A payment usually fails because of a bank or card issue, such as insufficient funds, a declined card, or an authorization step that was not completed. The next steps depend on where you booked: Holidu, Booking.com, or Airbnb.

What are the most common reasons a payment fails?

These reasons apply to Holidu bookings and to Booking.com bookings where you selected "Pay On". Check each one before you try again.

1. Payment authorization not completed

Some payments must be approved in your banking app or with a code (TAN/PIN) sent by your bank by text message or phone call. For Holidu bookings, authorize the payment using the secure payment link sent to your email.

2. Insufficient funds

Make sure your account has enough balance to cover the full amount.

3. Withdrawal limit exceeded

Your bank may have set a daily, weekly, or monthly spending limit. Check your banking app or contact your bank for details.

4. Payment Method Supported

Make sure you use a supported payment method. We currently accept credit card, PayPal, iDEAL (the Netherlands), Klarna (Austria, Germany, and the Netherlands), and Sofort.

5. Invalid or declined card details

Check that:

• the CVC number and its length are correct
• the card number is valid and not expired
• your bank has not blocked or restricted the card for security reasons
• the card has not been cancelled (confirm its status with your bank)

6. Too many failed attempts

After 5 or more unsuccessful attempts, further payments may be temporarily blocked. Wait 1 to 2 hours before trying again. If the issue persists, check with your bank or use another payment method.

Why is my payment failing on Holidu?

If your payment fails on Holidu, Holidu processes it directly, so the common reasons above apply. Review each one, then try again with a supported payment method. If the problem continues, contact our Customer Happiness team.

Why is my payment failing on Booking.com?

The next steps depend on the payment option you selected when you booked.

If you chose "Pay Now"

Booking.com manages this payment, and Holidu does not have access to your payment details. Contact Booking.com customer service by chat or phone call to find out why your payment is failing.

If you chose "Pay On"

Holidu processes this payment, so the common reasons listed above apply. Review them and try again.

Why is my payment failing on Airbnb?

Airbnb manages all payments directly. If your payment is not going through, contact Airbnb customer service by chat for help. You may also find your answer in the Airbnb article Why your payment is getting declined or isn't working.