Event types (Booking + Check-in vs. Check-in Only)
Choose the right event mode for booking flow, capacity control, and day-of check-in.
Pick the event mode that matches how attendees join: book a slot in advance, or show up and check in. This page explains the two modes, where to choose them, and which fits workshops, VIP sessions, kids activities, and drop-in activations.
If attendees need a reserved spot, choose Booking and Check-In. If they walk in without booking, choose Check-In Only.
Where the choice happens
Activity is the Touchpoint type for events. Add an Activity first, then choose the event mode under Slots → Event Type.
What each mode is for
| Mode | Best for | Attendee flow | Operational effect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Booking and Check-In | Workshops, VIP sessions, guided visits, or any event with planned attendance | Attendees choose a slot, book in advance, then check in on the day | You configure ticket types, per-slot capacity, booking windows, and booking notifications |
| Check-In Only | Drop-in activations, kids corners, photo moments, or ongoing activities without pre-registration | Attendees arrive and check in without booking first | The setup stays lighter, with no ticket choice before arrival |
How to choose
| Decision point | Booking and Check-In | Check-In Only |
|---|---|---|
| Complexity | Higher — you manage slots, ticket types, sale windows, and reminders | Lower — the participant mainly checks in on site |
| Capacity control | Strongest when each slot needs a clear sellable capacity | Good for simple caps or first-come attendance without booking |
| Pre-registration value | Best when planning, confirmations, and reserved attendance matter | Best when walk-in convenience matters more |
| Reporting and staffing | Better when you need booked-versus-attended reporting and a planned guest list | Better when you mainly need attendance tracking on the day |
Typical examples
- Use Booking and Check-In for a 20-seat workshop, a VIP styling session, or a paid masterclass where attendees need a confirmed slot.
- Use Check-In Only for a mall photo booth, a kids craft corner, or a drop-in brand activation where visitors join as they arrive.
A behind-the-scenes ticket in Check-In Only
Check-In Only keeps a simple attendee flow, but it still relies on one hidden ticket behind the scenes. If a message mentions a ticket for this mode, that is expected — attendees will not see a ticket choice.
If publishing is blocked
A few common reasons and how to fix them:
- The Check-In Only setup is incomplete — open Slots → Tickets and confirm exactly one hidden ticket is in place.
- Check-In Only has more than one hidden ticket — simplify the setup so there is exactly one.
See Validation & publishing for the full publish flow.
Related
Configure slots — weekly vs. specific dates
Add the schedule first so the chosen event mode has usable dates and slots.
Configure tickets (Booking + Check-in events)
Continue here if you choose the bookable mode.
Configure check-in (Self vs. Scan)
Choose how attendees actually check in on the day.
About touchpoints and types
Revisit how Activity fits inside the campaign Touchpoint model.