How to start a payments app for tour operators: deposits, balances and guests from abroad
By SendPay Business · · 2 min read
Small tour operators, walking guides and activity providers often take bookings by email or phone, then chase deposits and balances by bank transfer. Many of their guests live abroad and pay in another currency. A payments platform built for these businesses can save them hours and help them get paid before the trip, not after.
What tour operators want
- Payment links for deposits they can send straight after a booking.
- A simple way to collect the balance before the trip.
- Accounts that hold more than one currency.
- A clear record of who has paid what.
Reaching them
Tour operators meet through local tourism boards, trade shows, guiding associations and online groups. Pick one region or one type of trip, such as walking tours or boat trips, and win a few operators who will recommend you to others.
Things to watch
Be clear about refund and cancellation rules, which vary by country and trip type. Show exchange fees up front so guests from abroad know what they'll pay.
Where SendPay fits
SendPay lets you launch your own payments platform under your brand, with GBP, EUR and USD accounts, transfers, branded Visa cards, payment links, invoices and subscriptions, powered by licensed partners. SendPay doesn't offer card machines, isn't a bank and doesn't offer lending.
Build it
Create your own financial platform.
Pick a template, name it, brand it, preview every page before you pay. Your brand, your users, your fees.
Build my platform →Questions people ask
How do I start a bookings platform?
Combine bookings with deposits and payment links.
Bookings platforms →What is a multi-currency account?
One account that holds balances in several currencies.
Multi-currency accounts →Should I send a payment link or an invoice?
Links suit one-off payments; invoices suit formal bills.
Links vs invoices →Read next
This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. SendPay Business is a technology company, not a bank, and does not take deposits; regulated services on the platforms are provided by licensed partners. PayPal, Patreon and Substack are named as reference points only and are not affiliated with SendPay Business.