What Is a Welcome Screen?

A welcome screen is a custom display shown on your rental property's TV when guests arrive. Instead of a blank screen or the default TV menu, guests see a branded welcome message with key information like WiFi credentials, checkout time, and a QR code linking to your full guidebook.

It's essentially a digital version of a welcome binder, but better — it's impossible to miss, works in any language, and makes your property feel modern and professional.

What to Include on Your Welcome Screen

1. WiFi Network and Password

This is the #1 thing guests look for when they arrive. Display it prominently in large, readable text.

2. Welcome Message

A short, friendly greeting like "Welcome to [Property Name]!" or "We're glad you're here!" Keep it to one line.

3. QR Code to Your Digital Guidebook

Include a QR code that links to your full guidebook with check-in instructions, house rules, and local recommendations. Guests scan it with their phone and have everything they need.

4. Checkout Time

Display checkout time so guests know from day one. "Checkout: 11:00 AM" is enough.

5. Your Contact Info (Optional)

If you want guests to have a backup way to reach you, include a phone number or "Message us on Airbnb" note.

What NOT to Put on Your Welcome Screen

Long paragraphs of text — Nobody reads a wall of text on a TV screen. Keep it scannable.
House rules — Put these in your guidebook, not on the TV. The welcome screen should feel inviting, not like a legal document.
Advertisements or promotions — Don't use your welcome screen to upsell services. It cheapens the experience.
Outdated information — If your WiFi password changes or you update your checkout time, make sure the screen is updated too.

Design Tips for a Professional Welcome Screen

Use a dark background — Black or dark blue is easier on the eyes than a bright white screen.
Large, readable fonts — Use at least 48pt font for critical info like WiFi. Guests should be able to read it from across the room.
Brand it — Include your property logo or a subtle background image that matches your aesthetic.
High-quality background image — Use a photo of your property, the local area, or a neutral design. Avoid stock photos that look generic.
Make the QR code big — A tiny QR code is frustrating to scan. Make it at least 3x3 inches on screen.

How to Set It Up

Option 1: Digital guidebook platform (easiest)

The simplest way to create a welcome screen is to use a platform that generates it for you. HostGuide has a built-in TV display mode that turns your guidebook into a welcome screen. You get a URL, open it on your smart TV's browser, and leave it running. It shows WiFi, a QR code, and auto-translates for international guests.

Option 2: Create a static image

Use Canva or Photoshop to design a custom welcome screen as a JPG or PNG. Upload it to Google Drive or Dropbox, share the link, and open it on your TV browser. This works but doesn't auto-update if you change WiFi or other details.

Option 3: Smart TV app or digital signage

Some smart TVs have built-in slideshow or screensaver apps where you can upload a custom image. Alternatively, use a digital signage tool like ScreenCloud or Yodeck (paid).

Making It Automatic

The goal is for the welcome screen to appear automatically when the TV turns on, so you don't have to manually set it up between guests.

Set the browser as the TV's startup page — Most smart TVs let you choose what opens when the TV powers on. Set it to your browser with the welcome screen URL.
Use a streaming device — A cheap Chromecast or Fire Stick can be set to boot into a specific browser tab or app showing your welcome screen.
Auto power-cycle the TV — Use a smart plug to turn the TV off and back on between guests. When it restarts, it shows the welcome screen.

Does It Actually Impact Reviews?

Yes. Guests mention welcome screens in reviews because they're unexpected and thoughtful. It signals that you've invested in the details, which sets a positive tone for the rest of the stay. It also reduces "How do I connect to WiFi?" messages by about 80%.

Bottom Line

A welcome screen is a simple, one-time setup that makes every arrival feel more professional. It's one of those small touches that guests notice and appreciate, especially when it saves them from hunting for WiFi passwords or digging through a binder.

If you want the easiest setup, HostGuide's TV display generates a welcome screen from your guidebook in seconds. No design work, no tech hassles. Just a clean, professional screen that updates automatically when you edit your guidebook.