Get Paid Directly by Guests: Payment Options Around the World
By StayScan Editorial Team · Published · Last updated
Compare ways to get paid directly by vacation rental and Airbnb guests: payment links, PayPal, QR codes and local transfer apps, by country. Try StayScan free for 30 days.
Getting paid directly by a guest means the money goes from the guest straight into your own account. There is no middleman in the middle of the transfer. The right method depends on where you are and where your guests live, so this guide compares the main options by region.
The main ways hosts get paid directly
- Card payment links send a secure payment page that works on any phone.
- PayPal is widely trusted and works in most countries.
- QR codes let guests pay with a local transfer app by scanning your code.
- Bank transfer details work for larger amounts, but take longer to confirm.
Payment options by region
| Region | Common options | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| India | UPI QR code, payment link, PayPal | Small and medium amounts, fast confirmation |
| UK and Europe | Card payment link, PayPal, bank transfer | Shop items and paid extras |
| US and Canada | Card payment link, PayPal, Venmo or Zelle where available | Everyday purchases |
| Southeast Asia | Local QR wallets, card payment link, PayPal | Guests using local apps |
| Middle East | Card payment link, bank transfer | Higher-value extras |
Check which methods your guests already use. A QR code is only useful if your guests can scan it with their own app.
How to set up direct payments in four steps
- Choose two methods, one local and one international, so most guests can pay.
- Add the details to your guidebook, such as your payment link or QR code.
- Test a small payment yourself to make sure the money arrives.
- Mention the options once in your welcome message, then leave the details in the guidebook.
Why payment fees and rules matter
Each method has its own fees, and they vary by country and provider. Compare the fee on a small sample payment before you choose. Booking platforms also set rules about payments made outside their own system, so check your platform terms before you collect any money from guests.
Frequently asked questions
What is the easiest way to get paid by a guest?
A card payment link or PayPal is the simplest, because guests can pay with a few taps on their phone.
Does StayScan hold the money?
No. Guests pay you directly through the methods you set up. StayScan does not take a cut of the payment.
Can guests pay in their own currency?
It depends on the method and provider. Many payment links and PayPal convert the currency at checkout, so check the final amount before you share the link.
Is it safe to share a payment link?
Yes, when it comes from your own provider account. Use a link you created yourself and check it works before you share it.
StayScan lets you add payment methods to your guidebook in one place. Start your free 30-day trial with no credit card, and see how selling items to guests works alongside it.
StayScan is a digital guidebook for Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com and Agoda hosts: one QR code gives guests Wi-Fi, check-in steps, house rules and local tips in 30+ languages. Create your guidebook with a 30-day free trial, no credit card required.