book a trip on a payment plan

How do I apply?

Shop for your items and add them to your cart like you normally would. When you are ready to check out, simply select Uplift as your payment method. To apply, you'll need to provide some basic information like your mobile number, date of birth, and if you are a US resident, your Social Security number. If you're approved, finish checking out and you're done.

How are my loan offers determined?

We look at a number of factors, including your credit information, purchase details, and more.

How do I make installment payments?

You can make a payment anytime by visiting pay.uplift.com and clicking on the Loans tab. From there, click the Make a Payment button. We recommend that you enable AutoPay at time of purchase so that your payments are automatically deducted each month. If you don't have AutoPay enabled, visit pay.uplift.com , click on the Accounts page, and set the AutoPay toggle to ON. You can also change the form of payment on file with Uplift anytime by visiting pay.uplift.com .

I purchased a trip using Uplift, can I travel before it’s paid off?

Yes! You do need to allow a few days between booking and your departure date for things to process. Other than that, you are free to travel whenever - even before you're all paid off.

What is your Privacy Policy and Terms of Use?

Here is a link to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

Down payment may be required. Actual terms are based on your credit score and other factors and may vary. APRs range from 0% to 36%. Minimum $49 purchase required. Not everyone is eligible. Loans made through Uplift are offered by these lending partners:  uplift.com/lenders. Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

Help Center

• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell/Share My Info

© 2024 Southwest Airlines Co. All Rights Reserved.

About Southwest

• Investor Relations
• Corporate Citizenship
• Southwest.fm
• Supplier Information
• Code of Conduct

Flying Southwest

• Rapid Rewards ®
• Airport Information
• New Destinations
• Popular Routes
• Tarmac Delay Plan
• Contract of Carriage
• Customer Service Plan
• Carbon Offset Program

Southwest Products

• Fare Types and Benefits
• EarlyBird Check-in ®
• Upgrade to Business Select ®
• Upgraded Boarding
• Southwest ® gift card
• Southwest Vacations
• Inflight Entertainment & Internet
• Drinks & Snacks
• Southwest Business
• Southwest Cargo
• Group Travel
• Charter Services
• Southwest ® The Store
• Rapid Rewards ® Credit Card
• Customer Commitments
• Baggage Policies
• Disability Related Accommodations
• Military & Government Travel
• Extra Seat Policy
• Traveling with Infants
• Travel Funds, Refunds, & Reimbursements
• Complete account setup
• Lost and Found
• Southwest Vacations FAQ

Indicates external site which may or may not meet accessibility guidelines

NEW: Book your hotel with Airfordable! 🏨 Download our app to get started now.

Get Started!

Your flight for only a fraction upfront

Get an estimate.

How much is your ticket?

Your upfront payment now is

And the rest in installments

No credit check, no interest

Just a transparent one-time service fee

Flexible payment plan

Choose the plan that works for you

Lock in your fare now

Don't miss out on a great deal

24/7 customer support

Focus on the fun of travel - not the stress

Scan to download

Accessible. Flexible. Easy. And done!

Fraction upfront

Book your flight for a fraction now, pay the rest later

Payment options

Pick what works best for your wallet

Progress tracking

Track all your payments and trips in one place

Discover the Airfordable difference

Planning your trip doesn’t need to feel like a chore. We put in the work so you don’t have to!

Book your favorite airlines

Complete control over your payment schedule

Manage multiple trips

Airfordable is the way to go!

Trusted by 500,000+ satisfied travelers, each with their unique stories and incredible adventures to share. Read real Airfordable traveler reviews.

What makes us different

No hidden fees. No credit checks

Pay a one time service fee for each booking. No credit checks. We don't believe your credit score is the best representation of you.

Price protection

When you book with us, you can secure your airfare well in advance when prices are cheaper. Protect yourself from the notorious airline price hikes no one likes.

Amazing community

Our travelers are a diverse group looking for creative ways to travel and budget. Airfordable is the bond that brings them together.

In good hands

The Airfordable team's sole mission is to help you travel more, but in an easy and financially responsible way. We're here for you.

