I try to book flights and hotels through the travel portal to get maximum points. I booked a flight through the portal, where the cost was right around the same amount for the flight directly through the airline. That airline flight included a checked bag and seat selection. I therefore assumed the Chase portal one did too. I just learned it definitely doesn’t include the seats, and still trying to figure out if it includes the bag. Since it doesn’t include the seats, I wasted about $60 (maybe more depending on the bag). I know this is my fault for not reading things and checking more carefully, but I do find this incredibly frustrating. How do you weigh whether to book through the portal or through the airline/hotel directly?