Buy Now, Pay Later: The Ins and Outs of Making Your Vacation More Affordable

May 06, 2025

Buy Now, Pay Later: The Ins and Outs of Making Your Vacation More Affordable
By Carmen Carroquino

Buy Now, Pay Later: The Ins and Outs of Making Your Vacation More Affordable

Planning a vacation is exciting, but let’s face it, the price tag can be a little intimidating. Between flights, hotels, activities and meals, costs add up fast. That’s where “buy now, pay later” (BNPL) comes in.

More and more travelers are using flexible payment options to make their getaways or staycations close to home more affordable without delaying the fun. Instead of paying the full amount upfront, BNPL services allow you to spread the cost of your vacation over weekly or monthly installments, often with little to no interest if paid on time.

There are several providers offering this kind of flexibility: Affirm, Klarna, PayPal Pay Later and others. Many travel brands and booking platforms now integrate these services directly at checkout, making it easier than ever to say yes to that much-needed vacation.

Whether you're booking a hotel, cruise or all-inclusive package for your summer bucket list, BNPL options can give you more control over your travel budget and help make dream vacations more accessible.

What is Buy Now, Pay Later?

Buy now, pay later is a payment option that lets you purchase something today and split the cost into smaller, more manageable payments over time. Instead of paying the full amount upfront, you agree to pay in weekly, biweekly or monthly installments, often with little or no interest, depending on the provider and terms.

Think of it as a short-term financing option that can make big expenses, like family vacations, feel more affordable and easier to plan for.

Pros of Buy Now, Pay Later

  • Budget-friendly: Breaks large travel costs into smaller payments, which can be easier to manage.

  • Immediate booking: Allows you to reserve your trip right away, even if you don’t have the full amount today.

  • Low or no interest (sometimes): Many BNPL providers offer 0% interest if you pay on time and within the agreed period.

  • No hard credit check (in most cases): Many services only do a soft credit check, which won’t impact your credit score.

  • Convenience: Often built right into the checkout process with instant approval decisions.

Cons of Buy Now, Pay Later

  • Late fees: Missing a payment can result in late fees or penalties.

  • Debt buildup: It's easy to overextend yourself by booking more than you can realistically afford.

  • Interest charges: Some plans may come with high interest rates if you don’t qualify for a 0% plan or miss a payment.

  • Limited protection: BNPL doesn’t always offer the same protections as traditional credit cards when it comes to disputes or cancellations.

  • Impact on credit (in some cases): If payments are missed or defaulted on, it could eventually hurt your credit score.

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Popular Buy Now, Pay Later Services

How to Use Affirm to Pay for Travel

1. Shop with a travel partner that offers Affirm

Affirm is integrated with many major travel brands and booking platforms like Expedia and Priceline. When you're ready to check out, just look for Affirm as a payment option.

2. Choose Affirm at checkout

Once you select Affirm, you’ll be redirected to its secure platform to apply for financing. This process includes a quick soft credit check (which won’t impact your score) to determine what plans you're eligible for.

3. Pick your payment plan

Affirm typically offers a few payment options. This might include biweekly payments or fixed monthly plans over three, six or 12 months (sometimes longer). Some plans come with 0% interest, while others include simple interest depending on your credit and the terms selected.

4. Review and confirm

You’ll see the full breakdown of your payment plan upfront, including any interest charges. There are no hidden fees, and you’ll never pay more than what’s shown at checkout.

5. Make your payments

After your booking is confirmed, you’ll make payments directly through Affirm's app or website. You can set up autopay or receive reminders to stay on track.

What First-Time Users Should Expect

  • Quick approval decision: Most people find out instantly whether they’re approved and what plans they qualify for.

  • Transparent terms: Affirm doesn’t charge late fees, hidden fees or compound interest. What you see is what you pay.

  • Flexible plans: Depending on the cost of your trip and your credit profile, you may have several options to choose from.

  • Separate from your credit card: Affirm isn’t tied to your bank or credit card, so it’s a standalone financing option.

  • Helpful app experience: The Affirm app makes it easy to track payments, check due dates and manage your plan on the go.

