Increase Conversion with Airbnb's Non-Refundable Option via NextPax

Airbnb has introduced a powerful new way for hosts and property managers to increase revenue and secure more guaranteed bookings: Non-Refundable rates. This feature is fully supported through the NextPax distribution platform, making it easier than ever to offer travellers compelling pricing while maximising occupancy.

What Are Non-Refundable Rates?

A Non-Refundable rate offers guests a discounted price in exchange for a booking that cannot be canceled for a refund. Airbnb reports that these discounted rates consistently outperform standard policies by attracting travelers who are price-sensitive and ready to commit. At time of booking travellers can then either select the non-refundable rate option or the more flexible one. 

Why This Matters

By enabling Non-Refundable rates, accommodation partners can:

Increase conversion: Lower prices help win more bookings in competitive markets.

Improve revenue stability: Guaranteed income — even in the event of cancellations.

Attract committed travellers: Effective for stays with short lead-times, and high-demand dates.

Remain competitive across Airbnb compared to other accommodations in your area.

Early Results On Airbnb

According to Airbnb research and collected data across all homes reservations globally for stays between January 1st, 2024 and January 1st, 2025, the following conclusions are significant.

"In 2024, the guest cancellation rate for global bookings made with a non-refundable discount was four times lower than the average guest cancellation rate across all other reservations."

"The non-refundable option offers greater protection and peace of mind, with average guest cancellations (3%) among the lowest across global bookings in 2024."

In 2024, approximately 20% of all active home listings globally offered a non-refundable discount.

"On average, global listings that offered a non-refundable discount had 31% more unique views in 2024 than those that didn't."

How It Works Through NextPax

Non-Refundable pricing is supported via the NextPax connection to Airbnb. Partners can simply load a Non-Refundable promotion attached to an existing flexible or standard rate. NextPax ensures these rates sync seamlessly to Airbnb with full mapping support.

Best Practices for Success

To maximize performance:

• Offer at least 10–15% discount versus your refundable rate.

• Combine with early-bird or last-minute strategies.

• Always keep availability parity across channels.

• Monitor performance in your NextPax dashboard.

Ready to Activate Non-Refundable?

Partners already using the NextPax platform can set up a Non-Refundable promotion today to start boosting conversions immediately, via the Promotions tab. Partners integrated via the NextPax Supply API can also integrate the Non-Refundable Discount via our NextPax Supply API - Promotions API