travel with uplift

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 .

*0% APR offer available on 3 month terms between 4/1/2024-4/14/2024 for approved applicants purchasing Wanna Get Away Plus®, Anytime, and Business Select® tickets. Based on a purchase price of $200, you could pay a down payment of just $50 today, followed by 3 monthly payments of $50 at 0% APR. APRs range from 0%-36%, not everyone is eligible to receive a 0% APR offer. Minimum $49 purchase required. Actual terms are based on your credit score and other factors and may vary. Not everyone is eligible. Loans made through Uplift are offered by these lending partners:  uplift.com/lenders .  Privacy Policy .  Terms of Use .

Help Center

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

© 2024 Southwest Airlines Co. All Rights Reserved.

Travel now and pay in installments with this convenient travel lender.

Uplift offers a buy-now, pay-later (BNPL) service that lets you travel now and pay later. To use the service, you must book through one of its partner sites, which includes many airlines and cruise companies. Rates range from 0% to 36% APR – this is as high as some credit cards, but without the benefits of rewards or cash back. But Uplift only does a soft credit check and can be a good option if you don't want to use cards or cash to pay for travel.

Best for: Travelers with good credit who need to finance their next trip.

• Travel while making payments
• No late fees or prepayment penalties
• Borrowers with credit scores of 550 or higher are eligible
• High maximum APR of 36%
• Limited selection of travel partners
• May require a down payment

Bottom line: Uplift can be a good choice if you're looking to beat the high rates offered by travel credit cards. But its limited selection of partners — and potentially high APR for borrowers with fair credit — mean you'll be limited in how you use your funds. Read our full review or get our 30-second take .

Our take on Uplift travel loans

Uplift, owned by Upgrade, offers a buy-now, pay-later service through top airlines, cruise lines, resorts and travel booking agencies. It’s best for people who want to pay for travel in installments or don’t want to tie up their credit cards or use cash.

Unlike many lenders, Uplift only does a soft credit check when you apply for financing, skipping the long application process. Just fill out a short form at checkout and receive an instant decision and payment plan on your purchase. Uplift also reports your repayments to Equifax so you can build your credit.

But your booking options are limited to Uplift partners, and you don’t get the benefit of earning points or miles as you do when you book with a travel or rewards card. On the plus side, there are no late fees and no prepayment penalty if you pay your Uplift balance off early.

While some borrowers may pay no interest at all when getting a loan with Uplift, rates can run high if your credit is on the lower end – so you’ll need to decide if paying in installments makes financial sense for you.

Eligibility requirements for Uplift

To finance your next vacation with Uplift, you’ll need to meet three basic criteria:

• Credit score of over 550
• Trip must originate in the US if financing air travel
• Must be going on the trip to be eligible for financing

Uplift is acquired by Upgrade

Uplift was recently bought by Upgrade , a personal loan lender that works with lower-credit borrowers. The idea behind this merger is to make credit available to people who don’t necessarily want to open a new credit card or apply for a personal loan to pay for large travel expenses like airline tickets and cruises.

Uplift loans cover big and small travel expenses

Uplift finances exclusively through the merchants in its network, so you’ll be able to break down the cost your trip into monthly increments.

• Fixed interest rates could be as low as 0% — but borrowers with bad credit may face an annual percentage rate (APR) up to 36%
• No late fees, origination fees or prepayment penalties.
• The typical loan term is 11 months, but some merchants may offer terms of up to 24 months.

Pricing is based on your credit score and the cost of your travel package, among other factors. While Uplift accepts borrowers with bad credit, you’re unlikely to qualify for a competitive rate. If you have good to excellent credit, you may be able to score an APR close to its minimum of 0%, making it much less expensive than most credit cards.

You can use our calculator to gauge how much your travel might cost when financed through Uplift. Enter the amount you need to borrow, how long you expect to be paying off the loan in the term field and your potential interest rate to see your monthly payment.

Uplift monthly payment calculator

Fill out the form and click on “calculate” to see your estimated monthly payment., based on your loan terms, how uplift compares to other lenders.

Compare Uplift’s rates, terms and features to other popular loan providers.

We update our data regularly, but information can change between updates. Confirm details with the provider you're interested in before making a decision.

Learn how we maintain accuracy on our site.

Uplift reviews and complaints

As of January 2023, Uplift has an A+ rating with the BBB and is not accredited. Reviews on its BBB page are mixed, holding a 2.71-star rating. Many of the negative reviews reference poor customer service, communication issues, and problems around payment and refund issues. The few positive reviews are pleased with the service, with most being happy with the buy-now-pay-later terms and quick application process.

On its Trustpilot page, reviews are just as mixed, holding a 2.5-star rating. Some people are pleased with Uplift’s customer service, also citing an easy application and praising the simple payment system. Negative reviews — similar to its BBB profile — often report issues around cancellations, refunds and repayments.

We also reviewed a number of reviews for Uplift, with the majority of them being negative. Complaints are in the same vein as we’ve seen on Trustpilot and BBB — past customers cite issues with refunds and payments, and reports of poor customer service.

How the application works

When you use Uplift, you’ll need to find a travel partner through its website — or you can book directly from a provider’s website. If your trip is available to finance, you’ll see the option to pay with Uplift on the checkout page when you’re ready to book your vacation.

If you’re approved and want to accept the loan offer, you’ll need to enter your full Social Security number and payment information. Uplift does a soft pull of your credit to determine final approval. Though not always the case, you may also need to provide a down payment when you book your trip.

Uplift partners with airlines, cruise lines and resorts

Uplift works with a wide selection of flights, cruises, resorts and vacation packages, including:

• American Airlines Vacations
• Carnival Cruises
• Expedia Cruises
• Funjet Vacations
• Norwegian Cruises
• Royal Caribbean Cruises
• Southwest Vacations
• Spirit Airlines
• Spirit Vacations
• United Airlines
• United Airlines Vacations
• Universal Orlando Resort
• Vacation Express

You can view Uplift’s full list of partners on its website.

Payments are made automatically through Uplift

Interest starts to accrue as soon as you receive your financing. Monthly payments are automatically withdrawn from the debit or credit card you have on file — and Uplift sends you both email and text reminders before each withdrawal.

Uplift also allows you to make manual payments on its website by signing in to your account. And since there are no prepayment penalties, you could save on interest if you pay your loan off before its due date.

If you know you won’t be able to make a payment, notify Uplift at least three days before the due date to request a 15-day grace period to prevent a late payment. Payments more than 30 days late may be reported to Equifax, which could damage your credit.

You still need to pay for canceled trips and changed plans

Much like a credit card, you must pay back Uplift even if you aren’t able to travel. If the travel provider gives you a cash refund, then you can use that to make payments on your loan. But even if your refund is a travel credit or gift certificate, you need to continue to make payments.

Is Uplift legit?

Uplift is a legitimate service that allows you to borrow for your vacation — and it works with top travel partners across the US. It has a secure website and a privacy policy that covers how your information is collected and used. You can contact Uplift by phone or email, and it frequently responds to customer complaints on its Trustpilot page.

3 alternatives to Uplift

A travel loan isn’t always the right choice. In fact, it could be the wrong choice if you don’t have firm plans or don’t qualify for a low APR on your loan. Although using Uplift makes travel much more affordable, it can still be more expensive than saving up or using a credit card.

• Savings should always be your first choice to avoid paying interest. This may not always be possible — especially if you need to make an emergency trip — but it is the least expensive option.
• A credit card may be a good alternative to Uplift if your APR is higher than 20%. Since there are credit cards designed with travel rewards in mind, there may be a less expensive deal that earns you points toward future vacations.
• Of course, other personal loans may be a solid alternative as well . You should compare lenders to find the best APR and terms. Uplift may be convenient, but for borrowers with good to excellent credit, you may be able to score a lower rate with a different lender.

Not sure Uplift is right for you? Check out our guide to financing your vacation or compare more personal loan options to pay for your next trip.

Personal loan ratings

Ask a question using your email below.

Hi there, looking for more information? Ask us a question.

Error label

You are about to post a question on finder.com :

• Do not enter personal information (eg. surname, phone number, bank details) as your question will be made public
• finder.com is a financial comparison and information service, not a bank or product provider
• We cannot provide you with personal advice or recommendations
• Your answer might already be waiting – check previous questions below to see if yours has already been asked

Finder only provides general advice and factual information, so consider your own circumstances, or seek advice before you decide to act on our content. By submitting a question, you're accepting our finder.com Terms of Use and Privacy and Cookies Policy .

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

February 11, 2020

I live in WV and when I go to apply at the end of my vacation package its states not eligible in WV. Is this true?

Charisse Finder

Thanks for reaching out to Finder.

