Hosting family, friends, or short-term renters this holiday season? Extra people in your home can be exciting, but it also increases the risk of accidental security issues. Whether you’re welcoming loved ones or managing an Airbnb/VRBO property, a few simple steps can help your home stay safe, organized, and stress-free.
Here’s your complete guide to preparing your space and protecting what matters most.
1. Use Smart Locks with Temporary Access Codes
Smart locks are one of the easiest and most effective tools for hosts.
Why they help:
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No physical keys to lose
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No need to meet guests in person
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You can set unique codes for each visitor
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Codes can automatically expire after checkout
Give every guest their own temporary code for the front door, side door, or gate. Once they leave, simply delete or reset it — ensuring your home stays secure without any lingering access.
2. Add Indoor Common Area Cameras (Not Bedrooms!)
Indoor camera monitoring is extremely helpful for:
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Property protection
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Verifying guest check-in/out
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Keeping an eye on common areas like living rooms, kitchens, mudrooms, or entry halls
Important: Cameras should never be placed in private spaces such as bedrooms or bathrooms.
For homeowners and short-term rental hosts:
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Cameras help confirm doors are locked
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Notify you of unexpected entry
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Allow you to respond quickly if anything seems off
It’s an added layer of oversight that promotes safety without compromising guest comfort.
3. Monitor Entry Points and Outdoor Activity
Most incidents happen around the exterior of the home, especially when multiple guests are coming and going.
Consider adding or checking:
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Driveway cameras (vehicle tracking, late-night arrivals)
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Porch cameras (package monitoring, visitor awareness)
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Side-yard or gate sensors (unexpected access detection)
These tools create a full picture of activity on your property, helping you intervene early if something looks unusual.
For Airbnb/VRBO hosts, visible outdoor cameras also discourage unauthorized guests or extra vehicles — a common issue during holiday travel.
4. Prepare for High-Traffic Days
More guests = more activity = higher chances that something gets left unlocked, unplugged, or disconnected.
Before guests arrive, double-check:
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Camera connectivity
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WiFi strength
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Smart lock batteries
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Gate or garage opener functionality
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Exterior lights and motion sensors
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Smoke and CO detectors
A quick pre-visit audit keeps everything running smoothly and prevents tech issues from popping up while guests are staying with you.
Hosting multiple families or groups? Consider automating:
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Smart lighting schedules
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Door notifications
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Camera recording rules
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Temporary access credentials
This minimizes your workload and keeps the property secure without constant supervision.
Final Thoughts: A Safe Home Makes for Better Hosting
The holidays are busy enough. Smart security helps remove stress, simplifies guest access, and keeps your property safe — whether you're hosting loved ones or operating a short-term rental.
Need help preparing your home or rental for holiday visitors?
BSN Security offers host-friendly solutions including smart locks, camera setups, access control assistance, and full property system reviews.
👉 Request a host-ready security check today.