With the rise in technology, travel has changed a lot in recent years – and so has the way we check in. Gone are the days of queuing at a front desk or worrying about late arrivals. Instead, many serviced apartments now offer contactless check in, allowing guests to access their accommodation securely using digital technology.
Contactless check in means you can arrive whenever suits you, without being tied to business hours or delayed by queues – this is ideal after a long journey and removes the stress of coordinating key handovers. It’s also more hygienic, reduces admin time, and often makes the whole stay feel more seamless from the moment you walk through the door.
At Urban Apartments, we know that this convenience matters, but so does peace of mind, and not every feels confident and comfortable when they hear the word ‘contactless’ when it comes to check in. So if you’ve ever wondered whether contactless check in is safe, here’s everything you need to know.
Is Contactless Check In Safe for Older Guests?
In short: yes. In many ways, it’s even safer than traditional check in.
Contactless check in removes the need to collect physical keys, which can be lost, copied or misplaced. Instead, access is managed securely through encrypted digital systems. Only verified guests receive entry permissions, and those permissions are time controlled, meaning access begins at check in and ends automatically at check out. A safety feature physical keys cannot provide.
For mature travellers, this offers several benefits:
- No rushing to arrive before reception closes
- No handling of shared keys or paperwork
- No need to worry about losing a physical key
- Greater privacy and independence
Everything is arranged in advance, so you can travel at your own pace and arrive when it suits you.
How Does Self Check In Work?
Self check in is designed to be simple and stress free.
Before your stay, you’ll receive clear instructions via email and/or SMS explaining exactly what to do. Once your booking is confirmed and pre arrival steps are complete, you’ll be granted secure access through our digital system.
On arrival, there’s no need to queue or call for assistance. Instead, you’ll access the building and your apartment using your smartphone.
The process is straightforward:
- Complete your pre arrival details
- Download the secure access app (for applicable properties)
- Receive confirmation of your access window
- Arrive at the property and unlock the door via the app
It’s that simple – and support is always available if needed during work hours from our friendly team on Park Street, or out of business hours via our 24 hour helpline.
What Features Make Check In Easy and Secure?
Modern contactless systems are designed with both security and ease of use in mind. Here’s what makes them reliable:
- Secure Digital Access: Access credentials are encrypted and linked specifically to your booking. They cannot be copied or duplicated like traditional keys.
- Time Limited Entry: Your access automatically activates at check in time and expires at check out, enhancing safety for all guests.
- No Physical Keys: No risk of losing keys or being locked out due to a misplaced key or card.
- Verified Guest Access: Only confirmed guests receive entry permissions, adding an additional layer of building security.
- Flexible Arrival Times: Arrive early evening or later at night without worrying about reception hours.
For many travellers, this balance of independence and security makes contactless check in a welcome upgrade, and a much safer way to travel.
What If I Don’t Have a Smartphone?
While contactless check in is designed to work via smartphone for speed and convenience, we understand that not every guest uses one, and that shouldn’t prevent you from enjoying a comfortable stay.
At Urban Apartments, we’re happy to provide alternative arrangements where needed. If you don’t have a smartphone, simply let our team know ahead of your arrival and we can organise a suitable access solution. This may include assisted check in, alternative entry methods, or additional support on arrival.
Our aim is to make your stay as smooth and stress free as possible, whether you prefer digital access or a more traditional approach. The important thing is that you feel confident and comfortable from the moment you arrive.
Support Is Always Close By
While contactless check in offers independence and flexibility, we understand that not everyone feels completely confident using new technology, and that’s perfectly normal.
For guests staying at our Bristol properties, our team is based just down the road. That means help is always nearby if you need it. Whether you’d like a little extra reassurance before arrival or assistance during your stay, there’s real, local support on hand.
You get the convenience of digital access, with the comfort of knowing there are friendly people close by if required.
We’ve tested and ran our contactless check in method for a long time and are very confident that it’s a very safe and trustworthy way for you to travel.
FAQs
Is contactless check in common in serviced apartments now?
Yes – many modern serviced apartments now offer contactless or self check in as standard. It provides greater flexibility for guests and improves security. For more tips on what to expect when staying in a serviced apartment, explore our Urban Apartments FAQs page.
What are the benefits of staying in a serviced apartment instead of a hotel?
Serviced apartments often offer more space, privacy, and flexibility than traditional hotels, along with kitchen facilities and longer stay comfort. Here’s why you should stop staying in hotels and read this.
Are serviced apartments suitable for older or long stay guests?
Absolutely. Serviced apartments are popular with mature travellers, professionals, and guests staying for several weeks or months thanks to their comfort and independence. Learn about our short term lets.
Are serviced apartments a safe option for solo travellers?
100% – we understand that the lack of a reception may raise this question but rest assured, here’s why serviced apartments are a safe option for solo travellers.
Published: 16.02.2026 by Phoebe Clutton
