When it’s time to book a hotel, you’re usually faced with two options: go directly to the hotel’s website or book through a third-party platform like Expedia or Booking.com. Each path has its perks—and pitfalls. So which one actually gives you the better deal?

Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each approach, plus guidance on when it makes sense to use one over the other.

Benefits of Booking Direct with the Hotel

1. Access to Loyalty Program Perks
   Major hotel chains like Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, and World of Hyatt only offer points, elite night credits, and perks like room upgrades and free breakfast when you book directly.

If you’re working toward elite status or want to enjoy those loyalty benefits during your stay, booking direct is essential.

1. Better Customer Service and Flexibility
   When you book through the hotel itself, resolving issues—such as room changes, cancellations, or check-in requests—is typically faster and smoother. Hotels have more control over your reservation and are more likely to prioritize direct guests during overbookings.

2. Exclusive Member Rates
   Hotels often provide discounted rates to loyalty members that aren’t available on third-party booking platforms. These “member-only” rates can save 5–10% off the standard nightly rate and may also come with added perks.

3. Eligibility for Gift Card and Cashback Stacking
   When you book direct, you can pay using a hotel gift card purchased from a cashback platform like Fluz. For example, earn cashback with a Hilton gift card or buy a Marriott gift card online and apply it directly at checkout. You’ll still earn loyalty points and get all the direct-booking perks.

Advantages of Third-Party Booking Platforms

1. Price Comparison Across Brands
   Sites like Booking.com, Expedia, and Hotels.com allow you to quickly compare prices across multiple hotel brands and locations. If you’re not loyal to one chain, this helps find the cheapest available option fast.

2. Bundling Options for Bigger Discounts
   You can often save money by bundling hotel stays with flights or car rentals through third-party sites. This is ideal for vacation packages or extended travel where you want convenience and an upfront cost breakdown.

3. Alternative Accommodation Types
   Many third-party sites also list boutique hotels, independent properties, or short-term vacation rentals not available on chain websites.

4. Flexible Booking with No Account Needed
   If you don’t want to sign up for a loyalty program or create multiple logins, third-party sites allow guest checkouts and may offer flexible cancellation options for a broader range of properties.

When to Book Direct:

• You’re staying with a major brand and want loyalty points

• You have a hotel gift card to use

• You want the option to request upgrades or early check-in

• You value responsive customer service

When to Use a Third-Party Platform:

• You’re comparing a wide range of hotels in an unfamiliar location

• You’re bundling with a flight or car rental

• You’re booking a boutique or independent hotel

Conclusion

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—your choice depends on your priorities. If you’re loyal to a hotel chain or want to unlock extra perks and savings, booking direct is often the smarter option. And when you layer that with cashback tools like Fluz to get rewards with a Hyatt gift card, the savings can stack fast. But if flexibility, broad comparison, or bundling is what you need, a trusted third-party site may serve you better.

Either way, knowing the pros and cons puts you in control of the experience—and your budget.