Flexible and guaranteed

Pay only a fraction upfront for your flights. You will receive your e-ticket once the final payment is made. No gimmicks. No hassle. Just accessible travel for your needs.

Safe and secure

Every interaction with Airfordable uses bank-level security and encryption. Your sensitive data is safe with us.

Great support at your fingertips

Dealing with airlines can be a hassle. Our team does the legwork for you, so you can focus on the fun — not the stress.

Available 24/7

We're always here to help you, day or night, with any support you need to book your perfect trip.

Reach us by email

Have a question, comment, or review? Our team can always be reached by email at [email protected].

Talk to support

Our in-app chat will send you directly to a member of our team for the one-on-one support you need.

Approved by the press

“Airfordable's value comes at the intersection of volatile ticket prices.... By locking in a ticket price up front, users can benefit by securing a better price on airfare while demand stays low and the date of departure is still far away.”

“A service like Airfordable could mean the difference between someone being able to take a trip or not – turning it into a priceless service.”

“The best part about Airfordable is that your ticket is paid off before your trip, so you don’t have to deal with debt once you return home. For someone who doesn’t want to miss out on a trip to see family and friends, a vacation or a life milestone, this can be a really great service.”

“Airfare is usually cheaper when you buy further in advance, but what if you haven't planned for a trip, or saved up the cash yet? One new solution is Airfordable.”

• Credit cards
• View all credit cards
• Banking guide
• Loans guide
• Insurance guide
• Personal finance
• View all personal finance
• Small business
• Small business guide
• View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

Expedia Payment Plans: What to Know

Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who compensate us when you take certain actions on our website or click to take an action on their website. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Table of Contents

What is a ‘buy now, pay later’ loan?

How do expedia payment plans work, downsides of using an expedia payment plan, should you book travel using an expedia payment plan, expedia payment plans recapped.

There’s no doubt that travel can be expensive. Between flights, hotels, rental cars and more, booking and paying for a trip all at once can seem daunting if you haven’t saved for it. That’s why payment plans — the option to pay in installments over time instead of all at once — can be so enticing. Are they a good idea?

Online travel agencies like Expedia are popular services for travelers. But does Expedia let you buy now and pay later? It does.

Here, we break down what Expedia payment plans are and what’s important to know before you sign up for one on this third-party site.

Buy now, pay later (BNPL) services are offered by many travel brands and companies these days as booking payment plan vacations becomes more common. They are payment options that offer travelers a way to book travel now, but pay for it over a specified period of time in regular installments.

It’s similar to a credit card, but these loans may have lower interest rates and they typically offer automatic deductions from your debit card or bank account.

There are several companies that offer these sorts of loans across the web, but Expedia partners with Affirm to offer the service to their customers.

» Learn more: Should you use Buy Now, Pay Later services for travel?

Expedia makes it easy to book your travel and pay using a trip payment plan. All you have to do is select the flights, accommodations, car rentals or even cruises that you’d like to book, then select “Monthly Payments” during the checkout process.

You’ll be prompted to log in to Affirm or create an account if you haven’t already. On-screen prompts will then lead you through the process, which includes a soft credit check to make sure you’re eligible for what is essentially a loan. This check won’t affect your credit score.

You’ll then see a list of payment options if you’re approved. In our search for a flight and rental car for a week-long trip to San Francisco that costs $809.47, we had the option to pay in three-, six- or 12-month installments. The monthly payment, interest amount, APR rate and total cost is displayed for each option so you know how much extra you’ll be paying on top of the base price of your travel.

Select an option that suits you, then choose whether to have automatic payments deducted from your account via a debit card or bank account. You’ll then complete checkout and pay over time, starting with your first payment the following month.

» Learn more : How to book travel on Expedia

Expedia makes it easy to book travel now and pay for it later, but it’s not necessarily a good idea for everyone.

