How to Save Money Booking Travel on Orbitz? Answer is – Booking travel on Orbitz can be more affordable by using their rewards program, Orbucks, which offers cash back on eligible bookings. Look for deals and packages, compare prices with other travel sites, and use coupon codes or credit cards that offer travel rewards to maximize savings.

How to Save Money Booking Travel on Orbitz?

What is Orbitz?

Orbitz is a leading online travel agency (OTA) that simplifies the process of booking flights, hotels, rental cars, cruises, and vacation packages.

Launched in 2001, Orbitz has established itself as a trusted platform for travelers seeking convenience and competitive prices.

As a subsidiary of Expedia Group, Orbitz leverages its extensive network and resources to provide a comprehensive selection of travel options from various providers.

Why Choose Orbitz for Booking Travel?

Orbitz offers several compelling reasons to make it your go-to platform for travel bookings:

Wide Range of Options:Orbitz boasts an extensive inventory of flights, hotels, rental cars, and vacation packages from numerous airlines, hotel chains, and car rental companies. This vast selection ensures you can find the perfect fit for your travel needs and preferences.

Competitive Prices: Orbitz is committed to offering competitive prices and frequently features deals and discounts on various travel products. Their Price Guarantee ensures you get the best value for your money, offering a refund if you find a lower price elsewhere.

User-Friendly Interface:Orbitz’s website and mobile app are designed with user experience in mind. The intuitive interface allows you to easily search, filter, and compare options, making the booking process seamless and efficient.

Rewards Program: The Orbitz Rewards program, known as Orbucks, allows you to earn rewards on eligible bookings. These rewards can be redeemed for discounts on future travel, providing additional value and savings.

Customer Support: Orbitz provides reliable customer support through various channels, including phone, email, and live chat. Their dedicated team is available to assist with any questions or concerns you may have before, during, or after your trip.

Johnny Jet Expert Opinion

According to travel industry expert, Johnny Jet, founder of the popular travel website JohnnyJet.com, “Orbitz is a valuable resource for travelers due to its comprehensive selection, competitive prices, and user-friendly interface. Their rewards program and Price Guarantee further enhance the value proposition for customers.”

How Orbitz Works

Orbitz streamlines the travel booking process, making it simple and efficient for users to find and reserve their ideal trips. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:

1. Search and Booking Process

Start Your Search: Begin by visiting the Orbitz website or opening the mobile app. Enter your desired travel details, including destination, travel dates, number of travelers, and preferred travel class (if applicable). You can also specify your desired departure and arrival airports for flights or preferred neighborhoods for hotels.

Explore the Results: Orbitz will present you with a comprehensive list of available options based on your search criteria. You can filter and sort the results by price, airline, hotel rating, amenities, and other preferences to narrow down your choices. The platform also displays user ratings and reviews to help you make informed decisions.

Select Your Travel Options: Once you’ve found suitable flights, hotels, rental cars, or vacation packages, click on the respective options to view more details. Carefully review the itineraries, amenities, terms and conditions, and cancellation policies before proceeding.

Review and Confirm: After selecting your desired options, review your itinerary summary to ensure all details are accurate. You’ll also be prompted to enter traveler information, such as names and contact details.

Proceed to Payment: Enter your payment information, including credit card details or other accepted payment methods. Orbitz uses secure encryption technology to protect your financial data.

Confirmation and Itinerary: Upon successful payment, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your booking details and itinerary. Be sure to save this information for reference and check-in purposes.

2. Payment Options

Orbitz offers various payment options to cater to different preferences:

Credit/Debit Cards: Major credit and debit cards, such as Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover, are widely accepted on Orbitz.

PayPal: You can conveniently use your PayPal account to make payments on Orbitz.

Orbitz Rewards Orbucks: If you’re an Orbitz Rewards member, you can redeem your accumulated Orbucks for discounts on eligible bookings.

Gift Cards: Orbitz occasionally offers gift cards that can be used for travel purchases on their platform.

Johnny Jet Expert Tip

Travel expert, Johnny Jet, recommends using a credit card that offers travel rewards or cash back when booking on Orbitz. “This allows you to earn additional benefits and maximize your savings on travel expenses,” he advises.

Orbitz Rewards Program: Orbucks

The Orbitz Rewards program, centered around Orbucks, is designed to reward loyal customers and enhance the value of booking through the platform. Let’s dive into how you can earn and redeem Orbucks to make your travel dreams more affordable:

1. How to Earn Orbucks

Earning Orbucks is as simple as booking eligible travel through Orbitz. Here’s a breakdown of the earn rates for different types of reservations:

As you can see, booking through the Orbitz app gives you a significant advantage in earning Orbucks. It’s a simple way to double your rewards and accelerate your savings. To ensure you’re earning Orbucks, sign in to your Orbitz Rewards account before booking.

