Originally Posted by
jsloan
United's 24-hour cancellation policy only applies to bookings made directly with United; for other tickets, the travel agent's rules apply.
I don't believe this is correct. Here's a screenshot from a test booking for a United flight via Orbitz.
It appears that the 24 hour cancelation is still possible when booked through Orbitz.
Originally Posted by
jsloan
A travel agent may charge you additional booking or change fees beyond what United would charge. (In fact, I'm pretty sure Orbitz charges a ticketing fee, which likely negates whatever value they might have in their reward program).
Although Orbitz does say it can charge a fee, it's not universal. Again, a screenshot from Orbitz on a United flight:
The price above is identical to what you'd pay when booked directly on the United website.
I'm just noting the above items in the interest of accurate information. Personally, I would not recommend booking anywhere other than directly with an airline because of the following reason that you note:
Originally Posted by
jsloan
United may require that you deal with the travel agent for changes prior to the day of departure, or they may charge a fee to take over the ticket.
Same-day IROPS aren't a problem, as airlines will deal directly with the traveler at that point. But, anything further out is going to have to go through Orbitz (or whatever travel agency used). For example: If your flight leaving tomorrow is under a weather waiver, you'll need to contact Orbitz to make a change (instead of handling it on the United website or by calling United). To me, adding an additional company/person isn't worth the minimal "rewards" that you'd earn.