TLDR: A new survey by Qlik indicates that generative AI is becoming an indispensable ally for summer vacationers, helping them discover new destinations, save time and money, and manage real-time travel logistics. Despite only 10% of travelers using AI tools for planning this summer, trust in AI-generated recommendations is high, with a significant majority reporting satisfaction and tangible benefits.
Philadelphia, PA – A recent survey conducted by Qlik, a prominent leader in data integration, analytics, and artificial intelligence, highlights the growing role of generative AI as a vital companion for summer travelers. The findings, released on August 5, 2025, reveal that while only 10% of vacationers utilized AI tools for their summer trip planning this year, the technology is already demonstrating significant impact and building strong user trust.
The survey indicates a robust level of confidence in AI-driven travel recommendations, with 62% of travelers trusting them, and a notable 23% expressing complete trust to book trips without needing additional research. Furthermore, an overwhelming 92% of respondents reported that AI-planned elements of their summer trips either met or exceeded their expectations. Comfort with sharing personal data with AI travel tools is also considerable, with over half (52%) of travelers willing to provide their preferences and details.
Generative AI’s benefits extend beyond mere convenience, unlocking new experiences and offering tangible savings in both time and money. Nearly four out of five (78%) travelers who used AI discovered new destinations they might not have found otherwise. On average, respondents saved close to seven hours in planning time, with 59% reporting time savings between five and ten hours. Financially, approximately one in five (19%) travelers saved money, and the majority (64%) managed to stay within their budget by using AI for vacation planning.
Travelers are leveraging generative AI for a variety of practical applications. More than a third (38%) found AI features most helpful for identifying real-time travel updates, including traffic, weather, and potential delays. Other popular uses include identifying restaurant recommendations (36%), uncovering hidden attractions or local spots (35%), assisting with general itinerary planning (29%), and optimizing travel budgets (32%).
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Mike Capone, CEO of Qlik, commented on the survey’s implications, stating, “What stands out in this research is how generative AI is helping people make better decisions in the moment and uncover options they might never have considered. That goes beyond convenience. It is a shift in how we explore, plan, and adapt.” This growing reliance on AI, according to Capone, underscores a fundamental shift in decision-making processes across both personal and professional spheres.
