What is a non-refundable rate and how can it help you increase revenue?
Non-refundable rates allow guests to proceed with discounted price in exchange for agreeing to a non-refundable cancellation policy.
For you as a property manager, this means securing your income from the moment the booking is made—even if the guest decides to cancel at any time in the future.
You can enable the non-refundable rate option only if you are using the full connection with Airbnb in the Channel PRO.
Advantages of offering a non-refundable rate
Implementing this strategy can make a significant difference in your property’s profitability. It is especially recommended if you:
Manage high-demand urban properties
Want to capitalise on peak seasons or short booking windows
Aim to fill midweek gaps, low-season periods, or single nights
Additionally, Airbnb highlights discounted prices in search results, improving visibility and increasing your chances of receiving more bookings.
In extraordinary circumstances, guests may still be entitled to a full refund according to Airbnb’s Major Disruptive Events Policy.
Key benefits
Higher visibility: On average, global listings that offered a non-refundable discount received 31% more unique views in 2024 than those that did not.
More bookings: Guests perceive non-refundable options as offering excellent value for money, which boosts conversion rates. In 2024, approximately 20% of all active accommodation listings worldwide offered a non-refundable discount.
Secured income (and potential double benefit): If a guest cancels, you keep the original payment and can release those dates again, generating additional revenue.
How it appears to the guest
Non-refundable rates are displayed alongside the standard refundable rate, giving guests a clear choice.
Airbnb presents it as a discount - typically around 10% - which is applied in addition to any other active promotions or discounts that you may have configured.
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In this example from Airbnb’s booking screen, the guest can choose between two options: a non-refundable rate of €725 or a refundable rate of €792. The difference is clearly shown as a discount in exchange for waiving the right to cancel.
Airbnb displays both options side by side, showing the cancellation terms (e.g. 'Free cancellation before August 10') and highlighting the guest’s immediate savings, while the host secures income from the moment the booking is confirmed. |
Availability windows - based on your cancellation policy
The specific availability window depends on the general cancellation policy configured for your listing. Below are the available options:
Cancellation Policy Type | Applicable (Before Check-in) |
Flexible | 1 day |
Moderate | 5 days |
Limited | 14 days |
Firm | 14 days |
Super Strict 30/60-day policies are not compatible with this type of discount.
Tips for using non-refundable rates in Avantio
Apply the rate selectively: to all your listings or only to those with the highest potential.
Use it strategically: fill gaps, boost low-season reservations, or attract guests who book well in advance.
Monitor performance: assess its impact on your occupancy rate and average revenue per booking.
Activate your non-refundable policy from the Avantio Channel PRO
Are you ready to increase your revenue with less risk? Setting up a non-refundable policy is quick, simple, and fully compatible with your full Airbnb connection.
See how to activate it in this article.