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Is Buy Now Pay Later Bad?
What you need to know before using Buy Now Pay Later for your next flight
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Is Buy Now Pay Later bad?
Wondering if using Buy Now Pay Later for flights is a bad idea?
Short answer: No.
At Alternative Airlines, we make it possible to book flights now and spread the cost over time. Whether you’re flying home for a family emergency, planning a holiday or jumping on a last-minute deal, Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) can help make it happen.
But we get that it’s not for everyone. If you’ve searched “is buy now pay later bad?”, you’re probably weighing up the pros and cons. So let’s break it down for you 👇
Why do people worry about Buy Now Pay Later? 🤔
BNPL is a great option for many, but we know some travellers have questions, and it’s smart to ask them.
Will it affect my credit score?
Most providers only run soft checks, so your score won’t be impacted. But if payments are missed, it could be reported later.
Are there hidden fees?
Not when payments are made on time. Most BNPL plans are interest-free, but late payments may trigger fees depending on your provider.
Is it too easy to overspend?
BNPL makes it easier to book the flights you need, but it’s still borrowing. It works best when you’ve budgeted and know you can repay on time.
BNPL isn’t bad - it just needs to be used with care, like any payment option. If you’d prefer not to commit to instalments, a deposit option or card-based option might be a better fit.
When BNPL can be a smart move for travel
Buy Now Pay Later isn’t a bad choice. In fact, for many travellers, it’s a smart one.
Used responsibly, BNPL gives you the flexibility to book the flight you need, without the full upfront cost. Whether you’re flying for work, family or fun, it lets you:
- Secure the airfare before prices rise
- Split the cost into smaller payments
- Avoid interest charges from credit cards
- Choose a plan that suits your budget - pay in 4, pay in 30 days or pay monthly
At Alternative Airlines, we partner with trusted BNPL providers like Klarna, Afterpay, Affirm and more. That means you get flexible options backed by security and clear terms - no surprises, no stress.
Pay with an existing credit card
Splitit works differently. There's no credit check, no interest and no new debt - just flexible payments using your existing credit card balance. It's a transparent, simple option for travellers who want control without the risk.
How Splitit works:
- No new debt created - uses your existing credit card limit
- Transparent terms - what you see is exactly what you pay
- No credit score impact - no checks, no new accounts
- Interest-free always - never pay more than the original price
- Full control - manage through your regular credit card account
We understand concerns about Buy Now Pay Later services. Some create new debt, charge interest, or affect your credit score. Splitit is different because it works within your existing credit framework. You're not taking on new financial commitments or risking hidden charges.
It's simply a smarter way to use the credit you already have, giving you flexibility without the typical Buy Now Pay Later pitfalls.
Prefer to pay a deposit instead?
Buy Now Pay Later isn’t your only option. With Slice Pay, you can book your flight with a deposit and spread the rest across weekly payments.
You can get started from just 10% upfront (or 20% if you're in the US). Slice Pay doesn’t require a credit check, doesn’t charge interest, and won’t hit you with fees for missed payments. Once your deposit is paid, your booking is confirmed instantly.
This option works well if you're:
- Covering a flight while waiting on others to confirm
- Planning around your next payday
- Locking in a low fare before prices rise
Slice Pay is only available through Alternative Airlines. At checkout, you’ll see exactly what your deposit is, how your weekly payments break down, and when they’re due.
As long as your booking is paid off before you fly, you’re good to go.
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FAQs
Is Buy Now Pay Later bad for booking flights?
Buy Now Pay Later isn’t bad for booking flights - it can be a helpful way to manage the cost, especially if you’re booking last minute or waiting for payday.
The key is using it responsibly. Choose a provider you trust, understand the terms, and make sure you can keep up with the payments.
At Alternative Airlines, we work with leading BNPL providers and clearly show all payment details at checkout, so you can book with confidence and stay in control.
What are the advantages of Buy Now Pay Later?
Buy Now Pay Later gives you more control over how and when you pay for flights. It’s designed to make travel more accessible, without the upfront cost.
Here’s how it helps:
- Spread the cost - Break down your flight payment into weekly or monthly chunks. Great for budgeting.
- Book now, pay later - Secure prices or grab a last-minute deal without needing all the cash upfront.
- Zero or low interest - Many BNPL providers offer interest-free options, especially if you pay on time.
- Flexible options - Choose from providers like Klarna, Afterpay or Affirm, each with different payment schedules.
- Quick and easy approval - No long forms or credit card required for most BNPL plans.
With the right provider and payment plan, BNPL can take the financial stress out of flying, giving you the freedom to book your trip, your way.
Does BNPL cost more than paying in full?
It can, but not always. Many Buy Now Pay Later options are interest-free if payments are made on time. That means the total cost is the same as paying upfront. But if you miss a payment, some providers may charge late fees or interest.
It’s important to check the terms before you choose a BNPL plan at checkout. At Alternative Airlines, we show you all the details clearly, so you know exactly what you’re signing up for.
What’s the safest way to book flights if I can’t pay in full?
The safest way to book flights without paying in full is to use a trusted payment option that gives you flexibility and clarity.
Your options:
- Buy now pay later - Scheduled instalments with trusted providers
- Splitit - Use your existing credit card with no interest or credit checks
- Slice Pay - Secure your seat with a deposit and pay weekly before you fly
All options are available through Alternative Airlines, with full transparency at checkout so you know exactly what you're paying and when.
Can I use BNPL for international flights?
Yes, you can use Buy Now Pay Later to book international flights when you book through Alternative Airlines.
We partner with trusted BNPL providers like Klarna, Afterpay, Affirm and more, giving you the option to spread the cost on over 600 global airlines.
Whether you’re flying short-haul or long-haul, you can choose a payment plan at checkout that suits your budget. It’s a flexible way to secure your flight without paying everything upfront.
What happens if I can't make a payment?
This depends on which payment method you choose:
- Buy now pay later - Most providers charge late fees and may report missed payments to credit agencies
- Splitit - Handled according to your credit card's standard terms and conditions
- Slice Pay - No late fees, but your flight may be cancelled if payments aren't completed before departure
Always contact your payment provider as soon as possible if you're struggling to make payments. The sooner you reach out, the more options you'll have.