As travel and accommodation habits continue to change, self check-in has become increasingly common for Airbnb, vacation rentals, and short-term rental properties. In the post-pandemic era, demand for contactless experiences, flexible arrival times, and remote property management has made it less necessary for hosts to be physically present for every check-in.

Airbnb describes self check-in as allowing guests to access a property without the host being present, using options such as a lockbox, smart lock, keypad, or 24-hour building staff.

While self check-in eliminates many face-to-face key handoffs, hosts still need an effective way to manage guest access.

1. Guests Get Locked Out

A guest arriving late at night may discover that they forgot their key or accidentally left it inside the property.

With a traditional lock, hosts usually need a spare-key plan or someone nearby who can assist the guest.

With a passcode or smart lock, guests do not need to carry a physical key. If remote access is supported, hosts may also be able to help guests enter without traveling to the property.

2. Guests Lose the Key

A lost physical key creates more than an inconvenience. Hosts may need to replace the key and consider whether the missing key creates a security risk.

With a smart lock, hosts can instead change or remove a guest’s passcode or access permission. After checkout, the previous access can be removed and new access created for the next guest.

This is particularly useful for Airbnb and short-term rentals where guests change frequently.

3. The Lock Stops Working

Both traditional and smart locks should have a backup plan in case something goes wrong.

A traditional lock failure may require a locksmith or repair service. When choosing a smart lock, having an alternative such as a mechanical backup key can provide emergency access if electronic functions become unavailable.

How Can Smart Locks Make Self Check-in Easier?

For Airbnb and rental hosts, the main advantage of a smart lock isn’t simply going keyless. It is the ability to manage access for different guests remotely.

For example, hosts can provide a time-limited passcode before arrival, allowing guests to check in without waiting for an in-person key exchange.

Simplify Airbnb & Rental Management with SGUDA

The SGUDA SU-W6 is particularly suitable for Airbnb, vacation rentals, and short-term rental properties where users change frequently.

Before guests arrive, hosts can create time-limited access, while the SGUDA App supports remote passcode management, mobile access permissions, remote lock/unlock, and activity logs. After checkout, access can be changed or removed, reducing the need to exchange, recover, or replace physical keys.

• Wi-Fi Management: Manage check-ins even when you’re abroad!
• Guest Passcodes: Reduce the hassle of handing over access cards.
• Activity Logs: Check whether guests have arrived and accessed the property.
• Emergency Power & Mechanical Key: Access the property even when the batteries run out.

We recommend…

Choosing a smart lock isn’t just about finding the model with the most features. The right lock should fit your door, provide reliable security, and match how you actually use it every day.

Here are five key things to consider before buying a smart lock.

1. Choose the Right Lock Type

Before comparing smart features, start with the basics: what type of lock does your door need?

Common smart lock types include:

• Deadbolt locks – Commonly used for residential entrance doors.
• Lever locks – Combine the lock and handle into one unit.
• Mortise locks – Installed inside the door and commonly found in commercial or higher-security applications.

Deadbolt smart locks can also vary in how they are installed. Some attach to an existing deadbolt, some replace only the interior portion, while others replace the complete deadbolt.

Always check your door type, thickness, dimensions, and existing lock configuration before purchasing.

2. Check Both Physical and Digital Security

A smart lock needs to protect against both physical attacks and digital threats.

For physical security, look for recognized standards such as ANSI/BHMA ratings, which evaluate factors such as durability and lock performance.

For connected smart locks, cybersecurity is equally important. Check how the manufacturer protects communication between the lock, App, and cloud services.

Technologies such as AES-128 encryption and TLS/SSL can help protect transmitted data and prevent unauthorized access.

3. Consider How the Lock Connects

Connectivity determines what your smart lock can do.

A lock with built-in Wi-Fi can provide remote features without requiring a separate hub. Depending on the product, this may include remote unlocking, user management, access records, and other App-based controls.

However, connectivity can also affect battery consumption, so consider both remote functionality and power requirements rather than choosing based on Wi-Fi alone.

4. Choose the Access Methods You Actually Need

More unlocking methods do not automatically mean a better smart lock.

Consider who will use the door and how often.

Common access methods include fingerprint, passcode, RFID card, smartphone App, Bluetooth, smartwatch, voice assistant, and mechanical key.

For example, fingerprint or card access may be convenient for frequently returning users, while temporary passcodes can be useful for guests, rentals, or other short-term access.

