Hotwire has some of the best prices on the Internet, if you are willing to take a shot in the dark and not know the time you’re flying or the airline you’re on. According to Hotwire, sometimes their prices are so low the airlines are embarrassed to publish them, so you reap the benefits, if you’re daring.

Hotwire also offers the traditional “published” fares that many other travel websites have access. Hotels, cars and cruises can all be booked through Hotwire’s services. They charge a $6.00 service fee for all reservations booked. Unlike many other travel websites Hotwire does not charge a fee for paper tickets or itinerary changes. If you require either one your fees will be charged by the airline, not Hotwire. Most airlines charge about $25 dollars for paper tickets and $100 dollars for schedule changes.

Adequate booking options are available; however, Hotwire does not allow you to narrow your search to specifics like flight cabin, preferred airline or hotel amenities. Additionally, Hotwire doesn’t allow for any car rental search specifics. For example, if you would like to rent mid–size vehicles from Budget only, you would have to sort through the list manually.

There is a small information section about cruising. Unfortunately, this is the only travel resource Hotwire provides. This is strictly a booking service. They do not include travel news or information, weather reports, travel guides or the ability to check flight status.