The Basic Checkout Process

Checking out of an Airbnb is straightforward: you leave by your checkout time, return the keys or access device, and the host marks you as departed in the app. Most checkouts happen between 10 a.m. and 11 a.m., though your specific listing will show the exact time in your reservation details. The host will inspect the property after you leave and either release your security deposit or contact you about damage within a set timeframe.

You do not need to do anything in the Airbnb app to formally "check out" — the departure itself is the checkout. However, you should confirm a few things before you leave: that you have returned all keys, that you have left the property in the condition the host expects, and that you know how to lock up properly so the next guest can access the space.

Key Takeaways

  • Leave by the checkout time shown in your reservation (usually 10 or 11 a.m.) or you may be charged for an extra night.
  • Return all keys, remotes, access cards, or other items the host gave you, and confirm the door locks behind you.
  • Take photos of the empty, clean property before you leave so you have proof of its condition if the host later claims damage.
  • The host has a set number of days (usually 3 to 5) after checkout to report damage or deduct from your security deposit.
  • If you need to leave early or stay late, message the host before checkout day — last-minute requests often cannot be granted.

What to Do Before You Leave

The day before checkout, review your reservation to confirm the exact checkout time. Open the Airbnb app, go to your current booking, and look for "Checkout time" in the reservation details. If the listing shows 11 a.m. but you need to leave earlier, message the host when ready — do not assume you can slip out without notice.

Walk through the property and check for anything you brought that is not part of the listing. Gather your belongings from closets, drawers, and the bathroom. Many guests accidentally leave phone chargers, toiletries, or clothing behind, which creates extra work for the host and may result in shipping fees charged to you.

Take out the trash, wash any dishes you used, and wipe down surfaces you touched. The host's expectations are listed in the house rules section of your reservation. Some hosts expect the place spotless; others straightforward want it reasonably clean. If the listing says "light cleaning expected," you do not need to scrub baseboards, but you should not leave crumbs on the counter or dirty dishes in the sink.

Returning Keys and Access Devices

Before you leave, confirm how to return the key or access device. Your host will have explained this in the check-in instructions — look for a message in the Airbnb app or an email sent before your arrival. Common methods include leaving the key in a lockbox on the property, handing it to the host in person, or dropping it at a nearby location the host specifies.

If the host provided a keypad code, smart lock, or key card, do not change the code or disable the lock. straightforward leave the property and let the door lock behind you. If you are unsure whether the door locked, test it from outside by pulling the handle. Do not leave the property unlocked.

If you lose or damage a key, tell the host when ready through the app. Most hosts have spare keys, but some may charge a replacement fee. The sooner you report it, the sooner the host can arrange a solution and the sooner you can leave without holding up the next guest's check-in.

Documenting the Property Condition

Take photos or a short video of the entire property before you leave — empty rooms, clean kitchen, made bed, closed windows, and locked doors. Use your phone's camera and timestamp the images if possible. This creates a record of the property's condition at the moment you departed, which protects you if the host later claims you caused damage you did not cause.

Pay special attention to areas where damage is common: the kitchen sink and counters, bathroom tiles and fixtures, bed linens, and carpet or flooring. If you spot any existing damage (a stain, a broken blind, a loose tile), photograph it and note the date. If the host later tries to charge you for that damage, you will have proof it was already there.

What Happens After You Check Out

Once you leave, the host will inspect the property and compare it to the photos from check-in. If everything matches the house rules and the condition is acceptable, the host will mark you as checked out in the app and your security deposit will be released. This usually happens within 24 hours of checkout, though some hosts take longer.

If the host finds damage or the property is dirtier than expected, they may file a damage claim through Airbnb. You will receive a notification in the app with photos and a description of what the host is claiming. You then have a set number of days to respond with your own photos or explanation. Airbnb will review both sides and decide whether to release the deposit or approve the claim.

If you disagree with a damage claim, respond promptly with your checkout photos and a clear explanation. Airbnb sides with guests more often when the guest has documentation. If the host's claim photo shows damage that was not visible in your checkout photos, that is strong evidence you did not cause it.

Early Checkout and Late Checkout Requests

If you need to leave before your checkout date, message the host as soon as you know. Some hosts will refund the unused nights; others will not. Airbnb's policy allows hosts to set their own cancellation rules, so the refund depends entirely on what the host agrees to. The earlier you ask, the more likely the host is to grant a refund, because they may be able to rebook those nights.

If you want to stay past your checkout time, message the host before checkout day. Do not assume you can stay an extra hour or two without asking. If the next guest is checking in that afternoon, the host cannot accommodate a late checkout. If there is no next guest, the host may allow it, but you will likely be charged for an extra night at the nightly rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time do I have to leave on checkout day?

Your checkout time is listed in your reservation details in the Airbnb app — it is usually 10 a.m. or 11 a.m. If you are still in the property after that time, you may be charged for an extra night. If you need to leave later, message the host before checkout day to ask.

Do I need to clean the property before I leave?

Yes. The house rules will specify the cleaning standard, but at minimum you should wash dishes, wipe down surfaces, take out trash, and sweep or vacuum if the floor is visibly dirty. Hosts expect the property in the same condition as when you arrived, minus normal wear.

What if I damage something during my stay?

Tell the host when ready through the Airbnb app. Take a photo of the damage and explain what happened. Some hosts will waive minor damage; others will file a claim. Reporting it yourself is better than hoping the host does not notice, because transparency often results in a lower charge or no charge at all.

How long does it take to get my security deposit back?

The host has 3 to 5 days after checkout to inspect the property and file any damage claims. If no claim is filed, your deposit is released automatically. If a claim is filed, you will have time to respond before Airbnb makes a final decision. The entire process usually takes one to two weeks.

Can I leave my luggage at the property after checkout?

Only if the host agrees. Message the host before checkout day and ask if you can store your bags for a few hours while you explore the area or wait for your flight. Many hosts will allow this at no extra charge, but some will not. Do not leave luggage without permission.