Orbitz/Expedia/Hotwire etc "bargain fares"
I guess they all have it because they are all basically Expedia--
I don't generally book via travel agencies, but in this case was looking to have a 24 hour cancel policy for a close-in booking on AA.
Noticed an option for "Orbitz Bargain Fare" that was ~25% less than the next lowest fare. Billed as an opaque booking, with lots of restrictions.
My main question: Do these "bargain fares" have the 24 hour cancellation policies that most fares have? If not, is it because travel agencies don't have to follow the DOT rules the same way airlines do?
I suppose if 24 hour cancel is possible, then you could book, see if the times work for you, and cancel if not. Maybe something they would want to avoid.
Any other cons for doing this? I haven't seen much after googling around, most people seem concerned about airlines "reneging" on the deal. What about FF miles? Elite benefits? Are these like Delta E fares?