How to Manage Bookings
Master vacation rental booking management with TrueBookings. Handle reservations, guest communication, and maximize your rental income.
Access Your Booking Dashboard
Your booking management starts in the admin dashboard:
- Log in to your TrueBookings admin panel
- Click on the "Bookings" tab to see all your bookings
- View guest info, dates, and payment status
- See status: confirmed, checkin, checkout, completed, or cancelled
View Your Bookings
All bookings are automatically confirmed when guests complete payment:
- Automatic Confirmation: No approval needed when payment succeeds
- View Booking Details: Guest information, dates, number of guests, and total amount
- Check-in / Check-out: Mark arrivals and departures
- Cancel Bookings: Guests are refunded according to your cancellation policy
Use the Messages Tab
Communicate with guests using the Messages tab:
- View Conversations: See all guest messages in one place
- Reply to Guests: Answer questions about your property
- Check-in Instructions: Key location, access codes, parking
- House Rules and local tips: Share guidelines and nearby recommendations
Guest Communication Best Practices
Effective communication builds trust and reduces problems:
- Respond to inquiries within 2-4 hours
- Stay friendly and professional
- Provide clear check-in instructions
- Share an emergency contact for urgent matters
Pre-Arrival Preparation
Prepare for guest arrivals to ensure smooth check-ins:
- Inspect that everything is clean and working
- Send a welcome message 24-48 hours before arrival
- Share directions, key codes, or meeting instructions
- Remind guests of important house rules
During Guest Stay
Maintain good relationships while guests are staying:
- Follow up after check-in
- Respond quickly to issues
- Respect privacy unless there is an emergency
- Offer local tips if guests ask
Post-Checkout Management
Complete the guest experience after checkout:
- Send a thank you message
- Politely ask for a review if the stay went well
- Check for damage and handle deposits promptly
- Invite satisfied guests to book again
Pro Tip: Quick Responses
Use the Messages tab to respond quickly. Keep common replies ready (check-in instructions, house rules, local recommendations) so you can reply faster.
Handle Cancellations and Refunds
Manage cancellations professionally and fairly:
- Know and communicate your cancellation policy
- Keep records of all cancellation messages
- Help guests find alternative dates when possible
Monitor Your Bookings
Track booking status, response times, guest counts (adults, children, infants, pets), and special requests.
Frequently asked questions
Where do I see incoming bookings?
Use the Bookings tab in your dashboard. Each reservation shows guest details, dates, and status so you can confirm or manage them in one place.
How do I talk to guests?
The Messages tab keeps all guest conversations in one thread. Reply there for check-in details, house rules, or local tips.