Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming how travellers plan last-minute holidays, offering rapid itinerary suggestions and price comparisons. However, using AI for booking requires caution: a recent survey by Which? found that 45% of travellers who used AI for holiday planning encountered errors. Before you rely on an AI chatbot to arrange your getaway, here are 10 essential things to know.
Check the AI’s sources and accuracy
AI models can generate plausible but incorrect information. They often pull from outdated or unverified sources. Always cross-check flight times, hotel availability, and visa requirements on official websites before booking. According to travel tech expert Sarah Johnson, “AI is a great starting point, but it’s not a substitute for human verification.”
Beware of hidden costs and fees
AI may not include baggage fees, resort charges, or local taxes in its initial quotes. A final price can be 20-30% higher than the AI’s estimate. Always ask the AI for a full breakdown of costs, and then confirm with the airline or hotel directly.
Use AI for inspiration, not for final decisions
AI excels at generating ideas for destinations, activities, and rough itineraries. Use it to brainstorm, but make the final booking decisions yourself, using trusted travel agencies or official booking platforms. This reduces the risk of non-refundable mistakes.
Understand AI’s limitations with real-time data
Most AI models are not connected to live booking systems. They cannot see real-time seat availability or price fluctuations. For last-minute deals, you are better off using dedicated deal aggregators or signing up for airline newsletters.
Protect your personal information
When using AI chatbots, avoid sharing passport numbers, payment details, or other sensitive data. Cybercriminals can exploit these conversations. Use secure, encrypted channels and never input more information than necessary.
Check for hidden terms and conditions
AI may suggest flexible tickets that are actually non-refundable, or ‘all-inclusive’ packages with exclusions. Read the fine print carefully. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Ask AI for alternatives and compare
Don’t settle for the first suggestion. Prompt the AI to provide multiple options, then compare them side by side. This helps you spot better deals or avoid overpriced packages.
Remember that AI cannot handle disruptions
If your flight is cancelled or your hotel overbooks, AI won’t be able to rebook you instantly. Always have a backup plan and know the contact numbers of your airline and travel insurance provider.
Use AI to learn about local customs and entry requirements
AI can provide useful information about visa rules, vaccination requirements, and cultural norms. But always double-check with official government sources, as regulations change frequently.
Keep a human touch for customer service
When problems arise, human agents are still more effective. Ensure you have direct access to customer support for your bookings. AI can assist, but it cannot replace the empathy and problem-solving skills of a human representative.
Impact on your holiday experience
Using AI wisely can save time and money, but relying on it blindly can lead to costly errors. By following these 10 tips, you can enjoy the benefits of AI while minimising risks. Always verify critical details, protect your data, and keep a human backup for support. This approach ensures your last-minute holiday is memorable for the right reasons.
