Cheapest UK Flights? Expedia vs Opodo Vs Ebookers Vs Lastminute
Getting multiple quotations from different airlines and online travel agents is essential in finding the cheapest flight. There is often considerable variation in airfares between airlines and major UK online travel agents such as Expedia, Travelocity, Opodo and Ebookers. |
Let's run a quick test for the UK market and compare flight prices for various routes for a 1 week fixed date economy class return in 2009. We will check fares on Expedia UK, Opodo, Lastminute.com (Travelocity), Ebookers and also double check the aggregator Kayak's UK site. All prices are in GBP sterling.
1. London to Rio, Brazil
| Expedia | £509 (Air France) |
| Opodo | £508 (Air France) |
| Lastminute | £520 (Air France) |
| Ebookers | £588 (TAP) |
2. Belfast to Los Angeles
| Expedia | £348 (Continental) |
| Opodo | £342 (Continental) |
| Lastminute | £419 (bmi / United) |
| Ebookers | £471 (British Airways) |
| Comments | Ebookers significantly more expensive in the first 2 cases. |
3. Manchester to New York City
| Expedia | £279 (KLM) |
| Opodo | £277 (KLM) |
| Lastminute | £279 (KLM) |
| Ebookers | £278 (KLM) |
4. London to Naples, Italy
| Expedia | £135 (British Airways) |
| Opodo | £126 (Easyjet) |
| Lastminute | £134 (Easyjet) |
| Ebookers | £122 (British Airways) |
| Comments | Kayak quotes a £117 fare with Easyjet. Note, Easyjet charges for check-in luggage - this is cheaper to buy online when booking directly with Easyjet. |
5. London to Bangkok
| Expedia | £421 (Etihad) |
| Opodo | £459 (Etihad) |
| Lastminute | £391 (Etihad) |
| Ebookers | £476 (Royal Jordanian) |
6. Glasgow to Mumbai
| Expedia | £375 (British Airways) |
| Opodo | £385 (British Airways) |
| Lastminute | £385 (British Airways) |
| Ebookers | £375 (Emirates) |
| Comments | Kayak brings back a £354 fare direct with British Airways. |
7. London to Sydney
| Expedia | £633 (Etihad) |
| Opodo | £633 (Etihad) |
| Lastminute | £638 (Etihad) |
| Ebookers | £635 (Etihad) |
Whilst this is only a quick test with no real statistical significance, this does illustrate the importance of getting multiple quotations from airlines, agents and consolidators. No single major agent can be said to be the cheapest - it depends on flight route, which airlines and alliances are in their system, whether they have any special deals available...
We always say here at AirTravelGenius, the more work you put into your flight search, the more likely you will find a lower fare.
If you want some great insider tips and strategies for flying first or business class on an economy budget, reducing your international airfare costs and the lowdown on airline upgrades then take a look at our Ultimate Airfares & Upgrades Guide.
Air Travel Articles > Flying Tips > Expedia v Opodo v Ebookers v Lastminute