Yes, it’s true. Unfortunately, Uplift is not authorized to do business in West Virginia due to regulatory practices.

If you want to learn more information about regulatory lending practices in West Virginia, you may contact your state securities regulator.

I hope this helps.

Cheers, Charisse

October 03, 2019

Does Uplift report payments to the major credit bureaus?

Yes, Uplift will report accurate payment status on a monthly basis to the credit bureau, although they did not give specific information which credit bureau(s) they report to.

They also reserve the right to report partial or late payments of 30 days or longer to consumer reporting agencies in accordance with applicable law.

September 23, 2019

Can you have more than one UpLift loan at a time?

September 25, 2019

Yes. UpLift allows you to have more than one active loan however, credit restrictions may apply and all loan approvals are credit dependent at the time of your application.

Kat Aoki is a personal finance writer at Finder, specializing in consumer and business lending. She’s written thousands of articles to help consumers make better decisions on their home loans, bank accounts, credit cards, cryptocurrency and more. Kat is well versed in working with leading brands in the real estate, mortgage and personal finance industries, and her expertise has been featured on Forbes Advisor, Lifewire and financial comparison sites like iSelect and realestate.com.au. She holds a BS in business administration from California State University, Sacramento and enjoys hiking and yoga in her spare time. See full profile

• Best personal loans
• Best no origination fee personal loans
• Best personal loans for fair credit
• Best personal loans for bad credit
• Fast approval loans
• Best debt consolidation loans
• Emergency loans
• Short term loans
• Long term loans
• Loans for legal fees
• New employees
• Loans for 18-year-olds
• Cosigner and joint loans
• Loans for rent
• Loans for flight training
• Wedding loans
• Best moving and relocation loans
• Tax refund advance loans
• Personal loans
• Personal lines of credit
• Best short-term loans of 2024
• Student loans
• Business loans
• Debt relief programs
• LendingClub
• LightStream
• OneMain Financial
• All Reviews
• $1,000 loans
• $1,500 loans
• $2,000 loans
• $3,000 loans
• $5,000 loans
• $10,000 loans
• $15,000 loans
• $20,000 loans
• $25,000 loans
• $35,000 loans
• $50,000 loans
• $75,000 loans
• $100,000 loans
• Best Egg vs. Upstart
• LendingClub vs. LendingTree
• LightStream vs. SoFi
• Prosper vs. Best Egg
• Prosper vs. LendingClub vs. Upstart
• SoFi vs. LendingClub
• Upstart vs. Prosper
• Upstart vs. SoFi
• Upgrade vs. Upstart

How likely would you be to recommend finder to a friend or colleague?

Our goal is to create the best possible product, and your thoughts, ideas and suggestions play a major role in helping us identify opportunities to improve.

Advertiser Disclosure

finder.com is an independent comparison platform and information service that aims to provide you with the tools you need to make better decisions. While we are independent, the offers that appear on this site are from companies from which finder.com receives compensation. We may receive compensation from our partners for placement of their products or services. We may also receive compensation if you click on certain links posted on our site. While compensation arrangements may affect the order, position or placement of product information, it doesn't influence our assessment of those products. Please don't interpret the order in which products appear on our Site as any endorsement or recommendation from us. finder.com compares a wide range of products, providers and services but we don't provide information on all available products, providers or services. Please appreciate that there may be other options available to you than the products, providers or services covered by our service.

Update your browser

Be sure you have the most current version of your browser for the best experience on AAVacations.com. Browser requirements  Opens in a new window

• Skip to global navigation
• Skip to content
• Skip to footer

Vacation package deals

Plan your getaway

• Save up to $125 on your European vacation Book by April 15
• Sign up for email offers Opens in a new window
• aa.com Opens in a new window

• Destinations
• AAdvantage®

AAdvantage® login

Logout Exclusive AAdvantage® experiences Verify AAdvantage® Number(s)

Enjoy now. Pay over time.

Spread the cost of your trip over low monthly payments.

Experience Buyer's Joy Feel good about what you book and how you pay for it. With Uplift, you can make thoughtful purchases and pay for them in bite-sized installments while keeping yourself on a budget.

Low monthly payments Budget-friendly loan options

Easy application Quick decision

Surprise-free No late fees or prepayment penalties

Easy AutoPay No payment dates to remember

• Select Uplift at checkout Add purchases to your cart just like you normally would. When you are ready to check out, choose Uplift as your form of payment.
• Quick & easy Provide a few pieces of information and receive a quick decision.
• Enjoy now Enjoy your trip now and pay for it over time with low monthly installments.

Find vacations

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is Uplift?

Uplift gives you the freedom to book travel now and pay over time with simple fixed installments. Some plans include interest while some are interest-free. When you're ready to check out, just select "Uplift" as your payment method, complete a short application and receive quick decision. Choose the terms of your payment plan, finish checking out and enjoy your purchase. Then, pay over time with simple, no-surprise monthly payments.

• How do I apply for installment payments through Uplift?

Shop for your items and add them to your cart just 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 U.S. resident, your Social Security Number. If you're approved, finish checking out and you're done.

• How are my loan term 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 at 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 at pay.uplift.com.

Make installment payments Opens in a new window

• 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?

Privacy Policy  Opens in a new window

Terms of Use  Opens in a new window

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 $300 purchase required. Not everyone is eligible. Loans made through Uplift are offered by these lending partners: uplift.com/lenders.

Uplift lenders  Opens in a new window

Uplift’s Address: 440 N. Wolfe Road Sunnyvale, CA 94085

Airport lookup

Our system is having trouble.

Please try again or come back later.

Please tell us where the airport is located.

Your session expired

Any confirmed reservations have been saved, but you'll need to restart any searches in progress

• Search Search Please fill out this field.

What You Need to Know About Uplift

A buy-now-pay-later service for travel

How Does Uplift Work?

Is there a credit limit.

• Does Uplift Affect Credit Score?

Does Uplift Charge Interest?

Is uplift safe, who accepts uplift.

• How Do Returns Work With Uplift?

How Do I Pay Uplift?

DaniloAndjus / Getty Images

You might not have heard of Uplift yet. But if you like to travel and you're a fan of increasingly popular buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) lenders , you probably will soon. 

Uplift has been combining both of these things—travel and BNPL loans—since 2014, but it's rapidly poised to grow as travel picks back up again after pandemic restrictions. According to a January 2021 company press release, it plans to handle more than $1 billion in transactions over the next 18 months.

Learn how Uplift’s installment plans work, which fees it charges, its interest rates, and what the purchase process is like. 

Uplift offers one product: installment loans with term lengths from three months to two years for purchases made with its travel partners. Uplift teams up with some of its partners to provide special travel offers, such as 0% APR loans. 

To use Uplift, you'll add your travel purchases to your cart and then apply for a loan through Uplift at checkout. 

You can use Uplift to purchase only travel you participate in, either alone or with other people. You can't use Uplift to pay for a trip someone else is taking without you. 

Is There a Minimum Purchase Size When Using Uplift? 

Yes. The minimum you can borrow is $100. 

Is There a Maximum Purchase Size When Using Uplift?

Yes. The maximum you can borrow is $25,000.

Do Products Bought With Uplift Ship After First Payment?

You're only able to make travel-related purchases with Uplift, so you won't really receive any products in the mail, per se. 

You can complete your travel before you finish paying off the loan, but you'll need to apply for the loan at least a few days before you plan to travel in order for the charge to be processed. Don't rely on Uplift if you need to travel today.

Can I Use Uplift to Pay Bills?

No. Uplift works for travel purchases only. 

Uplift loans don't have a set credit limit since each loan is a separate product. You can have more than one loan, but each one is considered on a case-by-case basis. 

Uplift does not offer prequalifications or rate checks. Instead, the only way to know whether you're approved for a loan is to apply for it during the checkout process. You don't have to accept the loan terms if you don't want to, and Uplift only does a hard credit check if you accept the loan. 

Does Uplift Affect Your Credit Score?

Not all BNPL lenders will check your credit, but some do. Here's where Uplift stands on the issue. 

Does Uplift Check Credit?

Yes. When you apply for a travel loan during checkout, Uplift will do a soft credit check to see if you're eligible for financing and check your identity. 

If you're approved and you click "proceed" with the loan, then Uplift will do a hard credit check . This one can ding your score by a few points but remains on your credit report for 12 months, in some cases.

Does Uplift Report Your Activity to Credit Bureaus?

Yes. Unlike some other BNPL lenders, Uplift reports your payments to the credit bureaus . This means you can use Uplift loans to help build credit as long as you make on-time payments. 

What Credit Score Do You Need to Use Uplift?

Uplift declined to say what credit score is required for approval. But in general, the better your credit score, the better your chances of approval. 

