Airbnb has revolutionized the way we travel. It’s not just about booking a place to stay anymore. With its diverse offerings, ranging from unique homes to exciting experiences, Airbnb has become a go-to platform for travelers and hosts alike. But what happens when you want to gift someone a travel experience, but you aren’t sure what they might need or prefer? This is where Airbnb virtual gift cards come into play. In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Airbnb virtual gift cards, how they work, and why they might be the perfect option for your next gift.
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What is an Airbnb Virtual Gift Card?
An Airbnb virtual gift card is a digital gift card that can be used as payment for any booking on Airbnb. This includes not just stays at properties listed on the platform but also experiences. The virtual gift card works like any other gift card—giving the recipient the flexibility to choose when and where they want to use it. Airbnb offers this as a convenient and easy way for people to share the gift of travel without having to worry about specific destinations or accommodations.
Unlike physical gift cards, the virtual version arrives via email and can be used instantly, making it a great last-minute gift. The amount on the card can be redeemed toward future bookings, and any remaining balance will stay available for future use.
Why Choose an Airbnb Virtual Gift Card?
There are several reasons why someone might choose to give an Airbnb virtual gift card. Here’s why it stands out:
- Flexibility for the Recipient
The recipient of the card has the freedom to use it for a wide variety of travel-related expenses. Whether they want to book a cozy cabin in the mountains or try a local cooking class in a foreign city, the virtual gift card can be used toward either. - No Expiration
Airbnb virtual gift cards don’t come with an expiration date. This means the recipient can take their time and plan their trip without the pressure of using the gift card before a deadline. - Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether it’s for a birthday, anniversary, or just because, Airbnb gift cards are versatile. They’re especially useful for occasions when you might not know the recipient’s exact tastes or preferences, allowing them to make their own choice. - Convenient and Instant
The virtual gift card arrives in the recipient’s inbox immediately after purchase, meaning they can use it straight away. - Global Use
Airbnb operates in over 190 countries. So, no matter where the recipient is based, they can use the gift card toward accommodations or experiences anywhere on the platform.
How Do Airbnb Virtual Gift Cards Work?
Using an Airbnb virtual gift card is simple. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how the process works:
- Purchase the Gift Card
You begin by purchasing a virtual gift card on the Airbnb website. You can choose from a range of denominations, typically starting at $25. Once you make the purchase, you’ll receive the gift card via email. - Redeem the Card
The recipient simply needs to click the redemption link in the email, which will take them to the Airbnb website. They can then add the gift card to their Airbnb account. - Booking with the Gift Card
When the recipient books a stay or experience, they can apply the balance from the gift card at checkout. If the total cost is higher than the gift card amount, they can pay the difference with another payment method. - Remaining Balance
If there is any remaining balance on the gift card after a booking, it stays in the recipient’s Airbnb account for future use.
Comparing Airbnb Virtual Gift Cards with Other Gift Card Options
Let’s take a look at how Airbnb gift cards compare to other popular travel-related gift cards. Below is a table that outlines the key differences:
| Feature | Airbnb Virtual Gift Card | Amazon Gift Card | Expedia Gift Card | Hotels.com Gift Card |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Usability | Flexible (accommodations + experiences) | Wide variety of products, including travel | Limited to bookings on Expedia | Limited to bookings at Hotels.com |
| Global Availability | Yes (190+ countries) | Yes (global) | Yes (global) | Yes (global) |
| Expiration | No expiration | No expiration | Usually 12 months | Usually 12 months |
| Minimum Value | $25 | $5 | $50 | $25 |
| Flexibility | High (wide range of travel options) | High (variety of products) | Low (specific to travel bookings) | Low (specific to Hotels.com) |
| Instant Delivery | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
As you can see, Airbnb gift cards offer more flexibility when it comes to booking travel experiences. While platforms like Expedia and Hotels.com are focused solely on booking accommodations, Airbnb allows you to gift both stays and experiences. This added versatility can make Airbnb a better option for someone looking to offer a more complete travel experience.
Example Scenario: How Much Does an Airbnb Gift Card Save?
Let’s break down an example. Imagine I want to gift a friend a trip to New York City. The total cost for a three-night stay in a centrally located Airbnb property is $600. I also want them to enjoy a cooking class experience during their trip, which costs $100.
So, in total, the amount needed for the trip is $700.
If I decide to purchase a $700 Airbnb virtual gift card for my friend, they can use the entire amount to cover the costs of both the accommodation and the experience. There’s no need for them to pay out of pocket, making the gift completely hassle-free.
Now, imagine that I only want to cover a portion of the trip. In this case, I might choose to purchase a $300 Airbnb virtual gift card, leaving my friend to pay the remaining $400.
In both examples, the gift card provides them with the flexibility to book exactly what they want without restrictions.
Best Practices When Gifting an Airbnb Virtual Gift Card
When gifting an Airbnb virtual gift card, here are some tips to ensure it’s a thoughtful and effective gift:
- Know the Recipient’s Preferences
While Airbnb offers flexibility, it’s still important to consider what the recipient enjoys. Do they prefer adventurous experiences or just a quiet place to relax? Tailoring your gift to their preferences can make it even more meaningful. - Consider Pairing the Gift Card with Travel Essentials
If the person you’re gifting the card to is planning a trip, why not pair the gift card with other travel essentials like a travel journal, luggage, or even a travel guidebook for their destination? This adds a personal touch to the gift. - Set a Reminder for the Recipient
Since Airbnb gift cards don’t expire, it’s easy to forget about them if not used right away. I recommend setting a reminder to mention it to the recipient at the right time, so they don’t miss out on using it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Airbnb virtual gift cards are a fantastic option for anyone looking to gift a travel experience or accommodation. They offer flexibility, convenience, and a wide range of options for the recipient, making them suitable for almost any occasion. Whether it’s for a birthday, a celebration, or just a thoughtful gesture, an Airbnb gift card provides a meaningful and practical way to enhance someone’s travel plans. The best part? The recipient gets to choose exactly how they want to use it, ensuring that your gift will always be appreciated. So, next time you’re thinking of a gift, consider giving the gift of travel with an Airbnb virtual gift card.