How to Use Klarna to Pay for Travel

1. Find a travel provider that offers Klarna

Klarna is accepted on select travel booking sites and apps such as Alternative Airlines, Expedia (in some regions) and more. If Klarna is available, you’ll see it as a payment method when you reach the checkout page.

2. Select Klarna at checkout

Choose Klarna as your payment option and follow the prompts. You’ll be asked to create an account or log in, and then Klarna will do a quick soft credit check to see what plans you qualify for (this doesn’t affect your credit score).

3. Choose your payment plan

Klarna offers several options depending on the total cost and your eligibility:

  • Pay in 4: Four equal interest-free payments every two weeks.

  • Pay in 30 days: No upfront cost. Pay the full amount within 30 days.

Monthly financing: Longer-term plans (up to 24 months), which may include interest.

4. Complete your booking

Once you’ve selected and confirmed your payment plan, Klarna will finalize the payment with the travel provider and you’ll receive your booking confirmation.

5. Manage payments in the Klarna app

You can track your payment schedule, receive reminders and manage your budget all within Klarna’s app or website. Klarna also offers customer support and dispute resolution if any issues come up with your booking.

What First-Time Users Should Expect

  • Fast and simple setup: The approval process is typically instant. Setup takes just a few minutes.

  • No hidden fees (if you pay on time): Klarna is transparent about what you’ll owe. If you stick to the plan, you won’t pay extra.

  • Multiple payment options: Klarna offers more short-term flexibility than some BNPL services, especially with the “Pay in 4” or “Pay in 30 Days” options.

  • Works with debit or credit cards: Payments can be made using your bank account or card through the Klarna app.

  • Helpful reminders: Klarna sends notifications before payments are due so you can stay on top of your schedule.

How to Use PayPal Pay Later to Pay for Travel

1. Book through a travel provider that accepts PayPal

Many airlines, hotel websites and travel platforms (like Expedia, Booking.com and others) offer PayPal as a payment option. If they do, you may be able to access PayPal’s Pay Later options during checkout.

2. Select PayPal at checkout

When you're ready to pay, choose PayPal as your payment method. You’ll log into your PayPal account and see if “Pay Later” or “Pay in 4” is available for your purchase.

3. Pick your Pay Later plan

Depending on the total cost and your eligibility, PayPal may offer one of these two options:

  • Pay in 4: Make four interest-free payments every two weeks (available for purchases between $30–$1,500).

  • Pay Monthly: Spread payments over six, 12 or 24 months with fixed interest (available for larger purchases, usually over $199).

4. Apply and confirm

You’ll go through a quick approval process (a soft credit check that doesn’t affect your score). Once approved, you’ll agree to the terms, complete your booking and let PayPal handle the payment with the travel provider.

5. Track your payments

Your installment plan will be managed through your PayPal account. You can check upcoming due dates, set reminders or make early payments right from the app or website.

What First-Time Users Should Expect

  • Easy access through PayPal: If you already have a PayPal account, using “Pay Later” is seamless and doesn’t require a separate app or setup.

  • Fast approval process: Most users receive a decision within seconds after selecting “Pay Later.”

  • Transparent terms: You’ll see the full payment breakdown, including any interest charges, before committing.

  • No hidden fees: “Pay in 4” has no interest or late fees if you pay on time. Monthly plans include fixed interest rates, clearly disclosed upfront.

  • Wide acceptance: Since PayPal is accepted at so many travel providers, it's one of the most flexible BNPL options for booking vacations.

Affirm vs. Klarna vs. PayPal Pay Later

When it comes to using buy now, pay later for travel, Affirm stands out as the top choice. It’s widely accepted on major booking sites and offers flexible monthly plans, perfect for larger vacations.

PayPal Pay Later is a close second, with both short-term (Pay in 4) and longer monthly options. Plus, it’s easy to use if you already have a PayPal account.

Klarna comes in third, offering interest-free plans and ease of access, but it’s more common in retail than travel. Overall, Affirm and PayPal offer the most flexibility and travel-friendly options.

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Things to Consider When Using Buy Now, Pay Later for Travel

  • Read the fine print: Always check the payment terms, fees and interest rates before committing. Every provider is different.

  • Set a budget first: Know how much you can realistically afford to pay in installments before booking anything.

