About 91% of international travellers utilize AI travel planners for trip research or organization, according to an annual survey conducted by travel platform Klook. This study, which points to the increasing relevance of AI in the travel and tourism sector, gathered responses from 11,000 users globally.
The report indicates that travellers are increasingly adopting AI technologies to simplify the often complex task of trip planning. Instead of sifting through countless websites and reviews, they are relying on AI-driven planners to curate itineraries, suggest holiday ideas, recommend lodging, and provide activity options.
Industry analysts assert that AI travel planners enhance the efficiency of vacation preparation by rapidly processing vast amounts of data, including flights, accommodation, local attractions, and transportation choices.
Leigh Rowan from Savanti Travel notes that this trend reflects a “do it yourself culture,” where individuals take pride in personally crafting their travel experiences.
However, trust issues remain
The survey also highlights an ongoing lack of trust in AI, despite its rising usage. A Booking.com study reveals that while AI travel tools are popular, 91% of users harbor reservations regarding AI, with only 35% fully trusting its outcomes. This illustrates the challenges involved in fostering trust during the adoption of technology.
Accuracy is another critical concern. AI systems, particularly large language models, are known to produce ‘hallucinations,’ where false information may be presented as fact.
Shyn Yee Ho, a board member at nonprofit travel organization Smiling Gecko Singapore, reported minimal hallucinations during her interactions with AI. She utilized ChatGPT’s suggestions to select budget-friendly hotels and travel spots aligning with her preferences while planning a six-month trip, describing these recommendations as ‘very clear and good.’
Experts recommend that travellers verify the information through traditional travel websites or booking platforms, as AI-generated itineraries may feature outdated hours, incorrect pricing, or unavailable attractions.
The findings are part of Klook’s Travel Pulse 2026 report, which also indicates a strong global demand for travel, despite economic uncertainties.
The survey shows that 88% of travellers worldwide plan to maintain or increase their travel budgets in 2026, with individuals from the Asia-Pacific region expressing a particularly strong intent to raise their travel spending.
The report also highlights a trend towards experience-focused travel, where tourists prefer multiple destinations, cultural explorations, and activities over simply visiting popular tourist sites.
Travellers in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region are 50% more likely than those in Europe and the US to increase their travel budgets, emphasizing the region’s role as a primary growth driver in global travel.
