AI Has Quietly Mastered How We Plan Vacations

Vacations are no longer about going to a travel agency, opening brochures, and choosing the cheapest package. In the digital era, artificial intelligence (AI) is beginning to take over roles traditionally held by humans. 

According to a recent report by Abta, the travel industry association in the UK, young people now trust AI like ChatGPT more than humans to design their holidays.

Cited from The Guardian, Friday, October 10, 2025, the Abta survey revealed that nearly 1 in 5 young people aged 25-34 use AI for inspiration when planning overseas trips. 

This is not just a passing trend but a signal that AI is becoming the new "travel agent" generation.

Interestingly, although traditional holiday packages are still widely purchased, decision-making patterns have shifted. 

AI now appears earlier in the process, providing ideas, recommendations, and even itineraries. 

Gen Z Trusts AI, Older Generations Stick to Brochures

The sharpest contrast is between generations. Among the productive 25-34 age group, AI has become a personal "assistant". 

However, only 3 percent of those aged 55 and above are willing to use AI.

In fact, 25 percent of UK residents remain loyal to printed brochures, a symbol of the old era that refuses to die. 

The tourism industry now exists in two worlds: fast digital vs. emotional conventional.

Abta predicts technology will increasingly dominate. At a conference in Magaluf, Mallorca, the association reported that two in five respondents are ready to hand over travel bookings to AI.

It's not just about finding ideas; AI will book tickets, hotels, and even arrange daily activities.

Vacations Become Life Priorities, No Longer Just Entertainment

Despite global economic uncertainty, vacations have become a "right to life". The Abta survey states 87 percent of UK residents took a holiday in the past year. Many even consider vacations more important than entertainment, gadgets, or other recreation.

Abta CEO Mark Tanzer believes AI reflects a broader lifestyle shift.

"The challenge for the travel industry is how to leverage AI's potential to support business, while still preserving the personal touch and expertise that only experienced travel agents or tour operators can provide," said Tanzer.

This statement sounds like an alarm: AI is efficient, but can it replace human empathy?

Numbers That Cannot Be Ignored

Last year, only 4 percent of respondents used AI. This year, it jumped to 8 percent.

In the 25-34 age group, 90 percent say holidays are important for mental health, far above the national average (80 percent). 

This generation doesn't just travel; they make vacations part of self-care and identity.

They are also twice as concerned about environmental sustainability (20 percent vs 10 percent) compared to other generations. 

This means they want vacations that are smart, healthy, responsible – and AI helps them find the best options.

AI: New Friend or Old Threat?

AI offers personalization, speed, and limitless inspiration. Yet, the travel industry was built on stories, experiences, and the human touch.

The question now is not "will AI be used?", but who will survive when AI becomes the first gateway for every journey – humans or algorithms?