Questions about booking flights through Orbitz or Expedia

[jho]

I've been watching fares for our May trip for a few weeks now and have found the best prices on both Orbitz and Expedia. When I go to the actual airlines' website (UAL, AA, Delta, or NWA), the fares are higher, sometimes considerably. Are there any disadvantages to booking through an online travel service such as Orbitz? If I book a United flight through Orbitz, will I be able to print our boarding passes from United's website the night before the flight? And how do I get the miles credited to my Mileage Plus account?

Thanks for all input,
Jeanne

 

[beattyfamily]

I dont' know the answer to all of your questions but the main disadvantage is that you won't be able to get a voucher/credit if the price drops before your trip.

Also, it's always better to deal with the airline directly when you have problems/issues like when a flight is canceled or changed.

But I have used Orbitz and Expedia and had no problems except that I couldn't get a credit. I just prefer the airline if I can but would go with Orbitz or Expedia if the price was considerably lower.

 

[mcnuss]

Don't forget that Orbitz and Expedia charge fees for booking and the airlines don't. Also, they may not add the taxes & fees until the end of the booking process, whereas the airline may be showing them up front. Just make sure you are doing a true apples to apples comparison.

 

[MickeyisanNDfan]

I used Orbitz to book a flight to MCO last Easter, the price was considerably cheaper. There is a 5$ (I think) feeto book on there and there is a place to put in your Frequent Flier #. I am not sure about the boarding passes as I have never done this.