In a sign of how fast digital currencies are changing real-world industries, crypto payments have taken center stage in the online travel space. Travala.com, a blockchain-based travel booking platform, has reported that as of mid-2025, a stunning 80% of its bookings are now paid in cryptocurrency.
Just two years ago, this number was much lower. In 2023, crypto-funded bookings on Travala totaled $45 million. By mid-2025, that figure has surged to over $103 million, marking more than a 129% increase in less than 24 months.
This explosive growth highlights not only the rising use of crypto in daily life but also a major shift in how people explore the world.
Binance Pay Surpasses Traditional Payment Methods
One of the biggest drivers behind Travala’s growth in crypto payments is the rise of Binance Pay, a contactless, borderless crypto payment system by Binance.
According to Travala, Binance Pay has now overtaken traditional cards and mobile wallets like Apple Pay as the most-used external payment method on the platform. That marks a major milestone for crypto adoption in the travel sector.
Users can now pay for hotels, flights, tours, and more using various cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), BNB, and even popular stablecoins like USDT.
This ease of use, combined with global accessibility and fast transaction times, is making crypto an attractive option, especially for younger, tech-savvy travelers.
Crypto Travelers Spend More and Travel Differently
Travala’s data shows that crypto users aren’t just different in how they pay, they behave differently too.
On average, travelers who use crypto spend $1,211 per booking, compared to just $469 for those using traditional fiat currencies. That’s more than 2.5 times higher in value.
In addition, crypto travelers tend to book closer to their departure dates, showing a preference for last-minute flexibility. They’re also more likely to revisit the same destinations, suggesting a high level of loyalty and satisfaction.
This behavior is reshaping the way travel providers approach digital nomads, influencers, and investors who now prefer experiences paid for entirely in crypto.
Top Crypto-Friendly Cities for Travel
Where are crypto users going? According to Travala, the most popular destinations include:
- Dubai, UAE – A futuristic city with wide crypto adoption and zero income taxes.
- Tokyo, Japan – A tech-driven capital with strong infrastructure and innovation.
- London, UK – A global financial hub now exploring digital assets more openly.
- Lisbon, Portugal – A crypto hotspot thanks to its favorable tax environment and digital openness.
All of these cities offer high-speed internet, good mobile coverage, and support for digital payments. That makes them perfect for the growing community of crypto-first travelers.
From Niche to Mainstream
Travala began as a niche option, mostly catering to blockchain enthusiasts and early adopters. Today, it is quickly becoming a mainstream alternative to traditional travel sites like Expedia or Booking.com.
What sets it apart is its Web3 infrastructure, which not only supports crypto payments but also gives users the option to earn loyalty rewards in AVA tokens, the platform’s native currency.
These tokens can be staked for discounts, used for future travel, or traded like other cryptocurrencies. This added utility creates a powerful incentive for users to stick with Travala over other platforms.
A Glimpse Into the Future of Travel
The surge in crypto travel spending suggests more than just a payment shift—it hints at a broader change in the tourism industry. As more platforms integrate Web3 features and decentralized services, traditional travel agencies may need to adapt or risk becoming outdated.
With decentralized finance (DeFi) tools, NFT-based travel passes, and even metaverse tourism on the rise, the future of travel may look very different from what we know today.
Travala’s success offers a blueprint for other companies looking to tap into the growing market of crypto-native users. Its growth proves that offering digital asset payment options is no longer a gimmick, it’s a competitive edge.
Crypto Travel in Numbers (2023–2025):
- 2023: $45 million in crypto bookings on Travala
- Mid-2025: $103 million in crypto bookings
- 80% of total bookings now paid in crypto
- $1,211 average spend per booking (crypto users)
- $469 average spend per booking (fiat users)
The Road Ahead
As governments around the world explore crypto regulation and digital currencies gain more acceptance, platforms like Travala are well-positioned to lead a new wave of global tourism.
Whether you’re booking a five-star hotel in Tokyo or a digital nomad stay in Lisbon, crypto is no longer just a futuristic idea, it’s already reshaping how we move, spend, and explore.
For the new generation of travelers, blockchain isn’t a buzzword. It’s the passport to a faster, more connected, and borderless world.
