[ANALYSIS] Orbitz Rewards Loyalty Program

One of the best ways to book a cheap flight is to look at intermediary websites (or online travel agencies) such as Priceline, Expedia, and one that I have been using recently, Orbitz. These websites not only cut down research time, but most of the time you’ll find great deals (if that’s what you’re looking for). If you use these websites often, Orbitz has introduced a loyalty program called the Orbitz Rewards.

Here’s some highlights of the program:

• There is no sign-up fee and you automatically become a silver member after application.
• You can earn 5% in Orbucks on qualifying hotels using their designated mobile app, or 3% otherwise.
• You can earn 1% with bookings on flights, cruises and vacation packages.
• Best Price Guarantee – if you find a lower price for your bookings, Orbitz will pay the difference in Orbucks up to $100.

The Orbitz Rewards loyalty program also offers $25 in Orbucks when you refer a friend. You can also double dip your rewards by earning Orbucks and your airline miles at the same time. For those who are unfamiliar with Orbitz Rewards, 1 Orbucks is equivalent to $1 USD.

This loyalty program becomes extremely attractive because the return rate is extremely high, you can easily generate enough Orbucks to use them for future bookings. The only drawback to this is, you become an exclusive member to Orbitz and their loyalty program.  I would love to see Orbitz change around their program a bit so that points become transferable. I mean, we don’t always book discounted flights and hotels.

I love the fact that you automatically become a Silver member, which entitles you to some member exclusive savings and benefits. There’s no blackout dates, so this becomes very flexible for people who need to book for specific dats.. And finally, your Orbucks never expire so you never have to worry about using them before they disappear.