CheckinGuide vs SmoothStay

CheckinGuide is cheaper, includes a free tier, and gives you more customisation, rich media embeds, and responsive support from a real team.

80%

Fewer guest messages

90%+

Guide open rate

5 min

Average setup time

60+

Ready-made templates

Why hosts explore alternatives to SmoothStay

SmoothStay is designed primarily for hosts who want AI-assisted guide creation. It handles the basics, but some operators find they need more flexibility and better value as their portfolio grows.

Common reasons hosts consider alternatives:

• No permanent free tier: only a 14-day trial before you start paying
• USD pricing creates currency variability for non-US hosts
• No multiple layout styles: all guides use the same format
• No guest issue reporting or maintenance request functionality
• No rich media embeds (images, videos, buttons, maps in guide sections)

Common SmoothStay frustrations, solved

Real gaps that hosts encounter with SmoothStay, and how CheckinGuide addresses each one.

Problem: No permanent free tier

CheckinGuide includes one property free forever. No trial countdown, no credit card required. Evaluate at your own pace.

Problem: USD-only pricing

SmoothStay charges in USD, creating currency risk for UK and European hosts. CheckinGuide bills in GBP with predictable, transparent pricing.

Problem: Single layout style

Every SmoothStay guide looks the same. CheckinGuide offers multiple layout styles and 36+ theme presets so each property feels unique.

Problem: No rich media embeds

SmoothStay cannot embed videos, buttons, or interactive maps within sections. CheckinGuide supports rich media throughout your guide.

Ready to try a better alternative?

Start free. No credit card. See why hosts are switching from SmoothStay.

Feature-by-feature comparison

6 reasons hosts switch to CheckinGuide

Here is what makes CheckinGuide the smarter, more affordable choice.

Cheaper at every scale

CheckinGuide starts free and stays more affordable at every portfolio size. SmoothStay charges $6.90/month from your very first guide with no free tier.

AI Concierge included

Both platforms offer AI guest support. CheckinGuide includes it at a lower price with additional features like escalation rules and conversation analytics.

GBP pricing, no currency risk

SmoothStay prices in USD only. CheckinGuide bills in GBP, so UK and European hosts avoid exchange rate surprises and bank conversion fees.

Rich media embeds

Embed images, videos, buttons, links, and interactive maps directly into your guide sections for a richer guest experience that SmoothStay cannot match.

Multiple layout styles

Choose from grid, list, and tile views to match different property styles. SmoothStay uses a single guide layout for all properties.

Guest issue reporting

Guests can report maintenance issues directly through your guide with photo uploads and categorisation, a feature SmoothStay does not offer.

AI Concierge: Built In, Not Bolted On

Both SmoothStay and CheckinGuide offer AI-powered guest support. The difference is what comes alongside it. CheckinGuide pairs the AI Concierge with multiple layout styles, rich media embeds, guest issue reporting, and GBP pricing, all at a lower cost.

Your AI Concierge answers guest questions 24/7 using your guide content, reduces repetitive messages by up to 80%, and escalates complex issues directly to you when needed.

Switching is easy: 3 steps, 5 minutes

No data migration tools needed. Most hosts are up and running in a single sitting.

Step 1

Create your guide

Pick from 60+ templates, add your property details, and customise the layout and branding.

Step 2

Customise and preview

Choose your theme, upload your logo, set your colours, and preview exactly what guests will see.

Step 3

Share with guests

Send your guide link or QR code to guests. Works with Airbnb, Booking.com, VRBO, and every other platform.

See CheckinGuide in action

Watch a quick walkthrough of how CheckinGuide works and why hosts prefer it over SmoothStay.

Related comparisons

SmoothStay alternative: FAQ

Common questions about switching from SmoothStay to CheckinGuide

CheckinGuide is cheaper than SmoothStay at every portfolio size, includes a free tier, and offers more customisation with rich media embeds, multiple layouts, and responsive human support.

The more affordable, more flexible alternative.

Start free. No credit card. No commitment. See why hosts are switching.