In addition to your credit score, Uplift considers other factors when you apply for a loan, such as the timeline of your travel. 

If Uplift denies your application, it will send you a letter explaining why. 

Yes, Uplift charges 0% to 36% APR and uses simple interest rather than compound interest . The average rate for loans is 15% APR, though travel partners such as Allegiant and Carnival offer 0% promotions, according to a company representative. 

Generally, the more creditworthy you are, the better the rates you may qualify for. If you have good credit, Uplift may be a cost-effective way to get a loan. But if your credit score isn't the greatest, an Uplift loan with a 36% APR can be quite expensive.

For example, the average credit card interest rate for people with bad or fair credit was around 24% in 2021, according to The Balance’s research. If you opt for a personal loan instead, it'll be cheaper still—the average interest rate on a 24-month personal loan was between 9% and 10% during the same period, according to the Federal Reserve.

Does Uplift Charge Fees?

Yes, a small number of loans may have a 2% origination fee that’s rolled into the loan. However, Uplift doesn't charge prepayment penalties or late fees.

Yes. Uplift is trusted by some of the largest companies in the travel industry, so you should feel confident that your purchase is as safe as anywhere else. 

However, using services like Uplift may cause you to overspend, especially if you have good credit and can qualify with ease. Also, Uplift’s BNPL program may tempt you to make purchases that throw you off track for your long-term goals, like saving up for a house or an emergency fund. 

That said, Uplift can be a good choice if you absolutely need to travel and you're confident you can pay back what you borrow. If you need to travel for your last chance to see a family member, for example, Uplift absolutely can be a good option because of how it splits up payments over time. It can also be a good choice if you can qualify for 0% APR financing and you're looking to build credit, too. 

As of 2020, Uplift partnered with more than 100 travel brands, including:

• Royal Caribbean
• Southwest Airlines
• Universal Orlando
• United Airlines
• CheapCaribbean.com
• Secrets Resorts & Spas

Because its travel partners are pretty diverse, Uplift can offer financing for hotel stays, cruises, airline tickets, rental cars, and attractions.

How to Use Uplift Online

There's only one way to use Uplift:

• Visit a travel partner, which you can find listed on Uplift's directory .
• Choose which purchases you want to make and add them to your cart.
• When checking out, select "Uplift" from the payment options.
• Enter in your information, such as your name and the last four digits of your Social Security number. 
• If you're approved, Uplift will show you a range of payment plans to choose from.
• Pick which plan you like, and then complete your purchase.

Unlike some BNPL lenders, Uplift does not offer an app or a way to make purchases at non-partner stores with a digital card number. 

How to Use Uplift in Stores

Since Uplift is focused on one area—travel purchases—you can generally only use it online. You may be able to use it in certain offline cases, too, such as through Uplift's travel advisor partners or call centers. 

How Do Returns Work When Using Uplift?

If you request a refund from the merchant or if your trip is canceled, a few things can happen. 

Your ability to get your money back is always subject to the merchant's own refund policies. A merchant can choose to deny your refund if it's outside of the scope of the merchant’s cancellation policies, so you should read these carefully before you make a purchase. If the merchant allows refunds, you'll either get a credit or voucher you can use for future travel, or the merchant sends a cash refund to Uplift. 

If the merchant opts for a cash refund, Uplift will credit your loan with the amount of the refund. It can take up to 90 days for this to happen, so you may still be paying on your loan for quite some time after it's canceled. If that refund wipes out your balance and there's still money left, Uplift will refund you the remaining money. 

But—and this is important—if the merchant gives you a voucher for future travel, you still must pay back your Uplift loan. You can use this voucher to book travel later and it'll likely be paid off by then, but it can be a bummer to be paying for travel that you can't use yet.

Uplift recommends sending to support@uplift.com a copy of the email that confirms your refund. 

If you're in the United States, you have two options for how to pay:

• ACH transfer from your bank 

If you're in Canada, you can pay using these two methods:

• Direct debit from a bank account
• Visa or Mastercard virtual debit card

When you sign up for your loan, Uplift will ask you to link your payment method and sign up for autopay. You don't have to agree to autopay, but it's always a good idea to do this for any debt so that you don't miss any payments. Otherwise, you'll need to remember to log in each month and make your payment. 

Uplift is also unique in that it requires monthly payments. In comparison, many other BNPL lenders require biweekly payments. 

What Happens If I Don’t Pay Uplift?

Uplift doesn't charge late fees, but there are plenty of other reasons why you'll want to make your payments on time. 

If more than 30 days pass since your last payment, your Uplift loan will continue to accrue interest, making it more expensive to pay off. Uplift may blacklist you from getting another loan through them again and may also report your late payments to the credit bureaus, which can damage your credit score .

Uplift. " Buy Now, Pay Later Travel Leader Uplift Raises $68M in Credit Financing to Support Rapid Growth in Anticipation of 2021 Travel Industry Rebound ."

myFICO. " Credit Checks: What Are Credit Inquiries and How Do They Affect Your FICO Score ?"

Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. " Consumer Credit - G.19 ."

Uplift. " Buy Now, Pay Later Travel Leader Uplift Raises $68M in Credit Financing to Support Rapid Growth ."

Uplift. " Payments and Refunds ."

• Credit Cards
• All Credit Cards
• Find the Credit Card for You
• Best Credit Cards
• Best Rewards Credit Cards
• Best Travel Credit Cards
• Best 0% APR Credit Cards
• Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards
• Best Cash Back Credit Cards
• Best Credit Card Sign-Up Bonuses
• Best Credit Cards to Build Credit
• Best Credit Cards for Online Shopping
• Find the Best Personal Loan for You
• Best Personal Loans
• Best Debt Consolidation Loans
• Best Loans to Refinance Credit Card Debt
• Best Loans with Fast Funding
• Best Small Personal Loans
• Best Large Personal Loans
• Best Personal Loans to Apply Online
• Best Student Loan Refinance
• Best Car Loans
• All Banking
• Find the Savings Account for You
• Best High Yield Savings Accounts
• Best Big Bank Savings Accounts
• Best Big Bank Checking Accounts
• Best No Fee Checking Accounts
• No Overdraft Fee Checking Accounts
• Best Checking Account Bonuses
• Best Money Market Accounts
• Best Credit Unions
• All Mortgages
• Best Mortgages
• Best Mortgages for Small Down Payment
• Best Mortgages for No Down Payment
• Best Mortgages for Average Credit Score
• Best Mortgages No Origination Fee
• Adjustable Rate Mortgages
• Affording a Mortgage
• All Insurance
• Best Life Insurance
• Best Life Insurance for Seniors
• Best Homeowners Insurance
• Best Renters Insurance
• Best Car Insurance
• Best Pet Insurance
• Best Boat Insurance
• Best Motorcycle Insurance
• Travel Insurance
• Event Ticket Insurance
• Small Business
• All Small Business
• Best Small Business Savings Accounts
• Best Small Business Checking Accounts
• Best Credit Cards for Small Business
• Best Small Business Loans
• Best Tax Software for Small Business
• Personal Finance
• All Personal Finance
• Best Budgeting Apps
• Best Expense Tracker Apps
• Best Money Transfer Apps
• Best Resale Apps and Sites
• Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) Apps
• Best Debt Relief
• Credit Monitoring
• All Credit Monitoring
• Best Credit Monitoring Services
• Best Identity Theft Protection
• How to Boost Your Credit Score
• Best Credit Repair Companies
• Filing For Free
• Best Tax Software
• Best Tax Software for Small Businesses
• Tax Refunds
• Tax Brackets
• Taxes By State
• Tax Payment Plans
• Help for Low Credit Scores
• All Help for Low Credit Scores
• Best Credit Cards for Bad Credit
• Best Personal Loans for Bad Credit
• Best Debt Consolidation Loans for Bad Credit
• Personal Loans if You Don't Have Credit
• Best Credit Cards for Building Credit
• Personal Loans for 580 Credit Score Lower
• Personal Loans for 670 Credit Score or Lower
• Best Mortgages for Bad Credit
• Best Hardship Loans
• All Investing
• Best IRA Accounts
• Best Roth IRA Accounts
• Best Investing Apps
• Best Free Stock Trading Platforms
• Best Robo-Advisors
• Index Funds
• Mutual Funds
• Home & Kitchen
• Gift Guides
• Deals & Sales
• Best of Wellness Awards 2024
• Sign up for the CNBC Select Newsletter
• Subscribe to CNBC PRO
• Privacy Policy
• Your Privacy Choices
• Terms Of Service
• CNBC Sitemap

Follow Select

Our top picks of timely offers from our partners

Find the best credit card for you

'buy now, pay later' can help fund your next trip but here's what you need to know about these loans, select walks you through what you need to know if you're considering a point-of-sale loan to finance your next trip.