5. Think About Everyday Ownership

A smart lock is something you may use several times every day, so long-term usability matters.

Before buying, consider:

• Battery life and low-battery alerts
• Emergency power options
• Mechanical key backup
• User and permission management
• Access history
• App usability
• Installation requirements
• Warranty and after-sales support

The best smart lock is not necessarily the one with the longest feature list. It is the one that provides the right security, access methods, connectivity, and management features for your specific space and users.

Looking for a Smart Lock That Balances Security and Convenience? Meet SGUDA

When choosing a smart lock, convenient access is only part of the equation. Physical security, cybersecurity, user management, and everyday usability should all be considered.

Developed by a team in Taiwan, SGUDA smart locks combine decades of lock manufacturing experience with smart technology to provide access solutions for homes, offices, and rental properties.

For physical security, SGUDA smart locks include an ANSI Grade 3 Deadbolt. For digital security, SGUDA uses AES-128 encryption and TLS/SSL communication security technologies to help protect data transmission and reduce the risk of unauthorized access.

Depending on the model, SGUDA offers access methods including fingerprint, passcode, RFID card, smartphone App, Bluetooth, mechanical key, smartwatch, and voice assistant. App-connected models also support features such as remote operation, user access management, and activity logs—helping users manage not only how a door is unlocked, but also how access is controlled.

Get to know our products

The SGUDA U-Lock features built-in WiFi, allowing users to control and manage the lock directly through their smartphone.

A WiFi smart lock can provide greater convenience, flexibility, and security in everyday life.

Here are three reasons why a built-in WiFi smart lock can be useful.

1. More Security and Freedom

Traditional keys can create security risks, especially when spare keys are hidden outside the home or shared with multiple people.

A smart lock reduces the need to rely on physical keys. When WiFi connectivity is built directly into the lock, users can also check the lock status and receive activity information through the mobile app.

For homeowners, Airbnb hosts, or users who frequently have cleaners, guests, or family members entering the property, the activity log provides a simple way to understand who has entered or left the home.

This allows users to manage access while maintaining greater visibility over the door.

2. Let Guests or Friends In While You Are Away

Managing spare keys can become inconvenient, especially for vacation rentals or properties with frequent visitors.

A WiFi-connected smart lock removes the need to duplicate and distribute physical keys.

With built-in WiFi, users can remotely unlock the door through the app as long as an internet connection is available.

This makes it easier to provide access to:

• Family members
• Friends
• Guests
• Cleaning staff
• Rental property visitors

For vacation rental owners, remote access can also simplify the management of multiple properties without requiring someone to physically deliver a key.

3. Check Whether You Forgot to Lock the Door

“Did I lock the door?”

It is common to leave home and later become unsure whether the door was locked.

With a WiFi-connected smart lock, users can check the lock status directly through their smartphone.

If the door is still unlocked, it can be locked remotely through the app without returning home.

This provides greater convenience and reduces uncertainty when users are away.

Built-in WiFi Without an Additional Hub

Some smart locks require an additional WiFi bridge or hub to enable remote functions.

The SGUDA U-Lock integrates WiFi directly into the lock, allowing users to access connected features without purchasing an additional hub.

Through the SGUDA system, users can remotely manage their lock, monitor activity, and check lock status through their smartphone.

A home equipped with modern technology and connected devices is what many people imagine when thinking about a smart home.

Lights, speakers, TVs, screens, doors, and even door locks can now be automated or controlled through smart devices.

There are many different types of smart door locks on the market, including electronic deadbolts, keyless smart locks, and touchscreen keypad deadbolts. Choosing the right smart lock for your home requires understanding your existing door and lock first.

Here are five things you should know before choosing and installing a smart door lock:

1. Door Lock Types
2. Exterior Door Types and Materials
3. How to Measure Your Door
4. Smart Door Lock Types
5. Features of Smart Door Locks

1. Door Lock Types

Knob Lock

Knob locks are one of the most common types of locks and are often found on interior doors such as bathrooms and backyard doors.

Because the locking mechanism is located inside the knob, this type of lock can be relatively easy to damage with tools such as a wrench or hammer. Therefore, it is generally not recommended as the primary security lock for an exterior door.

One solution is to add a deadbolt smart lock or replace the knob lock with a smart lever lock.

Lever Handle Lock

Lever handle locks are commonly used on interior doors and are easy to grasp and operate.

