Can You Use Travel Rewards for Airbnb?

Travel rewards credit cards are known for helping travelers save on flights, hotels, and other expenses. But what about Airbnb stays? If you’re planning a trip and prefer the charm of a cozy Airbnb over a traditional hotel, you might be wondering if you can use your hard-earned travel rewards to book your stay. The short answer: Yes, in many cases, you can use travel rewards for Airbnb bookings, but it depends on the type of card and rewards program you’re using. Let’s dive into the details.

Travel Rewards and Airbnb: The Basics

Airbnb isn’t directly affiliated with many travel rewards programs, but there are still ways to use points or earn rewards for your bookings. Here are the primary methods:

1. Redeem Points for Airbnb Stays:
   • Some travel rewards cards, such as the Capital One Venture and Chase Sapphire cards, allow you to redeem points for Airbnb purchases. Typically, you book your Airbnb stay as usual, and then use your points as a statement credit to offset the cost.
2. Use Travel Portals:
   • Certain rewards programs, like Chase Ultimate Rewards, allow you to book Airbnb stays directly through their travel portal. This can be a convenient way to use your points without worrying about reimbursements.
3. Gift Cards:
   • Many credit card reward programs let you redeem points for Airbnb gift cards. Once you have the gift card, you can use it to book your stay.
4. Bank Programs:
   • Some banks, such as Bank of America and Citi, allow you to redeem travel rewards as a statement credit for Airbnb bookings. Check with your card issuer to see if this option is available.

Best Credit Cards for Airbnb Rewards

If you’re a frequent Airbnb user, consider using a travel rewards credit card that offers flexibility. Here are some of the best options for earning and redeeming points for Airbnb:

• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card:
  • Earn unlimited 2x miles on every purchase, and use miles as a statement credit for Airbnb stays.
  • No blackout dates or complicated redemption rules.
• Chase Sapphire Preferred:
  • Earn 2x points on travel and dining. Redeem points through Chase’s travel portal or transfer them to travel partners.
• American Express Membership Rewards Cards:
  • Redeem Membership Rewards points for Airbnb gift cards or use Pay with Points for eligible purchases.
• Bank of America Travel Rewards Card:
  • Earn unlimited 1.5 points per dollar spent. Points can be used as a statement credit for Airbnb stays.

Maximizing Rewards for Airbnb

To get the most value out of your travel rewards for Airbnb, follow these tips:

1. Use Flexible Rewards Programs:
   • Cards like Chase Sapphire or Capital One Venture give you more flexibility for Airbnb bookings compared to airline or hotel-specific cards.
2. Look for Promotions:
   • Occasionally, rewards programs offer bonuses or discounts when redeeming points for Airbnb gift cards or bookings.
3. Stack Rewards:
   • Use a rewards credit card to pay for Airbnb stays, and pair it with a cash-back platform like Rakuten for additional savings.
4. Plan Ahead:
   • Redeeming points for Airbnb may involve extra steps like purchasing a gift card or applying a statement credit. Make sure to plan ahead to avoid last-minute surprises.

Pros and Cons of Using Travel Rewards for Airbnb

Pros:

• Flexibility to choose unique accommodations over traditional hotels.
• Potential to offset Airbnb costs entirely with rewards.
• No blackout dates or redemption restrictions in most cases.

Cons:

• Not all rewards programs support Airbnb redemptions.
• Redemption values may vary, and some programs offer better value for flights or hotels.
• Requires planning, especially if using gift cards or statement credits.

Is It Worth It?

Using travel rewards for Airbnb stays can be a great way to save money while enjoying unique travel experiences. If you frequently stay in Airbnbs, consider using a travel rewards card with flexible redemption options, like the Capital One Venture or Chase Sapphire cards. By choosing the right program and planning your bookings, you can make your rewards work for you and create unforgettable travel memories.