With summer in full swing, and many countries easing travel restrictions, you might be eager to plan a post-pandemic trip. Even if you managed to save some money ahead of time, travel expenses can quickly add up, and you might be tempted to choose the 'buy now, pay later' option that's offered at checkout on many travel websites, including Carnival or Expedia.

These point-of-sale loans are seductive to consumers who don't want to pay for their post-pandemic vacations with one lump-sum payment, allowing people to make payments over a fixed period of time, sometimes without high interest rates.

But is using the 'buy now, pay later' option to pay for your flights or hotel stays too good to be true?

Select explores some of the benefits and drawbacks of using 'buy now, pay later' for travel.

What are point-of-sale loans?

How do point-of-sale loans work, should you use point-of-sale loans for travel, bottom line.

'Buy now, pay later' providers (also known as point-of-sale loans) offer consumers the option to sign up for a payment plan either when they're buying something on a retailer's website or directly through the loan provider's website ahead of purchase

Point-of-sale loans give consumers the ability to make installment payments over a fixed period of time until they completely pay off their purchase. This means that you'll make payments toward your purchases bi-monthly or monthly depending on the plan and/ or provider.

These payments can typically be automated by providing your debit card or bank account information. While many providers boast 0% interest rates, some point-of-sale loans can have interest rates upwards of 30%, higher than the APRs on many credit cards.

Some of the most popular providers are Afterpay , Affirm , Klarna and Uplift . Klarna offers point-of-sale loans, some with 0% APR, that allow you to make four payments every two weeks and require a deposit at checkout, while Afterpay allows you to pay over six weeks. Afterpay, Uplift, Klarna and Affirm also offer consumers longer payment periods of up to one, two or even three years.

When you purchase a flight or an item, you're given different financing options at checkout, such as the opportunity to pay with a credit card, gift card or point-of-sale loan . You'll be redirected to the POS provider website where you can enter your personal information. 

Some companies won't perform a credit check while others will perform either a soft or hard credit inquiry . Soft credit checks don't negatively impact your credit score , but hard inquiries will temporarily decrease your score. Based on the information you enter, you'll either be approved or denied for the loan.

Afterpay doesn't do any credit checks while Klarna does soft and hard credit checks, depending on the loan.

The impact a point-of-sale one has on your credit score depends on whether the provider reports your payment history to the credit bureaus . For example, Affirm only reports your credit history to Experian for some loans and not others. For the loans that Affirm does report to Experian, your payment history, the length of your credit history with Affirm, the amount of your loan and your late payments can all show up on your credit report.

Make sure to read the terms and conditions of your POS loan to see if your negative payment history is reported to the credit bureaus.

Travel expenses might seem like the perfect opportunity to use a point-of-sale loan because it's oftentimes a big purchase that you might not have the immediate cash on hand to cover.

Klarna, Afterpay, Affirm and Uplift all offer 'buy now, pay later' option for certain travel partners. Affirm has partnerships with Delta Vacations, Priceline, StubHub and Alternative Airlines, a flight booking website. Uplift is exclusively focused on providing point-of-sale loans for travel, with around 200 travel partners , including United Airlines, Kayak , Southwest Airlines and Royal Caribbean. 

Uplift will help you cover transactions costing anywhere from $100 to $25,000. Interest rates range from 7% to 30%, but there are a few travel partners such as Carnival Cruise Line and Atlantis that have a 0% APR, according to Tom Botts, chief commercial officer at Uplift. The average APR for an Uplift point-of-sale loan is 15%, which is similar to the average APR for credit cards .

"We use a variety of factors to determine eligibility," Botts says. "Interest rates are based on a number of factors including credit history, transaction amount and time to travel."

Uplift also only performs a soft credit check which won't negatively impact your credit score.

If you're able to secure a loan with 0% APR and make your payments on time, a point-of-sale loan could be a good choice for funding a trip. But if those monthly payments won't easily fit within your budget, be wary of a POS loan and read the fine print beforehand to determine how much you'll end up paying in interest.

For example, if you use Affirm to finance your purchases on Alternative Airlines , you can only get a 0% APR on your point-of-sale loan if you buy a flight that costs less than $500. If your ticket costs more than $500 , you could incur an interest rate of up to 30%, depending on your creditworthiness.

If you spend $1,000 on a flight and choose a 12-month payment plan with Affirm, you'll have to cough up nearly $100 in interest if you have a 20% APR on your loan. One perk of using Affirm over a credit card is that you'll have a longer payment period (of 3, 6, 12 or 18 months) which helps to spread the expenses over time into more manageable payments. And with an installment loan from Affirm or Uplift, the interest doesn't compound month over month, so your payment stays the same over the loan's term.

But a big drawback of using point-of-sale loans for travel is having to deal with unexpected problems, like trip cancellations or delays, says Priya Malani, the CEO and founder of Stash Wealth.

"If a trip is canceled or delayed with unexpected fees, your loan is still due. You're on the hook for the agreed upon total. Even though you may have checked out in one fluid process, you're still working with two separate entities — the travel provider and the POS loan provider," Malani says.

When it comes to funding your resort stay in Cancun or your flight to the Maldives, there are other options for financing your trip.

Travel rewards credit cards offer higher rewards rates for money spent on travel and the points you earn can go toward booking flights or hotels. While travel credit cards typically come with an annual fee, some offer a 0% introductory period, so you won't have to worry about high interest rates kicking in for 12 months or longer. If you go the 0% APR route, make sure you set up a repayment plan and pay the minimum each month so you don't end up paying late fees or big interest charges.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is currently offering a welcome bonus offer where new cardholders can earn 60,000 points after they spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. Points can be redeemed for $750 worth of travel when booked through Chase Travel℠.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Enjoy benefits such as 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, and $50 annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.

Welcome bonus

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℠.

Regular APR

21.49% - 28.49% variable on purchases and balance transfers

Balance transfer fee

Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater

Foreign transaction fee

Credit needed.

Excellent/Good

Terms apply.

Read our Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card review .

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees ) is also a solid choice but comes with a smaller welcome bonus and higher rewards rate than the Preferred, giving 2X miles per dollar on every purchase and a welcome offer of 75,000 bonus miles if you spend $4,000 within three months of account opening.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

5 Miles per dollar on hotel and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 2X miles per dollar on every other purchase

Earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening

N/A for purchases and balance transfers

19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

$0 at the Transfer APR, 4% of the amount of each transferred balance that posts to your account at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer to you

See rates and fees . Terms apply.

Travel cards also often come with additional perks such as car rental insurance, trip cancellation insurance and purchase protection. You won't get any of these perks when you use a POS loan for travel.

If you worry about putting a big expense on your credit card or you're only eligible for a POS loan with high APR, you should also consider creating a travel fund instead.

By saving your money in a high-yield savings account , you'll be earning more (thanks to compound interest ) than you would be if you put your money in either a checking account or a traditional savings account. Creating a separate fund for travel can also give you a money goal to strive for and setting up automatic monthly transfers can help you avoid spending money on other short-term, more frivolous purchases.

Point-of-sale loans are attractive because of how easy they are to use — you simply provide some basic information about yourself to the loan provider before checking out and you can instantaneously get a loan that will allow you to spread the cost of your trip over a few months. If you're not diligent about reading the fine print, however, there can be a lot of caveats to using the 'buy now, pay later' option, including high interest rates and late fees.

• What to do if your homeowners insurance claim is denied Liz Knueven
• Best car insurance companies in Illinois based on price, customer service and coverage Liz Knueven
• Does car insurance cover hail damage? Liz Knueven

You can now book Southwest flights now and pay later, but should you?

Last week, Southwest Airlines became the latest carrier to offer travelers the option to book flights now and pay later with the travel finance services company, Uplift. (Previously, this service was only available on Southwest Vacations packages.)

The service's main focus is making travel more attainable for some by offering monthly payment options when purchasing flights. The service is currently available for a number of airlines, including Alaska Airlines, Allegiant, Air Canada, Frontier, Spirit, United and others. It also has partnerships with a handful of online travel agencies, cruise lines and resorts.

It's always great to have more payment options, but there's a question on all our minds: is taking out a loan for travel a good idea? Here, I'll show you how Uplift works when booking airline tickets and the costs associated with using the service.

Let's dive in!

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

How Uplift works

Using Uplift is simple. Head to Southwest's website, enter your desired itinerary and continue through the booking process as usual. You'll see a "pay monthly" option at the check-out screen where you can quickly apply for an Uplift loan. Uplift can be used on purchases of $100 or more.

The loan application asks for basic information like your address, income and last-four of your Social Security Number. The website states that loan applications are processed immediately and that checking loan eligibility doesn't affect credit, so it's likely a soft credit pull .

