How to Save Big on Airbnb Stays with Discounted Gift Cards
In today’s travel landscape, Airbnb has become a go-to platform for unique and often cost-effective accommodations. However, travelers are always on the lookout for ways to make their stays even more affordable. Enter Airbnb discounted gift cards—a savvy strategy to save money on your next getaway. But how exactly do these gift cards work, and how can you make the most of them? Let’s delve into the details and explore the benefits of using discounted gift cards for your Airbnb bookings.
What Are Airbnb Discounted Gift Cards?
Airbnb gift cards are prepaid cards that can be purchased and used to pay for bookings on the platform. These cards can be bought from various retailers, both online and in-store, and come with a specific value. The idea of a discounted gift card is simple: instead of paying full price for the card, you can purchase it at a lower rate, effectively saving money before you even start planning your trip.
For example, imagine you want to book an Airbnb that costs $200. If you purchase a $200 Airbnb gift card for $180, you’ve already saved $20 before making your reservation. This strategy is particularly appealing for frequent travelers or those planning extended stays.
Where to Buy Discounted Airbnb Gift Cards
The first step in utilizing discounted gift cards is knowing where to find them. Several platforms and retailers offer gift cards at reduced prices:
Gift Card Marketplaces: Websites like Raise, Cardpool, and GiftCardGranny specialize in selling discounted gift cards. These platforms allow users to buy gift cards at rates lower than their face value.
Retail Stores: Some retail stores, both online and physical, occasionally offer discounts or promotions on gift cards. Keep an eye out for sales during holidays or special events.
Online Deal Sites: Websites like Groupon or LivingSocial sometimes feature deals on gift cards, including those for Airbnb.
When purchasing from third-party sellers, always ensure the seller is reputable to avoid scams or counterfeit cards.
How to Use Discounted Gift Cards on Airbnb
Once you’ve acquired a discounted gift card, the next step is to use it for your Airbnb booking. Here’s how the process works:
Redeem the Gift Card: Visit the Airbnb website or app and navigate to the payment section. There, you’ll find an option to redeem a gift card. Enter the card details, and the amount will be added to your Airbnb account.
Book Your Stay: With the funds from the gift card in your account, you can now search for and book your desired accommodation. The gift card balance will be applied toward the cost of your stay.
Combine with Other Discounts: To maximize savings, consider combining your gift card with other promotions or discounts Airbnb offers, such as first-time user discounts or seasonal specials.
Tips for Maximizing Your Savings
To get the most out of your discounted gift card, keep the following tips in mind:
Plan Ahead: Gift cards are a great way to budget for future trips. Purchase a card when you see a good discount, and use it for a booking later.
Stack Discounts: If Airbnb is offering a promotional discount on bookings, use your gift card to pay for the stay after applying the discount. This way, you save even more.
Check Expiry Dates: Ensure you use the gift card before it expires. Most Airbnb gift cards do not expire, but it’s always good to double-check the terms.
Case Study: A Successful Saving Strategy
Let’s consider a real-world example to illustrate the potential savings:
Suppose you’re planning a week-long trip and expect to spend $1,000 on accommodations. You manage to purchase two $500 Airbnb gift cards for $450 each, totaling $900. By using these discounted gift cards, you’ve already saved $100 before your trip begins. If Airbnb is also offering a 10% discount on your booking, you’d pay just $810 for your stay—a total savings of $190.
This strategy not only reduces your upfront costs but also makes your travel budget go further.
Conclusion
Airbnb discounted gift cards are an underutilized tool for travelers looking to save money on their accommodations. By purchasing gift cards at a lower rate and using