Trip.com often pops up as a top choice for cheap flights and hotel deals, but with prices that sometimes seem too good to be true, many travelers are left wondering, “Is Trip.com legit?“.
In this blog post, we’ll explore Trip.com’s pricing, review what users are saying, and look at some safer alternatives, helping you make a smart choice for your next journey.
Key Takeaways
- Trip.com is a global travel booking platform based in China, offering services like flights, hotels,…across over 39 countries.
- Trip.com offers lower prices on flights and accommodations compared to other travel sites.
- Trip.com’s customer service, many have faced issues with cancellations, refunds, and booking confirmations.
- For those seeking more reliable booking platforms, alternatives like Traveloka, Agoda, Klook, Booking.com, and Expedia are recommended for their strong customer support and transparent policies.
Who Is Trip.Com?
Trip.com is a global online travel agency to help you plan and book your perfect trips. This service includes flights, hotels, car rentals, and train tickets. The company was founded in 1999 in Shanghai, China.
Today, Trip.com is available in 24 languages and serves customers in over 39 countries and regions. It provides access to over 1.2 million hotels in more than 200 countries and regions. This allows users to find competitive prices and convenient options for their travel needs, making Trip.com a popular choice for both leisure and business travelers.
Trip.com Reviews for 2024
Though Trip.com has a range of travel services, it’s important to read reviews and check customer experiences before booking to ensure a smooth journey:
1. Interface
Trip.com’s website and app are generally liked by users because they’re easy to use. Many people find the layout simple and clear, making it straightforward to search for flights, hotels, and other travel services.
The mobile app is also praised for being convenient, letting travelers book their trips quickly while on the go. Many users find the app’s features, like filtering options and the ability to customize bookings, very helpful for managing their travel plans efficiently .
However, some users have experienced slow loading times and occasional glitches. So, it can be frustrating to book something quickly.
2. Pricing
One of the main reasons people choose Trip.com is the low prices on flights and hotels. Many travelers have found that booking through Trip.com is cheaper compared to other travel sites. It often has deals and discounts, which are a big draw for those looking to travel on a budget.
However, there are some complaints about hidden fees. Some users have noticed that the final price at checkout is higher than what was first shown. It can be annoying and feels a bit misleading.
3. Customer Service
Some travelers report good experiences, saying the customer service team is quick to respond and helpful in sorting out issues. This is especially important when you’re traveling and need answers fast.
However, most users have given positive feedback, especially when trying to change or cancel bookings. Some people have found it hard to get in touch with customer service or felt that their issues weren’t handled well.
4. Points of Caution
Though many people have good experiences booking through Trip.com, there are some things to be careful about. The biggest problem is their cancellation policies.
Some users have had trouble canceling or changing bookings, especially when the bookings are marked as non-refundable or non-changeable. This can lead to unexpected costs and a lot of frustration if you’re not aware of the rules.
There are some reports of poor communication, like bookings not being confirmed properly, which can lead to problems like showing up at a hotel and finding out there’s no reservation.
Can I Trust Trip.Com To Book Cheap Flights In Singapore?
No, you cannot fully trust Trip.com to book cheap flights in Singapore. Trip.com is not a member of any major travel protection groups like ATOL in the UK or similar organizations in the US and Europe. So, if something goes wrong with your booking, you might not have the support or protection.
Common problems include slow responses, long waits for refunds, and not being informed about changes to flights. In some cases, travelers have found that their flights weren’t even booked properly, even though they were told everything was confirmed. It also takes a long time to give refunds, sometimes weeks or even months, even if the airline has already approved the refund.
Can I Trust Trip.Com To Book Hotels In Singapore?
No, it’s not recommended to trust Trip.com for booking hotels in Singapore. Many users have reported that after booking a hotel through Trip.com, they arrived to find that the hotel had no record of their reservation. In some cases, they even discovered that the hotel was no longer in operation, leaving them with nowhere to stay.
Users often find that Trip.com’s customer service is not very helpful. If there’s an issue with your booking, getting quick help can be tough. Some users have felt misled by Trip.com’s prices and deals. Sometimes the advertised price isn’t what you end up paying because of hidden fees or changes that aren’t clear at the time of booking. This can make the final cost much higher than expected.