If approved, you'll be presented with your loan options. This includes a 6-month and 11-month loan term alongside their respective interest rates and monthly payments. There's may be a downpayment due at the time of booking on some bookings. Uplift states that your loan terms are based on your itinerary, trip price and credit profile.

You'll also be prompted to set up payments before completing your booking. You can pay with a debit card and have the monthly payment automatically charged to your debit card.

Related: 6 simple rules to stay out of credit card debt

costs associated with Uplift

There are a few costs associated with using Uplift to pay for your travel. As you'd expect, the most obvious expense is your interest. Uplift charges simple interest on all bookings, and — as discussed — your rate depends on your credit profile. Unlike carrying a balance on a credit card, Uplift only charges interest on the purchase, not the interest incurred over the life of the loan.

According to Uplift's website, APR can range between 0% and 36%. At the high-end, this is an incredibly high interest rate that's more than most credit cards. It's unclear when the company offers a 0% interest rate, but I suspect this is reserved for special limited-time offers. For example, Carnival Cruises is currently offering 0% promotional loans on cruises with $0 down.

You may be subject to a loan origination fee on some Uplift loans too. This fee varies based on your loan and doesn't look to be charged on all loans. Thankfully, Uplift has confirmed that origination fees are not charged on Southwest bookings. You'll also be asked to pay a downpayment when you first open your loan.

Related: 5 personal finance strategies that will help you to travel more this year

Does it make sense to finance travel with Uplift?

As a general rule of thumb, it's not the best idea to buy something you can't afford. However, there are certain situations where it's out of our control and having an option like this can save the day. For instance, if you have to book a last-minute emergency flight and can't swing the cost then this could be an option worth exploring.

If you do take advantage of Uplift's payment option, then you'll want to pay it off as soon as you can to avoid accumulating interest. However, you may be better off putting it on a credit card that has 0% or a low APR rate to avoid unnecessary interest charges. It depends on what interest rate you're quoted for and how soon you expect to pay the loan back.

At the same time, it's easy to see why airlines are adding Uplift as a payment method now. Leisure travel is recovering after being put on pause during the coronavirus pandemic . Splitting a travel expense up into monthly payments may be attractive to some travelers, even if it means paying interest and other fees.

Oh, and if you're curious: flights booked with Uplift will still earn miles like any other flight.

Related: 13 expenses that you should not put on your credit card

Bottom line

Using Uplift could be a great option if you have to take a last-minute emergency trip. Otherwise, it's generally best to not get yourself into debt just to take a spontaneous vacation. There are plenty of ways to earn points and miles every day that could ultimately lead to booking your dream vacation.

As the old saying goes: "Good things come to those who wait." In this case, don't rush a trip that you're not financially prepared for — focus on upping your points and miles game instead.

Additional reporting by Liz Hund

Feature photo by VDB Photos / Shutterstock.com

Travel now. Pay over time.*

Through Uplift, you can book your trip today and make easy monthly payments that fit nicely within your budget. It's a fast and easy way to turn your ideal vacation into reality. Plus, you can travel before your loan is paid off.

With Uplift Pay Monthly you get:

Great rates

Affordable plans

Pay off your vacation with convenient monthly payments. To keep things simple, Uplift can automatically process your payments and notify you with a convenient email and text.

Quick and easy application

Simply select Pay Monthly at checkout, complete a short application, and you’ll receive a quick decision.

No surprises

Make the same fixed payment each month with no late fees and no prepayment penalties.

Questions? Visit the Uplift  FAQ page .

*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%. Not everyone is eligible. Loans made through Uplift are offered by these lending partners: uplift.com/lenders . Privacy Policy . Terms of Use . Uplift’s Address: 440 N. Wolfe Road Sunnyvale, CA 94085

$500 instant savings at select resorts. Book now.

Travel now. Pay later.*

Through Uplift, you can book your trip today and make easy monthly payments that fit nicely within your budget. It's a fast and easy way to turn your ideal vacation into reality. Plus, you can travel before your loan is paid off.

With Uplift Pay Monthly Option you get:

• Low Monthly Payments
• Budget-friendly loan options 
• Easy Application
• Quick decision
• Surprise-Free
• No late fees or prepayment penalties
• No payment dates to remember

Visit Uplift's Frequently Asked Questions Page to learn more

Uplift - Buy Now, Pay Later 17+

Shop interest free. zero fees‪.‬, uplift inc..

• #180 in Shopping
• 4.7 • 2.6K Ratings

iPhone Screenshots

Description.

Buy Now, Pay Later with the world's most popular travel brands and shop hundreds of your favorite stores and pay over time with low, monthly installments. Uplift gives you a better way to pay for the things that matter most and even features interest-free terms*! Here’s how it works: Already an Uplift customer? Great! Download and easily start managing all your thoughtful purchases and account information directly within the app today. Not an Uplift customer? No problem! Simply download and explore plenty of travel inspiration for your next adventure with tons of the worlds favorite travel brands. When you’re ready to book with one of our travel partners, simply select “Pay with Uplift” at checkout. We’ll help you split the total amount into bite-sized monthly payments. You can choose the plan that works best for your budget. Unlock Purchase Power so you can shop at hundreds of great stores, too! Qualifying customers in good standing will be able to unlock their Purchase Power over time and start shopping at their favorite stores. Uplift’s Purchase Power tells you just how much we can offer you through the Uplift app to spend and pay back over time with an installment plan. Shoppers can select “Pay with Uplift” at purchase and split the total amount into bite-sized monthly payments. Once you pick your plan, we’ll issue you a virtual card. Copy the card information and use it at checkout—just like you would use a regular credit card - and complete your purchase! You’re probably thinking that there must be a catch. Well, there isn’t! There are no fees or mystery charges. Simply follow your surprise-free monthly payment plan to pay off your purchases and unlock Purchase Power over time. What makes Uplift great? Let us count the ways: EASY UPLIFT ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT You can easily manage your Uplift purchases, monthly payments, and account information directly in the My Uplift tab within the Uplift App. Update your payment information, AutoPay status, and more right from your mobile device. SIMPLE, SURPRISE-FREE PAYMENTS No fees. Ever. No prepayment penalties. No confusing math. Best of all, you don’t have to mastermind a pay-off strategy. Upfront, you’ll know exactly how much to pay and when, so you can pay off your tab easily. INTEREST-FREE OPTIONS AVAILABLE* The Uplift app gives you interest-free payment options. That gives you more time to make your money work for you and more freedom to enjoy your purchase—without undue strain to your finances. Know that not all plans are interest-free and some plans include interest. Take the stress out of traveling and shopping, all in one place! Make doing the things you love a reality while using a smarter way to shop and pay. Problems with downloading or installing the app? See www.uplift.com/app-faq Still need help? Reach out! [email protected] Terms of Service: https://www.uplift.com/terms/ *3 month Interest-free terms are only available when checking out for certain merchants and well qualified applicants. 0% APR offers available for qualified applicants. Based on a purchase price of $200 you could pay a down payment of $50 today, followed by 3 monthly payments of $50 at $0% APR. Minimum purchase may be required. 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%. Not everyone is eligible. Loans made through Uplift are offered by these lending partners: uplift.com/lenders. Terms of Use: www.uplift.com/terms Privacy Policy: www.uplift.com/privacy

Version 2.2.0

Minor bug fixes and improvements.

Ratings and Reviews

2.6K Ratings

Ease of use

I’ve used 3 different buy now-pay later apps, Klarna, Affirm & Afterpay. This one is a keeper! They all have different repayment plans but I really like paying in 3 months, zero down & no interest. Other than Affirm the shortest time are 4 payments every 2 weeks with an amount due now. Affirm is worse actually unless you finance a big purchase. I’ve used them for 2 yrs. I have good credit score (700’s), never missed a payment or been late but they advertise if you do exactly those requirements you can pay at a lower interest rate. That is a lie period. I still get charged 29%-36%. So I’m going to be using Uplift.

Developer Response ,

Thank you so much for your kind review! We wish you happy shopping in the future!

Unprofessional

I have used Uplift in the past and I was extremely impressed with the app in the beginning. Then my purchase power went up and I was able to make purchases on my budget. One day I logged in and everything disappeared! I still have a small balance to pay off (less than $30) but no one at the company has given me a real answer. Customer service says they are not sure what is going on with the app. The email support advised me to go use other apps platforms because they are unable to define a specific time frame for operations. I was also told by their customer service representative that they were “surprised that I had a loan because everyone else is using the travel app”! I’m so disappointed in this app because I thought they were going to be honest but I’m going to pay them that little bit and delete the app. It’s been going on for over a year now and nothing has changed. I was paying the balance slowly hoping it would be up and running by now but I was wrong. Please Uplift don’t respond to my review with that bot reply because emailing support team is a waste of time.

