The world of digital finance is evolving rapidly, and cryptocurrency is no longer just an investment vehicle—it's becoming a legitimate method of payment. From travel bookings to real estate, more businesses are embracing crypto-friendly transactions thanks to advancements in blockchain technology and secure payment gateways. Wallet-to-wallet transfers are being supplemented by seamless solutions like QR-code payments and third-party processors such as BitPay and NOWPayments, making it easier than ever for companies to accept digital currencies.
This shift reflects growing consumer demand and institutional confidence. According to a Deloitte survey, 75% of retailers plan to adopt cryptocurrency payments by 2025. Below is a comprehensive look at major industries and companies leading this transformation.
Travel, Entertainment, and Tourism
The travel sector has been an early adopter of crypto payments. Platforms like Bitcoin.Travel, CheapAir, and Expedia allow users to book flights, hotels, and vacation packages using Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Dogecoin (DOGE), and stablecoins such as USDC and DAI.
👉 Discover how easy it is to book your next trip with digital assets.
Virgin Galactic takes this a step further by accepting Bitcoin for future space tourism experiences—offering a literal "out-of-this-world" use case for crypto.
AMC Theatres
AMC began accepting crypto for movie tickets in 2021 through BitPay. Customers can pay with BTC, ETH, BCH, LTC, DOGE, and even SHIB—showcasing mainstream entertainment’s openness to meme coins.
Twitch
Despite briefly pausing crypto payments in 2019, Twitch now supports over a dozen cryptocurrencies via NOWPayments. Users must link a BitPay account, but the integration allows fans to support streamers directly with digital currency.
IT, Internet Services & Video Platforms
Tech companies have long been at the forefront of crypto adoption due to their digital-first models.
Shopify
Merchants on Shopify can enable crypto payments through integrations with Coinbase Commerce, Crypto.com, BitPay, and others. This empowers small businesses to accept BTC, ETH, and more without technical overhead.
WordPress
As one of the most popular website builders, WordPress supports crypto payments for hosting and domain purchases through plugins and direct integrations.
AT&T & Microsoft
Both giants accept crypto via BitPay. AT&T customers can pay phone bills with BTC, ETH, DOGE, and other coins. Microsoft allows users to buy Xbox games, apps, and music using BTC, ETH, GUSD, and additional tokens.
ExpressVPN
Privacy-focused services like ExpressVPN have embraced crypto since 2014. They accept BTC, ETH, XRP, USDC, BUSD, PAX, and GUSD—aligning with users who value anonymity.
PayPal
PayPal enables users to buy, hold, and spend crypto directly at millions of merchants. Supported coins include BTC, ETH, BCH, and LTC. When checking out with “Crypto,” PayPal converts holdings into fiat instantly.
Retail Giants Going Crypto
Newegg
Specializing in electronics and PC components, Newegg accepts BTC, ETH, BCH, DOGE, and others—making it a go-to for tech-savvy crypto spenders.
Amazon
While Amazon doesn’t directly accept crypto, users can make indirect purchases via purse.io, where Bitcoin is exchanged for Amazon gift cards. This workaround bridges the gap until native support arrives.
Overstock
A pioneer since 2014, Overstock accepts BTC, ETH, LTC, XRP, and more during checkout. Their early adoption helped legitimize crypto as a retail payment method.
Luxury brands like Balenciaga, Gucci, and Tag Heuer are also joining the trend, offering both online and in-store crypto payments via QR codes.
Food & Beverage Chains Embracing Digital Currency
Starbucks
Since 2021, Starbucks has allowed customers to load digital gift cards with BTC or ETH. They’ve also launched an NFT-based loyalty program called “Odyssey,” blending crypto culture with customer engagement.
KFC Canada & Burger King Venezuela
KFC Canada accepted BTC via BitPay starting in 2018. In Venezuela, Burger King partnered with Cryptobuyer to accept BTC, LTC, DASH, ETH, and USDT—highlighting crypto’s utility in high-inflation economies.
Coca-Cola
In Australia and New Zealand, Coca-Cola vending machines accept crypto via the Sylo Smart Wallet app. A partnership with Centrapay enables QR-code payments across 2,000 machines.
Sports Teams Leading Fan Engagement with Crypto
Professional sports teams are leveraging crypto to deepen fan relationships.
- Dallas Mavericks: Fans can buy tickets and merchandise with BTC.
