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Personal banking: Things to know before international travel

PayPal Editorial Staff

November 11, 2024

International travel can be a great adventure. Taking care of personal banking matters in advance can help to ensure that any planned trips go off without a financial hitch.

From day-to-day payments to card compatibility, it's important to know how financial transactions will be made when traveling abroad.

This guide covers the things to know before international travel gets off the ground — including what to avoid, the virtues of planning ahead, and how to maximize rewards while boosting travel savings.

Preparing for an international trip

Next to packing lists and itineraries, a personal banking checklist can be a good idea before traveling abroad. Here are some important banking items to cover off on before you leave:

• Notify the bank about travel plans.  Unusual transactions in a foreign location can be flagged by bank fraud departments. No one wants the hassle of having their credit card declined or their account deactivated mid-journey. Informing the bank in advance of dates and destinations can help ensure travelers can access their account for the duration of their trip.
• Understand fees and rates. International banks, merchants, and providers may charge different fees compared to banks at home. It can be useful to inquire at domestic banks about foreign exchange fees and research which overseas providers might keep them to a minimum.
• Put security measures in place.  It’s important to protect personal payment information while abroad. Wallets with radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology can help shield sensitive data, and setting travel alerts and monitoring account activity can help keep accounts secure from unauthorized transactions.
• Check for compatibility. Not all credit and debit cards are accepted everywhere, and travelers need to know what's usable in the country or region they plan to visit. Checking for international compatibility before departing for a trip is a solid starting point.
• Determine your payment methods.  Which payment methods are best used when abroad? Credit and debit cards may provide a streamlined choice, but if the card is compromised or fails, then cash, travelers’ checks, or backup cards may provide reliable alternatives.

Choosing which card to use abroad

Travelers often wonder if it's better to use a debit or credit card abroad. There are benefits and disadvantages to each.

Credit cards can be a good choice for international travelers. They offer protection in the event of fraud, theft, or unauthorized transactions and may also provide rewards, loyalty incentives, cash back opportunities, and travel insurance. However, using a credit card while traveling abroad may mean paying foreign transaction fees and fees if withdrawing money from an ATM (as cash advances).

A debit card provides travelers with instant access to their funds in connected accounts, wherever they go. However, most debit cards do not offer rewards or incentives and may have international incompatibility.

Still wondering which card to use abroad? Read more about different credit card rewards and the PayPal Cashback Mastercard ® . 1

Using your card abroad

Consider these additional tips and best practices when using a credit card overseas:

• Researching ATMs.  Not all overseas ATMs are alike, which is something travelers may want to keep in mind when considering a cash withdrawal. Some ATMs may be aligned with the bank at home or part of a network that offers lower fees. Researching beforehand and selecting only affiliate machines may help prevent unnecessary ATM charges.
• Playing it safe. Being aware of ATM safety is good practice. There’s the chance that skimming devices and data theft measures can be used and may compromise account security.
• Learning about currency rates.  Whether at a store, ticket office, or restaurant, merchants may offer the choice of paying in local or home currency. Choosing the local currency and letting the bank convert the transactions generally provides a more favorable exchange rate. Paying in home currency with credit or by using debit cards abroad  may result in currency conversion fees, which may be hidden in the final sale without stipulation.
• Carrying cash.  Having cash on hand is a way to pay for things when traveling. Travelers may want to consider visiting foreign banks or currency exchange offices as alternatives to using ATMs abroad.

Learn about PayPal's credit services .

Leverage rewards and benefits

Customers may be able to maximize their experience by claiming rewards and travel benefits offered by their personal credit or debit card program. Some potential perks can include:

• Travel insurance.  Depending on the provider’s terms and conditions, a credit card may offer travel insurance for the duration of the trip. This can help protect customers from unexpected expenses and potentially assist with trip cancellations, delays, medical emergencies, and other adverse situations.
• Purchase protection. Some cards offer purchase protection, which can ensure purchases in the event of theft or damage within a given period following a transaction (usually 90 to 120 days).
• Cash back.  Many credit card programs offer loyalty incentives in the form of cash back on certain purchases, helping users save more on their spending.
• Concierge services.  In some instances, concierge services may be a feature of the card program, assisting customers with their arrangements to help streamline travel plans.

