off the paypal site
"During sign up, link your bank account or credit card to your PayPal account. Your financial information is secure and will never be shared."
"Can I use PayPal if I don't have a bank account or credit card?
Yes, you can. You can add money to your PayPal account with MoneyPak. MoneyPak allows you to enjoy the benefits of PayPal without using a credit card or bank account. Pick up a MoneyPak at over 40,000 retailers for a service fee of $4.95 or less. Details "
EDIT I checked my account and I have no credit card listed and I routinely spend $1000 thru paypal so not sure how mine worked and yours did not Hugh