Can You Trust CheapOair for Your Travel Plans?

When it comes to booking flights online, finding the best deal can feel like a game of chance. With so many travel booking websites promising the lowest fares, it’s easy to wonder which platforms are trustworthy and which ones might leave you stranded.

 

One traveler, Donna, recently asked consumer investigator Dale Cardwell whether CheapOair—a popular online booking site—was a legitimate option for purchasing airline tickets. The short answer? Yes, CheapOair is a real company that can sometimes offer competitive prices. But as with any travel booking platform, there are important caveats to consider before clicking “confirm.”

 

Let’s break down what travelers need to know about CheapOair, including customer experiences, pricing trends, and potential pitfalls.

 

What Is CheapOair?

CheapOair operates as an independent travel booking website that aggregates fares from hundreds of airlines, hotels, car rental companies, and cruise lines. Similar to competitors like Priceline, Expedia, and Orbitz, CheapOair’s search engine helps users compare prices across multiple providers to find the best deal.

 

While CheapOair does offer legitimate flight bookings, it differs from other platforms in a few key ways:

  • It is not part of a larger travel conglomerate. Many travel booking sites are owned by major parent companies (e.g., Expedia owns Travelocity and Orbitz), which can sometimes provide more seamless customer service across brands. CheapOair operates independently.
  • Its best deals are often on international flights. Some studies have found that CheapOair occasionally beats competitors on international airfare, but it is not consistently the lowest-priced option across all routes.
  • Many bookings are non-refundable. Travelers should be aware that CheapOair’s tickets often come with strict no-refund policies, making flexibility a concern.

The Biggest Complaints: Fees and Customer Service

While CheapOair has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) for its responsiveness to complaints, customer reviews tell a different story. The company holds a one-star average rating on the BBB website, with frequent complaints about hidden fees, refund difficulties, and customer service challenges.

 

Here are the most common complaints from travelers:

  • High cancellation and change fees: Many CheapOair tickets are non-refundable, and if you need to alter your reservation, you may face hefty penalties. Some users report paying hundreds of dollars in fees when trying to change flights.
  • Difficult customer service experiences: Numerous reviewers mention long hold times and unhelpful agents when trying to resolve booking issues.
  • Higher prices when booking by phone: CheapOair’s website often displays lower fares, but if you book over the phone, you might be charged additional fees. Always double-check before confirming a purchase.

How to Protect Yourself When Using CheapOair

If you’re considering booking through CheapOair, here are a few tips to ensure a smoother experience:

  • Compare Prices Across Multiple Websites – CheapOair may have good deals, but no site is consistently the cheapest. Check Google Flights, Kayak, and airline websites directly to compare.
  • Read the Fine Print Before Booking – Make sure you understand the refund and cancellation policies before purchasing. Many of the best fares come with restrictions.
  • Book Directly with Airlines When Possible – If CheapOair’s price isn’t significantly lower, consider booking directly with the airline. This can simplify changes and cancellations.
  • Use a Credit Card for Extra Protection – If you run into issues with a booking, credit card companies often provide better dispute resolution than debit cards or direct bank transfers.

Final Verdict: Should You Use CheapOair?

CheapOair is a legitimate travel booking website, and in some cases, it may offer slightly better fares than competitors, especially on international flights. However, the trade-offs include limited flexibility, high fees for changes, and a track record of customer service complaints.

 

For travelers who are confident in their plans and don’t anticipate needing adjustments, CheapOair can be a money-saving tool. But for those who prioritize flexibility and reliable customer support, booking directly with an airline or through a more well-reviewed travel site may be the smarter choice.

Have you ever booked a flight through CheapOair? What was your experience like? Let us know in the comments!

 

For more consumer insights and trusted recommendations, visit TrustDALE.com.