Airbnb Launches ‘Reserve Now, Pay Later’ Option for Spanish Travelers
Airbnb announced on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, a recent flexible booking option for travelers in Spain. The “Reserve Now, Pay Later” feature allows eligible travelers to book accommodations without immediate payment, provided they meet certain criteria. This move comes as travelers increasingly seek financial flexibility when planning trips, particularly group travel where coordinating payments can be challenging.
According to a company statement, the rollout is a significant step in Airbnb’s commitment to providing more flexible options for guests, which could likewise translate into increased bookings for hosts. A similar launch in the United States last summer contributed to a rise in the number of nights and places reserved in the fourth quarter of 2025 compared to the third quarter of the same year.
The feature is available globally for listings that meet specific requirements and have a moderate or flexible cancellation policy. Travelers will not be required to pay the full amount until shortly before the listing’s free cancellation period ends. Host cancellation policies will remain unchanged, and hosts will have ample time to rebook should a traveler cancel, as payment is always due before the free cancellation window closes.
Data indicates a growing demand for payment flexibility among today’s travelers. A global survey conducted by Airbnb and Focaldata revealed that 67% of respondents consider flexible payment options key when booking a vacation. 65% reported utilizing these options, with 11% stating they always choose them when available. Notably, 37% of respondents admitted to postponing a booking or missing out on desired accommodations due to delays in coordinating payments with travel companions.
Airbnb’s 2026 travel predictions highlight a surge in rural tourism, fueled by events like the solar eclipse crossing rural Spain on August 12, 2026, and a continued interest in event-driven tourism. The company noted that 65% of the most sought-after dates and destinations for 2026 coincide with major global events, such as the Winter Olympics and the FIFA World Cup, reflecting a growing desire for event-related travel. The new payment option will enable travelers to secure accommodations for these unique opportunities in advance and plan their trips with greater confidence.
“Reserve Now, Pay Later” joins other flexible payment alternatives offered by Airbnb, including ‘Pay a portion now and the rest later,’ which allows for an initial partial payment with the remainder due closer to the arrival date, and ‘Pay in installments with Klarna.’
The “Reserve Now, Pay Later” option is currently available to travelers in Spain booking eligible accommodations worldwide with a moderate or flexible cancellation policy.