There’s the loan’s interest to deal with, which you wouldn’t have to pay if you pay for your travel in full, assuming you pay your credit card balance and avoid interest charges. On the upside, Affirm states in their terms and conditions that they don’t charge late payment fees or penalty fees if your payment is returned or doesn’t go through (say, from lack of funds in your bank account). You won’t likely get the same treatment from your bank.

That said, if you are more than 120 days late on a payment, Affirm may send you to collections, which may impact your credit score.

If you or the airline have to cancel or postpone your travel plans, refunds can get tricky. Expedia will refund the base cost of your travel, but you will still be on the hook for any interest that has already accrued.

» Learn more : What factors affect your credit scores?

Does Expedia do payment plans? Yes — but that doesn’t mean it’s a good option for everyone or every situation. 

For starters, depending on the interest rate of the credit cards you already have, you may be paying as much, or more, interest with Affirm. Even if Affirm offers a slightly lower rate, it’s likely not worth the headaches of having to deal with multiple entities (airlines, Expedia and Affirm) if your travel plans change or are canceled.

There are times when using an Expedia payment plan could come in handy, of course. For example, if you’re unable to pay for a last-minute ticket in full, and your available credit cards have much higher interest rates than Affirm, a payment plan might save you money.

But if you’re a points and miles collector, the biggest downside is that you won’t be earning any additional benefits like you do when paying with a travel rewards credit card. That means you’re potentially leaving hundreds or thousands of points and miles on the table that could eventually go toward award flights or hotel stays. 

There is also the option of no- and low-APR rewards cards available .

» Learn more: How travel credit cards work

When booking travel on Expedia, the available payment plans offered through Affirm may sound like an enticing option. The BNPL service may be smart way to break up a purchase, especially if you get a low-interest offer and know you can make your payments on time.

On the other hand, refunds and cancellations can be complicated if travel plans change, and you won’t earn points and miles like you would when paying with a travel rewards credit card. 

So before you utilize the service, read the fine print, weigh your options and choose wisely.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are some of the best travel credit cards of 2024 :

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

on Chase's website

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1.5%-5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

Up to $300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

on Capital One's website

2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options

75,000 Enjoy $250 to use on Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year, plus earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening - that’s equal to $1,000 in travel.

The 10 Best Payment Plans for Vacations

Vacations are a time to have fun, sit back, and relax. It’s a great way to let off steam that comes with the monotony of life. The only possible drawback I can think of? The meticulous planning and finances. 

The good thing is, there’s an alternative. The “Book Now Pay Later” vacation payment plans option is increasingly becoming popular and for good reason! 

Imagine this scenario: You need a vacation badly. You’re burnt out from working and the distinction between your work and private life has disappeared, but you don’t have enough in savings to fund your vacay. Should you wave that badly needed vacation goodbye? 

Not quite. This is where payment plans come into play. Payment plan offers range from interest-free policies to low down payments and easy monthly installments. 

Even if you can’t afford a vacation right now, you can still take the leap. Your dream of exploring the City of Light? Vacationing in the Maldives? Payment plans put them all within reach. 

The benefits of using payment plans for vacation packages abound. With so many options in the tour and travel market, it can get a little overwhelming. Don’t fear, this article has you covered. 

Top Vacation Payment Plans

1. expedia .

With their Uplift payment program , you can book a trip today and set easy monthly instalments that fit your budget. You don’t have to pay an arm and a leg every month. These monthly payments can be tailored to your budget allowing you to travel before your loan is paid off in its entirety. Southwest are a particularly good choice if you are looking for all-inclusive vacations with hundreds of resorts to choose from.

• They have customizable monthly payments. 
• They offer an easy application process. 
• There are no charges in the monthly payments, no late fees, and no prepayment penalties. 
• Large range of all-inclusive vacations and resorts (including Mexico and Caribbean)
• Canceled flights are refunded as Southwest Airlines air credit which can be limiting. 
• Canceled land travel, tours, and accommodations are refunded in the form of travel credit from Southwest Vacations. 

3. Funjet (Best for All-Inclusive Packages)

Funjet has a great payment plan if you want to travel and save money at the same time. With a simple downpayment, you can secure the best deals at great rates. 