  • Choose 0% interest plans when possible: Many BNPL providers offer interest-free options if you pay on time. Take advantage of these whenever available.

  • Use trusted providers: Stick with reputable BNPL companies that are well-known and integrated with established travel brands or platforms.

  • Be aware of late fees: Missing even one payment can lead to additional charges or negatively affect your financial standing.

  • Keep track of due dates: Set reminders or automate payments to avoid falling behind on installments.

  • Consider credit card protections: Unlike credit cards, BNPL may not offer the same purchase protection or travel insurance, so weigh the trade-offs.

  • Watch out for overbooking: Just because the cost is broken into smaller payments doesn’t mean the trip is automatically affordable. Always stay within your means.

  • Understand refund policies: Know how cancellations or changes affect your payment plan, especially if you're booking something non-refundable.

  • Stack with deals if possible: Combine BNPL with seasonal discounts or promo codes to get even more value out of your trip.

  • Use it strategically: Reserve BNPL for bigger-ticket travel expenses, like flights or hotels. Don’t use it for every little thing involving your vacation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Buy Now, Pay Later

Buy now, pay later is a payment option that lets you book a trip and split the total cost into smaller, manageable payments over time. Instead of paying everything upfront, you can pay in bi-weekly or monthly installments, often with zero or low interest, depending on the provider and your credit eligibility.

Yes, many travel booking websites and platforms now allow you to use buy now, pay later services like Affirm, Klarna, PayPal Pay Later, and Afterpay to book flights, hotels, rental cars, and even vacation packages. Availability depends on the travel provider and the BNPL service they partner with.

Using buy now, pay later for travel is generally safe as long as you use reputable providers and understand the terms of your agreement. Most BNPL services offer transparent payment plans and don't charge hidden fees, but it's important to make payments on time to avoid penalties or interest charges.

If you miss a payment, you may be charged a late fee depending on the provider. Some services, like Affirm and PayPal, may not charge late fees but could report missed payments to credit bureaus, which can affect your credit score. Always check the terms before agreeing to a plan.

Affirm is often considered the best option for booking travel because it’s widely accepted on major travel sites and offers flexible monthly payments. PayPal Pay Later is also a strong choice due to its accessibility and combination of short- and long-term plans. Klarna and Afterpay are better suited for smaller travel purchases or flights, but not as ideal for full vacation packages.

Most buy now, pay later services perform a soft credit check during the approval process, which doesn’t affect your credit score. However, some longer-term financing plans may require a hard credit check. Make sure to review the terms for each specific plan and provider.

It depends on the provider and the amount you're financing. Some services are more lenient and may approve users with fair or limited credit, especially for smaller purchases. However, if your credit is low, you may not qualify for the full range of installment plans or interest-free options.

Buy now, pay later can be a good alternative to credit cards if you want a simple, fixed payment schedule and prefer not to carry revolving debt. However, credit cards may offer more protections like travel insurance, fraud protection, and rewards points. The better option depends on your financial habits and what kind of protections or perks matter most to you.

You can usually cancel a trip, but how your payments are handled will depend on the travel provider's cancellation policy and the BNPL service's refund process. Some refunds go directly to the provider, while others may adjust your payment schedule or refund any paid installments. Always review the cancellation and refund policies before booking.

Yes, many BNPL services can be used to book international travel as long as the travel provider supports that payment method. Just make sure your provider is available in your region and that the merchant accepts it for international bookings. Availability can vary based on country and provider restrictions.

Make Travel More Affordable: One Payment at a Time

Buy now, pay later can be a smart way to make travel more accessible, especially if paying everything upfront feels out of reach. With the right plan and provider, it’s possible to book the trip you want and pay it off over time without extra stress.

Just be sure to read the fine print, stay on top of your payments and choose the option that best fits your budget and travel needs. A little planning goes a long way. Here’s to traveling now and paying later!

For more trip tips and vacation budget guides, visit the Westgate Resorts Travel Blog.


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At Westgate Resorts, when you Check-In, there’s a LOT to Check-Out! Your vacation awaits! Start planning your next vacation today or talk with a vacation planner at 888-852-2959 or 407-355-2690.

* Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.

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