2. How to Redeem Orbucks

Redeeming Orbucks is a breeze and can significantly reduce the cost of your future travels. Here’s how it works:

Choose Your Hotel: Select a hotel that participates in the Orbucks program. These hotels are clearly marked with the Orbucks logo.

Apply Orbucks at Checkout: During the booking process, you’ll have the option to apply your available Orbucks towards the cost of your hotel stay. The value of each Orbuck is equivalent to $1 USD.

Instant Savings: Your Orbucks will be instantly deducted from the total price of your hotel booking, providing you with immediate savings.

Johnny Jet Expert Tip

Travel expert, Johnny Jet, suggests redeeming Orbucks on hotels where the cash price may be higher, as this allows you to maximize the value of your rewards. He also recommends booking during off-peak seasons or on weekdays when hotel rates tend to be lower.

With its straightforward earning and redemption process, the Orbitz Rewards program makes it easy to save money on your travels.

3. Orbitz Rewards Elite Status Benefits

Orbitz Rewards doesn’t stop at Orbucks. Frequent travelers can unlock a world of additional perks and privileges through their elite status tiers: Silver, Gold, and Platinum. Each tier offers increasingly valuable benefits, making your journeys even more rewarding.

Silver Status

Achieved after staying 4 nights in a year, Silver status is your entry point to the elite tiers. While it may not offer the most extravagant perks, it’s a stepping stone to greater rewards. Silver members enjoy:

• Member Discounts: Gain access to exclusive member-only discounts on select hotels, potentially saving you a significant amount on your accommodations.
• Price Guarantee: Rest assured that you’re getting the best deal with Orbitz’s Price Guarantee, which refunds the difference if you find a lower price elsewhere.

Gold Status

Earned after staying 12 nights in a year, Gold status unlocks a host of additional benefits to enhance your travel experience:

• All Silver Benefits: Enjoy all the perks of Silver status, including member discounts and the Price Guarantee.
• VIP Access Properties: Access a curated selection of top-rated hotels with exceptional amenities and service.
• $50 Orbuck Reimbursement: Get reimbursed up to $50 in Orbucks annually for travel incidentals like baggage fees or seat upgrades.

Platinum Status

The pinnacle of Orbitz Rewards, Platinum status is attained after staying 24 nights in a year. As a Platinum member, you’ll enjoy the most exclusive benefits, including:

• All Gold Benefits: Enjoy all the perks of Gold status, including VIP Access properties and the Orbuck reimbursement.
• Free TSA Precheck: Receive a code to cover the $85 application fee for TSA Precheck, expediting your security screening process.
• Room Upgrades: Get complimentary room upgrades at VIP Access properties whenever available, adding a touch of luxury to your stay.
• Priority Customer Support: Receive priority attention from Orbitz customer support for any inquiries or assistance you may need.

Johnny Jet Expert Opinion

Travel expert, Johnny Jet, emphasizes the value of achieving Gold or Platinum status for frequent travelers. “The $50 Orbuck reimbursement and free TSA Precheck alone can offset the cost of annual membership fees for many travelers,” he notes. “Plus, the additional perks like room upgrades and priority support can significantly enhance your overall travel experience.”

The Best Credit Cards for Booking on Orbitz

While Orbitz offers its own rewards program, savvy travelers can supercharge their savings by using the right credit card for their bookings. Here are three top contenders that offer excellent value for Orbitz purchases:

1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a perennial favorite among travel enthusiasts, and for good reason. It offers a generous welcome bonus, flexible points redemption options, and valuable travel protections.

Here’s how it shines for Orbitz bookings:

Earn 2x Points on Travel: Earn double points on all travel purchases, including flights, hotels, and rental cars booked through Orbitz. This can quickly add up to significant rewards.

Transfer Points to Partners: Transfer your Chase Ultimate Rewards® points to a variety of airline and hotel partners at a 1:1 ratio, potentially unlocking even greater value for your points.

Travel Protections: Enjoy benefits like trip cancellation/interruption insurance, primary rental car insurance, and lost luggage reimbursement, providing peace of mind during your travels.

4.2 Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

The Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card is a no-annual-fee option that offers a straightforward rewards structure and valuable perks for budget-conscious travelers.

Here’s what it brings to the table for Orbitz bookings:

Earn 1.5x Points on All Purchases: Earn a flat 1.5 points per dollar spent on all purchases, including Orbitz bookings.

No Foreign Transaction Fees: Avoid pesky fees when booking international travel through Orbitz.

Redeem for Travel Statement Credits: Redeem your points for statement credits towards travel purchases, including flights, hotels, and more.

3. The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Platinum Card® from American Express is a premium travel card that comes with a hefty annual fee but offers an array of luxurious benefits and travel credits.