You’ll have to make your vacation reservation six weeks in advance with deposit options available at checkout. You can schedule a final payment or make multiple payments at zero interest. 

• Cancel any time for any reason. There are no pesky rebooking fees. 
• Reserve a vacation for as little as $50. 
• Reservations are subject to change. 
• Deposit options are not available if you’re traveling during a holiday. 

4. Luxury Escapes 

Luxury Escapes’ Latitude Financing Payment plan offers a 12-month interest-free period. You’ll pay monthly installments, but after the 12-month promotional period, you’ll be charged a pretty hefty 24.99% interest rate. 

Luxury Escapes offers flexible booking dates. That means you can book a limited-time deal for a certain property now and rebook it for a different date later. 

• They have a seven-day refund guarantee. 
• There are no hidden costs. 
• If your preferred date is unavailable, you can’t get a refund. Make sure to read the terms and conditions carefully. 

5. Contiki 

A small layaway deposit of $99 will lock in your travel dates. Contiki accepts Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. They can accommodate all types of installment plans : weekly, monthly, two payments of 50% each – you name it, you got it. You just have to make the entire payment 45 days before departure. That’s it. 

• There are no interest charges and no fees. 
• They offer flexible payment plans. 
• The Freedom Guarantee ensures you can reschedule travel dates, swap the tour type, or choose a different region to travel in altogether. You can avoid cancellation fees with this feature. 
• Cancellation fees as high as 50% if cancellation is done within one to seven days before departure and 100% if done on the day of departure. 

6. United Vacations (Best for Layaway Vacation Packages)

With United Vacations, you can finance your trip through Uplift . United have a layaway vacation option which allows you to lay down an initial $250 deposit and pay the rest at least 45 days before the departure date. The best part? You can use multiple credit cards to fund your trip.

• If you get the vacation protection package, you won’t have to deal with cancellation fees. You have the flexibility to change or cancel the plan as needed. 
• You can book your entire trip through United Vacations from hotels, flights, car rentals to resorts, airport transfers, and excursion experiences. 
• Airfare is non-refundable. If your flight was canceled, they’ll give you credit you can use within a year as long as your tickets were booked through American Airlines. If not, policies vary from carrier to carrier. 

7. JetBlue Vacations 

JetBlue’s annual percentage rate ranges from a huge 10.99% to 25.99% for a loan term of 12 to 18 months. Their partnership with MarcusPay enables them to offer top-tier package getaways. 

If you want lower rates and longer terms, you’ll need to have excellent credit scores. Additionally, rates are generally higher for longer-term loans. 

• They don’t require a deposit upfront. 
• If you find the same package for a cheaper price within 24 hours of booking, they’ll match it and refund the difference. 
• JetBlue Vacation charges a $200 cancellation fee per person plus additional penalties charged by the hotels. 

8. G Adventures 

Deposits for layaway vacations start at $250. If you’re unsure about a specific tour but don’t want to let the opportunity pass you by, they have a “holding an option” tool that lets you reserve a spot for 48 hours without paying a pretty penny. 

The best part? If you ever have to cancel a trip, change it, or push it back, you’re not forced to use it within a year or two. It’s good for life. You can pay the full balance close to your departure date. 

• They have small groups per trip. This helps you form a closer connection to the places and people you visit on your travels. 
• They offer lifetime deposits. 
• “Optional” activities cost you an additional fee if you decide to purchase. If you don’t want to factor in any additional costs to your budget, you can pass on these. 
• Depending on the trip, guides can be a hit or miss. 

9. Intrepid Travel 

Intrepid Travel provides exemplary flexibility in changing travel plans. There are no change fees as long as you notify them about the changes at least 21 days in advance. You have the flexibility to choose an entirely new trip or pick new travel dates. 

You only need to secure your trip with a deposit and you can pay the rest in installments whenever you like. Just make sure you’ve paid for the trip in full at least 21 days before you’re scheduled to depart. 

