Why Is Trip.com So Cheap? 7 Reasons for Its Low Prices

"Trip.com is cheap, but is it reliable?"
"With prices this low, there's bound to be a reason..."

When comparing flight and hotel booking sites, Trip.com’s low prices can be surprising and may give you pause. Yet rest assured: there is a perfectly legitimate reason behind these great savings.

In this article, we’ll explore in detail seven reasons why Trip.com can offer such low prices. Use Trip.com to set off on your next trip and enjoy better value every step of the way!

7 reasons why Trip.com is so affordable

Reason 1. You save on service fees

Trip.com receives a commission from the airlines and hotels we partner with, based on customers’ bookings. As a portion of these fees is appropriately passed on, we’re able to offer bookings at low prices.

Please note that Trip.com operates on a model where revenue increases as more bookings are made through the official website or app. Therefore, if you want to make the most of your budget, it’s cheaper to book directly through Trip.com rather than through other travel agencies.

Reason 2. The power of bulk buying

At Trip.com, we secure blocks of airline seats and hotel rooms. By doing so, we can obtain them at prices lower than the usual rates, and we pass part of these savings on to our customers.

Thanks to this model, airlines and hotels can sell their inventory, and Trip.com can offer discounted prices. This win-win setup is a major reason our prices are so low.

Reason 3. Global Membership, direct savings

As of September 2025, Trip.com has more than 400 million members, making it one of the largest in the world. This immense member base drives a huge volume of bookings, securing stable commission income that can be passed back to customers, creating a virtuous cycle.

Reason 4. Lower overheads, better prices

Trip.com is an online booking site with no physical branches. We have offices around the world, including Tokyo, New York, Sydney, Hong Kong and Seoul.

However, we don’t run any shops in town. That way we can significantly cut fixed costs such as premises and staffing, and pass those savings on in the form of more competitive prices.

Reason 5. AI-Optimised pricing in real time

Trip.com is said to have introduced an AI-powered price optimisation system. This approach, known as ‘dynamic pricing’, uses AI to analyse data such as supply and demand, time, and inventory, automatically setting the optimal price.

By harnessing cutting-edge AI to set prices in real time, we achieve a pricing edge over our competitors.

Reason 6. Bundle and save on flights and hotels

On Trip.com, booking your flights and hotel as a package can unlock substantial savings. For instance, hotel-only bookings are more prone to cancellation, whereas package bookings typically see lower cancellation rates. With the risk of losses from cancellations reduced, we’re able to offer lower prices.

What’s more, by taking into account the risk of unsold inventory, we can offer prices close to cost. We’ve adopted selling methods that translate into lower prices for package bookings.

Reason 7. Exclusive deals from global partnerships

At Trip.com, we actively team up with national tourism boards and airlines around the world to run joint campaigns. Starting with a Korea-support campaign in collaboration with the Korea Tourism Organization, we’re rolling out promotions in partnership with the tourism boards of Taiwan and countries across Southeast Asia.

In these partnership campaigns, by tapping into subsidies and promotional budgets from tourism boards, it becomes possible to offer unbeatable prices that competitors struggle to match. This is a key factor underpinning Trip.com’s low prices.

Beyond low prices: Why Trip.com is also reliable

1. 24/7 global support, always on

At Trip.com, we provide round-the-clock customer service, 24 hours a day, every day of the year. With dedicated English-language support available 24/7/365, you can travel with confidence knowing help is always on hand—even if the unexpected arises during your trip.

We also respond to enquiries via chat and through the app, and have built a support system tailored to the diverse needs of our users.

Please note that call charges may apply for international calls.

2. Unmatched choice: A vast travel network

At Trip.com, we have a network covering flights from over 600 airlines and more than 1.7 million hotels. Thanks to this extensive partner network, you can find the perfect accommodation for any destination worldwide.

From major chain hotels to hidden local gems, we offer a wide range of choices. You can tailor your ideal travel plan to suit your budget and preferences.

Cheap trips made easy: Top destinations on Trip.com

1. Seoul

Seoul, South Korea’s capital, has become a go-to overseas destination for UK travellers thanks to the K-pop boom. In Myeong-dong, enjoy shopping for cosmetics and fashion items, and in Hongdae, experience the latest café culture.

Of course, there’s authentic Korean cuisine, and there are plenty of foodie favourites like chicken and sweet treats, making it ideal for a leisurely food stroll. English is widely understood in tourist areas, and signage is clear, making it easy for UK visitors to explore with confidence.

2. Thailand

It’s a popular travel destination affectionately known as the “Land of Smiles”. Its golden, gleaming temples are a must-see. From authentic Thai dishes like Tom Yum Kung and Pad Thai to a wealth of street food, it’s a place that promises high satisfaction on the dining front. Renowned for its welcoming culture and hospitality, it's ideal for long stays and repeat visits. it’s wonderfully welcoming and ideal for long stays and repeat trips.