Travel Smarter: Book Hotels and Flights with Cashback Using Rakuten

How to save money on your next trip—and make your travel more sustainable

One of the most underrated ways to cut travel costs is by using Rakuten. Most people think about cashback for clothes or beauty products, but you can actually earn money back on hotels, flights, rental cars, and more—just by booking through Rakuten’s travel partners.

I use this trick whenever I’m planning a trip. It’s a simple, passive way to shave money off your travel budget and stretch your spending a little further. Here's exactly how it works, plus some sustainable travel tips to take your trip to the next level.

Where You Can Book and Earn Cashback

Rakuten partners with several big-name travel booking sites. Here are a few popular ones offering cashback right now:

Expedia – Up to 10% cashback on hotels

Expedia offers deals on flights, hotels, packages, and activities. It’s one of my go-tos when I want a one-stop booking experience.

Priceline – Up to 6% cashback

Great for last-minute deals and discounted hotel rates. Perfect if you're flexible with your plans.

Booking.com – Around 3% cashback

A favorite for international travel and unique stays like boutique hotels and apartments.

Vrbo – Varies by season

If you’re booking a vacation rental, Vrbo is a great option. Some properties also offer cashback through Rakuten.

Hotels.com – Up to 4% cashback

Nice if you want to keep things simple with hotel stays. Plus, their rewards program stacks nicely with Rakuten.

Tip: Cashback percentages can change weekly—so always check Rakuten before booking.

How to Book Through Rakuten

1. Log in to Rakuten or install the browser extension.

2. Search the travel site you want to use (like Expedia or Booking.com).

3. Click through from Rakuten to activate cashback.

4. Book your trip as normal.

5. Receive an email confirmation from Rakuten showing your cashback is pending.

You’ll get paid quarterly once your cashback clears.

Sustainable Travel Tips That Align with Saving

Traveling smarter doesn’t just mean spending less—it also means traveling in a way that’s better for the planet. Here are a few small shifts that can make a difference:

• Book direct flights when possible to cut emissions from takeoffs and landings.

• Choose eco-certified hotels that use renewable energy, local suppliers, or reduce water usage.

• Pack light—lighter luggage means less fuel use.

• Bring your own reusables like water bottles, utensils, and shopping bags.

• Support local businesses for food, souvenirs, and excursions.

Pairing these sustainable habits with cashback from Rakuten helps you save money while doing a little good along the way.

Final Thought

You’re going to spend money on travel anyway—so why not get a little bit back?

Using Rakuten to book your hotels and flights takes barely any extra time, and it can help offset the cost of your trip or fund a few extra meals on vacation. Add in some sustainable swaps, and you’re not just traveling smarter—you’re traveling better.

If you're not signed up yet, join Rakuten here and start earning cashback on your next adventure.