Expedia is one of the world's leading travel booking platforms, known for its flights, hotels, vacation packages, and car rental services. While most travelers use Expedia for straightforward bookings, the platform has several hidden features that can enhance your travel experience, save you money, and offer extra perks. Here are the top 10 hidden features of Expedia that you might not know about.
1. Price Match Guarantee
Expedia offers a Price Match Guarantee, allowing travelers to get a refund if they find a cheaper price for the same booking elsewhere. This feature applies to flights, hotels, and vacation packages, ensuring that you always get the best deal. To claim the guarantee, submit a claim before your trip, and Expedia will refund the difference.
2. Secret Deals & Mobile-Only Discounts
Expedia provides exclusive mobile-only deals through its app. These discounts can range from 10% to 40% off on hotels and vacation packages. Additionally, Expedia has “Secret Deals”, which are special offers available only to logged-in users or members of its Expedia Rewards program.
3. Expedia Rewards & VIP Benefits
The Expedia Rewards program offers points for every booking, which can be redeemed for discounts on future trips. As you climb the tiers—Blue, Silver, and Gold—you unlock extra perks such as free room upgrades, late check-outs, and complimentary breakfasts at VIP Access hotels.
4. Free Cancellation & Refundable Options
Many travelers don’t realize that Expedia allows free cancellation on most hotel bookings. By filtering search results to show only “free cancellation” options, you can book with confidence, knowing that you can cancel if your plans change.
5. Package Bundling for Bigger Discounts
Expedia offers great savings when you bundle flights, hotels, and rental cars. Booking everything together can result in discounts of up to 30% or more. The “Bundle & Save” feature also simplifies trip planning, making it easier to coordinate your itinerary.
6. Alternative Payment Options
Expedia allows travelers to use flexible payment options, including Buy Now, Pay Later plans through providers like Affirm. This feature enables you to spread out payments for expensive trips, making travel more accessible without upfront financial stress.
7. “Add-On Advantage” for Hotel Discounts
Expedia's “Add-On Advantage” lets you book a flight first and get access to discounted hotel rates later. These exclusive hotel discounts are available until your trip starts, giving you flexibility and cost savings.
8. Car Rental Insurance & Damage Protection
When booking rental cars through Expedia, you can opt for its Damage Protection Plan, which is often cheaper than rental agencies’ insurance options. This feature ensures you’re covered in case of accidents or damage, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars.
9. Personalized Travel Recommendations
Expedia uses AI-driven algorithms to provide personalized travel recommendations based on your past searches and bookings. This helps you discover hidden gems, lesser-known destinations, and travel deals tailored to your preferences.
10. Real-Time Travel Alerts & Notifications
Through the Expedia app, you can receive real-time travel updates such as flight status changes, gate changes, and weather alerts. This feature helps travelers stay informed and avoid disruptions during their trips.
Conclusion
Expedia is more than just a booking site—it’s packed with features designed to enhance your travel experience and save you money. Whether you’re looking for price guarantees, exclusive deals, or flexible payment options, Expedia has hidden perks that make planning and booking travel more convenient. Next time you use Expedia, explore these features to maximize your travel savings and experiences!