I got approved with uplift for a purchase . I even already made the virtual card . But the app kept freezing so i close the app and opened it back up when i went back to the purchase area and click for the virtual card the card disappeared and thinking it like other apps i went to virtual card area to see if i can see the card info but it wouldn’t show up . I then cancel the card because it said that once it cancel that i will see my power purchase go back instantly. I waited an 1 hour and nothing . Not only isthe purchase power did not Reverse but the app also keeps freezing and getting error . I logged in logged out . I even deleted the app and still the app is not Longing . This is simply the worst app i y see. I never had such issue’s with any app before and it frustrating anf confusing since i was literally so close to checking out before it failed.

Hi mAkieya18 - we're sorry to hear this. We'd like to understand more about the issues you're experiencing and work together on any possible fixes. If you wouldn't mind sending an email to [email protected] with the email address you are using in the app, we will assist. Thank you!

App Privacy

The developer, Uplift Inc. , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Linked to You

The following data may be collected and linked to your identity:

• Financial Info
• Contact Info
• Identifiers

Data Not Linked to You

The following data may be collected but it is not linked to your identity:

• Diagnostics

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

Information

• App Support
• Privacy Policy

You Might Also Like

Four | Buy Now, Pay Later

Postpay | Shop Now. Pay Later.

Sezzle - Buy Now, Pay Later

Zip - Buy Now, Pay Later

Progressive Leasing

$500 instant savings at select resorts. Book now.

Travel Now. Pay Later.

Travel now. pay later..

Your dream trip doesn’t have to wait. We partner with Uplift to give you the option to break your payments into convenient monthly installments, even AFTER you’ve already traveled.

Uplift allows you to stretch your budget and lock in prices while they're at their lowest, allowing you to do more with your money, like upgrading your room and booking excursions. Travel now, pay later.

Ready to book? Just select “Pay Monthly” at checkout and complete an easy, commitment-free application. Submit an application and you’ll receive a quick decision. From here, you can pay off our vacation in fixed monthly payments!

Still have questions? Give us a call at 1-855-592-3224 and we will gladly explain how it works.

• Go to navigation
• Go to main content
• Go to search
• Go to footer

Main content

Uplift - book now. pay over time..

Feel good about what you book and how you pay for it. With Uplift, you can make thoughtful purchases and pay for them in bite-sized pieces while keeping yourself on budget.

Flight search

Why uplift.

Now you can spread your adventure into easy payments with Uplift's Pay Monthly option. Uplift, a third party provider, offers access to affordable payment options that fits nicely within your monthly budget. It's a fast and easy way to turn your ideal vacation into a reality.

Low Monthly Payments

Budget-friendly loan options

Easy Application

Quick decision

Surprise-Free

No late fees or prepayment penalties

Easy AutoPay

No payment dates to remember

How Uplift Works

Select Uplift at Checkout

Add your trip to the cart just like you normally would. When you are ready to book, choose Uplift as your form of payment.

Quick & Easy

Provide a few pieces of information and receive a quick decision.

Enjoy your trip now and pay for it over time with low monthly installments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is uplift.

Uplift gives you the freedom to book travel now and pay over time with simple fixed installments. Some plans include interest while some are interest-free. When you’re ready to checkout, just select “Uplift” as your payment method, complete a short application, and receive a quick decision. Choose the terms of your payment plan, finish checking out, and enjoy your purchase. Then, pay over time with simple, no-surprise monthly payments.

How do I apply?

Shop for your items and add them to your cart just like you normally would. When you are ready to checkout, 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 term 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 Uplift's Privacy Policy and Terms of Use?

You can read Uplift's at  ​ 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%. Not everyone is eligible. Loans made through Uplift are offered by these ​ lending partners .  ​ Privacy Policy  and  ​ Terms of Use . Uplift’s Address: 440 N. Wolfe Road Sunnyvale, CA 94085

All RIU Resorts on sale with $200 instant savings. Book now.

Travel Now. Pay Later.

Your dream trip doesn’t have to wait. We partner with Uplift to give you the option to break your payments into convenient monthly installments, even AFTER you’ve already traveled.

Uplift allows you to stretch your budget and lock in prices while they're at their lowest. This will allow you to do MORE on your vacay, like upgrade your room and book excursions.

Ready to book? Just select “Pay Monthly” at checkout, complete an easy, commitment-free application, and receive a quick decision. Submitting an application does not affect your credit score. From there, you can pay off your vacation in fixed monthly payments!

Still have questions? Give us a call at 800-915-2322 and we will gladly explain how it works.

• Share full article

Planning to Combine Business and Leisure Travel? You’re Not Alone.

As employees increasingly add leisure time to their business trips, companies are trying to figure out where their duty of care obligations begin and end.

Credit... Aart-Jan Venema

Supported by

By Amy Zipkin

• April 7, 2024 Updated 2:44 p.m. ET

On a Sunday in late January, Melinda Buchmann, who lives in Florida and supervises client relations for RevShoppe, a 30-person remote company advising organizations on sales techniques and strategies, arrived in Banff, Alberta, to help set up a four-day company meeting.

The last day of the event, her husband, Josh, a director of strategic partnerships for the delivery company DoorDash , who also works remotely, joined her. They spent two leisurely days hiking in Banff National Park and visiting Lake Louise.

“I take advantage, because I don’t know when I’m going to return,” Ms. Buchmann said of the decision to combine downtime with a business trip.

As postpandemic work life has changed, and arrangements now include full-time office attendance as well as hybrid and remote work, so, too, has business travel. The phenomenon known as bleisure, or blended business and leisure travel, was initially embraced largely by digital nomads . But such combined travel is now also popular with people outside that group . Allied Market Research, a subsidiary of Allied Analytics, based in Portland, Ore., estimated that the bleisure travel market was $315.3 billion in 2022 and would reach $731.4 billion by 2032.

As employees increasingly add leisure time to their business trips, companies are struggling to determine where their legal obligation to protect employees from harm — their so-called duty of care — begins and ends. And workers may think that because their trip started with business, they will get all the help they need if something goes wrong on the leisure end. Instead, they should generally consider the leisure part of a trip as a regular vacation where they cover all expenses and contingencies.

Companies are responsible for knowing where their employees are during a business trip, covering expenses if an accident or emergency occurs, securing new lodging if a hotel is damaged, even swapping out a broken down rental car. Still, it’s not entirely clear if that coverage ends completely after the conference or the last client meeting.

Companies recognize that threats are increasing, said Robert Cole, senior research analyst focusing on lodging and leisure travel at Phocuswright, a market research company. They are trying to figure out how to take care of a valuable company resource, the employee, without leaving themselves open to financial risk or potential litigation.

“Crafting a comprehensive policy that balances business objectives, employee well-being and legal considerations can be challenging,” Nikolaos Gkolfinopoulos, head of tourism at ICF, a consulting and technology services company in Reston, Va., wrote in an email.

Employees may be on their own without realizing it and may be surprised by out-of-pocket expenses if they require hospital care abroad or evacuation, said Suzanne Morrow, chief executive of InsureMyTrip , an online insurance travel comparison site in Warwick, R.I.

Ms. Morrow said medical coverage provided by a company “is generally only for the dates of the actual business trip abroad.” If travelers are extending the trip for personal travel, she added, “they would want to secure emergency medical coverage for that additional time abroad.”

Employers and employees are left to figure out when the business portion of the trip ends and the leisure segment begins, a significant detail if an employee has a medical emergency. “Where does the corporation liability end?” said Kathy Bedell, senior vice president at BCD Travel, a travel management company.

Companies have varying policies to deal with the new travel amalgam. The chief executive of RevShoppe, Patricia McLaren, based in Austin, Texas, said the company provided flexible travel options and allowed employees to work anywhere they choose.

Even so, there are constraints. The company requires all employees, including executives, to sign liability and insurance waivers when they are on a voluntary company-sponsored trip, such as an off-site meeting. Such waivers typically place responsibility on employees for their own well-being. And if they bring someone, they are responsible for that person’s expenses.

Employees are responsible for requesting the paid time off and notifying their managers of their whereabouts, although that part is not a requirement. Managers have to ensure adequate staffing, Ms. McLaren said.

Elsewhere, employees may not bother to mention the leisure portion of their trip. Eliot Lees, a vice president and managing director at ICF, said he had been on trips as a child with his parents when they combined business and leisure. His parents were academics, who would piggyback vacations onto conferences.

Now he does the same. “I don’t think I ever asked for approval,” he said. (ICF has no formal business-leisure travel policy. It’s allowed as part of personal time off.) After a conference in the Netherlands last year, he spent four days hiking in the northern part of the country.

