:
US: Airbnb has begun testing a “reserve now, pay later” feature in the US, allowing guests to secure bookings without paying upfront.
The update, quietly added to the platform’s Payments Terms on 26 June 2025, gives users the option to delay full payment until closer to their check-in date.
Under the new system, guests can book a stay and pay later, with Airbnb automatically charging the total amount on a due date specified at checkout. The exact timing of that charge varies but typically falls before arrival.
If a scheduled payment fails, Airbnb gives guests 72 hours to update their payment method. After that, the booking may be cancelled automatically.
The move appears designed to increase conversion rates by offering greater flexibility for travellers who may not be ready to commit financially at the time of booking.
Airbnb previously offered split payments and instalment options via third-party providers like Klarna and Zip, but this new feature is handled directly by Airbnb.
For now, the test is limited to select users in the United States with no word yet on a global rollout.
Highlights:
-
Airbnb is testing a “reserve now, pay later” feature in the US
-
Guests can book without paying upfront; charges are applied automatically before check-in
-
If payment fails, guests have 72 hours to resolve the issue before bookings may be cancelled
-
A wider rollout is yet to be confirmed
