Booking.com vs Expedia vs Booking Direct: Where to Book Your Stay

The same hotel room is often listed on several sites at almost the same price. The differences that matter are usually the cancellation terms, when you pay, and what happens if something goes wrong. Here's how the main options compare.

Booking.com

Booking.com has one of the largest selections of hotels, guesthouses and apartments, especially in Europe and Asia. Many listings offer free cancellation and the option to pay at the property rather than up front, which is useful if your plans might change. Its Genius loyalty programme gives discounts on some properties once you've made a few bookings.

Expedia and Hotels.com

Expedia is strongest when you want to book flights and a hotel together: package deals can be cheaper than booking each separately. Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo share a rewards programme, One Key, so points earned on one can be used on the others. Hotels.com is part of the same group and is mainly for hotel-only stays.

Booking directly with the hotel

Hotels pay a commission to booking sites, so some offer perks to guests who book with them directly, such as free breakfast, a better room or more flexible cancellation. If you're a member of a hotel chain's loyalty programme, booking direct is usually the only way to earn points and get member rates. Independent hotels will often match an online price if you ask.

How to check you're getting the best deal

• Compare the total price including taxes and fees. Some sites show a lower headline price and add charges at the end.
• Compare like for like: the same room type, the same cancellation terms, and whether breakfast is included.
• Check the hotel's own website for the same dates. If it's similar, the direct perks might tip the balance.
• Read recent reviews rather than the overall score. A renovation or new management can change things quickly.

Pay now or pay later?

Non-refundable “pay now” rates are usually a little cheaper, but you lose the money if your plans change. Unless your dates are fixed, a free-cancellation rate is often worth the small extra cost. If you book with free cancellation, set a reminder a few days before the deadline so you can cancel in time if needed. If you do pay up front, travel insurance with cancellation cover can protect that money.

When you're paying at the property abroad, choose to pay in the local currency rather than your home currency to avoid a poor exchange rate.

Ready to search? Compare Booking.com, Expedia and Hotels.com.

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