- Miami Dolphins: Accept LTC for concessions and game tickets.
- Benfica FC (Portugal): Offers cryptocurrency payment options for tickets and club-related purchases.
These initiatives reflect a broader trend of tokenized fan experiences and decentralized loyalty programs.
High-Value Purchases: Cars, Yachts & Aircraft
Tesla
Tesla briefly accepted BTC for vehicle purchases in 2021 but paused due to environmental concerns. Today, Dogecoin can be used to buy select items in their online store.
Alza (Czech Republic)
This major electronics retailer also sells automobiles—including Tesla models—paid for entirely in BTC.
Denison Yachting & SkyCraft
Yacht broker Denison Yachting completed the first BTC-powered boat sale in 2017. SkyCraft allows customers to purchase aircraft like the SD-1 Minisport using Bitcoin.
Jewelry & Precious Metals
Luxury goods retailers are seeing increased demand for crypto payments.
- Samer Halimeh New York: Accepts BTC for fine jewelry.
- JM Bullion: A top North American precious metals dealer that takes BTC, BCH, ETH, DOGE, and USD-pegged stablecoins for gold and silver purchases.
Real Estate: Global Property Transactions in Crypto
Real estate is embracing blockchain for faster, borderless transactions.
- Huobi + Fäm Properties: Facilitate global property purchases using crypto with secure escrow services.
- Gafisa (Brazil): Accepts BTC to attract international investors.
- Turkish Agencies (Ataberk Estate, Status Property): Allow payment in BTC, BCH, ETH, XRP, XLM, and USDT for residential and commercial properties.
Charity Organizations Accepting Crypto Donations
Crypto enables transparent giving. Notable platforms include:
- GiveCrypto.org: Distributes direct cash aid in cryptocurrency.
- CryptoForCharity: Supports donations to over 55,000 charities with a 5% service fee.
- Red Cross: Accepts BTC via BitPay in certain regions.
How to Spend Crypto Anywhere: SPEDN & Crypto Debit Cards
Even if a merchant doesn’t directly accept crypto, you can still use it through:
- SPEDN App (by Flexa): Works at 40,000+ locations including Whole Foods and Nordstrom. Uses Gemini-powered QR codes; funds convert instantly to fiat behind the scenes.
- Crypto Debit Cards: Issued by Coinbase, Crypto.com, and others. Work like Visa/Mastercard but draw from your crypto balance.
👉 Learn how to turn your crypto into everyday spending power.
Benefits & Drawbacks of Paying with Crypto
Pros:
- Fast Settlement: Transactions clear in minutes vs. days for bank transfers.
- Global Access: No currency conversion hassles for cross-border purchases.
- Rewards: Many crypto cards offer cashback in digital assets.
- Financial Autonomy: Spend without relying on traditional banking systems.
Cons:
- Tax Implications: Converting crypto to fiat is a taxable event if value has increased.
- Volatility Risk: Spending appreciating assets could mean missing out on future gains (e.g., the famous $600 million pizza trade).
- Limited Acceptance: Not all businesses support direct crypto payments yet.
- Fees: Some processors charge network or conversion fees.
👉 Maximize your crypto utility while minimizing risks—start here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which major companies accept cryptocurrency payments?
Microsoft, AT&T, Overstock, Newegg, Shopify, AMC Theatres, and ExpressVPN all accept various cryptocurrencies directly or through partners.
What cryptocurrencies are most commonly accepted?
Bitcoin (BTC) leads in adoption. Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Dogecoin (DOGE), and stablecoins like USDC are also widely supported.
How do I pay with crypto online?
At checkout, select “Pay with Crypto.” You’ll receive a wallet address or QR code to send the exact amount from your digital wallet.
Are there tax consequences when spending crypto?
Yes—spending crypto is treated as a sale in many jurisdictions. If the asset has gained value since purchase, capital gains tax may apply.
Can I get a refund if I pay with cryptocurrency?
Refund policies vary. Some companies return funds in fiat or credit; others may issue refunds in crypto at current exchange rates.
Do I need a special wallet for crypto payments?
Any compatible wallet works—hot wallets for convenience or hardware wallets like Tangem for enhanced security.
Core Keywords: cryptocurrency payments, companies that accept crypto, pay with Bitcoin, crypto debit card, spend cryptocurrency, blockchain transactions, digital currency adoption