Airbnb has introduced a new feature for US guests called “Reserve Now, Pay Later,” which allows travelers to book eligible domestic stays without paying anything upfront. This option is available for listings that have a moderate or flexible cancellation policy.
With this change, guests do not need to pay the full amount until shortly before the end of the listing’s free cancellation period. The company says this will provide more flexibility for travelers, especially those organizing group trips or needing extra time to arrange funds with friends or family. Hosts’ selected cancellation policies remain unchanged, and payments are always due before the free cancellation period ends. This gives hosts an opportunity to secure another booking if a guest cancels.
According to Airbnb, “Reserve Now, Pay Later” is designed to meet increasing demand from travelers who want more flexible booking options. The feature adds to Airbnb’s existing payment choices, such as “Pay Part Now, Part Later,” which lets guests pay a portion at checkout and the rest closer to check-in, and “Pay Over Time” through Klarna.
The new option is only available for US guests booking eligible US-based listings with either a flexible or moderate cancellation policy.
“Reserve Now, Pay Later gives US travelers booking eligible domestic stays the chance to reserve a listing without paying anything upfront at the time of booking. This marks a major step forward in Airbnb’s commitment to offer more flexible options for guests that may also lead to more bookings for hosts.”
“This feature comes as new data reveals that today’s travelers are seeking more flexibility when it comes to booking a stay, particularly a group trip that requires arranging funds with friends or family.”
“With Reserve Now, Pay Later, guests can secure their booking without an immediate payment, perfect for group trips or budget-conscious planning. In a recent survey of US travelers conducted by Airbnb and Focaldata:”
“Reserve Now, Pay Later complements Airbnb’s suite of flexible payments options including Pay Part Now, Part Later – where guests can pay a portion at checkout and the remainder closer to check-in – as well as Pay Over Time with Klarna.”
“Reserve Now, Pay Later is available for US guests booking eligible US-based listings with a flexible or moderate cancellation policy.”
