How to Change Your Airbnb Currency: A Traveler’s Guide

Changing your Airbnb currency is a straightforward process designed to provide you with the best possible experience, allowing you to see prices in a currency you understand and potentially save on conversion fees. You can easily adjust your preferred currency within your account settings on the Airbnb website or app.

Changing Your Airbnb Currency: The Direct Route

Here’s a step-by-step guide to changing your Airbnb currency:

1. Log in to your Airbnb account: Head over to the Airbnb website or open the mobile app. Use your registered email address and password to access your account.
2. Access Your Account Settings: Click on your profile picture in the upper-right corner of the website or tap the “Profile” icon at the bottom of the app. This opens a dropdown menu or a profile page.
3. Navigate to ‘Account’: In the dropdown menu or on your profile page, find and click or tap on “Account”. This is your central hub for managing account-related settings.
4. Select ‘Personal Info’: Within the “Account” section, look for a tab or link labeled “Personal Info”. Clicking this will take you to the section where you can update your personal information and preferences.
5. Find ‘Currency’: Scroll down the “Personal Info” page until you find the “Currency” setting. It will likely display your current preferred currency.
6. Choose Your New Currency: Click the dropdown menu next to your current currency. A list of available currencies will appear. Select your desired new currency from the list.
7. Save Your Changes: Once you’ve selected your new currency, be sure to click the “Save” button or similar option to confirm your choice. Your Airbnb account will now display prices in your newly selected currency.

That’s it! You’ve successfully changed your Airbnb currency. All prices displayed on the platform, including listings and payment details, will now reflect your preferred currency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding changing your Airbnb currency.

1. Why would I want to change my Airbnb currency?

There are several reasons why you might want to change your Airbnb currency. Firstly, viewing prices in your local currency makes it easier to understand the true cost of your booking. Secondly, it can potentially save you money on currency conversion fees charged by your bank or credit card company. If you primarily use a card denominated in a specific currency, setting Airbnb to that currency might reduce these fees. Finally, if you are moving to a new country or planning an extended stay, setting your Airbnb currency to the local currency helps you budget more effectively.

2. Does changing the currency affect my existing reservations?

No, changing your Airbnb currency does not affect existing reservations. The price you agreed to at the time of booking remains unchanged, regardless of any subsequent currency adjustments in your account settings. Your existing bookings will remain in the original currency of the reservation.

3. Can I change the currency back to my original setting?

Yes, you can change your Airbnb currency as many times as you like, following the steps outlined above. There are no limitations on how often you can switch currencies. It’s useful if you are frequently traveling to different countries or need to manage finances in multiple currencies.

4. Will changing the currency affect my payment method?

Changing your Airbnb currency generally does not directly affect your payment method. However, if you are using a credit card with a foreign transaction fee, using the same currency as your card can avoid the extra fees. It is always best to check with your bank or card issuer for specific details regarding their foreign transaction policies.

5. What if my preferred currency isn’t listed?

While Airbnb supports a wide range of currencies, it’s possible that your preferred currency may not be listed. In such cases, consider using a currency that is widely accepted and easily convertible to your local currency, like USD or EUR. Alternatively, you can contact Airbnb customer support to inquire about the possibility of adding your preferred currency.

6. Does Airbnb charge a currency conversion fee?

Airbnb itself typically does not charge a currency conversion fee. However, your bank or credit card company might charge such a fee when processing transactions in a foreign currency. Always check with your financial institution to understand their policies on foreign transactions and currency conversion fees.

7. I changed my currency, but the prices still show in a different currency. Why?

If you’ve changed your currency but prices are still displayed in the old currency, there might be a delay in the system updating your preferences. Try clearing your browser’s cache and cookies or logging out and logging back into your Airbnb account. If the issue persists, contact Airbnb customer support for assistance.

8. Can I set a different currency for each booking?

No, you cannot set a different currency for each booking. Your currency preference is set at the account level and applies to all listings and transactions. If you need to manage expenses in different currencies, consider using a separate budgeting tool or currency converter alongside your Airbnb account.

9. Is it better to pay in the local currency or my home currency on Airbnb?

This depends on your specific circumstances and the policies of your bank or credit card company. Paying in the local currency might avoid Airbnb’s exchange rate, but your bank may then charge a foreign transaction fee. Paying in your home currency allows you to see the exact amount you’ll be charged, but Airbnb’s exchange rate might not be the most favorable. Compare the exchange rates and fees charged by both Airbnb and your bank to make an informed decision.

10. How do I find out the exchange rate Airbnb is using?

Airbnb typically displays an estimated exchange rate when you are viewing listings or during the checkout process. This rate is an approximation and may differ slightly from the actual exchange rate applied by your bank or credit card company. For the most accurate exchange rate, it is best to check with your financial institution.

11. Will I get a refund in the same currency I paid in?

Yes, if you receive a refund from Airbnb, it will typically be issued in the same currency you used to make the original payment. The amount refunded will be based on the exchange rate at the time of the original transaction. However, fluctuations in exchange rates between the time of the payment and the refund might result in a slight difference in the final amount you receive.

12. Where can I find more help if I’m having trouble changing my currency?

If you are experiencing difficulties changing your Airbnb currency or have any other questions related to your account settings, the best resource is Airbnb customer support. You can access their help center through the Airbnb website or app. They offer various support options, including FAQs, contact forms, and phone support. You can find answers for specific questions, or chat with a support representative directly. They can guide you through the currency change process or troubleshoot any technical issues you may encounter.