Independent hotels are trying to stay in business by selling credits and 'bonds' for future discounted travel

Buy Now, Stay Later is a new initiative that helps independent hotels stay afloat during the coronavirus outbreak. Travelers can purchase "hotel bonds" in increments of $100 that are redeemable for $150 after 60 days. Eight luxury independent hotels, ranging from Le Barthelemy in St. Barth's to Greydon House in Nantucket and Casa Violeta in Tulum, are currently participating. The website indicates that more hotel partners are "coming soon" and includes a sign-up form for interested hotels.

To purchase bonds, travelers must contact each hotel directly. To facilitate this, buynowstaylater.com includes a "Get Your Bond" button next to each hotel participating hotel, which links out to the hotel's website and contact information.

Travel app Porter & Sail has launched a Hotel Credits store that allows travelers to buy hotel credits for 17 properties through its website. Credits can be purchased through its website at two tiers: $120, later redeemable for $150; and $200, later redeemable for $300. Participating properties are located across the globe, from Thailand to Lake Como to Los Angeles and Nairobi.

The purpose of the program is to help independent hotels keep their staff employed, and Porter & Sail is not taking any fees.

Are you a hotel owner or employee affected by the coronavirus outbreak? We want to hear your story. Email this reporter at mwiley@businessinsider.com.