You can add guests to an Airbnb reservation through the reservation details page, but only before check-in and only if the host allows additional guests
To add someone to your reservation, open the Airbnb app or website, go to your booking, and look for an "Edit guests" or "Manage reservation" option. The exact location depends on whether you booked through the app or desktop site, but both routes lead to the same guest list. You will need the person's first and last name and email address. Airbnb will send them an invitation, and they must accept it before they appear on the reservation.
The host sets a maximum occupancy number when they list the property. If your reservation is already at that limit, you cannot add more guests through the system — you would need to contact the host directly and ask them to modify the booking. Some hosts are flexible and will increase the guest count if space allows; others will not. The host's response time varies, so do not assume the change will happen quickly.
Adding someone after check-in is not possible through the app. If a guest arrives after you have already checked in, you can mention it to the host, but Airbnb's system does not support mid-stay additions. The person would need their own separate reservation if they are staying multiple nights.
Key Takeaways
- You can only add guests before check-in by editing the guest list in your reservation details.
- The host's maximum occupancy limit controls whether additional guests can be added — if you are at the limit, the host must approve a change to the booking.
- Added guests receive an email invitation and must accept it; they do not automatically appear on the reservation.
- You cannot add someone after check-in through the Airbnb system, so plan additions before arrival.
- If the host declines to add more guests, you will need to book a separate reservation for the additional person.
How to find the edit guests option on desktop and mobile
On the Airbnb website, sign in to your account and go to "Trips" in the top menu. Find the reservation you want to modify and click on it. Look for a button or link labeled "Manage reservation" or "Edit reservation" — it is usually near the top of the booking details. Click it, and you should see an option to edit the guest list or add guests.
On the Airbnb app, tap the profile icon at the bottom right, then tap "Trips." Select the reservation, and look for "Manage reservation" or a pencil icon next to the guest names. Tap it to open the guest editor. The interface is simpler on mobile, but the function is the same: you can add or remove names before check-in.
If you do not see an edit option, the reservation may have already started, or the host may have locked the guest list. Once check-in begins, Airbnb disables the guest editor to prevent last-minute changes that could violate house rules or occupancy limits.
What information you need to add a guest
You will need the person's first name, last name, and email address. Airbnb uses the email to send them an invitation to join the reservation. They must have an Airbnb account or be willing to create one to accept the invitation. If they do not have an account, they can sign up for free using that email address.
You do not need their phone number, ID, or payment information. Airbnb handles the payment through your original booking, so the added guest does not pay separately. The invitation is tied to their email, so make sure you have the correct address — if you misspell it, they will not receive the invite.
When the host can refuse to add more guests
Every Airbnb listing has a maximum number of guests set by the host. This number is based on the property's size, local zoning laws, and the host's own rules. If your current reservation is already at that maximum, Airbnb will not let you add anyone through the system. You will see a message saying the property is at capacity.
In this case, you can contact the host directly through the Airbnb messaging system and ask them to increase the guest count. Some hosts will do this if they have space and feel comfortable with it. Others will decline because they want to stick to their original terms or because they have already prepared the property for the number of guests you booked. There is no way to force a host to accept more guests than their listing allows.
If the host refuses, your options are to proceed with the original guest count or to cancel and rebook a different property that allows more people. Cancellation policies vary by listing, so check your booking terms before you cancel.
How the invitation process works
Once you add a guest's name and email, Airbnb sends them an automated invitation. The email will tell them which property you are staying at, the check-in and check-out dates, and a link to accept or decline. They have until check-in to respond. If they do not accept by then, they will not be on the reservation.
The added guest does not need to pay anything — the cost is already covered by your original booking. However, they do need to accept the invitation to be officially added. If they decline, you can try adding them again or contact the host to discuss alternatives.
Once they accept, their name appears on the reservation and they will have access to the check-in instructions and house rules. If the property uses a keypad or smart lock, the host may need to update the access code or send it separately to the new guest.
What happens if you need to add someone after check-in
Airbnb's system does not allow you to add guests after check-in has begun. If someone arrives late or you want to invite an extra person partway through your stay, you cannot modify the reservation through the app.
Your only option is to contact the host directly through Airbnb messaging and explain the situation. Some hosts are willing to accommodate an extra person for the remainder of the stay, especially if it is just one night. Others will decline because they have already prepared the property or because it violates their house rules. The host's response is not may provide, and they may ask for additional payment.
If the extra person is staying multiple nights, they would need to book their own separate reservation for those dates. This means they would check in separately and have their own booking record.
Removing a guest from your reservation
If you need to remove someone from the reservation before check-in, you can do so through the same "Edit guests" menu. Open the reservation, find the guest you want to remove, and look for a delete or remove button next to their name. Confirm the removal, and they will be taken off the booking.
The removed guest will receive a notification that they have been removed from the reservation. If you are removing them because of a conflict, it is courteous to message them through Airbnb or another channel to explain. Removing someone after check-in is not possible through the system — you would need to contact the host if the situation changes during the stay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I add a guest if the property is already fully booked?
No. If the host's maximum occupancy is already reached, Airbnb will not let you add anyone. You would need to contact the host directly and ask them to modify the booking to allow more guests. The host can choose to do this, but they are not required to.
Will the added guest have to pay anything?
No. The added guest does not pay separately. Your original booking price covers all guests on the reservation. The host cannot charge the added guest directly through Airbnb, though they could ask you to pay extra if you contact them privately.
What if the person I want to add does not have an Airbnb account?
They can create one for free using their email address. When you send the invitation, Airbnb will guide them through account creation if they do not already have one. They do not need a payment method on file to accept the invitation.
Can I add someone after I have already checked in?
Not through the Airbnb system. You can only add guests before check-in. If someone arrives after you have checked in, contact the host directly through messaging and ask if they can accommodate an extra person. The host may agree, but there is no may provide.
What if the added guest does not accept the invitation?
They will not appear on the reservation. You can send the invitation again or contact them outside of Airbnb to make sure they received it and know to accept. If they still do not accept by check-in, they will not be on the booking.