The adoption of this model goes far beyond simply adding an innovative payment choice; it represents a decisive strategic enhancement. First, it boosts direct bookings: installment payments appeal to travelers who prefer to spread out the cost of their stay, thereby reducing dependency on large online travel agencies (OTAs) and avoiding high commission fees. In addition, it can increase the average spend per booking: without the need for immediate full payment, guests are more likely to reserve higher-category rooms, extend their stays, or purchase additional services.
The competitive advantage is also amplified. While OTAs traditionally do not offer BNPL options, hotels that integrate this flexible payment method strengthen their value proposition, positioning themselves as modern, accessible, and aligned with contemporary traveler expectations. At the same time, properties secure their cash flow: the BNPL provider advances payment to the hotel and assumes the risk of non-payment, ensuring immediate liquidity without uncertainty.
The customer experience benefits significantly. This model removes traditional financial barriers and creates a smoother, more transparent, and more appealing booking process. It fosters loyalty from the very first interaction, as customers are more inclined to book directly when the process is convenient, clear, and tailored to their needs. In turn, hotels gain access to a community of millions of users already accustomed to this type of payment —Scalapay, for instance, has a growing network of more than 8 million users, generating qualified traffic that improves conversion rates.
The BNPL model not only drives immediate revenue but also transforms the relationship between guest and hotel. With a flexible, interest-free payment structure, travelers enjoy greater freedom to choose and commit, while hotels strengthen their margins, booking control, and brand perception. The technical simplicity of the system also makes it easy for accommodations of different sizes and locations to adopt it on a large scale.
In summary, the “buy now, pay later” concept represents a powerful lever for direct hotel sales: it combines financial flexibility, an attractive digital experience, market differentiation, and operational efficiency. Thanks to strategic collaborations such as that of Scalapay and Paraty Tech, hotels now have a clear and accessible path to adopt this innovation, stepping fully into a new era where booking and enjoying a stay go hand in hand from the very first click.
