Finding a great place to stay on Airbnb for the weekend is exciting, but for many Nigerians, Naira cards won’t work for payments due to CBN restrictions.
It’s annoying, but the good news is that there’s a simple way around these payment blocks — virtual USD cards.
In this guide, we will walk you through how to book and pay for Airbnb in Nigeria using a Swyftpay virtual dollar card.
Why Nigerian Cards Often Get Rejected on Airbnb
If you’ve ever asked, “Why do Nigerian cards keep getting rejected on Airbnb and other international platforms?”
It’s because:
- Most Nigerian banks place strict limits on international spending and,
- Many Naira cards are blocked from completing foreign currency transactions.
This is exactly why Nigerians are turning to virtual USD card providers like Swyftpay.
What You Need To Pay For Airbnb In Nigeria
- The SwyftPay App
Download the SwyftPay app from the Google Play Store or the App Store and sign up for your free account.
- A Funded Swyftpay USD Card
Swyftpay allows you to choose between a Flashcard and a Permanent USD card.
- The Flashcards are Virtual USD cards that can be funded once and expire after one month. It is ideal if you are just making a one-off payment and don’t want any additional charges or renewals on your cards.
- The Permanent USD Card expires after 3-4 years and works perfectly well for Airbnb payments. However, it comes with a monthly $1 maintenance fee.
⚡️Pro Tip: If you don’t plan to use your card often, get a Flashcard. You can just create one for $1 when you need it.
- Your Airbnb Account
Lastly, you need an Airbnb account. Sign up or log in at Airbnb.com or on the Airbnb app which you can get on the Google Play Store or App Store.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Book and Pay for Airbnb from Nigeria Using SwyftPay
For Mobile Users (Android & iPhone)
- Open the Airbnb app and log in to your account.
Screenshot from the Airbnb app
- Search your destination, dates, and input the number of guests.
- Browse available properties and tap “Reserve” on your preferred accommodation.
- Review the booking summary and continue.
Screenshot from the Airbnb app
- When you get to the payment method section, choose “Credit or Debit Card.”
- Paste the SwyftPay card information into the payment form.
Screenshot from the Airbnb app
- Follow the steps and make your payment to finalize your booking.
Done! Your Airbnb payment should be processed immediately. Your reservation will be confirmed, and you will receive a notification from both Airbnb and Swyftpay.
For Desktop/Mac Users
- Visit Airbnb.com and log in to your account.
Screenshot from the Airbnb app
- Set your desired destination, the dates for your trip, and the number of people you’re going with.
- Select your desired listing, click “Reserve,” and complete your booking information.
- Proceed to review your booking details and fill in your payment details and billing address.
- Open your SwyftPay account (on your phone or another tab), select your Virtual USD card, and copy the card details.
- Paste the card information into Airbnb’s payment section.
- Follow the steps to confirm your payments and to complete your booking.
Once your payment goes through, you’ll receive confirmation emails from both Airbnb and Swyftpay.
⚡️Pro Tip: If you travel often, choose Swyftpay’s Permanent virtual USD card. It saves time instead of re-creating cards for every trip.
Tips to Find The Perfect Airbnb Stay
- Browse Airbnb for accommodations that match your needs.
- You can apply filters for your budget, amenities, dates, number of occupants, etc.
- Read reviews carefully.
- Check the host’s cancellation policy – flexible policies are best if you’re a first-time booker.
- Save a few backup options, in case your top choice isn’t available.
Read More
- How to Book and Pay for Airbnb in Nigeria Smoothly
- A Simple Guide to Pay for Zoom Subscriptions In Nigeria
- How to Shop on SHEIN from Nigeria with Swyftpay
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Use My Nigerian Bank Card Directly On Airbnb?
No, most Nigerian Naira cards won’t work when making payments on Airbnb due to international transaction restrictions.
But with the Swyftpay Virtual USD card, you don’t need to worry about card rejections or limits. Our card handles all bookings and international payments, and transactions efficiently and effectively.
2. How Far In Advance Should I Book Airbnb Accommodations?
For the best prices and availability, book 2-3 months ahead for international destinations and at least 3-4 weeks for local stays. Last-minute bookings usually cost 20-40% more and have fewer options.
3. What Happens If The Host Cancels My Booking?
If the host cancels your booking, Airbnb will refund your full payment, including any service fees. They will also help you find alternatives.