
Personal handover is often time-consuming and inflexible. If the guest arrives late, this can pose additional challenges.
2. Key handover via a key safe
A key safe is a practical solution where the key is stored in a secure box system, which guests can access using a code.
Advantages: This method offers both you as the host and your guests more flexibility than a personal handover, as they can access the key at any time without having to rely on a specific handover time. This is a convenient solution, especially for guests who arrive late or want flexible check-in times. In addition, the safe allows you to store the key securely and retain control over access.
Disadvantages: Installing a key safe may involve additional costs. Problems can arise if the access code is not communicated correctly in advance or if the guest forgets or loses it.
3. Key handover via smart lock
Modern technology offers the option of key handover via a smart lock, which allows guests to access the holiday home via an app or code without needing a physical key.
Advantages: Smart locks offer maximum convenience and flexibility. Access can be controlled at any time and from anywhere. In addition, access management can be fully automated, which minimises the effort for you as a host. Please note that the access code must be changed after each stay to ensure the safety of your guests and yourself in your holiday home.
Disadvantages: Smart locks are more expensive to purchase and can cause inconvenience in the event of technical problems. Not all guests are familiar with the technology, which can cause confusion or frustration if the lock does not work smoothly.
4. Key handover via a local partner
Another option is to hire a local partner – such as a caretaker or agency – for the key handover.
Advantages: This solution saves you time and effort. It also gives the guest a local contact person on site if they have any questions about the accommodation.
Disadvantages: There are additional costs, as the local partner must of course be paid for the handover. You also lose some control if you do not carry out the handover yourself.
👉 You can find more helpful tips on check-in in our article How to ensure a smooth check-in and check-out.
5. Key handover by post
In some cases, you can send the key by post before the guest arrives.
Advantages: In principle, this is a simple solution that does not require a physical handover.
Disadvantages: However, the biggest risk is that the key may get lost during shipping or arrive late. You also miss out on the opportunity to meet the guest in person and answer any questions they may have. We therefore advise against this method.
Conclusion:
Choosing the right method for the key handover depends on various factors, such as the type of accommodation, your target group and your logistical circumstances. For you as a host looking for a straightforward, flexible solution, key safes or smart locks are particularly suitable. Those who prefer personal contact should consider direct handover. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages – it depends on which one best suits your service and the needs of your guests.