“I go anywhere, and take more risks than I should,” he said. He said he didn’t carry personal travel or accident insurance.

Any nonchalance may quickly evaporate if a threat emerges. Security experts say even low-risk locations can become high-risk for a few days or weeks of the year.

“Companies are concerned about losing visibility into a traveler’s whereabouts if they booked flights and hotels outside their corporate travel management company,” Benjamin Thorne, senior intelligence manager in London for Crisis24, a subsidiary of GardaWorld, wrote in an email. “The company may think the traveler is in one city when, in reality, they could have booked a holiday package to another nearby city. This lack of visibility by the company makes it difficult to support travelers when a disaster occurs.”

He also raised the possibility that “a traveler with bleisure travel reservations and expectations may find their work trip canceled due to changes in the risk environment or company policy, disrupting their leisure plans.”

Will a company step in off hours if there’s a problem? “That depends on how you are booked,” Mr. Cole, the senior research analyst at Phocuswright, said. A rule of thumb is the further you get from corporate control, the greater the gray area gets.

Half of GoldSpring Consulting’s clients take the responsibility for the entire trip, said Will Tate, a partner at the consultancy based in Cross Roads, Texas, and a certified public accountant. They don’t want the reputational risk. The other half say: “The business trip ended Friday. That’s when we end our duty of care.”

Some companies are trying to define and narrow the gray area. “If you are clearly on personal time, there is no legal requirement for your employer to provide for you,” said Nicole Page, a lawyer whose practice includes employment law at Reavis Page Jump in New York.

Uber provides employees with advisories before a trip, travel assessments, safety tips while traveling and emergency travel assistance, including medical aid, airport travel support, urgent and emergency assistance, and lost or stolen personal property insurance whether they are on business or pleasure travel or a combination.

And at DoorDash, Chris Cherry, head of global safety and security, wrote in an email that “while personal travel is not something we track, we have received requests to extend our travel support capabilities to personal travel.” Mr. Cherry said in those cases, the company has manually added employee leisure itineraries to its travel risk management system and “provided the same level of overwatch that we do for regular business travel.”

The Buchmanns plan to travel this month to Barcelona, Spain, for the McDonald’s Worldwide Convention. DoorDash will have a booth, and Mr. Buchmann will work on the exhibit floor and also entertain clients.

Ms. Buchmann will accompany him. She plans to go sightseeing in the morning, and work in the afternoons and evenings Barcelona time. She will also take three days of paid time off and has shared her plans with Ms. McLaren, the RevShoppe chief executive.

They will stay a day after the conference and plan to visit the Dalí Theater and Museum in Figueres. “I’m sure there will be no shortage of tapas and window shopping along way,” Mr. Buchmann said. He expects to be back at work the next Monday.

Explore Our Business Coverage

Dive deeper into the people, issues and trends shaping the world of business..

Stopping a Huge Cyberattack?:  A Microsoft engineer noticed something was off on a piece of software he worked on. He soon discovered someone was probably trying to gain access to computers all over the world .

Hoping for an A.I. Productivity Boost:  Economists doubt that A.I. is already visible in productivity data. Big companies, however, talk often about adopting the technology to improve efficiency .

Cashing In on Graffiti:  Brands, developers and even officials are embracing the global appeal of street art , but the boom comes with questions about preserving a neighborhood’s cultural cachet.

Altering San Francisco’s Course:  The deep pockets of the tech investor Garry Tan are valued by his allies, but his pugnacious online habits  are creating plenty of enemies in the city he says he wants to save.

A C.E.O.’s Bold Claims:  Amira Yahyaoui, a human rights activist, promoted the success of her student aid start-up, Mos. Some of her statements do not add up .

Advertisement

The modern way for travelers to pay.

The world’s leading travel brands trust uplift.

Uplift your bookings

Average booking window increase

Average order value increase

Repeat purchase likelihood

Travel expertise and a partner-first attitude.

Flexible payments for today’s traveler.

Our complete range of flexible payment options support transactions as low as $49 and as large as $25k. And with interest-free or consumer-funded options, we tailor our offers to support your business objectives.

Ease of Integration.

Our platform integrates seamlessly into even the most complex legacy systems. So customers enjoy friction-free transactions whether shopping online, through a call center or in-person. All protected by the highest standards of security, privacy and data management.

No merchant fees.

Get paid in full at the moment of booking. No invoicing. No delayed settlements. No way.

Built from the ground up for travel.

Our roots are in travel, and Uplift is built to help travel brands elevate their business. Let’s partner together to help you increase bookings, grow revenue and delight your customers.

The modern way for travelers to pay

Simple payment plans

Clear, transparent, flexible terms let customers choose the pay-over-time plan that works best for their budget

Customer support that goes above.

From purchase to final payment, we help keep customers on track with 24/7 customer support and easy autopay

Surprise-free

No late fees. No pre-payment penalties. No compounding interest. Just a simple way to book now and pay over time.

Become an Uplift partner

Uplift seamlessly integrates with technology partners like these:.

Value-added partnerships.

We started to see a much larger percentage of our customers booking through our mobile app, and we knew it was important to offer flexible payments across all customer checkout points. Uplift was able to integrate ‘from pricing’ within just a few weeks of the decision to integrate.

Jeff Ulrich Senior Product Owner, Payments, United Airlines

Customer loyalty and repeat bookings are critical to our business model. Some of the other Buy Now, Pay Later solution providers we considered were more interested in marketing themselves to our customers. Uplift actually partners with us to develop new and innovative ways to market more effectively to our customers, helping us increase repeat purchases.

Scott DeAngelo EVP & CMO, Allegiant Air

We have been participating in the 0% offerings with Uplift throughout the last year with significant results.  From a business perspective, 0% promotions helped drive meaningful increases in length of stay and double-digit growth in our average order value.

Marie J. Torres Chief Marketing Officer, Atlantis Paradise Island, Bahamas

Uplift in the news:

Southwest Airlines Launches Interest-Free Financing on Select Fares with Buy Now Pay Later Leader, Uplift

Club Med and Uplift Announce Partnership to Offer Guests Buy Now Pay Later Payment Options

Grupo Xcaret and Uplift Announce Partnership to Offer Guests Buy Now Pay Later Payment Options

Interested in partnering with uplift answer a few questions here..

This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site, you are agreeing to our use of cookies. Ce site utilise des témoins de connexion. En continuant à naviguer sur le site, vous acceptez que nous utilisions des témoins.

Cookie and Privacy Settings

We may request cookies to be set on your device. We use cookies to let us know when you visit our websites, how you interact with us, to enrich your user experience, and to customize your relationship with our website.

Click on the different category headings to find out more. You can also change some of your preferences. Note that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our websites and the services we are able to offer.

These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features.

Because these cookies are strictly necessary to deliver the website, refuseing them will have impact how our site functions. You always can block or delete cookies by changing your browser settings and force blocking all cookies on this website. But this will always prompt you to accept/refuse cookies when revisiting our site.

We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. If you refuse cookies we will remove all set cookies in our domain.

We provide you with a list of stored cookies on your computer in our domain so you can check what we stored. Due to security reasons we are not able to show or modify cookies from other domains. You can check these in your browser security settings.

We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. Since these providers may collect personal data like your IP address we allow you to block them here. Please be aware that this might heavily reduce the functionality and appearance of our site. Changes will take effect once you reload the page.

Google Webfont Settings:

Google Map Settings:

Google reCaptcha Settings:

Vimeo and Youtube video embeds:

You can read about our cookies and privacy settings in detail on our Privacy Policy Page.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Products

These Are the Only 3 Outfits You Need to Pack for Any Trip, According to a Carry-on-only Traveler

This foolproof packing list actually doubles the amount of outfits in your suitcase.

• Best Accessories for Travel Outfits

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Daisy Rodriguez

Before I became a travel journalist, I was a buyer in the fashion industry for over 15 years, working with brands such as Brooks Brothers, Michael Kors, and the former Liz Claiborne, so you can say that I have a keen eye for style, quality fabrics, and a good fit. These days, I put my former skills to work in a different way. On average, I travel twice a month and it’s not unusual for me to be zipping through the airport on any given day, so I pack light and maximize the outfits that I’m taking with me. 

At first, it wasn’t easy to streamline my packing lists for each destination; I was always stressed that I had left an essential top, pair of bottoms, jacket — you name it — at home. But, with the help of my former fashion buyer brain, I developed the ultimate travel capsule wardrobe , complete with three foolproof outfits that help me create dozens of looks (without needing to check a bag , I might add). Here are my favorite mix-and-match separates that suit any type of trip itinerary — both work and play — along with some must-have accessories that'll widen your wardrobe horizons. 

Duer LuxTwill Trucker Jacket 

Duer luxtwill high-rise trousers, minnow navy and dusty red stripe sweater.

