The main places to buy Airbnb gift cards

You can buy Airbnb gift cards at major retailers, directly from Airbnb, and online. The most common physical locations are Target, Walmart, Best Buy, and CVS, where you'll find them near the checkout or in the gift card section. Amazon, Google Play, and the Apple App Store sell digital versions that arrive by email within minutes. Airbnb's own website (airbnb.com/giftcards) lets you purchase and customize amounts between $25 and $500, and you can send the card directly to someone or print it yourself.

Availability varies by location and retailer. Not every store carries Airbnb cards at all times, so calling ahead saves a trip. Digital cards are the fastest option if you need something the same day — you buy, receive the code by email, and the recipient can use it when ready. Physical cards from retailers typically arrive in the recipient's mailbox within a few days.

Key Takeaways

  • Airbnb gift cards are sold at Target, Walmart, Best Buy, CVS, and Amazon, with denominations ranging from $25 to $500.
  • Digital gift cards sent through Airbnb's website or app arrive by email within minutes and can be used right away.
  • Physical cards from retailers take several days to arrive by mail but work the same way as digital ones once redeemed.
  • The recipient redeems the card by entering the code during checkout on any Airbnb booking, and the balance covers the full stay or applies to future trips.

Buying directly from Airbnb

Airbnb's official gift card page is the most straightforward source. You choose the amount ($25 to $500), add a personal message, and decide whether to send it by email or print it yourself. Email delivery is when ready, so the recipient gets the code right away. If you print it, you can include it in a card or present it in person.

One advantage of buying from Airbnb directly is that you control the exact amount and can customize the message. You also avoid the risk of a retailer being out of stock. The downside is that you need a credit card and internet access to complete the purchase — there's no option to pay with cash or pick up a physical card at a store.

Retail stores with Airbnb gift cards in stock

Target, Walmart, Best Buy, and CVS carry Airbnb gift cards in their physical locations. These cards typically come in preset denominations like $25, $50, or $100. You pay at checkout like any other purchase, and the card arrives in the mail within 5 to 10 business days. Some stores may also sell them online through their websites.

The advantage of buying at a retail store is that you can pay with cash, a debit card, or a credit card, and you walk out with a physical card to give as a gift. The disadvantage is that not all locations stock them, and you're limited to the denominations the store offers. Call ahead to confirm they have Airbnb cards in stock before making the trip.

Online retailers and digital options

Amazon, Google Play, and the Apple App Store all sell Airbnb gift cards as digital products. These arrive by email within minutes of purchase. Amazon typically offers denominations from $25 to $500, while Google Play and Apple may have different ranges depending on your region. If you have a gift card balance on any of these platforms, you can use it to buy an Airbnb card.

Digital cards are ideal if you're buying last-minute or for someone who lives far away. There's no shipping delay, and the recipient can start booking when ready. The trade-off is that you need an email address to send it to, and the recipient will receive a code rather than a physical card to unwrap.

What to know before you buy

Airbnb gift cards work in most countries where Airbnb operates, but the currency depends on where the recipient is located. A card purchased in US dollars will be in US dollars, so confirm the recipient's location if you're buying across borders. The card never expires, so there's no rush for the recipient to use it.

The balance applies to any Airbnb booking — experiences, stays, or both, depending on the card type. If a booking costs less than the card's balance, the remainder stays on the account for future trips. The recipient redeems it by entering the code during checkout, and Airbnb automatically applies the balance to their reservation.

Checking store availability before you shop

Since stock varies by location, the fastest way to confirm a store has Airbnb cards is to call the store directly and ask for the gift card section. You can also check the store's website — many retailers list which gift cards are available at each location. If you're buying online, check the product page to see which denominations are in stock and how long delivery takes.

If your local stores don't carry Airbnb cards, ordering online from Amazon or Airbnb's website is usually faster than waiting for a retailer to restock. Digital cards are always available and arrive when ready, making them the most reliable option if you're on a important date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an Airbnb gift card to pay for experiences, not just stays?

Yes, Airbnb gift cards work for both stays and experiences. The recipient can use the balance on any booking type available in their region. If they book an experience that costs less than the card's balance, the remainder stays on their account for a future stay or experience.

Do Airbnb gift cards expire?

No, Airbnb gift cards do not expire. The recipient can use the balance whenever they want, whether that's when ready or months later. There's no time limit on redeeming the code.

What if the recipient loses the gift card code?

If the code is lost, the recipient can contact Airbnb support with proof of purchase (like an email receipt) and request a replacement. Airbnb can reissue the code or transfer the balance to their account. Keep the original email or receipt in case this happens.

Can I buy an Airbnb gift card with another gift card?

Yes, you can use a gift card balance from Amazon, Google Play, or Apple to purchase an Airbnb gift card on those platforms. You cannot use an Airbnb gift card to buy another Airbnb gift card — the balance only applies to bookings.

Are there any fees when buying an Airbnb gift card?

No, Airbnb does not charge a fee to purchase or redeem a gift card. The amount you pay is the amount the recipient receives. Some retailers may charge a small set up fee, so check before you buy at a physical store.