If you’re a frequent traveler, you’ve likely used Airbnb for your accommodation needs. While Airbnb provides a convenient platform for finding unique places to stay, it’s important to understand when they charge your credit card to avoid any unexpected charges. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the Airbnb booking process and explain when Airbnb charges your credit card.
The Airbnb Booking Process
The first step in the Airbnb booking process is finding the perfect accommodation for your needs. Once you’ve found a listing you like, you have two booking options: Instant Book and Request to Book. Instant Book allows you to book immediately without waiting for host approval, while Request to Book requires host approval before confirming your booking.
To complete your booking, you’ll need to add a valid payment method to your Airbnb account. This payment method will be charged according to Airbnb’s payment policies, which we’ll discuss in detail in the next section.
When Airbnb Charges Your Credit Card
Airbnb charges your credit card differently depending on the booking option you choose. With Instant Book, your credit card is charged immediately upon booking. With Request to Book, your credit card is charged only when the host approves your request.
For both booking options, Airbnb divides the payment into two parts: the initial payment and the final payment. The initial payment is typically 50% of the total cost of the booking and is charged at the time of booking. The final payment is charged closer to the check-in date and is usually due 14 days before your arrival.
If you need to cancel your booking, the refund policy will determine how much of your payment is refunded. If you cancel before the final payment is due, you’ll receive a full refund of the initial payment. If you cancel after the final payment is due, the refund amount will depend on the host’s cancellation policy.
Airbnb Payment Policies and Fees
In addition to the booking payment, Airbnb charges a service fee that varies depending on the cost of the booking. This fee covers Airbnb’s services, including 24/7 customer support, and varies between 5% and 15% of the booking total.
Airbnb also charges taxes on bookings in certain jurisdictions. The taxes vary depending on the location of the listing and are included in the total cost of the booking.
To avoid extra charges and hidden fees, it’s important to review the cancellation policy and payment processing timeline before booking. Additionally, make sure to review the payment methods accepted by the host to avoid any payment processing issues.
Conclusion
Understanding when Airbnb charges your credit card is crucial for planning and budgeting your travel expenses. By following the steps outlined in this post and reviewing Airbnb’s payment policies and fees, you can ensure a stress-free booking experience. Take control of your travel expenses and book with confidence on Airbnb.