Your Complete Hosting Guide

Host Resources

Everything you need to succeed as a StayShift host

From setup to optimization, we've got you covered with guides, tips, and expert advice.

Getting Started

Your step-by-step guide to becoming a successful host

Creating Your Listing

A great listing attracts quality guests

📸 Photos That Sell

  • • Take photos during golden hour (early morning/late afternoon)
  • • Show the RV spot from multiple angles
  • • Include hookup connections and amenities
  • • Capture the surrounding area and views
  • • Use horizontal orientation, at least 1920x1080px

✍️ Writing Your Description

  • • Start with what makes your spot unique
  • • List all amenities and hookups clearly
  • • Mention nearby hospitals and medical facilities
  • • Describe the neighborhood and surroundings
  • • Include access instructions and parking details
  • • Be honest about any limitations

💲 Pricing Your Spot

  • • Research similar spots in your area
  • • Factor in your amenities and hookups
  • • Consider proximity to hospitals
  • • Start competitive, build reviews, then adjust
  • • Use our earnings calculator

Setting Up Your Space

Essential preparations for hosting

🔌 Hookups & Utilities

  • • Test all electrical connections (30A/50A)
  • • Ensure water pressure is adequate
  • • Verify sewer connection or dump access
  • • Check internet speed and coverage
  • • Label breakers and shutoff valves clearly

🚗 Access & Parking

  • • Clear driveway of obstacles
  • • Ensure level parking surface
  • • Provide adequate lighting for night arrivals
  • • Mark the spot boundaries clearly
  • • Consider adding wheel chocks or stabilizers

🛡️ Safety & Security

  • • Install motion-sensor lights
  • • Provide emergency contact numbers
  • • Ensure fire extinguisher is accessible
  • • Check smoke/CO detectors if applicable
  • • Secure gates and provide access codes

Optimization Strategies

Maximize your bookings and earnings

Boost Your Visibility

  • Complete your profile 100%
  • Upload at least 8-10 quality photos
  • Respond to inquiries within 24 hours
  • Keep your calendar updated
  • Maintain 4.5+ star rating

Stand Out

  • Offer fast WiFi (mention speeds)
  • Provide dedicated workspace
  • Add extras (BBQ, patio, fire pit)
  • Highlight proximity to hospitals
  • Create a welcome guide/manual

Smart Pricing

  • $ Offer discounts for 60+ day stays
  • $ Price competitively for first bookings
  • $ Adjust seasonally (winter rates)
  • $ Monitor competitor pricing
  • $ Increase gradually with great reviews

Communication Excellence

Do's

  • • Respond within 24 hours (faster is better)
  • • Be warm, friendly, and professional
  • • Answer all questions thoroughly
  • • Send arrival instructions 48 hours ahead
  • • Check in on guests during stay
  • • Send a thank you message after checkout

Don'ts

  • • Don't delay responses for days
  • • Don't be overly strict or unwelcoming
  • • Don't avoid direct answers
  • • Don't leave guests without instructions
  • • Don't be intrusive or overbearing
  • • Don't ask for payment outside the platform

Best Practices

Proven strategies from top-performing hosts

Creating an Exceptional Guest Experience

Before Arrival

  • Send detailed arrival instructions
  • Share WiFi password and gate codes
  • Provide parking/setup guidance
  • Share local area information
  • Confirm check-in time

During Stay

  • Be available but not intrusive
  • Address issues promptly
  • Respect guest privacy
  • Check in periodically (weekly)
  • Maintain the property

After Checkout

  • Send a thank you message
  • Leave a thoughtful review
  • Request feedback privately first
  • Invite them to return
  • Inspect for any damages

Safety & Security Essentials

1

Verify Guest Identity

All StayShift guests are verified. Review their profile, ratings, and employment verification before accepting.

2

Use Platform Messaging

Keep all communication on StayShift. This protects both parties and provides a record if issues arise.

3

Document Everything

Take photos before and after each stay. Document the condition of your property and all amenities.

4

Set Clear House Rules

Communicate expectations upfront: quiet hours, visitor policies, pet rules, and any restrictions.

5

Emergency Preparedness

Provide emergency contacts, nearest hospital info, and clear instructions for urgent situations.

6

Insurance & Protection

You're covered by our $1M Host Guarantee. Consider additional insurance.

Handling Common Issues

❓ Guest Questions During Stay

Be responsive and helpful. Most questions are simple and quick to resolve.

Response time goal: Within 4 hours

🔧 Maintenance Issues

Address utilities/hookup problems immediately. Keep a trusted repair person on call.

Response time goal: Same day

😕 Difficult Guests

Stay calm and professional. Document issues. Contact StayShift support if needed.

Always communicate via platform

💔 Damage or Violations

Document with photos. Contact guest first, then file claim through dashboard.

File within 72 hours of discovery

Downloadable Resources

Free templates and guides to make hosting easier

Welcome Guide Template

Create a professional welcome guide for your guests

Download PDF →

Inspection Checklist

Pre-arrival and post-departure property checklist

Download PDF →

Photo Guide

Tips for taking great listing photos

Download PDF →

Seasonal Prep Guide

Prepare your spot for different seasons

Download PDF →

Need Help?

We're here to support you every step of the way

Live Chat

Get instant answers from our support team

Start Chat

Email Support

Send us a message, we'll respond within 24 hours

Email Us

Phone Support

Speak with a host specialist

Call Us

Quick Answers

How do I handle cancellations?

Your cancellation policy is set in your listing. Guests are informed before booking. Early cancellations may receive partial refunds per your policy.

When do I get paid?

Payment is released 24 hours after guest check-in. Funds typically reach your account within 3-5 business days.

What if utilities stop working?

Fix essential services (electric, water, sewer) immediately. Contact the guest and StayShift support. Document repairs for potential reimbursement.

Can I raise my prices?

Yes! Adjust prices anytime. Changes apply to new bookings only. Existing reservations honor the original price.

Ready to Start Hosting?

Join thousands of hosts earning from their property

Free to list • Keep 97% of earnings • $1M protection included