Booking flights with PayPal has become increasingly convenient, with more airlines embracing this popular payment method. Let me walk you through your options and share some insider tips on using PayPal for air travel.
Major Airlines That Accept PayPal
United Airlines stands out as one of the biggest carriers offering PayPal integration. You can seamlessly book your flights through their website or mobile app using your PayPal balance or linked accounts. Southwest Airlines is another major player in the PayPal game, making it super easy for domestic travelers to use their preferred payment method.
American Airlines recently joined the PayPal club too, though it’s worth noting that you’ll need to book directly through their website to use this option. Delta Airlines, however, still hasn’t jumped on the PayPal bandwagon – something I often have to explain to disappointed travelers.
International Airlines and PayPal
If you’re planning international travel, you’ll be happy to know that several overseas carriers accept PayPal:
– KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
– Air France
– Lufthansa
– Virgin Atlantic
– Norwegian Air
Tips for Using PayPal for Flight Bookings
Here’s something I’ve learned from experience: always make sure your PayPal account is properly funded before booking. While this might seem obvious, I’ve seen many travelers scramble at the last minute when their payment doesn’t go through because they assumed their linked bank account would cover it instantly.
Online Travel Agencies and PayPal
Beyond direct airline bookings, several major travel websites accept PayPal:
– Expedia
– eDreams
– CheapOair
– Alternative Airlines
I particularly like using Alternative Airlines when booking with smaller carriers, as they accept PayPal for virtually any airline, even ones that don’t take PayPal directly.
Important Considerations
Let me share a pro tip: when using PayPal for flights, always check if there are any additional processing fees. Some airlines add a small surcharge for PayPal transactions, though this isn’t common among major carriers.
Also, keep in mind that PayPal’s buyer protection works differently for airline tickets compared to regular purchases. While you’re still protected against fraud, flight issues typically need to be resolved directly with the airline rather than through PayPal’s dispute process.
Remember to always book through the official airline website or reputable travel agencies when using PayPal. I’ve heard too many stories of travelers getting caught by fake booking sites that claim to accept PayPal but are actually scams.