5 Best Trip.com Alternatives For Safe Flights
If you’re looking for more reliable and trustworthy alternatives to Trip.com for booking flights, here are five options that have positive reviews for their user experience, pricing, and customer service:
1. Traveloka
Traveloka is an Indonesian-based online travel agency that has become a popular choice across Southeast Asia. People unusually search for flights, hotels, and other travel services within competitive pricing, especially in Asia.
It frequently runs promotions and discounts that appeal to budget-conscious travelers. Traveloka is well-rated for its user-friendly interface and simple booking process. Many users appreciate the straightforward navigation and the ability to book flights and accommodations quickly and easily.
Customers highlight Traveloka’s 24/7 customer support and the convenience of managing bookings through their app. The platform is known for its clear pricing with no hidden fees.
2. Agoda
Agoda’s headquarter is based in Singapore. This is a popular online travel agency known for offering a wide range of accommodations and flights around the world.
Agoda provides competitive rates, particularly for last-minute bookings. They have many payment options and discounts, which can make travel more affordable.
Agoda has positive reviews for its transparency in pricing and a straightforward booking process. It is favored by many travelers for its diverse selection of accommodations and reliable customer service.
Users enjoy Agoda’s easy-to-use platform and the ability to filter search results by preferences like price, location, and amenities. The mobile app is also well-rated for on-the-go bookings.
3. Klook
Klook is a Hong Kong travel and activity booking platform. It has recently expanded to include flight bookings, offering a comprehensive travel solution. Klook often provides good deals, especially when bundling flights with other activities. They offer unique discounts that can make your trip cheaper.
Klook is highly rated for its focus on travel activities and experiences. Users like the detailed information and reviews for each listing. The Klook app and website are easy to navigate, making it simple to book flights and activities. They also have good customer service, which is helpful if you need to change or cancel bookings.
4. Booking.com
Booking.com is a global leader in travel services, best known for its hotel booking. It often has exclusive member deals that can save you money on flights and hotels.
Users love the flexibility Booking.com offers, including easy cancellations and modifications. The site also provides detailed information on each listing, which helps in making informed decisions.
5. Expedia
Expedia is a travel booking site from the USA that offers a full range of travel services, including flights, hotels, and vacation packages. It is known for good prices, especially when you book flights and hotels together. They often run promotions that help you save even more.
Expedia’s website is user-friendly, with filters to help you find the best deals. Their customer support is well-rated, providing help through various channels. This is perfect for travelers looking for a reliable platform with a wide range of travel services and a robust rewards program.
How To Use TurisVPN To Protect Your Privacy During Flight Booking?
Steps to Use TurisVPN for Safe Flight Booking
- Download and Install TurisVPN: Visit the TurisVPN website and download the VPN app for your device. Install the app and create an account if you haven’t already.
- Connect to a Secure Server: Open the TurisVPN app and choose a server in a country that’s known for offering lower flight prices or one that matches the currency you want to pay in.
- Start Your Search: Go to your preferred flight booking site and search for flights. You may notice different prices depending on the server location you chose.
- Complete Your Booking Safely: Once you find a flight, proceed with the booking process as usual. Your connection remains encrypted and your personal data secure thanks to TurisVPN.
Bottom Line
Trip.com has a cheaper price and a user-friendly interface, but there have been a lot of complaints about their customer service, especially regarding cancellations and refunds.
For travelers looking for reliable and trustworthy alternatives, other platforms like Traveloka, Agoda, Klook, Booking.com, and Expedia. It provides safer options with better customer support and transparent policies.
If you choose to book with Trip.com or any other online travel agency, using TurisVPN can help protect your privacy and ensure a secure booking experience.
FAQs
Q1. Is Trip.com Legit?
Yes, Trip.com is a legitimate travel booking website. It is one of the largest online travel agencies globally, offering various services like flights, hotels, and car rentals. However, while it is a real company, some users have reported issues with customer service, cancellations, and refunds, so it’s essential to read reviews and understand their policies before booking.
Q2. Is Trip.com a Chinese Company?
Yes, Trip.com is a Chinese company. It was originally founded as Ctrip in 1999 in Shanghai, China. The company later rebranded its international business as Trip.com to appeal to a global market. Trip.com Group owns several travel-related websites, including Skyscanner and Qunar, making it one of the leading travel service providers worldwide.
