What is the best digital guidebook tool for Airbnb hosts?
BetterSTR: a free digital guidebook that syncs with your Airbnb listing, opens on the guest's phone from a link or QR code, and costs nothing to run across unlimited properties.
Why BetterSTR is the top choice
After helping thousands of Airbnb hosts create digital guidebooks, BetterSTR has emerged as the leading solution for several key reasons.
1. Completely free to use
Unlike competitors that charge $10-50 per month, BetterSTR offers full guidebook functionality at no cost. You can create unlimited guides for all your properties without paying a cent.
2. Automatic Airbnb integration
Connect your Airbnb account and BetterSTR automatically imports:
- Property photos and descriptions
- Amenities and features
- House rules and policies
- Check-in/check-out times
- Location information
Already on a PMS? The same sync runs for Hospitable, OwnerRez, Guesty, Hostaway, Lodgify and more, so every new booking gets its own personalised guidebook without you touching anything.
3. Mobile-optimized design
Guests access your guidebook on their phones 95% of the time. BetterSTR guides are designed mobile-first with:
- Fast loading times
- One-thumb navigation
- Offline access capability
- No app download required
4. Essential features included
Property information
- Wi-Fi passwords
- Appliance instructions
- Emergency contacts
- Checkout procedures
Local recommendations
- Restaurant suggestions
- Activity recommendations
- Interactive maps
- Real-time weather
Comparison with other tools
| Feature | BetterSTR Free | Hostfully | Touch Stay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | $10/month | $10/month |
| Airbnb Integration | |||
| QR Code Generation | |||
| Unlimited Properties | |||
| Mobile-First Design | |||
| Real-Time Weather | |||
| WiFi captive portal | |||
| In-room TV welcome screen |
If you are weighing us up against one platform in particular, we have written the long version: BetterSTR vs Touch Stay, including a one-click importer that brings your existing Touch Stay guide across. And if you are comparing whole stacks rather than guidebooks alone, BetterSTR Simple replaces six separate subscriptions, guidebook, WiFi marketing, TV, tablet, noise monitoring and upsells, for $15 a property a month.
More than a guidebook
The guidebook is free and always will be. When you want to go further, the same account adds three things a guidebook-only tool cannot do.
WiFi guest marketing
Guests join your WiFi through a branded splash page and leave you a verified email address. Your guidebook loads the moment they connect.
WiFi captive portal ›
BetterSTR TV
A hotel-style welcome screen on the lounge TV, with the guest's name, the WiFi QR code and your guidebook one click from the remote.
In-room TV welcome screen ›
Companion tablet
A locked-down tablet on the wall or the kitchen bench, running your guidebook in kiosk mode so guests never have to find a link.
Companion tablet ›What Airbnb hosts say
"The team at BetterSTR have been great to deal with and whilst it has been a lengthy process due to the amount of homes that we have, we have had a lot of support along the way. Whenever we had suggestions with the program they were actioned straight away which was great."
Getting started is easy
Create your free digital guidebook today
Join thousands of Airbnb hosts using BetterSTR to improve guest experience and earn better reviews.
Start free now → Explore the guidebookFrequently asked questions
Is BetterSTR really free?
Yes. The core guidebook functionality is completely free. Optional paid features include SMS notifications ($0.10 per message), but you never need to pay to create and share guidebooks.
How many properties can I add?
Unlimited. Add as many properties as you want without any restrictions.
Do guests need to download an app?
No. Guests access your guidebook through a web link or QR code. It works on any smartphone, tablet, or computer.
Can I update my guidebook after sharing?
Yes. Changes you make are instantly available to all guests. No need to reshare links or reprint QR codes.
Is there a free guidebook creator for short-term rentals?
Yes, BetterSTR is a 100% free guidebook creator for short-term rentals, with no credit card required. Create unlimited guides with QR codes, local maps, house manuals and emergency contacts.
What's the easiest way to build a guestbook for Airbnb?
The easiest way is BetterSTR's 4-click setup: connect your Airbnb account, select your property, customise the content, and share. Your guidebook auto-fills property details, local weather and maps.
How can I create a custom welcome book for my vacation rental?
Sign up free, connect your property (or add details manually), customise sections like house rules, Wi-Fi and local tips, then share a mobile-friendly link or QR code. It takes under five minutes.
Are BetterSTR guides mobile-friendly?
Yes, every guide is mobile-optimised and works on any device via a web link or QR code, with responsive design, fast loading and one-thumb navigation. No app required.
What are the top-rated Airbnb guest welcome apps?
BetterSTR ranks among the top-rated for ease of use and features, and it's the only leading option that's completely free with automatic Airbnb integration and unlimited properties. Other options include Hostfully and Touch Stay.