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How to View Messages & Approve Bookings

ByGraham Beck
Last updated: April 30, 2026•3 min read

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Graham Beck
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Graham Beck

Graham Beck is the Co-founder and CEO of DropDesk, a platform dedicated to a singular, transformative mission: unlocking the potential of underutilized spaces to foster human connection.

Graham Beck
Graham Beck

Graham Beck is the Co-founder and CEO of DropDesk, a platform dedicated to unlocking the potential of underutilized spaces to foster human connection.

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Quick Answer

Your Inbox is where you manage all messages, booking requests, and important updates. Access it via the Menu > Inbox in the DropDesk Spaces mobile app or through your web portal dashboard. For Host Approved bookings, reply YES or NO via SMS within 24 hours to confirm or decline requests.

Why the Inbox Matters

Clear, timely communication is one of the most important parts of being a successful host. Your Inbox keeps all communication in one place, making it easy to manage both new and ongoing conversations.

Inside your Inbox, you'll find:

  • Conversations with users
  • Booking updates
  • Booking request notifications
  • Important system notifications

Everything is organized and accessible whenever you need it, whether you're using the mobile app or the web portal.

Where to Find Your Inbox

Accessing your Inbox is quick and simple:

  • Mobile App: Tap the menu icon (three lines) in the top left corner and select Inbox.
  • Web Portal: Navigate to the Inbox section from your dashboard.

No matter where you log in, your messages will always be synced and up to date.

Understanding Your Inbox

The Inbox is divided into two main sections:

SectionWhat You'll Find
MessagesAll conversations with users—questions, updates, and ongoing communication
NotificationsBooking requests, approval/rejection updates, confirmations, and system alerts

How Messaging Works

All messages sent through the platform are delivered instantly through:

  • In-app chat
  • SMS notifications

This ensures you never miss a booking inquiry or important update, even when you're on the go. Best of all, your personal contact information stays private—phone numbers are masked, so you can communicate without sharing personal details. Our messaging system is built to help hosts manage conversations efficiently.

Types of Messages You'll Receive

  • Pre-Booking Inquiries: Users may message you with questions about the package or your offerings.
DropDesk Inbox Messages tab showing conversation threads with users and a message detail view

The Messages tab shows all your conversations organized by package, with message details on the right.

  • Post-Booking Messages: Confirm details, coordinate arrival, or answer follow-ups.
  • Booking Requests (Host Approval): Requests that require your approval or rejection.
  • System Notifications: Automated updates about bookings and activity.
DropDesk Inbox Notifications tab showing unread and read notifications including booking confirmations

The Notifications tab displays booking confirmations, member messages, and system alerts with Mark All Read and Clear All options.

Accepting or Rejecting Booking Requests

If you turn off Instant Bookable during package creation, Host Approval is enabled—meaning you'll review and approve or decline each booking request before it's confirmed.

How It Works

  1. You'll receive an SMS when a request is submitted
  2. Reply YES to approve or NO to decline
  3. The request appears as Pending in your Inbox and Activity Calendar

Timing Is Important:

  • After 30 minutes, you'll receive a reminder if you haven't responded
  • After 24 hours, the request is automatically declined

What Happens Next

ResponseResult
YESBooking confirmed and user is charged
NORequest declined and no charge

Both you and the user will receive SMS updates throughout the process, so everyone stays informed in real time.

Why Fast Responses Matter

Responding quickly isn't just good practice; it directly impacts your success on the platform:

  • Faster replies increase your chances of securing bookings
  • Active, responsive hosts rank higher in search results
  • Clear communication leads to better user experiences (and better reviews)

Pro Tip: Aim to respond within one hour whenever possible.

Pro Tips for Managing Your Inbox

  • Keep your contact info updated so you don't miss alerts
  • Check your Inbox regularly throughout the day
  • Review Pending requests promptly to avoid auto-declines
  • Always communicate within the platform to keep everything secure and documented

Your Inbox isn't just for messages; it's a powerful tool for managing your business, building trust with users, and increasing bookings. By staying responsive and organized, you create a better experience for every user—and set yourself up for long-term success.

Need Help?

If you have questions about using your Inbox or managing booking requests, our support team is here to help. Visit the Help Center for more resources or to contact us directly.

Related Host Guides

  • The Ultimate Guide to Hosting on DropDesk
  • How to Update Your Host Profile
  • Instant Bookings vs. Host Approved Bookings
  • How to Add, Update, or Pause a Location
  • How to List Your Space, Service, or Activity
  • How to Use Blackout Dates to Manage Your Availability
  • Venue vs. Package-Level Guest Instructions
  • How to Use Keywords to Increase Visibility and Bookings
  • Understanding Advanced Package Features & Inventory Management
  • How to View & Manage Your Activity Calendar
  • Adding Short-Form Videos To Your Listings