Travelers may want to research credit card terms and conditions and make the most of any travel rewards and credit card benefits that may apply.

Making safe payments while traveling overseas

Travelers should be security conscious when making payments abroad. Using contactless payments and mobile wallets or apps to purchase items at stores or while dining out can help boost security. Digital payments offer additional layers of protection to help prevent fraud and unauthorized transactions.

It's also a good idea to be cautious when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, as they tend to lack adequate security protections and potentially expose personal information to unwanted third parties. RFID wallets or VPNs can also help to shield sensitive financial data from potential interference.

Also, take note of all incomings and outgoings along the way and monitor transactions. This way suspicious activity can be noticed if and when it happens. Travelers want to be informed about common travel scams and pay attention when in new places.

If a card is lost or stolen mid-trip, immediate action is in order. Travelers should contact the issuing bank to report the missing card and put a block on it. This can be done directly over the phone or through the bank's customer service or fraud department.

Plan ahead and simplify your travels

The best trip is always a hassle-free trip. Planning ahead and taking into account personal banking logistics well before the departure date can help ensure the adventure of a lifetime without any financial hardship.

Travelers are encouraged to practice secure purchasing, consider the right bank card for overseas travel, maximize travel points and benefits to save on spending, and always review bank and credit card statements upon return to address any suspicious charges or actions.

Spending abroad FAQ

Do i need to tell my bank when i travel.

It’s essential to contact the bank before traveling overseas. Unusual foreign transactions can easily flag a bank’s fraud department, which may potentially cancel the card and leave travelers without a way to pay. Travelers can let the bank know they're traveling by using the bank's contact information and providing account and card numbers, travel dates, and destinations.

Can I swipe my credit card internationally?

Credit cards can be swiped to make international transactions.

Should I pay in local or home currency when traveling?

Many merchants offer international travelers the option to pay in either local or home currency. When using cards, it may be wise to select the local currency and let the bank or issuer convert the currency. They tend to use the current global rate — which may be more favorable than the alternative. This also helps to avoid hidden currency processing fees.

Do debit cards work internationally?

Most debit cards can be used internationally. However, it's essential to check with the bank before traveling to confirm compatibility.

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How to Travel Without a Credit Card

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Table of Contents

Ways to finance travel without a credit card

An alternative: sign up for a no-annual-fee credit card that waives foreign transaction fees, if you want to try traveling without a credit card ....

Do you need a credit card to travel — abroad or at home? Not exactly. Though it's true that built-in card benefits, like purchase protection and the ability to dispute a charge, make using a credit card often the easiest and safest way to pay for travel, not everyone wants to get a credit card — or is able to get approved for one. And yet, those individuals will still likely want to travel at some point.

If you fall into this category, you have several other payment options to choose from, depending on the type of travel you’d like to book. Here's how to pay for travel without a credit card .

1. Use a debit card

It's normal to wonder: "Should I travel with debit card?" And the answer is — it's up to you.

You can use a debit card that is connected to your checking account to pay for various travel reservations. When booking a flight without a credit card and using a debit card instead, simply enter your debit card details in the credit card section. Be aware that if the money isn’t automatically debited from your account at the time of purchase, the airline may place a hold for the amount of the ticket until the flight purchase clears. The funds placed on hold in your bank account cannot be used to make other purchases.

If you put your hotel or car rental reservation on your debit card, the hotel or car rental company may place a larger hold on your card than the cost of the booking to safeguard for any accidents. For example, at Marriott , a hold may be placed on your debit card for the total cost of the room plus taxes, any applicable resort fees and a hold for incidentals (these daily fees can vary by location). The hold may remain on the card until five days after your departure. Be sure that you’re comfortable with the hold that is placed on your card because until the hold is released, that money in your bank account cannot be used for other purchases.