• There are no interest and rebooking fees. 
• You can hold your trip for up to 5 days without paying a deposit. 
• If you’re traveling solo, you’ll have to pay a mandatory single supplement fee for certain trip types. 

10. Priceline 

Priceline.com comes through with terrific ways to save on travel. As long as you know how to look for deals, you’ll hit pay dirt.  

Check out Priceline’s Express Deal which can save you anywhere between 10% to 40% off flights. The catch? You don’t know what time your flights will depart. It can be a red-eye for all you know. 

• Priceline offers significantly lower prices. 
• You can place bids for a lower price. If you get it, it’s a win. If you don’t, you lose nothing. 
• Once the fee is charged, you don’t get a refund if you change your mind. 
• You can’t reserve a room for more than 2 people. 

Most popular destinations for vacation payment plans

If you are looking for inspiration for your next vacation then we’ve chosen 5 of the most popular destinations which are available to finance with installments.

Bonus Trip – Disney World Payment Plan

If you’re looking for family vacation payment plans then one of the best is the Disney World payment plan , we’ve written about it before and it’s a great choice if you have kids. Family vacations can be expensive and instalments are a great way to spread the cost. With Disney you can book your vacation and choose how often you want to pay. The payment plans are extremely flexible allowing you to look forward to your next family vacation without the stress of a huge amount leaving your bank account.

Wrapping It All Up 

Payment plans for vacations are probably the best thing for people who don’t mind taking a chance and are flexible in their travel itineraries. With plans offering 0% interest rates and easy installments, who wouldn’t want to travel the world? 

Before you settle on a payment plan, read the fine print. There are multiple “book now, pay later” options available on the market, but some have better deals than others. Always explore your options and take your time in making a decision. Most, if not all travel plans, are non-refundable. Click wisely. 

Can you use Afterpay for vacations?

Yes. You can currently use Afterypay for hotels and accommodations via the website Agoda.com. Agoda is a reputable travel company and is part of the Priceline group.

Can you use Affirm for travel?

Yes. There are multiple travel companies which accept Affirm at checkout. These companies currently include Expedia, Priceline, Delta Vacations and CheapOair.

Can you finance vacations with Klarna?

Yes. It is possible to book vacations with Klarna using their ‘Pay in 4’ option which allows you to split your vacation payments into 4 payments using the Klarna app.

Related Posts

Can you buy a gift card with Afterpay?

Pay later apps like Klarna

Buy Now Pay Later Gift Cards

Pay Monthly Cruises

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

$250 down, pay later

Reserve your vacation for as little as $250 down.

United Vacations allows you to reserve your vacation from just $250 per person and pay the rest later. United Vacations offers you the flexibility to apply multiple payments over time, or even pay using multiple credit cards. The final payment is due at least 45 days prior to departure. The amount of your deposit includes a portion of your flights, your hotel stay and the full cost of any vacation add-ons, such as show tickets, excursions or travel protection.

How do I put as little as $250 down and pay later?

If you are booking your vacation more than six weeks in advance, the deposit option will appear during the booking process on step three of checkout. At this point, you can even schedule automatic final payments or set up email reminders. The actual deposit amount required varies based on the destination and hotel accommodations selected.

Scheduling automatic final payment

Select a final payment date more than 45 days before your departure date and your credit card will automatically be charged on that date. If you've entered multiple credit cards for your initial deposit, select the corresponding number in the Payment # field (a "1" in this box will charge the first credit card listed, a "2" will charge the second credit card listed, and so on).

Scheduling an email reminder

It's easy to set up an email reminder that will notify you when payment is due on your vacation. This makes it especially easy when you are making multiple payments toward the full vacation price. Just follow the instructions during step three of checkout to schedule your email reminder.

The actual deposit amount required varies based on the destination and hotel accommodations selected. Destinations outside of North America require a $350 per person deposit. Some special holiday/convention periods (or other exceptions) may apply where full payment is required at time of booking. Vacation cancellations/revisions are subject to penalties outlined in the  Terms and Conditions . If you prefer, you may pay for some or your entire final vacation amount due before the final payment date (you can do this either by logging in to the account you created at time of booking or by calling us at the phone number above).

