Bitcoin is hovering above $90,000 in early 2026, and crypto enthusiasts want to use it for everything — including travel. Millions of Airbnb users have been asking for years: When will Airbnb accept Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies directly?
The short answer as of January 10, 2026: Airbnb does NOT accept Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT, or any crypto directly for bookings.
But don’t worry — there are smart, legal, and widely used workarounds that let you spend your crypto on Airbnb stays today. This guide covers the best methods, step-by-step instructions, pros/cons, and what the future might hold. Let’s dive in! 🚀🏠
1. Current Status of Airbnb + Crypto (January 2026 Update)
Airbnb’s CEO Brian Chesky has acknowledged the demand multiple times. Back in 2022, a Twitter poll showed crypto payments as the #1 requested feature.
In 2025, reports surfaced about Airbnb exploring stablecoins (like USDC or USDT) to reduce transaction fees and speed up global payments. They’ve been in talks with partners like Worldpay and others in the crypto space. A phased rollout was speculated for late 2025 or early 2026 in select countries.
However, as of right now (January 10, 2026):
No official direct crypto acceptance
No public announcement of an imminent launch
Airbnb’s payment page lists traditional options (credit/debit cards, PayPal, etc.) — no mention of Bitcoin or crypto
This is why indirect methods remain the go-to solution for crypto users.
2. Method #1: Buy Airbnb Gift Cards with Bitcoin (Easiest & Most Popular)
This is the simplest way most people use crypto for Airbnb in 2026. Buy a digital gift card with your Bitcoin (or other coins), then redeem it on Airbnb like cash credit.
Top Platforms (All Still Working in 2026):
Bitrefill — Fast, supports tons of cryptos, highly rated
Cryptorefills
Others like eGifter (limited crypto options)
Step-by-Step Guide Using Bitrefill (Recommended):
Go to Bitrefill.com (or download their app)
Search for “Airbnb” in the gift cards section
Select your region (e.g., USA — note: availability varies by country; some are global)
Choose the amount ($25–$500 typically)
Pick your crypto: Bitcoin (BTC), Lightning Network (super cheap/fast), Ethereum, USDT, USDC, Solana, and many more
Scan the QR code or copy the address from your wallet and send the payment
Once confirmed (usually seconds to minutes), the gift card code arrives via email
Log in to Airbnb → Go to airbnb.com/gift/redeem → Enter the card number & PIN
Use the credit at checkout for any booking (homes, experiences, etc.)
Pros:
No KYC in most cases
Instant delivery
Works just like normal Airbnb payment
Often supports Lightning for near-zero fees
Cons:
Some cards are region-locked (e.g., US-only in certain cases)
Check availability for your country
This method is trusted and used by thousands daily.
3. Method #2: Use a Crypto Debit Card (Visa/Mastercard Style)
Load your crypto onto a prepaid debit card, then pay Airbnb like any regular card.
Best Options in 2026:
Fold App — Earn Bitcoin rewards, supports Lightning Network
Moon — Load with USDT/USDC/BTC, get a virtual Visa
Xapo or similar virtual crypto cards
How It Works (Fold Example):
Download the Fold app and sign up
Load funds from your crypto wallet (BTC, Lightning, etc.)
Get a virtual or physical Fold Visa card
At Airbnb checkout, enter the card details just like a normal credit/debit card
Pros:
Earn crypto cashback/rewards on bookings
Feels seamless (no extra steps after loading)
Works worldwide where Visa is accepted
Cons:
Possible small loading fees
Card issuance may require basic verification
Great for frequent travelers who want rewards.
4. Method #3: Use Travala.com (The Crypto-Native Airbnb Alternative)
If you’re open to alternatives, Travala.com is basically “Airbnb for crypto users.” It offers 2M+ hotels, homes, flights, and activities — many overlapping with Airbnb-style listings.
Why People Love It:
Direct payment with 100+ cryptos (BTC, ETH, USDT, AVA, etc.)
Up to 20% back in Bitcoin rewards (especially in 2026 promotions)
Often cheaper prices + best-price guarantee
Step-by-Step:
Visit Travala.com
Search your destination & dates
Pick a property (many vacation rentals/homes similar to Airbnb)
At checkout, select “Crypto” → Choose Bitcoin (or your preferred coin)
Scan QR or copy address → Send payment from your wallet
Booking confirmed instantly — get voucher/email
Pros:
True direct crypto (no middleman)
Rewards program + frequent sales
Flights + hotels in one place
Cons:
Not every Airbnb host/listing is on Travala
Selection might be slightly different
Perfect if you want a fully crypto-native experience.
5. What’s Next? Will Airbnb Accept Crypto in 2026–2027?
Stablecoin integration talks continue (lower fees, faster global transfers)
Pro-crypto sentiment in some regions could speed things up
Airbnb has said they’re “always looking at all aspects of payments, including digital assets”
No firm timeline yet — but if stablecoins roll out, Bitcoin could follow
Keep an eye on Airbnb’s newsroom and crypto announcements — it could be a game-changer like Tesla’s past BTC acceptance.
Final Recommendations & Tips for 2026
Top 3 Ways Right Now:
Bitrefill gift cards — Quickest & simplest for pure Airbnb
Fold/Moon crypto debit cards — Best for rewards & seamless use
Travala.com — If you want direct crypto + extras
Quick Safety Tips:
Never send crypto directly to anyone claiming it’s for Airbnb (scams!)
Stick to reputable platforms
Double-check transaction fees & regional availability
Always use secure wallets
Have you tried any of these methods? Which one is your favorite? Drop a comment below — I’d love to hear your experience!
If you enjoyed this guide, clap, share, and follow for more crypto + travel tips. Let’s make 2026 the year we travel smarter with Bitcoin! 🟠✈️
