Hotwire.com

Hotwire.com is one of the best sites on the Web for discount travel. One of the best features of this website is that it maintains its own database of flight, hotel, car and cruise deals. In a recent survey of travelers, Hotwire took the lead over Orbitz, Travelocity and Expedia in overall customer satisfaction. Hotwire offers further discounts if you choose one of its clearance fares.

Though you may not know the airline, departure time or hotel name until after you book, you can end up saving $100 or more. If you are willing to be a little flexible in your travel plans, Hotwire is more likely to get you the fares that fit in your budget. Unlike the similar Name Your Own Price service offered by Priceline.com, Hotwire shows prices and other details up front. Unfortunately, customers do not have any option of refunds or changes. However, Hotwire offers more traditional booking options, where the customer can select the exact flight, hotel, or car.

Hotwire is an operating company of Expedia, Inc. an Internet-based travel agency based in Bellevue, Washington. Hotwire's partners allow them to advertise their unsold inventory - empty seats on flights, empty hotel rooms, and unrented cars. Hotwire guarantees that "you won't find a lower price anywhere else, or we'll pay you double the difference."