Have questions?

Call us at  1-888-854-3899 . You can also find answers to most of your questions by reviewing our  Frequently Asked Questions .

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

How to Use ‘Travel Now, Pay Later’ Services When Planning a Trip

All products featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

After more than a year of sticking close to home, travelers are ready to budget for a vacation once again. But if the desire to travel outpaces your finances, a growing number of “travel now, pay later” services are making immediate vacations possible. 

“Services such as Klarna and Afterpay are giving us the flexibility to afford that extra-nice hotel or to stay on vacation that extra day by staggering payments and slicing them into four rather than requiring one upfront payment,” says Michelle Halpern, the founder of the Live Like It's the Weekend travel blog.

Here’s how it works: If you find a trip, flight, or hotel and see the Klarna or Afterpay option, you can undergo a 30-second soft credit check, either through the apps or online, to determine the amount you qualify to pay in installments. You make the first payment—one-quarter of the total purchase—and get your trip or flight confirmation immediately. The service charges the remaining interest-free installments of the total every two weeks directly from your preferred payment method until the total is paid. You secure the deal instantly, there’s no impact on your credit score and there are no fees. However, using these services doesn’t help build credit and their charges are initiated automatically, which means that even if your linked bank account gets low or your credit card is near its limit, those charges are still going to happen.

“Afterpay saved my life on many occasions,” says Shawn Richards, a U.K.-based expedition coordinator for Ultimate Kilimanjaro, who spent years as a nomad. Richards recalls times when he’d decide spontaneously to go somewhere new, but wouldn’t have the ready funds. “Afterpay was like having a virtual father, as it gave me the kick I needed; I had to find a job in my destination very quickly to be able to pay for how I got there,” he says. Four years ago Richards used Afterpay to score the $1,400 open-ended flight to Tanzania that led to working with his current tour company.

The idea is catching on fast: Afterpay reported that it’s signed up more than 13 million users in North America as of January 2021. Different retailers have partnerships with different payment systems, so you might need accounts with multiple service providers to build the trip you want. For example, Airbnb offers payment through Zip (formerly Quadpay), while you can pay for trips on Booking.com and Expedia through Klarna. Here are some other things to consider.

Should I spring for a pricier trip?

While these services can be a great way to avoid credit card debt and the interest that can come with it, financial pros caution against spending more than your budget allows.

“Just because you have more time to spend your money doesn’t mean you have more money to spend,” says Tony Palazzo, CFA and Managing Partner at Berkeley Capital Partners & Access Private Capital in Atlanta , who notes that pay in four services may ease the psychological impact of a purchase, but that doesn’t mean you’re paying less. “You need to ask yourself, ‘If I can’t afford it now, how will I afford it within a [six]-week time period?’” he says.

Palazzo is currently seeing his financial services clients plan to take bigger trips , either because they haven’t spent money on travel during the pandemic or they’re rewarding themselves for a difficult 2020. “‘Revenge spending’ is a real thing, and travel appears to be a popular target,” he says.

When he was a nomad traveling the world , Richards tried to keep his budget conservative by thinking of Afterpay like borrowing money from a friend. “Then you are likely to only borrow what you need, and not more,” he says.

How to maximize the benefits

When you see an ultra-low price on a flight to your dream destination or an unheard-of deal on a hotel, services like Klarna and Afterpay can help you book it before it’s gone. “Time pressure to lock in a great deal is common with travel,” Palazzo says. “Offers appear at a moment’s notice and often require you to act quickly. Having quick access to the cash you might not have readily on hand, could better position you to nab that heavily discounted red-eye to Paris .”

Dolores Mason-Stokes, a Chicago-based plus-size fashion and travel blogger, used Klarna to book an upcoming trip to Catalina Island in California, and she’s planning to use it again to pay for a 2022 anniversary trip to Bali . She says that using the service strategically makes it easy to budget for a bigger trip because she’ll buy one element (like a flight) and pay it off before adding the next (like a hotel). “It doesn’t matter if it’s flights, transportation, places to stay or even excursions, you can pay through [Klarna],” Mason-Stokes says. “You could book an entire trip abroad.”

