Expedia is a well-known name in the travel world, likely due to its years of experience and the A-tier companies it partners with.
Their exceptional marketing has made them a household name in travel, but if you’re not familiar with Expedia, let us give you a rundown.
What is Expedia?
Expedia debuted in 1996 as one of the first online travel agencies. Over the past 30 years, it has become one of the leading travel depots used by leisure and business travellers alike.
Expedia can now be used as a one-stop shop for travel, allowing customers to book flights, car rentals, hotel stays, and activities through its website or app.
As mentioned before, Expedia pairs with a handful of companies in the travel industry to provide a vast network from which travellers can choose.
How Expedia Works
Expedia does the legwork behind the scenes for its website or app users. It connects with its partners to search the internet for flights, rentals, and accommodations, providing users with all the information in one place.
They will list all available choices for travellers, showing the best and worst deals to provide complete transparency.
They are the third-party agent when booking. However, various airlines and hotels will provide select deals and listings to third-party companies, allowing Expedia to offer exclusives not provided by any other booking site or direct airline or hotel website.
Flight Search Functionality
Expedia is most commonly known for its search function for deals on flights. Users can search for flights from every airport and airline in the world by selecting their destination and travel dates. Expedia then lists all options available, highlighting the recommended flights based on their search.
You can also amend your search with a long list of filters to narrow down the options available. They also show flights for the same destination for the entire week of your travels, which helps save money if your flight date is flexible.
They’ll show how many seats are left on your select flight, how many stops it will make and the total duration of your flight, providing one of the most comprehensive flight lists around.
Expedia’s Price Alerts
This feature will also help you save money on any upcoming travel arrangements. After making a free account and downloading the Expedia app on your phone, you can set your exact travel plans in a saved search and turn on price alerts.
The app will notify you when prices have gone up or down, keeping you up-to-date on current pricing and allowing you to know when the best time to book is. This will reduce the amount you pay for your flight and leave you with more money for travel activities.
Pros and Cons of Using Expedia
There is an extensive list of pros to using Expedia, from its price tracking feature to its extensive knowledge and activity guides to its ability to allow users to list their own properties for rentals on its website.
This gives people another avenue besides Airbnb and Vrbo to list and produce that income line.
Some traveller reviews mention that Expedia has a high commission rate. This means you’re getting a deal on your flight or travel plans, but sometimes, those savings end up covering the commission.
Of course, this would be on a case-by-case basis, but it could impact travel plans. Insurance was another point of contention for some users, either having high rates or travel insurance not covering all required needs.
Tips for Using Expedia Effectively
Signing up for a free account and using the flight price tracker is the first step to effectively using Expedia’s resources.
This can alert you to last-minute deals offered through Expedia and its countless partners. Expedia also has a tool to organize your trip itinerary, ensuring you don’t miss packing items or deadlines for enrolling in tours and events.
Using the filter tool to find exactly the type of flight, accommodation, or event booking you desire will also give impeccable results.
Common Expedia Issues and How to Resolve Them
A significant point of contention with Expedia customers has been that cancellation policies are challenging to navigate.
Expedia has a 24-hour support line, which means you can connect with an agent at any time, and they can provide step-by-step instructions to provide the assistance you need to get your refund.
Some customers have reported being unable to check in online once booked through Expedia. This can occur depending on the airline or hotel chain. As mentioned before, most airlines and hotel reservations that can be made through Expedia are also big names in travel, and they will also have contact Expedia customer service departments that can assist you with any needs.
This adds an extra step that some Expedia users wish to avoid, but with how many bookings are made through their platform, this issue is few and far between.
Is Expedia Reliable?
Overall, Expedia is extremely reliable in booking all travel arrangements. Their team of developers stays on top of updating customers and the website and app itself. They have numerous customers booking and checking in daily, which proves they are reliable and used by plenty.
Final Verdict: Is Expedia Worth It?
Expedia is worth it and the number one choice for travel booking. Their reviews and household name don’t come from being an unpleasant travel experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Expedia
What types of travel services can I book through Expedia?
Expedia’s main services are flights and hotels, but they also provide booking options for rental cars and cruises, plus packages for things to do in your selected country or city. You can also book tickets for local events before you’ve even landed, so everything is in order and ready for you to experience.
Does Expedia offer any rewards or loyalty programs for frequent travellers?
Members can receive points to redeem items or bookings for cheaper prices, and they are frequently offered 10% off booking prices. Sales are also pushed out to members and account holders, giving them first dibs on deals.
How does Expedia handle cancellations or changes to bookings?
Cancellations or booking changes can be completed through the confirmation email sent to travellers. You can also call Expedia’s customer service centre, where a representative will be able to walk you through the process. They connect with the airline/hotel/service provider to make changes or cancellations on your behalf.
Are there additional fees when booking through Expedia compared to booking directly?
Some services and bookings will have a commission payable to Expedia. Not all bookings will include this, but it does occur on occasion. This makes being a member even more worth the signup since you can save on the trip fee, which can offset the commission fee.
Can I book travel packages on Expedia for discounted rates?
Yes! They have a package tab on their website and within the app to book bundle packages that provide discounted rates or free bonus activities/events. Your filter can be set to provide you with the exact package to enhance your trip and travel experience.