In the age of instant bookings or flash sales, websites for travel have become the go-to tool for searching for affordable flights, hotels, and vacation packages. With so many options, including Expedia, Kayak, Booking.com, Skyscanner, and many more, you might be wondering: Are third-party travel websites actually less expensive than directly booking a flight?The quick answer? Sometimes, but not always. There are benefits and drawbacks to using third-party booking platforms. Understanding their capabilities can mean the difference between a relaxing vacation and a stressful one.In this article, we'll discuss the advantages and disadvantages of third-party travel websites and guide you on whether or not to use them, as well as the best time to leave them out.
Third-party travel websites (also called OTAs or online travel agents) are websites that combine hotels, flight rental cars, flights and vacation packages offered by multiple companies. They allow you to look up prices for hotels and airlines at one time, frequently providing lower prices than directly booking.Examples include:
The most significant benefit is ease of use. These websites present you with a variety of alternatives for the same hotel or flight, typically sorted by price. This allows you to choose the cheapest or most suitable option without having to jump between different websites.
OTAs typically have the ability to negotiate exclusive agreements with hotels and airlines, in particular when they're combined. For instance, booking a flight and a hotel in conjunction can yield substantial savings that aren't offered when booking separately.
Certain platforms provide discounts, loyalty programs or cash-back rewards for regular customers. These offers can result in savings over time if you stick to a single platform.
There aren't all budget airlines included in Google Flights or on the airline's websites. Some OTAs offer options from low-cost airlines that you won't find elsewhere, which makes it easier to choose.
It is common to see reviews from a variety of travellers along with listings, allowing you to make more informed decisions without having to do additional research.
If you book on a third-party website and something goes wrong, such as delays or cancellations, it's always easy to determine who's accountable for the issue: the OTA or the airlines. Assistance can lead to delays in holding times or even being bounced around between different companies.
Airlines tend to prefer customers who book directly. If you booked via an intermediary and have to alter dates or cancel your reservation, the process may be more difficult and more restricted.If your airline decides to cancel its flight, you could need to contact the OTA to rebook your flight or receive a refund, which can add an additional delay.
Some OTAs are not transparent. Some might advertise low-cost base prices but add additional fees for seats, baggage, or tax charges once you've started checking out.Be sure to read the entire agreement before clicking that "Book Now" button.
If you book with a third-party OTA, it is possible that you will not get the full amount of frequent flyer miles or be eligible for elite benefits in the event that the OTA is associated with the airlines. This can impact the status of your loyalty program in the event that you frequently travel.
There have been instances where travellers have booked one kind of hotel or flight after arriving, only to discover that the experience was not as they had hoped for. The OTAs might not provide updated listings on time, leading to confusion and disagreements.
Smart travellers typically start with an external site to compare prices and choices and then contact the hotel or airline directly to determine whether they can beat or match the price. If not, they'll choose the OTA, but be sure to use an established and reliable platform that provides prompt service.Personally, I look up rates on various platforms and often find myself booking with TravelFares.co.uk. I've found their website to be simple and competitive. They also back it with genuine customer service in the event that any issue arises.
The question is, are third-party travel sites actually cheaper? Often, yes, particularly when you're willing and quick to take advantage of bargains. However, the savings sometimes come at the expense of convenience, flexibility, or customer service.It's all about compromises. If you're confident with your plan and would like to pay the cheapest price, third-party websites are effective tools. If you're looking for support, loyalty benefits and flexibility, making a direct booking is generally more affordable than the slight price premium.
Q: Can you safely make reservations for travel through third-party websites?
Ans: Yes, as long as you are using reputable websites that have verified reviews from customers. Always double-check your booking confirmations.
Q: Do I earn airline miles when I book on a third-party website?
Ans: Sometimes, but not always. Some OTAs do not allow users to enter their frequent flyer number, but airlines may offer discounted miles.
Q: What happens if my flight is cancelled and I booked it through the OTA?
Ans: You'll frequently have to call the OTA to request refunds or changes, which could delay the procedure. This is one reason direct bookings are simpler to handle during delays.
Q Do third-party websites have hidden charges?
Ans: Some do. Make sure to read the complete cost breakdown prior to paying and be aware of baggage charges and "service fees" added at check-out.
Q: Do I need to contact the airline or OTA to get help?
Ans: Suppose you booked your tickets through a third party. Begin with them. The airline might direct you to the OTA to request ticket modifications or refunds.