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

Pay your way

Super-simple travel payment plans so you can choose when and how to pay for your trip.

Pay monthly or bi-weekly

Automatic payments with no interest and certainly no drama.

• Put $150 down*
• Your card or bank account is automatically charged once or twice per month
• Finish paying 30 days before your trip

*If you book your trip less than 100 days before departure, the minimum deposit will be $750. Trips booked less than 60 days before departure must be paid in full.

Pay at your own pace

No fixed schedule. Pay over time, on your own terms.

• Put $450 down*
• Pay off the balance on your own schedule
• Finish paying 99 days before your trip

* Plus a $50 service fee to cover the costs associated with processing these payments.

Pay in full

Everything up front, nothing to worry about later.

• Pay for your trip in its entirety
• Relax some more

Pay with affirm

Travel now, pay later.

• Check your eligibility during checkout
• Pay over 6, 12, or 18 months. For example, on a $1,500 purchase, you may pay $135.39 for 12 months with a 15% APR.
• Go on your trip, even if you’re still paying for it.

If you miss one payment, the amount will be distributed evenly over your remaining payments. However, if you miss two consecutive payments, you will be withdrawn from the plan altogether. Note: there is a $35 decline fee each time you miss a payment.

Yes, you can do this anytime from your online account under the payments tab. An additional payment does not take the place of any upcoming automatic payments. Your new balance will be distributed evenly over the remaining payments.

Future Travel Vouchers issued in 2020 or 2021 can be applied to any travel booked prior to 12/31/2022, for departures before 9/30/2024. Just book a trip like you usually would and then start a chat on our website to apply the voucher to your order.

All completed payments will be applied to your new trip and any remaining balance will be redistributed evenly over your new time frame.

You can pay using a credit/debit card (Visa, MasterCard) or by using a checking account.

Technically speaking, yes. Our financing partner, Affirm, will lend you the money to pay for your trip, and you’ll pay them back over time.

Affirm only performs a ‘soft’ credit check to help verify your identity and determine your eligibility for financing. Checking your eligibility will not affect your credit score.

Please don’t.

Actually, yes. We have group and referral discounts to make it even easier to afford your trip. Learn more about these discounts here .

You’re in luck! We’re available via phone, email, live chat, and messenger pigeon. You can reach us here .

A guide to using buy now, pay later for travel

PayPal Editorial Staff

January 5, 2024

Planning a vacation? Buy now, pay later (BNPL) may be offered as a payment option when booking flights, hotels, or other travel accommodations.

Discover how BNPL options work for travel, from potential pros and cons to responsible practices and strategies if considering using it.

What is buy now, pay later for travel?

Buy now, pay later is an installment option that allows people to split up purchases into several smaller payments over weeks or months. It can typically be used for several types of purchases, from big-ticket items like electronics and furniture to travel expenses like hotels and airfares.

If BNPL is an available payment option for an airline, hotel, or travel retailer, individuals can opt for a payment plan at checkout. Normally, they would select the BNPL provider and apply in the checkout, but some providers may redirect applicants to their website to create an account and apply. Typically, applicants receive a near-instant decision, which may mean those looking to use buy now, pay later for travel can book their travel or vacation without a significant delay.

Depending on the BNPL provider , there may be interest fees and other charges, though some providers may offer plans with no interest. Be sure to review any terms before applying.

While application and approval requirements may vary depending on provider, here’s a breakdown of the general eligibility requirements and approval process:

• Meet the eligibility requirements:  These can vary based on the provider. People typically need to be at least 18 years old and provide personal details like their social security number and home address. Some BNPL providers may also assess income, payment history, and credit score.
• Agree to the terms:  Individuals must agree to the terms and conditions of a BNPL plan, including an installment schedule and any associated fees or interest charges.
• Receive a decision and book travel:  People usually receive a BNPL approval decision in seconds. If approved, they can book their travel using BNPL as their payment method.

