Refresh Your Airbnb Guidebook for the Season

Rachel Kate Knapp
22 hours ago
4 min read

Tips to Keep Your Airbnb Guidebook Fresh Year-Round

An Airbnb guidebook is more than just a set of house rules—it’s your guests’ personal roadmap to discovering the best of your space and the surrounding area. A well-maintained guidebook not only answers common questions but also adds meaningful value to each stay, helping guests feel welcomed, informed, and excited to explore.

As a host, you’re not just offering a cozy place to sleep—you’re creating an experience. And one of the best ways to make that experience memorable is by sharing your local expertise. Your guidebook is the perfect place to showcase your knowledge, highlight hidden gems, and help guests feel like locals from the moment they arrive.

Why an Updated Guidebook Matters

A thoughtfully curated and regularly refreshed guidebook can transform an ordinary stay into something unforgettable.

Here’s why it matters:

Personal Touch: Reflect your personality and passion for hospitality by adding your own voice and style.
Local Insights: Share hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path suggestions only a local would know.
Enhanced Experience: Make planning easier with up-to-date dining, activity, and attraction suggestions.
Expert Status: Confidently recommend things to do and places to visit, positioning yourself as a trusted local guide—not just a host.

Keep It Seasonal: Simple Updates That Go a Long Way

With your foundation in place, here are some practical ways to keep your guidebook feeling current, useful, and exciting—no matter what time of year your guests visit.

1. Refresh Local Attractions Based on the Season

Every season offers something special—make sure your guidebook reflects it.

Spring: Botanical gardens, nature trails, farmers' markets, and local festivals.
Summer: Beaches, water activities, hiking spots, and outdoor concerts.
Fall: Scenic foliage drives, pumpkin patches, apple picking, and cozy cafés.
Winter: Ski resorts, holiday markets, ice skating rinks, and top spots for hot cocoa.

2. Update Dining Recommendations

Menus change, and so should your suggestions!

Recommend local eateries that offer seasonal specialties (fresh seafood in summer, hearty stews in winter).
Include pop-up dining experiences or seasonal food trucks.
Suggest cozy indoor dining for colder months and outdoor patios for warmer ones.

3. Include Weather-Specific Packing Tips

Help your guests arrive prepared—whatever the forecast.

Spring: Light jackets, raincoats, and walking shoes.
Summer: Sunscreen, swimsuits, sunglasses, and bug spray.
Fall: Layers, boots, and cozy sweaters.
Winter: Thermal clothing, gloves, hats, and waterproof boots.

4. Highlight Seasonal Events and Festivals

Guests love feeling like part of the community.

Spring: Art fairs, music festivals, and spring celebrations.
Summer: Outdoor movies, local fairs, and fireworks shows.
Fall: Harvest festivals, Oktoberfest, and haunted attractions.
Winter: Christmas markets, New Year’s Eve events, and winter sports competitions.

5. Adjust Indoor Activities for Weather Changes

Keep the fun going—even if the forecast changes.

Recommend local museums, escape rooms, theaters, or family-friendly indoor play centers.
Include in-house activity suggestions like board games, books, or your favorite streaming picks.
If your Airbnb has a fireplace, suggest a cozy hot cocoa or wine night setup.

6. Update Safety and Emergency Information

Stay ahead of seasonal concerns to keep guests safe.

Provide storm or snow emergency contacts and local advisories.
Offer tips for navigating seasonal conditions (icy roads, extreme heat, or fog).
Note where to find emergency kits, extra blankets, or portable fans, depending on the season.

7. Add Personalized Touches for Extra Comfort

Little extras make a big impression.

Leave seasonal welcome baskets (pumpkin treats in fall, beach towels in summer).
Add seasonally scented candles or essential oils.
Offer drinks like spiced cider, herbal teas, or lemonade depending on the season.

A Real Example: Our Guidebook at Pocono Bear Den

After staying at countless Airbnbs, I’ve seen it all—some guidebooks packed with helpful tips, others that felt more like basic house manuals. And honestly, a few felt like missed opportunities to elevate the experience.

When we created the guidebook for Pocono Bear Den, our goal was to make it feel welcoming, informative, and interactive—not just another pamphlet on the coffee table.

We included:

QR codes for instant access to local recommendations and seasonal activity lists
Cozy in-home ideas, like our favorite reading nooks and ways to enjoy a slow morning
Seasonal spotlights, so guests could explore something special year-round

These thoughtful touches have made a real difference in how guests connect with the space and the surrounding area.

Start with Our Airbnb Guidebook Template

If you're not sure where to begin—or you're ready to give your existing guidebook a seasonal refresh—our Airbnb Guidebook Template is a great place to start. It’s easy to customize and update, making it simple to highlight local happenings, dining gems, and thoughtful in-home ideas that change with the seasons.

A well-maintained guidebook keeps your Airbnb relevant, engaging, and guest-friendly. Whether it’s guiding them to the best summer ice cream spot or helping them find the perfect winter wonderland activity, your guidebook can become a trusted companion that elevates their stay.

Ready to elevate your hosting game?Download our Airbnb Guidebook Template and start building a guest experience they’ll rave about—season after season.

PS. 📚 A Real Example: A Cape Coral Guidebook Done Right

The photos in this post feature a beautifully curated printed guidebook created by local Cape Coral realtor Kirsten Moll.

With heart, soul, and deep local knowledge, she’s crafted something that goes far beyond a welcome packet—it’s a love letter to her community.

It’s proof that when you pour local expertise into your guidebook, guests don’t just feel informed—they feel connected.