Airbnb does not accept PayPal as a payment method for booking stays or experiences

When you book a reservation on Airbnb, you cannot use PayPal to pay your host directly through the platform. Airbnb processes all payments itself and holds the money until after your stay is complete, so the payment method you add to your account goes to Airbnb, not to the host. PayPal is not among the options Airbnb offers for this transaction.

This matters because it means you cannot link your PayPal account to Airbnb the way you might with other services. If PayPal is your preferred payment method, you will need to use a different card or account type to book on Airbnb.

Key Takeaways

  • Airbnb accepts credit cards, debit cards, and Google Pay, but not PayPal accounts or PayPal-linked cards.
  • You can add a card that is funded by PayPal (such as a PayPal Mastercard or PayPal Cash card) to your Airbnb account if you have one.
  • Airbnb holds your payment and releases it to the host after your stay ends, so you are not paying the host directly.
  • If you have a PayPal balance but no linked card, you will need to transfer money to your bank account or use a different payment method to book.

What payment methods Airbnb actually accepts

Airbnb takes major credit cards: Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. It also accepts debit cards tied to these networks. Google Pay is supported if you have set it up on your device. Some regions also have access to local payment methods—for example, iDEAL in the Netherlands or Alipay in China—but these vary by location.

The common thread is that all of these are card-based or digital wallet systems that Airbnb can process directly. PayPal is a separate payment network, and Airbnb has not integrated it into its checkout system.

Using a PayPal card to book on Airbnb

If you have a PayPal Mastercard or PayPal Cash card, you can add it to your Airbnb account like any other debit card. These are physical or virtual cards issued by PayPal that draw from your PayPal balance or linked bank account. When you use one to book, Airbnb sees it as a Mastercard, not as a PayPal transaction.

To use this method, add the card number to your payment methods in your Airbnb account settings. The card will work the same way as any other debit or credit card you add. The key difference is that the money comes from your PayPal account rather than directly from your bank.

If you do not have a PayPal card, you can order one through the PayPal app or website. It typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days, though a virtual version is sometimes available when ready.

How to transfer PayPal funds to book on Airbnb

If you have money in your PayPal account but no PayPal card, you can transfer it to your bank account and then use your bank debit card to book. Open the PayPal app or website, go to your wallet, and select "Transfer Money." Choose "Transfer to your bank" and enter the amount. Most transfers take 1 to 3 business days, though PayPal offers a faster option (usually same-day) for a small fee.

Once the money is in your bank account, you can add your bank debit card to Airbnb and complete your booking. This route takes longer than using a PayPal card but works if you do not have one and need to move the funds.

Why Airbnb does not use PayPal

Airbnb holds all guest payments in escrow—meaning the money sits with Airbnb until after your stay ends—rather than sending it directly to the host. This protects both guests and hosts by giving Airbnb time to handle disputes, refunds, or damage claims. PayPal is designed for direct peer-to-peer payments, which does not fit Airbnb's model.

Airbnb also processes payments through its own payment processor and has built its system around card networks and digital wallets that integrate with that infrastructure. Adding PayPal would require Airbnb to restructure how it handles escrow and dispute resolution, which is why it has not done so despite PayPal's popularity.

What happens if your payment method fails

If the card you add to Airbnb declines or expires, Airbnb will ask you to update your payment method before your stay begins. You will receive an email notification and can add a new card through your account settings. If you do not update it in time, your reservation may be cancelled.

If you are close to your check-in date and your only option is PayPal, a PayPal card is the fastest solution. If you do not have one and cannot get one in time, you will need to contact Airbnb support to discuss your options, though they cannot override the payment method requirement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use PayPal to pay my host after I book?

No. Airbnb processes all payments and holds the money until after your stay. You cannot arrange a separate PayPal payment with your host outside the platform, as this violates Airbnb's terms and removes your protection as a guest.

Will Airbnb ever accept PayPal?

Airbnb has not announced plans to add PayPal. The company has chosen to work with card networks and digital wallets instead. If this changes, Airbnb will update its payment methods list on its website.

What if I only have a PayPal balance and no card?

Transfer your PayPal balance to your bank account (1 to 3 business days), then add your bank debit card to Airbnb. Alternatively, order a PayPal card if you have time before your stay.

Does Airbnb accept Apple Pay or Google Pay?

Google Pay is supported on Airbnb. Apple Pay support varies by region and device. Check your payment methods in the Airbnb app to see what is available in your location.

Can I use a credit card linked to my PayPal account?

Yes, if the credit card is also issued by your bank or a card company. Add the card number directly to Airbnb. PayPal is just the account holding it; Airbnb will process it as a regular credit card.