Instant Book vs Request to book

Why some listings book immediately and others need host approval.

For guests

Every listing works one of two ways, and the listing page tells you which.

⚡ Instant Book

You choose your dates and pay straight away. The booking is confirmed the moment payment succeeds — no waiting for the host.

Request to book

You send a request first. The host reviews it and either accepts or declines. You are not charged when you request — only after the host accepts, when you come back to pay.

  1. You send the request. It shows as Pending in My trips.
  2. The host accepts. The booking becomes Confirmed but unpaid.
  3. You pay from My trips. Only then are your dates secured.

⚠️ A confirmed but unpaid booking does not hold your dates against anyone else. Pay promptly.

Hosts get a reminder if a request sits unanswered for 18 hours. If you still hear nothing, message them or book elsewhere.

More in Searching and booking

Didn’t answer your question?

Email contact@ethiobete.com — include your booking dates or listing name if it’s about a specific stay.

← All help topics
EthioBete — book stays across Ethiopia