About 91% of global travellers utilize AI travel planners when researching or coordinating their journeys, according to an annual survey conducted by travel site Klook. The poll, which underscored the growing importance of AI in the travel and tourism sector, compiled responses from 11,000 users around the world.
The survey indicates that travellers are increasingly turning to AI technologies to simplify the complex task of trip planning. Instead of sifting through countless websites and reviews manually, they are employing AI-powered planners to craft itineraries, suggest vacation ideas, recommend accommodations, and propose activities.
Experts suggest that AI travel planners allow for more efficient vacation preparation as they can swiftly navigate a wealth of information, including flights, lodging, local attractions, and transport options.
Leigh Rowan from Savanti Travel noted that this popularity partly stems from a “do-it-yourself culture,” where travellers take pride in crafting their own experiences.
However, trust issues remain
The survey also unveils a continuing lack of trust, despite the growing dependence on AI functionalities. A Booking.com study indicated that while AI travel products are commonly used, 91% of users harbor concerns about AI, with only 35% placing full trust in its outcomes. This highlights the challenge of building confidence during technological adaptation.
Accuracy poses another major challenge. AI technologies, rooted in large language models, are notorious for ‘hallucinations,’ occurrences where false information is mistakenly presented as fact.
Shyn Yee Ho, a board member of the nonprofit travel organization Smiling Gecko Singapore, reported minimal occurrences of hallucinations while using AI. When planning her six-month vacation, she used ChatGPT’s recommendations to find budget-friendly hotels and travel spots aligned with her interests, describing the suggestions as ‘very clear and good.’
Experts advise that travellers verify information through traditional travel websites or booking platforms, as AI-generated itineraries may contain outdated hours of operation, inaccurate prices, or inaccessible attractions.
The findings are detailed in Klook’s Travel Pulse 2026 report, which further emphasizes a strong global demand for travel despite economic uncertainties.
The survey reveals that 88% of travellers globally plan to maintain or increase their travel budgets in 2026, with particularly strong intentions to boost spending among those in the Asia-Pacific region.
The report also highlights a shift toward experience-focused travel, where tourists favor multi-destination journeys, cultural explorations, and activities over merely visiting popular tourist spots.
Travellers in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region are 50% more likely than their counterparts in Europe and the US to increase their travel budgets, underscoring the region’s role as a catalyst for global travel growth.
