In the realm of travel planning, technology is making significant inroads, as evidenced by Jason Brown’s recent summer trip to Amsterdam and Ireland. Instead of relying on traditional travel guides or social media, Brown turned to ChatGPT, OpenAI’s advanced AI tool, to craft his itinerary.
For his 10-day family trip—traveling with his wife, their two sons, and a friend—Brown utilized the AI to generate a comprehensive plan covering key destinations in Dublin and Galway. “In the past, I relied on sites like TripAdvisor, but now I realized I could access extensive information through AI in seconds,” he remarked, calling the experience “fantastic.” The AI provided structured itineraries, breaking down activities by time of day. For instance, it suggested a morning arrival, an afternoon at Trinity College, and evening plans in the bustling Temple Bar area.
As his travel plans evolved, so did his inquiries to ChatGPT. While he embraced many AI suggestions, Brown complemented them with insights from an online community of college alumni and local guidance from a friend in Amsterdam. “This approach introduced us to unique experiences we might have otherwise missed,” he noted, emphasizing the AI’s role in providing a solid framework for their adventures.
The use of AI in travel planning is gaining traction, with one in ten Britons reporting that they have consulted AI for travel arrangements, according to a recent survey by Sainsbury’s Bank Travel Money. Moreover, one in five respondents expressed intentions to use such tools in the future. Yet, the technology still faces challenges, as the survey revealed that over a third of users encountered generic responses, while many others cited missing or inaccurate information.
Caroline Bremmer, head of travel and tourism research at Euromonitor International, highlighted the limitations of generative AI. “Its effectiveness hinges on the quality of the data it’s trained on. Outdated or biased information can lead to misleading results,” she warned, urging travelers to cross-reference AI outputs with reliable sources like travel agents or locals.
Sardar Bali, co-founder of the AI travel planner Just Ask Layla, acknowledged the importance of accuracy. His platform employs a dual verification process to enhance content reliability, although he admitted that errors can still occur. “We strive for improvement, but sometimes inaccuracies can slip through,” he conceded.
Travel companies are also investing in AI solutions. Expedia recently launched “Romie,” an AI feature integrated into its iPhone app, designed to streamline travel planning by offering comparisons of destinations and amenities.
However, not all users have had positive experiences. Rebecca Crowe, a freelance writer from Liverpool, has encountered challenges when using AI for her travel plans. She recalled a less-than-satisfactory trip to Lecco, Italy, where AI-generated itineraries were illogical and impractical, leading to excessive travel time. Crowe has also struggled with outdated suggestions for gluten-free dining options, prompting her to verify each recommendation manually.
“I suggest using AI as a starting point for inspiration rather than a definitive guide,” Crowe advised. “Blogs and dedicated travel websites often provide more reliable and current information, making them preferable for comprehensive trip planning.”
As AI continues to evolve, its role in travel planning will likely expand, yet the importance of human insight and verification remains paramount for a successful holiday experience.