2. Get a PayPal account

You can use PayPal to pay for your flight, hotel or car rental. PayPal is a money transfer company where you can link your bank account and make online purchases. Using PayPal as a purchase method provides the security of paying for travel without entering your credit or debit card details with the airline or hotel.

» Learn more: How does PayPal work?

3. Buy gift cards

Another way to pay for flights or hotels is to purchase gift cards where they are sold. For example, many grocery stores sell specific airline and hotel gift cards, as well as Airbnb gift cards. You can purchase those cards using cash or debit, and then use the gift cards to pay for your flight, hotel or rental booking when you're ready.

4. Pay with cash

Although you cannot use cash to purchase a plane ticket online, many airlines will allow you to pay for tickets in cash at certain airports.

The websites of United Airlines , American Airlines and Southwest Airlines all mention that they accept cash as a form of payment at designated check-in counters at specific airports.

» Learn more: 5 steps to get started with travel rewards

5. Search for miscellaneous payment options

Depending on which airline or hotel you’re booking with, additional payment options may be available. For example, Uplift, which allows you to pay for purchases using an installment loan option, is listed as a payment method on United and Southwest.

» Learn more: Fly now, pay later: Are travel loans a good idea?

6. Open a bank account that waives foreign ATM fees

International travel without a credit card is also possible. If you plan on using your debit card to pay for travel or withdraw cash when you’re away from your local bank, opening a bank account that waives foreign ATM fees is recommended. If you have a bank account that doesn’t waive ATM fees, you may end up paying two sets of fees:

Your bank may charge you to take out cash from another bank’s ATM.

The other bank’s ATM may charge an additional withdrawal fee on its own.

There are several banks out there that waive ATM fees or that waive a specific number of foreign ATM fees per month, so make sure you do your research when opening a bank account so you avoid paying unnecessary fees.

» Learn more: The best banks for international travel

If you’re planning on going abroad and don’t have a credit card because you don’t want to pay an annual fee, consider a no-annual fee card that also waives foreign transaction fees . Foreign transaction fees can be as high as 3%, which can quickly add up — especially if you’re using your card abroad.

Although you may not get many travel-related perks like free lounge access or extra points on specific bonus categories, you can still get a card that you can use for international travel without paying a fee and without the hassle of dealing with ATMs or local currency.

Two of the best no-annual-fee travel credit cards for this situation are:

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card , which comes with the following welcome offer: 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.

Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card , which gets you a: Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening.

» Learn more: The best no foreign transaction fee credit cards right now

Yes, you can can travel without a credit card. Although using a credit card to pay for travel is more convenient and safer than using other methods, you still have various options available to you that you can use to book your travel. PayPal, cash, gift cards and debit cards all make it possible to pay for travel without a credit card.

If a debit card is your preferred payment method, make sure you have a bank account that waives ATM fees so that you can avoid paying extra fees. If you are open to getting a credit card but don’t want to pay an annual fee, consider a card with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fee that you can use for purchases abroad. You’ll have more protections than paying with cash but won't incur any fees.

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In an effort to provide customers access to critical funds, PayPal will be temporarily waiving some of its fees for customers sending funds to Ukrainian PayPal accounts or receiving funds into Ukrainian PayPal accounts until further notice. Exchange rates or fees charged by a customer's card issuer or bank may still apply. Please see the fees for Ukrainian personal accounts page and this Help Center article for updates and more information about our services for Ukrainian customers.

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Last Updated: 16, January 2024

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A transaction occurring when the sender and receiver are registered with or identified by PayPal as residents of different markets. Certain markets are grouped together when calculating international transaction rates. For a listing of our groupings, please access our Market/Region Grouping Table .

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We may refer to two-letter market codes throughout our fee pages. For a complete listing of PayPal market codes, please access our Market Code Table .

Rates published below apply to PayPal accounts of residents of the following market/region:

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It's free to use PayPal to donate or to pay for a purchase or any other type of commercial transaction unless it involves a currency conversion.

Online or in-store

When you accept the User Agreement to buy or sell goods or services or make any other commercial type of transaction, we call that a “commercial transaction”.

