Expedia vs. Orbitz: Evaluating Rewards Programs
Compare the rewards programs of Expedia and Orbitz to determine which travel platform offers more benefits for your bookings.
Expedia and Orbitz are both online travel agencies (OTAs) that offer rewards programs to their customers. Here's an evaluation of their rewards programs to help you decide which one may be more suitable for your travel needs:
Expedia Rewards:
Points System: Expedia Rewards uses a points-based system, where you earn points for booking flights, hotels, and packages through their platform.
Elite Status: Expedia offers elite status levels for frequent users, including +silver and +gold status, which come with benefits like bonus points and exclusive amenities.
Flexible Redemption: You can redeem Expedia points for various travel expenses, including hotel stays, flights, car rentals, and activities.
No Blackout Dates: There are no blackout dates when using points to book travel through Expedia.
Loyalty Tiers: Expedia has a straightforward two-tier system, making it easier to understand and achieve elite status.
Multiple Ways to Earn Points: Aside from bookings, you can earn points through the Expedia mobile app and by booking and managing trips for others.
Challenges and Promotions: Expedia often runs promotions and challenges that allow members to earn additional points.
Orbitz Rewards:
Orbucks Currency: Orbitz Rewards uses a virtual currency called "Orbucks." You earn Orbucks for hotel bookings, and the amount varies based on the hotel and booking details.
No Elite Status: Orbitz Rewards does not have elite status levels like Expedia, which may be an advantage if you prefer a simpler program.
Useful Redemption Options: Orbucks can be used for hotel bookings, standalone flights, packages, and activities, offering flexibility in how you redeem your rewards.
No Blackout Dates: Similar to Expedia, Orbitz does not impose blackout dates when redeeming Orbucks.
Special Promotions: Orbitz occasionally runs promotions that allow members to earn extra Orbucks.
No Annual Fees: There are no annual fees associated with either program, making them accessible for occasional travelers.
Factors to Consider:
Point System vs. Currency: Expedia uses a point system, while Orbitz uses its currency, Orbucks. The preference for one over the other may depend on your understanding and convenience.
Elite Status: Expedia offers elite status levels, which can provide extra perks and benefits for loyal customers. Orbitz, however, does not have an elite status program.
Promotions: Both programs run promotions from time to time, so consider checking for any ongoing offers when deciding which one to use.
Travel Habits: Consider your travel habits and which program aligns better with your booking patterns. Some travelers may find the simplicity of Orbitz Rewards appealing, while others might prefer Expedia's elite status benefits.
Points Earning Potential: Check which program offers more potential to earn points or Orbucks based on your typical travel spending.
In summary, both Expedia and Orbitz offer rewards programs with their own strengths. Expedia Rewards has a clear elite status system and more ways to earn points, while Orbitz Rewards is straightforward and uses a virtual currency, making it easy to understand. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your personal travel preferences, loyalty to the platform, and the type of rewards you prefer. It's also a good idea to compare the current terms and promotions for both programs when making a decision.
Expedia vs. Orbitz: Comparing The Rewards.
Expedia and Orbitz are two of the most popular online travel agencies (OTAs) in the world. Both OTAs offer a wide variety of travel products and services, including flights, hotels, rental cars, and vacation packages.
Both Expedia and Orbitz also have rewards programs that allow travelers to earn points or miles on their bookings. However, the two programs have some key differences.
Here is a comparison of the Expedia Rewards and Orbitz Rewards programs:
Expedia Rewards
- Earn points on flights, hotels, rental cars, and vacation packages.
- Points can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, and gift cards.
- There are four membership tiers: Blue, Silver, Gold, and Platinum.
- Members can earn bonus points on certain types of bookings and for using the Expedia app.
- Expedia Rewards points expire after 36 months of inactivity.
Orbitz Rewards
- Earn Orbucks on hotel bookings.
- Orbucks can be redeemed for hotel stays.
- There are four membership tiers: Silver, Gold, Platinum, and VIP.
- Members can earn bonus Orbucks on certain types of bookings and for using the Orbitz app.
- Orbitz Rewards Orbucks do not expire.
As you can see, the main difference between the two programs is that Expedia Rewards members can earn points on a wider variety of travel products and services, while Orbitz Rewards members can only earn Orbucks on hotel bookings. However, Orbitz Rewards Orbucks do not expire, while Expedia Rewards points do.
Overall, the best rewards program for you will depend on your individual travel habits. If you book a variety of travel products and services, then Expedia Rewards may be the better program for you. However, if you primarily book hotels, then Orbitz Rewards may be the better program for you.
Here are some tips for getting the most out of your Expedia Rewards or Orbitz Rewards membership:
- Sign up for the rewards program before you book your travel. This will ensure that you start earning points or Orbucks right away.
- Use the OTA's app to book your travel. Many OTAs offer bonus points or Orbucks for booking through their app.
- Take advantage of the OTA's loyalty program partners. Many OTAs have partnerships with other businesses, such as airlines and hotels. You can often earn bonus points or Orbucks by booking travel or shopping with these partners.
- Redeem your points or Orbucks wisely. Make sure that you are redeeming your points or Orbucks for travel or merchandise that you really want.
By following these tips, you can maximize your rewards and get the most out of your OTA membership.