We all want to save money when we travel. That’s why deals from third-party travel websites and apps look so enticing. With all the money-saving that can come from travel deals, there are also potential disadvantages of using these offers versus booking directly through hotels and airlines.
Full disclosure, we typically book directly whenever possible but sometimes use discount travel sites and travel rewards portals to book award travel.
In this episode, we’ll look at the pros and cons of booking direct and through third-party travel discount sites.
You’ll learn:
Why booking direct is generally the cheapest option when paying cash
How customer service is hit or miss with third-party travel sites and hotels, airlines, and rental companies
Booking through third-party discount travel sites could mean losing out on valuable travel rewards
Tips for finding travel deals and booking travel
Resources to check out
Washington Post Article: The great booking debate: Is direct better than a third-party site?
Trip Of A Lifestyle Post: Want the Cheapest Hotel Booking Site? It’s All About Rewards
Our Favorite Rewards Credit Cards
The Best Vacation Rental Sites & Why We Love Rental Homes
How To Use Travel Rewards To Save Money On A Universal Studios Orlando Vacation
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Kevin Payne is the budgeting and family travel enthusiast behind FamilyMoneyAdventure.com. He’s also the host of the Family Money Adventure Show podcast, where he helps families learn to manage their money better so they can afford to do the things they love.
Kevin is a freelance writer specializing in personal finance and travel. He is a regular contributor to USA Today, Forbes Advisor, Bankrate, Fox Business, Credible, and CreditCards.com.