For the listings of selling rates, please visit our PayPal Merchant Fees Page .

Buying or selling a cryptocurrency

There’s a fee for buying or selling cryptocurrencies (“crypto”). The fee will vary based on the USD value of your crypto purchase or sale amount.

The exchange rate you’ll see before buying or selling crypto will also include a cryptocurrency conversion spread . There’s no fee for holding crypto in your account.

Converting between PYUSD and Another Cryptocurrency

There’s a fee to convert PYUSD to/from another type of crypto, the fee will vary based on the USD value of the crypto you convert.

Transferring a cryptocurrency

When you accept the User Agreement or the PayPal Fundraisers Terms and Conditions to send or receive funds using one of the payment types listed below, we call that a "donation". Funds sent or received through other products or services (not set out below) are not "donations" eligible for donations pricing. In such cases, the applicable transaction rates will apply and will be subject to the fees disclosed for such products or services on the applicable fees page.

Standard rate for receiving domestic donations

Receiving international donations.

The applicable fee for receiving domestic donations applies plus the additional percentage-based fee for international donations .

Additional percentage-based fee for international donations

Fixed fee for donations (based on currency received), standard rate for sending domestic donations, standard rate for sending international donations.

The applicable fee for sending domestic donations applies plus the applicable additional percentage-based fee for international donations (international fee).

When you send money (initiated from the "Friends and Family" tab of the "Send Money" flow) to, or receive money into your PayPal account from, friends and family without making an underlying donation or commercial transaction (that is, the payment is not for the purchase of goods or services or for making any other commercial transaction), we call that a "personal transaction".

The rates relating to personal transactions are set out below.

Sending domestic personal transactions

Sending international personal transactions.

The applicable fee for sending domestic transactions applies plus the applicable additional percentage-based fee for international transactions (international fee).

Receiving personal transactions

Fixed fee for personal transactions (based on currency received).

PayPal offers a balance holding account commonly referred to as PayPal Balance.

For more information and a complete listing of fees associated, please refer to the PayPal Balance Terms and Conditions .

For any of the following types of transactions involving a currency conversion by PayPal, the transaction exchange rate will also include a currency conversion spread.

Converting payments in another currency

You can typically withdraw money out of PayPal by standard withdrawals/transfers to your linked bank account or eligible cards. A currency conversion (and currency conversion fees ) may also apply.

Withdrawing from a PayPal personal account

Withdrawal limits – instant transfer for bank, withdrawal limits – standard and instant transfers for cards, minimum and maximum fees – instant transfer.

Based on withdrawal currency:

Included below are fees associated with events, requests, or actions that may happen when you use your account.

Credit Card and Debit Card Link and Confirmation Table

Yes, PayPal does work internationally — here's how to transfer funds between more than 200 different countries

• Yes, PayPal does work internationally. You can transfer funds between more than 200 different countries.
• However, PayPal's international transfers aren't free, so you'll have to check what the fee is for each transfer within your country of choice.
• PayPal will also give you information on the currency exchange rate for any country you want to send money to.
• Visit Business Insider's homepage for more stories .

PayPal allows you to transfer money between more than 200 countries and 25 currencies, and may also give you the ability to reload a cell phone for someone abroad. But it isn't a free service, and there are fees associated with these kinds of transfers.

The transfer fee is 5% of the transfer amount, with a minimum charge of 99 cents and a maximum of $4.99 if you're transferring from your bank account or PayPal balance. 

If you're using a debit or credit card to transfer money, there is no fee limit, and you'll have to pay an additional 2.9% funding fee, plus a fixed fee that depends on the country you're sending money to .

How to transfer money internationally with PayPal

1. Go to paypal.com and log into your account.

2. Toggle over to the "Send and Request" tab in the top toolbar and then select "More."

3. Click "Send Money" under "Send Money Abroad."

4. Select a country from the drop-down menu and click "Next."

5. Select how to deliver the funds from the list of options available in that country. 

6. If you want to send money to someone who doesn't have a PayPal account, you'll be redirected to the website Xoom, where you'll follow the on-screen prompts to process your transfer. 