Smart lever locks and deadbolt smart door locks may be suitable options for doors using this type of hardware.

Mortise Lock

A mortise lock is installed inside a pocket, known as a mortise, cut into the edge of the door.

Because the lock body is installed inside the door itself, replacing or upgrading a mortise lock usually requires checking the existing door dimensions and lock specifications.

Deadbolt Door Lock

Deadbolt locks are among the easiest types to upgrade to a smart lock.

For homeowners interested in DIY installation, many smart deadbolts are designed to use existing deadbolt holes and include quick installation instructions.

Cylinder Locks

There are several types of cylinder locks, including rim cylinders, mortise cylinders, and European cylinders.

Depending on the existing door configuration, a deadbolt smart lock may be suitable for this type of installation.

2. Exterior Door Types and Materials

Before purchasing an electronic door lock or smart keypad lock, make sure your door material and construction are compatible with the smart lock.

Common exterior door types include:

• Panel doors
• Double-leaf wooden doors
• Storm doors
• Windowed doors

Common exterior door materials include:

• Steel
• Wood
• Fiberglass
• Aluminum

3. How to Measure Your Door

The following measurements were originally provided to determine whether a door was compatible with the SGUDA U-Lock touchscreen smart deadbolt.

A. Door Width

Measure from the edge of the door.

The available door surface should be more than 10 cm wide.

B. Door Thickness

Door thickness should be greater than 1⅜ inches.

C. Latch Dimensions

Measure the width and length of the existing latch.

D. Distance Between Main Door and Exterior Gate

If there is another gate or security door outside the main door, the gap between the two doors should be greater than 4 inches.

E. Deadbolt Installation Measurements

For SGUDA U-Lock installation, check:

• Backset
• Door thickness
• Latch dimensions
• Required deadbolt hole position

4. Smart Door Lock Types

Deadbolt

A smart deadbolt is one of the easiest types of smart locks to install.

If your door already has a traditional deadbolt, upgrading is relatively simple because the existing hole can often be reused.

Example: SGUDA U-Lock smart deadbolt door lock.

Lever

Smart lever locks are suitable for replacing traditional lever locks or knob locks.

In many cases, no additional hole needs to be drilled during installation.

Mortise

Mortise smart locks are commonly used when replacing or upgrading an existing mortise lock system.

Because mortise systems vary considerably in size and construction, compatibility with the existing door and lock body should be confirmed before installation.

5. Features of Smart Door Locks

Smart locks offer different levels of security, functions, and entry methods depending on the product and user’s requirements.

They can generally be divided into three levels:

A. Basic

Common entry methods include:

• Key card
• Passcode
• Mechanical key

B. Intermediate

Additional entry methods may include:

• Key card
• Passcode
• Mechanical key
• Bluetooth
• Fingerprint

C. Advanced

Advanced connected smart locks may provide:

• Built-in Wi-Fi
• Activity logs
• Remote lock and unlock
• User access management

These features allow users to manage their doors remotely and monitor access through a connected smart lock system.

Get to know our products

“Can a smart lock get wet?” is one of the most common questions people ask before purchasing a smart lock.

Smart locks contain electronic components, batteries, sensors, and internal wiring. In addition to unlocking methods and smart features, it is also important to consider whether the installation location will be directly exposed to rain or moisture.

Before deciding whether a smart lock is suitable for your door, it is important to understand one thing: waterproof and splash-resistant are not the same.

What’s the Difference Between Waterproof and Splash-Resistant?

In everyday use, the term “waterproof” is often used broadly to describe a product’s ability to resist water. However, the actual level of protection can vary depending on the amount of water, direction of exposure, and duration.

Here is a simple comparison:

A product described as “splash-resistant” is therefore not necessarily designed for prolonged exposure to heavy rain or immersion in water.

If a product has an IP protection rating, its suitability should be evaluated according to the manufacturer’s specified rating and testing conditions rather than relying solely on the term “waterproof.”

Why Does Rain Exposure Matter for Smart Locks?

Smart locks are different from purely mechanical locks.

The exterior and interior units typically communicate through internal wiring and electronic components, while the lock may also contain circuit boards, batteries, and other electronic modules.

Even when a smart lock is designed to handle everyday splashes, prolonged exposure to heavy rain or standing water should still be avoided.

