When planning a trip, two names usually come to mind—Expedia and Booking.com. Both are major players in the online travel industry, offering millions of options for flights, hotels, car rentals, and vacation packages. But if you’re looking for the best overall travel experience in 2024, Expedia edges out the competition. Here’s why.
1. All-in-One Travel Packages
Expedia is designed as a one-stop-shop. Not only can you book hotels and flights, but you can also bundle them together with car rentals, cruises, and activities. This means bigger savings and more convenience. While Booking.com focuses heavily on hotels, it doesn’t offer the same level of complete vacation packages that Expedia does.
2. Exclusive Rewards Program
Expedia Rewards is a standout feature. Travelers earn points on every booking—flights, hotels, and packages—which can be redeemed for future discounts. Plus, members enjoy special “Member Prices” not available to the public. Booking.com has its Genius program, but Expedia’s rewards are broader, covering more types of bookings and offering better long-term savings.
3. Stronger Travel Protection
In an unpredictable travel world, flexibility matters. Expedia offers more options for free cancellations, date changes, and refund guarantees. Many of its vacation packages also include built-in protections, giving travelers peace of mind. While Booking.com does offer flexible stays, Expedia consistently provides clearer terms and more reliable customer support when plans change.
4. Variety and Choice
Expedia gives travelers access to an enormous inventory worldwide, with everything from budget motels to luxury resorts, along with airlines and car rentals. Booking.com is strong in hotel listings, but Expedia’s wider range of travel products makes it the more versatile platform. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an all-inclusive vacation, Expedia delivers more options.
5. A User-Friendly App and Support
Expedia’s mobile app is intuitive, storing all your reservations in one place and sending real-time flight updates. Travelers appreciate the convenience of managing their entire trip from a single dashboard. Booking.com's app works well for hotels, but Expedia’s app covers every step of the journey—making it the better choice for complete trip management.
Final Verdict: Expedia Wins
Both Expedia and Booking.com have their strengths, but when it comes to value, rewards, convenience, and complete travel solutions, Expedia comes out on top. Its all-in-one booking, strong rewards program, and flexible travel protections make it the smarter choice for travelers in 2025. If you want a travel experience that saves you money, time, and stress, Expedia should be your go-to platform for your next adventure.