• This is also the option you should pick if you want to pay international bills or reload a phone abroad.
• Xoom will allow you to send money to your recipient physically, send it to their bank account, or let them pick it up at a retailer.

7. If you go with a PayPal-based transfer, enter the amount and currency for the transfer. 

8. For those who went with a PayPal-based transfer, you'll automatically be shown how much the recipient will receive after fees and currency conversion. If it's the right amount, click "Next."

9. Add the recipient's phone number or email address, and then click "Next."

10. If the person you're sending money to isn't in your contact book, add a note, your recipient's name and country of residence, then review your transfer and click "Continue" when ready.

11. Click "Send Payment Now" to complete the transfer.

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How to send money on paypal using the mobile app or website, you can use most credit cards on paypal – here's how to add a card and link it with your account to make purchases, 'what is paypal credit': how to use paypal's line of credit to pay off online purchases over time, how to add money to your paypal account, so you can transfer money or pay bills immediately, 'can you transfer money from venmo to paypal': not directly, but you can use your bank account — here's how.

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How to make international money transfers with PayPal

Sending money across international borders has become a routine necessity for many, and technology continues to simplify the process. Today, you can send money internationally through various platforms, and PayPal is one of those options. However, questions about PayPal international fees often arise.

This article explores everything related to PayPal's international money transfer to help you confidently decide if it’s right for your needs.

Does PayPal work internationally?

The PayPal international transfer service is widespread. PayPal operates in over 200 countries, enabling individuals to perform cross-border transactions virtually anywhere. However, the exact transfer method varies depending on whether the sender and recipient have PayPal accounts.

If you and the recipient have PayPal accounts, the transfer occurs through PayPal. But if the recipient lacks a PayPal account, the process is a bit different. You’d potentially have to send the money through Xoom (a PayPal subsidiary) to the recipient’s personal bank account (subject to their country's regulations).

How to Set Up a PayPal Account

Here's a step-by-step guide to get you started with PayPal.

• Visit PayPal’s website at www.paypal.com (or get the app from the App Store or Google Play).

• PayPal may ask you for your country, and if so, enter it. If PayPal doesn’t ask, you can typically look at the top left to verify your country is correct.

• Enter your phone number, which is required.
• Follow the next steps to create a secure password and provide personal information like your name, address, and phone number. This is a must as part of verifying your identity.

• PayPal will send a confirmation email to the address you provided. Click the confirmation link in that email.
• Complete any additional verification necessary. 

And that's it! You should have a functioning PayPal account for conducting various domestic and international transactions. 

How to send money through PayPal internationally?

The procedure is straightforward if you plan to send money abroad using PayPal. As you follow these steps, don’t forget to consider the PayPal fees for receiving money, as they’ll vary.

• Sign in to your PayPal account.
• Once logged in, click Send and Request or Send Money , both usually available on your account dashboard.
• Enter your recipient's email address, phone number, or name into the designated field.
• Specify the amount you wish to transfer and click Continue . You'll also see the applicable exchange rate at this point.
• Choose your desired method of payment. This could be your PayPal balance, a linked bank account, or a credit/debit card.
• Review all the details to ensure accuracy, then click Send Payment Now .

PayPal international fees

It's a good idea to be aware of any PayPal fees for sending money that may apply to your transaction.

However, that’s if the money is coming from your PayPal balance. Should the funds come from a credit card, debit card, or PayPal credit, an additional fee of 2.9% applies for funding. A fixed price determined by the currency used will also apply.

In addition, a 4.5% fixed fee will apply if you need to convert currencies before sending the money. Note that this fee is for the currency conversion service, not currency conversion. Also, PayPal bases the amount on the current retail exchange rate, which means the percentage may change occasionally. But they will disclose this to you before completing the transaction. 

The currency conversion fee is 4%, but slightly lower if the conversion is to US or Canadian dollars (3.5%).