Here’s how it can elevate your Orbitz experience:

Earn 5x Points on Flights Booked Directly with Airlines or on Amex Travel: Although Orbitz bookings may not earn the highest rate, you can still earn a respectable number of Membership Rewards® points on your travel purchases.

$200 Airline Fee Credit: Receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year for incidental airline fees, such as baggage fees or seat upgrades, potentially offsetting the cost of your Orbitz flights.

$200 Hotel Credit: Enjoy up to $200 in statement credits each year on prepaid bookings at Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection properties through American Express Travel, which can be combined with Orbitz hotel deals for extra savings.

Airport Lounge Access: Access a global network of airport lounges, providing a relaxing retreat before your flight.

The Points Guy Expert Opinion

Travel expert, The Points Guy, founder of the popular travel blog The Points Guy, suggests choosing a credit card based on your individual spending habits and travel preferences. “If you’re a frequent traveler, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card’s bonus categories and transfer partners can provide immense value. For those seeking simplicity and no annual fee, the Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card is a solid choice. And if you value premium perks and travel credits, The Platinum Card® from American Express is worth considering despite its higher annual fee.”

How to Save Money on Orbitz

Orbitz can be a treasure trove for budget-conscious travelers, but it takes a little savvy to unlock its full potential for savings. Here are some tried-and-true strategies to help you score the best deals and stretch your travel budget further:

1. Use CashbackMonitor to Stack and Earn Cash Back/Travel Rewards

Don’t leave money on the table! Before booking on Orbitz, check CashbackMonitor to see if any cash back or travel rewards portals are offering bonuses for Orbitz purchases.

By clicking through these portals before you book, you can earn additional rewards on top of your Orbucks and credit card points. It’s a simple way to stack your savings and get more value for your money.

2. Comparison Shop and Use Orbitz’s Price Guarantee

While Orbitz often offers competitive prices, it’s always wise to compare rates with other travel agencies and airline or hotel websites.

If you find a lower price for the same itinerary elsewhere, Orbitz’s Price Guarantee can come to the rescue.

If you find a lower price on a flight, hotel, or vacation package within 24 hours of booking or before midnight the day before travel, Orbitz will refund the difference.

This gives you the confidence to book through Orbitz knowing you’re getting the best possible deal.

3. Use Orbitz Coupon Codes

Orbitz frequently releases coupon codes for discounts on flights, hotels, and vacation packages.

Before finalizing your booking, do a quick search for “Orbitz coupon codes” to see if any current promotions can be applied to your reservation.

You can often find these codes on the Orbitz website, social media channels, or through email newsletters.

4. Browse the Orbitz Deals Page

Orbitz has a dedicated deals page that showcases current promotions, discounts, and last-minute deals.

This is a great resource for finding affordable travel options and discovering hidden gems.

Be sure to check this page regularly for the latest offers and inspiration for your next adventure.

Orbitz Cancellation and Refund Policies

Life happens, and sometimes travel plans need to change. Orbitz understands this, and while their cancellation and refund policies can vary depending on the specific booking, here’s a general overview to help you navigate the process:

1. How to Cancel a Reservation

Canceling a reservation on Orbitz is typically straightforward. You can usually do so online through your Orbitz account or by contacting their customer service. Here’s how:

Online Cancellation: Log into your Orbitz account and find your itinerary under “My Trips.” Click on the “Cancel” button next to the relevant booking and follow the instructions.

Customer Service: If you encounter any issues or prefer to speak with a representative, you can contact Orbitz customer service by phone or chat. Be sure to have your booking confirmation number handy.

2. Refund Eligibility

Refund eligibility depends on several factors, including:

Type of Booking: Different types of bookings, such as flights, hotels, and vacation packages, have varying cancellation policies. Some bookings may be non-refundable, while others may allow for free cancellation within a certain timeframe.

Fare Type: The fare type you choose when booking a flight can also affect your refund eligibility. Some fares may be refundable for a fee, while others may be entirely non-refundable.

Time of Cancellation: Cancelling closer to the travel date often results in higher cancellation fees or no refund at all.

Johnny Jet Expert Tip

Travel expert, Johnny Jet, advises carefully reviewing the cancellation policy before booking any travel on Orbitz. “Pay attention to any restrictions or deadlines for cancellations,” he says. “If you’re unsure about your travel plans, consider booking refundable options or purchasing travel insurance for added peace of mind.”

Orbitz generally processes refunds within 7-10 business days, although it may take longer for certain bookings. Be sure to check your original payment method for the credited amount.

How to Contact Orbitz: Get the Help You Need

Orbitz understands that travel can be unpredictable, and questions or issues may arise before, during, or after your trip. To ensure you have the support you need, they offer several customer service channels to assist you:

1. Customer Service Channels

Phone: The most direct way to get help is by calling Orbitz customer service at 1 (800) ORBITZ8 (1-800-672-4898). This is particularly helpful for urgent matters or complex inquiries.

