Yes, Airbnb accepts Apple Pay on most devices

Airbnb takes Apple Pay as a payment method when you book a stay or experience. You can use Apple Pay on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac during checkout. The process is straightforward: when you reach the payment screen, select Apple Pay from the available options, authenticate with Face ID, Touch ID, or your device password, and the transaction completes.

Apple Pay works on Airbnb's website and mobile app, though the mobile app experience is usually faster since your device already stores your payment information. On a computer, you'll see Apple Pay as an option only if you're using Safari on a Mac with Apple Pay set up in your wallet.

Key Takeaways

  • Apple Pay is available as a payment method on Airbnb's app and website, though website availability depends on your browser and device type.
  • You must have Apple Pay set up in your device's wallet with at least one valid card before you can use it to pay Airbnb.
  • The Airbnb mobile app is the most reliable way to use Apple Pay, since it works on any iPhone or iPad with Apple Pay enabled.
  • If Apple Pay fails during checkout, you can switch to a credit card, debit card, or other payment method Airbnb offers without losing your booking information.

How to use Apple Pay on the Airbnb app

Open the Airbnb app on your iPhone or iPad and search for a listing. Once you've selected your dates and number of guests, tap the "Reserve" button. You'll be taken to the checkout page where you review the total price and any fees.

On the payment section of the checkout page, you should see Apple Pay listed as an option. Tap it. Your device will prompt you to authenticate using Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode. Complete the authentication, and the payment processes when ready. You'll receive a confirmation number and booking details within seconds.

Using Apple Pay on Airbnb's website

Apple Pay on Airbnb's website works only in Safari on a Mac. If you're using Windows, Chrome, Firefox, or Edge, Apple Pay won't appear as an option—you'll need to use a credit or debit card instead.

To use Apple Pay on a Mac in Safari, complete your search and reach the checkout page. Look for Apple Pay in the payment method list. Click it, and your Mac will prompt you to authenticate using Touch ID or your Apple ID password. The transaction completes in the same window without redirecting you elsewhere.

What to do if Apple Pay isn't showing up

If you don't see Apple Pay during checkout, the most common reason is that you haven't set it up in your device's wallet. Go to Settings (on iPhone or iPad) or System Settings (on Mac), find Wallet & Apple Pay, and add at least one credit or debit card. Make sure the card hasn't expired and that your billing address is current.

On a Mac, Apple Pay only works in Safari. If you're using a different browser, switch to Safari or use a regular credit card instead. On the Airbnb website from an iPhone or iPad, Apple Pay should appear automatically if it's set up—if it doesn't, try refreshing the page or closing and reopening the app.

If Apple Pay fails partway through a transaction, don't refresh the page when ready. Wait a few seconds, then try again. If it fails a second time, select a different payment method. Your reservation details will stay in your cart, so you won't lose your booking information.

Other payment methods Airbnb accepts

Airbnb takes Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover credit and debit cards. You can also pay with Google Pay and PayPal in most countries. Some regions support additional local payment methods like Alipay or WeChat Pay, depending on where you're booking from and where the listing is located.

If you're booking from outside the United States, the payment methods available to you may differ. Airbnb displays only the options that work in your country and currency. You can add multiple payment methods to your account and choose which one to use at checkout.

Security and fraud protection with Apple Pay

Apple Pay doesn't share your actual card number with Airbnb. Instead, it sends a unique token that represents your payment information. This means Airbnb never sees your full card details, which reduces the risk of your information being compromised if Airbnb's systems were ever breached.

Your device authenticates the transaction using Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode, so only you can authorize the payment. If your device is lost or stolen, you can remove Apple Pay from that device through iCloud, and no one else can use it to make purchases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Apple Pay to pay my host after I arrive?

No. Apple Pay works only at the checkout stage when you book. If your host asks for additional payment after you arrive (for a late checkout fee, damage, or extra services), you'll need to arrange that separately, usually through Airbnb's messaging system or direct payment to the host.

What happens if my Apple Pay card is declined?

Airbnb will show you an error message and ask you to try a different payment method. Your reservation won't be confirmed until a payment goes through. Contact your bank to find out why the card was declined—it may be a fraud alert, an expired card, or insufficient funds.

Can I use Apple Pay with a virtual card number?

Yes, if your bank or credit card issuer provides a virtual card number through Apple Pay, you can use it on Airbnb the same way you'd use a regular card. The virtual number works just like any other card stored in your wallet.

Is Apple Pay available in all countries?

Apple Pay itself is available in many countries, but Airbnb's support for it depends on your location and the listing's location. If you don't see Apple Pay as an option, it may not be supported in your region yet. You can always use a credit or debit card instead.

Do I need to enter my billing address if I use Apple Pay?

No. Apple Pay sends your billing address to Airbnb automatically as part of the payment token, so you don't have to type it in again. This makes checkout faster and reduces the chance of address-related errors.