Alternatively, as noted earlier, you can use Xoom to send funds to the recipient's bank account. Being a subsidiary of PayPal, Xoom lets you fund transfers with your PayPal account or a connected bank account. However, the fee structure is different. 

Xoom marks up the exchange rate instead of a fixed fee. For example, if the going rate between the Swiss Franc and the US Dollar is 0.912, Xoom could offer the customer a slightly less favorable rate, like 0.901. 

As a result, the recipient will get a smaller amount than what you send. Be sure to take that into account when making the transfer. 

Please refer to the table below for a more comprehensive understanding of the PayPal fees for sending money.

PayPal fees for international payments

Knowing the fees involved is essential if you're wondering how to use PayPal to shop internationally. PayPal will charge domestic plus international transaction fees. 

Here’s a breakdown.

Remember that all fees for currency conversion will apply if PayPal needs to convert your money. 

PayPal international money transfer limits

There are some limitations when sending money overseas. If your PayPal account is verified, there's no ceiling to the money you can transfer. You can send up to $60,000 in one go, although PayPal may reduce it to $10,000 under certain circumstances. 

These limits also vary depending on your country and the currency. You can see limitations for an unverified PayPal account when initiating the money transfer.

Payment declined due to "international regulations"

Sometimes, you may have trouble sending or receiving international payments with PayPal. One common error is the following. 

This is because PayPal needs to pause and scrutinize the transaction to ensure it aligns with international regulations. So support should message you about what to do in a few days. 

If you’re still encountering problems and haven't heard back via email, visit their Contact page. You can do that by clicking Contact at the bottom of any PayPal web page.

How long does it take to receive money from PayPal internationally?

Receiving international funds through PayPal is usually quick, appearing almost instantly. However, there will be a slight delay if the recipient chooses to withdraw funds to their bank account. 

PayPal's standard bank transfers usually take 1-3 business days. But if they choose the instant transfer feature (available in supported countries), the funds can show up in their bank account within minutes. The exact timing depends on the receiving bank's processes. 

Also, you'll need a linked card for instant transfers. That's because PayPal sends the money to the Visa debit card.

Top 3 alternatives to PayPal

PayPal is a well-known service for sending money across borders, but it's not the only option. Here are the top three alternatives to PayPal for sending money internationally.

BOSS Revolution

BOSS Revolution is a communication and money transfer service that helps people stay connected with family and friends worldwide. You can send money to supported countries using your credit or debit card — and see your rate when sending, which means no surprises. 

You can even send funds in cash by placing the money transfer order online and paying for it in-store (USA only). Just use the BOSS Revolution website or BOSS Money app. Recipients can receive their funds via direct bank deposit, debit card deposit, cash pickup, mobile wallet, or home delivery. 

Further, fees are incredibly low, plus your money is guaranteed to arrive safely to the recipient. Otherwise, you’ll get a full refund.

Stripe is an online payment processing platform mainly suited for e-commerce. However, the company offers solutions that individuals can use to send money internationally, supporting over 135 currencies. 2

In terms of fee structure, they are very different from PayPal's. Stripe charges 2.9% + $0.30 per transaction, though these fees may vary by country. So be sure to read the fine print.

This is a mobile payment service that also offers international money transfers. However, it currently only supports sending money to India (as of this article). The feature is only available on Android and iOS app versions 130 and up. 3  

FAQ on sending money abroad with PayPal

How do i set up a paypal account for international transactions.

Start by signing up for an account on PayPal's website. Once registered, link your bank account, debit card, or credit card so you can fund transactions. After PayPal verifies your account, you can start making international transfers.

What are the PayPal fees for receiving money from abroad?

There are no fees for receiving personal transactions. However, the currency conversion fee is still applied. For business transactions, it’s 2.9% + $0.30 if both accounts are US-based or 4.4% + $0.30 if the recipient is in another country.

When should I use PayPal?

PayPal is most convenient when the sender and receiver have PayPal accounts. 

Does PayPal work in all countries?

PayPal operates in over 200 countries, but not all features are available in every country. So check to ensure PayPal provides the specific services you or your recipient needs before making an international transfer.

