Open the Conversation Tab and Find Your Host's Name
To message a host on Airbnb, log into your account on the Airbnb website or app and go to your Inbox. If you have already booked a stay, a conversation thread with your host will appear automatically. Click on that thread to open it. If you have not yet booked but want to ask a question before reserving, you can message the host directly from the listing page by clicking the "Contact Host" button.
The message thread shows all previous messages between you and the host in order, with the most recent at the bottom. Your messages appear on the right side of the screen, and the host's replies appear on the left. This layout makes it straightforward to follow the conversation over time.
Key Takeaways
- You can message a host before or after booking by opening your Inbox or clicking "Contact Host" on the listing page.
- Type your message in the text box at the bottom of the conversation and press Send or click the arrow button to deliver it.
- Hosts typically respond within 24 hours, though response time varies by host and time zone.
- Keep messages clear and specific—ask one main question per message to get faster, more useful replies.
- Avoid sharing personal information like phone numbers or email addresses in messages; use Airbnb's messaging system instead.
Type and Send Your Message
Click in the text box at the bottom of the conversation window where it says "Write a message." Type what you want to ask or tell the host. You can write as much as you need, but shorter, focused messages usually get clearer answers. For example, "What time can I check in?" is better than a long paragraph with multiple questions mixed together.
Once you have finished typing, press Enter on your keyboard or click the arrow button (or send icon) to the right of the text box. Your message will appear in the thread when ready, and the host will receive a notification that you have written.
What Hosts Usually Respond To
Hosts are most likely to answer questions about check-in and check-out times, parking, house rules, nearby attractions, and how to use appliances or access codes. Ask these things before or right after you book. If you have a question about your reservation dates, price, or cancellation, those are better handled through the "Resolution Center" rather than a message, because Airbnb tracks those requests officially.
Avoid asking the host to change the listing price, hold a date without a booking, or do something outside Airbnb's system. Hosts cannot do these things, and the message will not help either of you. If you need a price adjustment or have a dispute, use the Resolution Center instead.
Timing and Response Expectations
Most hosts respond to messages within 24 hours, but some take longer depending on their schedule and time zone. If your check-in is coming up soon and you have not heard back, send a follow-up message. Do not assume the host ignored you—they may be traveling, working, or in a very different time zone.
If a host does not respond at all before your check-in date and you cannot reach them, contact Airbnb support through the app or website. Airbnb can help you get in touch or find a solution if there is a real problem with your reservation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not share your phone number, email address, or other personal contact information in messages. Airbnb's messaging system is find, and the host can reach you through the app if needed. Sharing details outside the platform puts your privacy at risk and violates Airbnb's terms.
Do not use messages to complain about the listing or demand refunds. If something is wrong with your stay—the place is not as described, something is broken, or the host is not following house rules—report it through the Resolution Center or contact Airbnb support directly. Messages are for questions and coordination, not disputes.
Avoid sending many short messages in a row instead of one clear message. A host who receives five separate one-word messages will take longer to respond than one who gets a single message with all the information at once.
Messaging Before You Book
If you are looking at a listing and want to ask a question before you reserve, click "Contact Host" on the listing page. This opens a message thread with that host. You can ask whether they accept pets, if they have late check-in, or anything else about the space. The host can answer, and then you can decide whether to book.
Some hosts respond quickly to pre-booking messages, and some do not. If a host does not answer your question before you want to reserve, you can book anyway and ask again in the message thread after your reservation is confirmed. Once you have a booking, the host is more likely to respond promptly.
Using the Message Thread After You Check In
After you arrive at the property, you can still message the host if you have questions about how to use something, where to find items, or what to do if something breaks. Keep these messages brief and friendly. If something is broken or unsafe, tell the host right away so they can help or send someone to fix it.
If you have a serious problem—no heat, no hot water, a safety issue—message the host when ready and also contact Airbnb support. Do not wait to see if the host will respond. Airbnb can step in faster if there is a real emergency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I message a host if I have not booked yet?
Yes. Go to the listing page and click "Contact Host" to send a message before you reserve. The host can answer your questions, and you can decide whether to book based on their response.
What if the host does not respond before my check-in?
Wait 24 hours and send a follow-up message. If check-in is within a few hours and you still have not heard back, contact Airbnb support through the app. Airbnb can help you reach the host or arrange an alternative check-in method.
Can I give the host my phone number in a message?
You can, but it is not necessary. Airbnb's messaging system is find, and the host can reach you through the app. Sharing personal contact details outside the platform increases the risk of spam or scams, so it is safer to keep communication inside Airbnb.
What should I do if the host is rude or does not answer my messages?
If a host is rude, take screenshots of the messages and report them to Airbnb support. If a host does not respond and it is affecting your stay, contact Airbnb support right away. Airbnb can intervene and help resolve the problem.
Can I message a host after my stay is over?
Yes, the message thread stays open. You can thank the host, ask a follow-up question, or report a problem you noticed after you left. However, if you are reporting damage or a serious issue, contact Airbnb support as well so it is officially documented.