Live Chat: If you prefer a text-based interaction, Orbitz offers live chat support on their website. Look for the chat icon in the bottom corner of the screen to connect with a representative. This option is great for quick questions and real-time assistance.

Social Media: Orbitz maintains an active presence on social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook. While not a direct substitute for dedicated customer service, reaching out through these channels can sometimes yield a quicker response for general inquiries or concerns.

Help Center: Orbitz’s online Help Center provides a wealth of information on various topics, including bookings, cancellations, refunds, and account management. You may find answers to your questions without needing to contact customer service directly.

Johnny Jet Expert Tip

Travel expert, Johnny Jet, advises contacting Orbitz customer service as soon as possible if you encounter any issues with your booking. “Promptly addressing any problems can often lead to faster resolutions and a smoother travel experience,” he suggests.

Drawbacks to Booking Travel on Orbitz

While Orbitz offers numerous advantages for travelers, it’s important to be aware of some potential drawbacks before making your final booking decision:

1. Limitations of the Rewards Program

Expiration of Orbucks: Orbucks, the currency of the Orbitz Rewards program, expire one year after they are earned. This means you need to use them within that timeframe or risk losing them. While this policy encourages frequent travel, it can be frustrating for those who travel less often.

Limited Redemption Options: Orbucks can only be redeemed for discounts on hotel bookings, excluding flights, rental cars, and other travel products. This limits the flexibility of the rewards program and may not suit the needs of all travelers.

No Elite Status Perks on Partner Bookings: If you book travel through Orbitz with a partner airline or hotel, you may not be eligible for your usual elite status benefits, such as free breakfast, late checkout, or upgrades.

2. Potential for Higher Prices Compared to Booking Directly

Markups and Fees: Online travel agencies like Orbitz sometimes add markups or fees to their prices, which can make their offerings slightly more expensive than booking directly with the airline or hotel. It’s always wise to compare prices across different platforms before finalizing your reservation.

Limited Flexibility: When you book through Orbitz, you’re essentially entering into a contract with them, not directly with the airline or hotel. This can sometimes make it more difficult to make changes or cancellations to your itinerary, as you’ll need to go through Orbitz instead of dealing directly with the provider.

Johnny Jet Expert Opinion

Travel expert, Johnny Jet, acknowledges these limitations but emphasizes that Orbitz can still be a valuable tool for many travelers. “Orbitz’s strengths lie in its comprehensive selection, convenient booking process, and Price Guarantee,” he says. “If you’re willing to be mindful of the rewards program’s limitations and compare prices before booking, Orbitz can be a great option for finding deals and planning your next adventure.”

FAQs

Q: Is Orbitz a reputable travel agency?

Yes, Orbitz is a well-established and reputable online travel agency (OTA). They are a subsidiary of Expedia Group, a leading global travel company, and have been operating since 2001.

Q: Is it safe to book through Orbitz?

Yes, Orbitz uses secure encryption technology to protect your personal and financial information. They are a trusted platform with a proven track record of facilitating safe and secure travel bookings.

Q: Does Orbitz offer 24/7 customer support?

Yes, Orbitz offers customer support through various channels, including phone and chat, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Their dedicated team is available to assist with any inquiries or issues you may encounter.

Q: Can I book group travel on Orbitz?

Yes, Orbitz offers group travel booking options for flights and hotels. Contact their group travel specialists for personalized assistance and group discounts.

Q: Does Orbitz charge any booking fees?

Orbitz itself does not typically charge booking fees. However, some airlines or hotels may have their own fees, which will be clearly disclosed during the booking process.

Q: Can I cancel my Orbitz booking for a refund?

The cancellation and refund policy for Orbitz bookings depends on the specific airline, hotel, or provider. Some bookings may be non-refundable, while others may allow for free cancellations within a certain timeframe or charge a cancellation fee. It’s essential to review the cancellation policy carefully before booking.

Q: Does Orbitz offer travel insurance?

Yes, Orbitz offers various travel insurance options that can protect you from unexpected events, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage. Consider purchasing travel insurance for added peace of mind during your travels.

Q: Are the prices on Orbitz the same as booking directly with the airline or hotel?

While Orbitz strives to offer competitive prices, it’s possible that booking directly with the airline or hotel may sometimes yield a lower price. It’s always recommended to compare prices across different platforms before finalizing your booking.

The Bottom Line

Orbitz can be a valuable asset for travelers seeking convenience, a wide range of options, and competitive prices.

Their rewards program, Orbucks, offers additional value, while the Price Guarantee ensures you’re getting the best deal possible.

However, it’s important to be mindful of the limitations of the rewards program and compare prices with other platforms before booking.