What are the hidden costs of using PayPal for international transfers?

PayPal is upfront about its fees, so there are no hidden costs. However, conversion and bank fees for receiving international funds can add up quickly. Plus, if you're using a credit card to fund the transfer, there will also be additional charges. 

Sources: All third-party information obtained from applicable websites as of September 20, 2023.

• https://www.salecalc.com/paypal
• https://help.sharetribe.com/en/articles/1063017-countries-and-currencies-supported-by-stripe
• https://support.google.com/googlepay/answer/10688111?hl=en
• https://www.paypal.com/us/webapps/mpp/paypal-fees
• https://www.paypal-community.com/t5/Transactions/to-comply-with-international-regulations-this-transaction-has/td-p/2049302
• https://stripe.com/resources/more/international-payments-101-what-they-are-and-how-they-work
• https://stripe.com/docs/no-code/payout

Download the BOSS Money app and get 3 free* Money Transfers with promo code: APPBONUS or first 5 Money Transfers free* if your send money to Mexico or Kenya

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*Promo available only to customers who have not made a money transfer with the BOSS Money app or the BOSS Revolution app (collectively, the “App”). Eligible customers can enter promo code APPBONUS in the App at time of payment and receive 100% off the standard money transfer fee for three transfers. All three transfers must be made with a debit card in the App by December 31, 2024. Transfers to Mexico and Kenya excluded. Standard fees apply to all other money transfers. Special offers are available only where IDT Payment is licensed. Offer can’t be combined with any other offer. *Promo available only to customers who have not made a money transfer with the BOSS Money app or the BOSS Revolution app (collectively, the “App”). First transfer must be made by December 31, 2024, and remaining four transfers must be made within 120 days of the first transfer. All five transfers must be made with a debit card in the App to either Mexico or Kenya. Standard fees apply to all other money transfers. Special offers are available only where IDT Payment is licensed. Offer can’t be combined with any other offer.

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Fly Now, Pay Later: How To Buy Airline Tickets With PayPal

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In the age of the internet, booking flights has never been quicker, easier or more straightforward. This is especially true when you leverage a digital payment method such as PayPal — in some cases, you can even  pay for your purchase in installments . When it comes to using PayPal for flights, you may wonder which airlines accept this form of payment. Keep reading for a look at the many air travel options you can unlock with PayPal.

Read: How To Get Cash Back on Your Everyday Purchases

Exploring PayPal-Friendly Airline Options

Affluent jet setters and budget-conscious travelers alike can appreciate the swift and secure transaction process offered by PayPal, making it an attractive payment option regardless of the destination. You may even be able to  finance your purchase through PayPal , depending on the nature of your trip. Not all airlines have embraced PayPal for flights yet, but many have. So, which ones support PayPal?

Topping the list of PayPal-friendly airlines are familiar carriers such as American Airlines and Southwest Airlines, along with renowned international options like British Airways and Lufthansa. Delta, renowned for its customer service, also accepts PayPal.

Even specialty carriers like JetBlue and Ryanair support digital booking options by accepting PayPal for airfare. Jetstar and Virgin Australia consider PayPal “fair dinkum” — as the locals would say — or completely acceptable for Oceania-bound travelers. Feel like a Far East getaway? AirAsia and Singapore Airlines also welcome PayPal transactions for flights.

In total, there are over 50 airlines that accept the digital wallet for airfare payments. Here’s a list of the highlights:

• Malaysia Airlines
• Philippine Airlines
• Singapore Airlines
• Thai Airways
• Vietnam Airlines
• Ethiopian Airlines
• Kenya Airways
• South African Airways

The Americas

• PayPal is available as a payment option for flights within the U.S., Canada and the U.K., and only for U.S.-based PayPal accounts. Other countries will be subject to a cross border fee.
• Delta (only for domestic flights)
• JetBlue (excluding the Dominican Republic)
• United (only for domestic flights)
• British Airways
• Monarch (only for those paying in GBP and EUR currencies)

Middle East

• Emirates (only for those paying in AUD, EUR, GBP and USD currencies)
• Qatar Airways
• Royal Jordanian
• Saudia Airlines
• Jetstar Australia
• Virgin Australia

Ease and Comfort: The Advantages of Using PayPal for Flight Bookings

Whether you’re jetting off for a business trip or embarking on a long-awaited vacation, you can use PayPal to book business-class lounges or snag economy seats. Increasingly less confined by geography or specific airlines, PayPal for flight bookings is becoming more global.