Potential benefits of using buy now, pay later for travel

Before using buy now, pay later for a trip, consider the potential advantages:

• Flexibility:  BNPL may offer flexibility to spread the cost of a trip over time, allowing travelers to manage their budget and avoid a significant upfront expense.
• Interest-free options:  Some BNPL services may provide interest-free payment plans. For example, PayPal’s Pay in 4 allows people to split eligible purchases into four interest-free, bi-weekly installments. 1
• Accessibility:  Buy now, pay later may help make travel accessible to those with limited credit histories or low credit scores.

Potential downsides of using buy now, pay later for travel

There are some potential disadvantages to using buy now, pay later for travel expenses. Some examples include:

• Interest and fees:  Some BNPL providers may charge interest or fees if travelers miss payments or choose longer repayment terms, potentially increasing the overall cost of their trip.
• Overspending: While BNPL offers flexibility, it can also lead to overspending if travelers don't carefully budget for their installment payments. It also may tempt some to book more expensive trips than they can comfortably afford.
• Credit impact: Although certain buy now, pay later providers may not conduct hard credit checks initially, missed payments or defaults may negatively impact credit scores in the long run.
• Limited booking options:  Not all travel providers or agencies accept BNPL as a payment option.

Using buy now, pay later for travel responsibly

Here are some factors to consider when signing up for a BNPL plan for travel:

• Budget and plan:  Establish a personal budget  for travel plans that includes not only the upfront trip cost but also the future installment payments to ensure the overall expense remains manageable and within budget.
• Read the fine print:  Carefully read and understand the terms and conditions. Pay close attention to any interest rates, fees for missed payments, and the total cost of a trip when opting for BNPL.
• Responsible spending:  Avoid the temptation to overspend just because BNPL offers flexibility. It’s important to only buy on credit responsibly .
• Ensure timely payments : Commit to making payments on schedule to avoid late fees or interest charges. Setting up automatic payments  can help prevent missed deadlines.

Using BNPL for travel may offer convenience and flexibility for those looking to travel or book a vacation, but it should be done with careful consideration. Be sure to consider any fees or interest that may apply and keep track of when payments need to be made.

Learn about PayPal Pay Later .

BNPL for travel FAQ

What is buy now, pay later.

Buy now, pay later is a type of short-term financing method that allows people to split a purchase into several smaller installments over weeks or months. Some BNPL plans may be interest free, while others may include interest and fees.

Can buy now, pay later be used for flights?

Buy now, pay later can often be used for flights. Many airlines and travel booking platforms offer BNPL as a payment option at checkout. Travelers should budget and plan their payments accordingly before committing to a payment plan.

Can I book a vacation with buy now, pay later?

Individuals may be able to book a vacation using buy now, pay later. BNPL options are increasingly available for vacation planning, including flights, accommodations, and activities. Travelers can opt for BNPL at checkout and split the total cost into smaller installments. However, be sure to budget carefully and be aware of any potential interest or fees.

It all starts in the app

Save cash back offers from top brands. Plus send money, track packages, and more.

Scan the code or enter your number to get the app.

Related content

We use cookies to improve your experience on our site. May we use marketing cookies to show you personalized ads? Manage all cookies

Book Now, Pay Later!

Let’s face it, a Hawaii vacation can be expensive.

Often customers will find great deals online at sites like Priceline, Expedia or Travelocity but discover quickly that they have to pay for it right away.

In these tough economic times we not only recognize how important it is to get the best deal, but how difficult it is to come up with all the money for it at the time of booking. That’s why we try to make it as easy as possible for you to pay for your Hawaii vacation without the pressure of having to pay immediately.

For as little as $50 you can book your trip , lock in a low price, and pay for your vacation within 30 days of travel. No interest, credit check, or finance charges. If you decide you can’t make the trip we’ll simply refund all of your money minus the $50 deposit.

Call us right now at 1-800-843-8771   and we’ll show you how easy it is to book now and pay later for your Hawaiian Vacation