Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo unveil free airport lounge access, AI search and flexible booking

Expedia Group is rolling out a suite of new features across its brands Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo, aiming to streamline travel planning and add value for users. Among the most notable updates is complimentary airport lounge access for eligible bookings, a perk that could save travelers money and reduce pre-flight stress. The company is also enhancing its artificial intelligence capabilities to power more intuitive search experiences, allowing users to find flights, hotels and vacation rentals with natural language queries. Flexible booking options are being expanded, giving customers more freedom to change or cancel plans without hefty fees. These changes come as online travel agencies compete fiercely for customer loyalty, and Expedia is betting that a mix of convenience, cost savings and personalization will set its platforms apart. For travelers, the new features could translate into smoother trips and greater peace of mind, whether booking a last-minute getaway or a family vacation.