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Booking a flight can be a whirlwind of excitement. The anticipation of new places and experiences can often leave you in a rush to secure the best deal. However, this is precisely when you should remember to pay close attention to the details, especially when considering payment options.

Rules To Fly By: Understanding Geographic Restrictions for Flight Bookings

Using PayPal for flights can provide a convenient and secure method of payment. Its “virtual card” feature obscures your real credit card information. However, some airlines might only allow PayPal payments from customers located in specific regions or countries , or for customers paying in particular currencies.

For example, certain airlines might only accept PayPal payments from U.S.-based customers, whereas others might restrict payment to customers who use their mobile app to book flights. Each airline has its own policies, so don’t assume one airline’s rules will apply to another — it’s always wise to check directly with the airline you’re considering.

Check Your Baggage: A Note on Possible Fees

It’s also important to be aware of potential transaction charges . While most airlines integrate PayPal payments at minimal or no cost, others may levy additional fees. These charges might look small initially, but they can add up. Be sure to check for any extra fees to avoid unplanned expenses. It’s also a good idea to review  fees that PayPal may charge to be sure you’re up to speed on the fine print.

With many airlines now supporting PayPal in their payment options, booking flights has become even more convenient and secure. However, it’s worth noting that airlines may change their policies occasionally. It’s best to check if your preferred airline accepts PayPal for flights before finalizing your travel plans.

Booking air travel with PayPal is a good choice for travelers who want the convenience and security of using a digital wallet, and it’s a widely available option for many destinations. Remember to double-check the details with your chosen air carrier, ensure you’re aware of any additional fees and always book well in advance in case you run into any problems. Safe travels!

Buying Airline Tickets With PayPal FAQs

• Select your preferred flight.  Proceed to the checkout page after choosing your desired destination, date and time.
• Choose PayPal as your payment method.  Look for the payment section. Here, you will typically find various payment options, including credit cards, debit cards and digital wallets. Select PayPal.
• Log in to your PayPal account.  Once you choose PayPal, the site will prompt you to log into your PayPal account. Enter the login credentials and proceed.
• Confirm your payment.  Review your flight details one final time, then proceed with the payment confirmation. Your e-ticket will be delivered to your inbox upon successful payment.
• PayPal's Buyer Protection program may cover you if you have issues with your flight booking, like cancellations on the airline's end. However, eligibility depends on certain conditions, so refer to PayPal's User Agreement for more detailed information.
• Remember that if you purchased travel insurance or your airline has a refund policy, you may want to start there first.
• Choose your flight. Browse through Expedia's wide selection of flights and pick the one that suits you best.
• Proceed to the payment page. Once you've filled in all the necessary information, navigate to the payment page.
• Choose PayPal as your payment method. On the payment page, scroll through the options until you find PayPal. Click it.
• Log in to PayPal. A prompt will appear, asking you to log into your PayPal account.
• Confirm your purchase.

Editorial Note: This content is not provided by any entity covered in this article. Any opinions, analyses, reviews, ratings or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the author alone and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any entity named in this article.

Our in-house research team and on-site financial experts work together to create content that’s accurate, impartial, and up to date. We fact-check every single statistic, quote and fact using trusted primary resources to make sure the information we provide is correct. You can learn more about GOBankingRates’ processes and standards in our editorial policy .

• Travel On The Fly. "Which Airlines Accept PayPal For Payment?"
• Alternative Alternatives. "Search and Buy Airline Tickets with PayPal, PayPal Credit and PayPal Pay Later."

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