For avid travelers and occasional vacationers alike, savings and perks can significantly enhance the travel experience. One of the biggest names in the online travel booking industry, Expedia, offers a loyalty program designed to do just that. Let’s delve into the world of Expedia Rewards and uncover how you can use it as a roadmap to incredible travel discounts and perks.
Understanding Expedia Rewards
Expedia Rewards is a free loyalty program that allows members to earn points on bookings, which can later be redeemed for travel discounts. Not just confined to hotel bookings, you can earn points on flights, car rentals, and activities too.
Earning Points: The Basics
- Sign Up for Free: Start by creating an account on Expedia's website or app. Once registered, ensure you're logged in every time you make a booking.
- Bookings Translate to Points:
- Hotels, Vacation Packages, Activities: Earn 2 points for every $1 spent.
- Flights: Earn points based on the ticket price.
- Car Rentals: Points vary based on the rental agency and booking price.
- Bonus Points: Use the Expedia app to book and you'll earn double the points!
Loyalty Tiers and Their Perks
Expedia Rewards offers three loyalty tiers: Blue, Silver, and Gold. As you move up the tiers, you unlock more benefits.
- Blue (Entry Level):
- Access to member-only deals and bonus offers.
- Use points to book for others.
- Silver (7+ Qualifying Hotel Nights):
- All the benefits of Blue, plus:
- 10% more points on hotel and car rentals.
- Free breakfasts and spa credits at VIP Access hotels.
- Dedicated customer service.
- Gold (15+ Qualifying Hotel Nights):
- All the benefits of Silver, plus:
- 30% more points on bookings.
- Room upgrades at VIP Access hotels.
Redeeming Points
The beauty of Expedia Rewards lies in its flexibility:
- No Blackout Dates: Redeem your points whenever you want.
- Combo Power: Points can be used in combination with promotional codes and coupons.
- Pay Now or Later: Use your points to book a hotel now or apply them later at checkout.
- Mix & Match: You're not confined to using points for what you earned them on. Earned on a hotel but want to redeem on a flight? Go ahead!
Getting the Most Out of Expedia Rewards
- Stay Updated: Regularly check the 'Deals' section of Expedia. There are often member-only deals and seasonal offers.
- Bundle & Save: Book flight + hotel or flight + car together to access deeper discounts.
- Expedia Rewards Marketplace: Occasionally, Expedia allows you to earn extra points through shopping with their partners.
- VIP Access Hotels: Prioritize booking these to benefit from the extra perks if you're Silver or Gold.
Conclusion
Traveling is a delightful experience, and with Expedia Rewards, it becomes even more rewarding. By understanding the program's structure and strategically earning and redeeming points, travelers can access significant savings and perks. So, the next time wanderlust hits, let Expedia’s loyalty program guide you towards more affordable and enjoyable adventures. Safe travels!