I’ve been a huge fan of the Canadian clothing company Duer for several years now, and its LuxTwill Trucker Jacket and matching High-Rise Trousers are one of my favorite outfits to bring on work trips. Both the jacket and pants are made of 98 percent cotton and 2 percent elastane, so the pieces have a structured look while allowing for some stretch for comfort.

While it’s a great set, I also love to wear the jacket as a separate, over dresses, leggings, or jeans. And, to save suitcase space, I'll sport it on the plane. I've found that it's a versatile essential that’s great for work and play destinations. The trousers pair well with knits as well as button-front tops. I especially love pairing it with a slouchy novelty sweater like my favorite one from Minnow ; it's an excellent transition piece for spring that works with denim, pants, skirts and shorts and is constructed of a dreamy cotton-cashmere blend, making it super soft and comfortable. 

The timeless nautical pullover is also cozy, but not bulky and the dolman sleeves are fashionable and functional, allowing you to move freely when traveling. I own two of these sweaters and find myself bringing them on work trips and vacations because they match with nearly everything that I own.

To copy the look for less, pair this cropped jacket (on sale for $24) with these $40 high-waisted trousers and this nautical-inspired crewneck sweater that's currently $31 — all from Amazon. 

PrettyGarden Two-Piece Sleeveless Vest and Wide-Leg Pants Set

I’m in love with Amazon's two-piece sets because not only are they available at amazing price points, but they're super sleek and can be styled in so many ways. Here, the vest is drapey and offers a sophisticated and elegant look, although it also works well with denim; when I'm home, I like pairing it with my Everlane Super-Soft Relaxed Jeans for a laidback SoCal vibe, but when I'm on the go, it goes perfectly with the Duer LuxTwill High-Rise Trousers featured above (and I can layer the brand's LuxTwill Trucker Jacket on top or pair the PrettyGarden trousers with my Minnow sweater ). 

The bottoms are like palazzo pants and flare slightly, with a loose fit throughout. I like that they aren’t too tight, making them perfect for work meetings, long travel days, and itinerary-heavy days. They also have functioning pockets that are great for holding your essentials while on the move. The set comes in eight colors and sizes range from S to 2XL. Both pieces are machine washable; I’ve put them to the test in the wash several times and they come out looking just as good as new. A word of advice: Make sure you hang them to dry or lay them flat so they retain good shape.

For a more tailored look, you can get the set with a tighter-fitting cropped vest for $52. But, if this look is too business casual for your destination, I also pulled some stunning two-piece sets; check out the now-viral Anrabess Short-Sleeve Mockneck Sweater Set on sale for $40, the tropical getaway-ready Anrabess Linen Tank Top Matching Set that's currently $30, or the PrettyGarden Rib Knit Matching Set , which trades trousers for an elegant maxi skirt.  

Vuori’s Short-Sleeve Lux Crew Jumpsuit

Vuori makes my favorite activewear, so it’s no surprise that this super-flattering jumpsuit is on my list of favorite travel outfits. The jumpsuit's performance knit is so comfortable, especially in the summer when it feels good to wear loose-fitting clothing, but is also perfect for travel days, road trips, as well as lounging poolside (save room in your carry-on by using it as a swim cover-up). 

To make this outfit extra cool, slip the brand’s Halo Performance Hoodie over it when heading to a Pilates class or an early morning stroll. You can also wear it with a cropped jacket (like the Duer trucker jacket that I mentioned earlier) for a night out on the town. When the dress code calls for something cozier, I'll layer my Minnow sweater on top so it feels like I'm wearing a sweatshirt and sweatpants — even though the combo looks effortlessly chic.  

If you’re not a fan of onesies, don’t fret. Vuori's Villa Wide-Leg Pants can be paired with its Energy Top to serve a similar look. And, if you're looking for more budget-friendly jumpsuits, over at Amazon, you can get the Anrabess Short-Sleeve Crewneck Jumpsuit for $40. 

Travel + Leisure / Jean Chen Smith

Best Accessories for Travel Outfits 

Now, it's time to put the finishing touches on these travel outfits. Similarly, my go-to accessories can be mixed and matched to be styled with different looks, ensuring that everything in your suitcase is functional and will get plenty of use on your trip. Below, you'll find my favorite travel shoes and travel purses to tie your outfits together. 

Kizik Venice Slip-On Sneakers

A while back, I kept seeing these amazing hands-free slip-on shoes that you can put on and take off without having to bend down or fuss with laces. The Venice slip-ons are by far my favorites. They’re easy to slide right into, super lightweight, and hassle-free to pack. I love wearing them on long flights because they don’t feel constricting (plus, they make going through TSA security a breeze and I can easily slide out of them once I'm in my seat). And, when I'm at my destination, their cushy insoles and grippy rubber soles keep my feet comfy and supported when I'm on the move. 

They go with everything and really elevate any outfit. I'll pair them with my Duer set for more casual affairs and use them to make my PrettyGarden vest-trouser duo more playful after work meetings. And, of course, they're the long-lost soulmate for my Vuori jumpsuit , especially on travel days. 

Sapahn Jori Crossbody Bag

I used to be partial to labels and monogrammed bags, but I’m currently loving the Jori Crossbody for day-to-night use. During a recent trip to Santa Barbara, I found myself using it instead of my trusty Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag — which says a lot . Although it looks small, it actually fits everything that I need for a busy day on the go; I can store a small notebook, wallet, makeup compact, and smartphone in there without effort. 

The best feature of this bag is that you can switch out the straps to give it an entirely different look, making it transitional from work to play. There are two pockets inside for organizing smaller items like lipsticks or receipts. It comes in four colors, although the khaki hue is my favorite because it’s great for spring and it goes with everything — whether I'm dressed up in my PrettyGarden vest and wide-leg trousers , dressed down in my Duer LuxTwill Trucker Jacket and matching High-Rise Trousers , or out grabbing coffee in my Vuori jumpsuit .  

Amazon is filled with leather crossbody purses that are equal parts versatile, functional, and stylish — starting with the Gladdon Crossbody Bag (that's on sale for $16), the $13 FashionPuzzle Small Dome Chain Strap Crossbody Bag , and the Afkomst Crossbody Bag , which has a similar gold buckle detail in the center. For extra flair, I also spotted this on-sale Fossil crossbody that has a color-blocking print and a roomy build. 

Milmo 1813 Tote Bag

Milmo's 1813 isn’t just another tote bag, it’s a lifesaver for travel. I often use it as a personal item (paired with my Vuori jumpsuit ) when flying because of its versatility and roominess. I also love that it has a removable and washable interior liner that easily comes out with snap buttons; I don’t have to over-worry about spills and messes (the company also offers a two-year warranty on any defects outside of normal wear and tear). 

Its durable rope handles, which attach along the lower half of the bag, can hold up to 300 pounds, which is why it excels as a travel bag. As a tote, it's elegant, structured design is boardroom-ready (with my PrettyGarden two-piece set) , but it can also be worn as the perfect off-duty bag thanks to its convertible crossbody straps (I can sport it around town in the Vuori jumpsuit or Duer duo when I want to be hands-free). The exterior zip pockets allow for quick and easy access to your essentials while in line at the airport or a local eatery. It comes in four colors, but my choice is green.

Over at Amazon, you can replicate the look by adding the KouLi Buir Quilted Tote Bag ($40) or Missnine Laptop Tote Bag ($30) to your cart. But, if you want vast color options, I recommend the Wrangler Vintage Convertible Tote , which is available in 33 hues and is currently on sale for $49. 

Everlane Day Glove Flats

While I’m a huge fan of my Mansur Gavriel flats , I usually opt for Everlane's Day Gloves when I'm traveling because they’re just so comfortable and sleek. Praised for their buttery soft leather, the shoes mold to your feet for easy movement and endless support. I can take on a full day of walking wearing them. The rubber soles create a solid foundation and provide grippy traction on uneven and slick surfaces.

Made in an Italian factory, they come in 13 colors and sizes from 5 to 11, with the option for narrow or comfort width. I own several colors and rotate them when traveling. Plus, they hardly take up any room in my suitcase, which is always a win if you're a carry-on-only traveler, and can help spruce up professional outfits like the PrettyGarden vest and wide-leg pants , or make laidback styles like the Duer trucker jacket , matching pants , and Minnow sweater dressier.  

Their comfort is hard to match, but Amazon shoppers assure that the Trary Mary Jane Flats are another supportive option (and they're only $35). You can also get the Square-Toe Ankle Strap Ballet Flats , which are teacher-approved , from DreamPairs for $33. Knit flat fans can score the popular Frank Mully Pointed-Toe Flats for $36 thanks to a limited-time deal.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

See More T+L Shopping Deals