Extra attention should be given to locations such as:

• Outdoor doors without overhead protection
• Entrances exposed to wind-driven rain
• Coastal or high-humidity environments
• Locations where the lock may be directly exposed to water spray

Is an Awning Enough for Smart Lock Installation?

An awning or roof provides useful protection, but it is not the only factor to consider.

The direction of rainfall, wind conditions, and the actual position of the lock should also be evaluated.

For example, even when an entrance has an awning, strong winds may still blow rain directly onto the lock. Long-term exposure to moisture may also affect electronic components.

Before purchasing a smart lock, consider:

Door Type → Installation Location → Direct Rain Exposure → Level of Shelter → Suitable Operating Environment

Evaluating the actual installation environment gives you a much clearer answer than simply asking whether a smart lock is “waterproof.”

How Are SGUDA Smart Locks Designed for Everyday Environments?

SGUDA smart locks are designed with the everyday needs of residential and commercial environments in mind.

Splash resistance does not mean that a smart lock should be continuously exposed to heavy rain or submerged in water.

If you plan to install a smart lock outdoors, in an unsheltered location, or somewhere frequently exposed to heavy rain, we recommend confirming the installation environment and product suitability before purchase and installation.

You can also provide photos of your door and installation location, allowing us to help evaluate whether the door type and environment are suitable.

Beyond Residential Use: Smart Access for Hospitality

For vacation rentals, short-term rentals, and hospitality businesses, the installation environment is only one consideration. Guest access permissions and remote management can also play an important role when choosing a smart lock.

Depending on the product and system requirements, SGUDA smart locks can also be evaluated for integration with a PMS (Property Management System), extending smart access control to self check-in and hospitality management applications.

If you are considering smart access for a vacation rental, hotel, or PMS integration project, share your use case and system requirements with us to discuss potential SGUDA smart access solutions and collaboration opportunities.

The hospitality industry is increasingly moving toward digital and contactless services. Especially in the post-pandemic era, growing demand for flexible check-in and reduced physical contact has encouraged hotels and vacation rentals to rethink traditional front-desk check-in and key card handoffs.

For hospitality operators, going digital is not simply about changing how guests unlock the door. More importantly, it is about simplifying guest self check-in, access management, and daily operations.

Check-in Without Being Tied to the Front Desk

Traditional accommodations usually require front-desk staff or property operators to verify reservations and hand over physical keys or access cards. Late-arriving guests may also require additional staff assistance.

With digital access control, guests can enter their rooms using the access credentials provided before arrival—without waiting for an in-person key handoff.

This is particularly suitable for:

• Vacation rentals and small hotels
• Properties without a 24-hour front desk
• Multi-property operators
• Hospitality businesses looking to introduce contactless check-in

SGUDA: Built-in Wi-Fi for Simpler Access Management

Traditional hotel access control systems may require wiring, additional equipment, and on-site system installation.

SGUDA smart locks feature built-in Wi-Fi, allowing the locks to connect directly to the network without additional wiring. Combined with a cloud-based architecture, this also reduces the need for operators to build and maintain their own on-site servers.

From “Handing Over Keys” to Managing Guest Access

After a guest makes a reservation, operators can create time-limited access credentials before arrival and provide them to the guest in advance.

When guests arrive, they can access their rooms using the assigned credentials without waiting for an in-person key handoff. Once the authorized stay period ends, the guest’s access automatically expires, eliminating the need to collect physical keys or access cards.

The access process can therefore be simplified to:

Create Access → Send to Guest → Guest Self Check-in → Review Activity Logs → Access Automatically Expires

For hospitality operators, a smart lock changes more than just how a door is unlocked. It digitalizes the key handoff and guest access management process that traditionally requires manual handling.

Integrate with PMS to Connect Reservations and Access Management

When smart locks are used independently, operators still need to create guest access permissions for each reservation.

For hotels and vacation rentals managing more rooms or a higher volume of reservations, the next step is to consider integrating smart locks with a PMS (Property Management System).

If the PMS is already connected to booking platforms such as Booking.com or Agoda, integration possibilities can be evaluated based on the actual system and collaboration requirements, allowing reservation data to connect with the SGUDA access management system.

Conceptually, two previously separate workflows:

Booking Platform → PMS → Reservation Management

and

SGUDA → Room Access Management

can be further integrated into a more streamlined hospitality management workflow, reducing repetitive manual entry of reservation details, room assignments, and guest access permissions.