Why AI Travel Planning Isn’t Useless (You’re Just Using It Wrong!) – How to Plan Smarter with AI

Let’s talk about something that almost everyone gets wrong, even seasoned travelers: the misconception that AI tools like ChatGPT are useless for planning a trip. I hear it all the time.

"AI doesn’t get me."
"It’s just gonna send me to the same tourist traps everyone else visits."
"I asked ChatGPT to plan my trip, and it gave me a random list of things to do. Useless!"

Bruh, I’m just going to give it to you straight: AI isn’t the problem. You are. (Okay, maybe not you specifically, but definitely the way people use AI is the problem.)

So buckle up, because I’m about to debunk some AI travel myths and show you how to actually use ChatGPT (or any other generative AI tool) to craft the kind of trip that would make even your most jet-setting friend jealous.

Myth #1: AI Travel Recommendations Are Generic and Boring

Sure, if you ask ChatGPT, "What should I do in Paris?" you might get an answer that looks suspiciously like the first page of Google. The Eiffel Tower? Groundbreaking. A Seine River cruise? Wow, what an insider tip!

But let’s be real: That’s like walking up to a travel agent and saying, "Hey, tell me about a city." Of course, you’re going to get the most obvious suggestions.

How to Fix It:

Be specific. Instead of asking: "What should I do in Paris?" Try: "I love hidden gems, street food, and history. Can you suggest a 3-day Paris itinerary that avoids crowds and includes cool, lesser-known experiences?"

Even better, ask for a personalized breakdown: "Give me a 3-day itinerary for Paris that includes budget-friendly bistros, historical sites that aren’t swarming with tourists, and one unique day trip outside the city."

Suddenly, you’re getting responses that feel custom-made for you. It’s almost like AI does get you!

(Sample results from a standard prompt.)

Myth #2: AI Can’t Adapt to My Preferences

Yes, AI is not a mind reader (yet). But you know what is a mind reader? Your best friend who remembers that you hate tour buses and love rooftop bars. And guess what? AI can do that too - if you let it.

How to Fix It:

Treat AI like a digital travel buddy who needs a little context. If you’re using ChatGPT regularly for travel planning, start your queries with a short profile of your travel style:

"I’m a solo traveler who loves hole-in-the-wall food spots, history, and scenic hikes. I don’t like super touristy places or chain restaurants. Given that, can you plan a trip to Mexico City for me?"

You can even refine your results in real time:

"I like these suggestions, but I want fewer museums and more outdoor activities. What would you change?"

See? Now AI knows you. I’m glad I could make the introductions and I expect an invitation to the wedding.

Myth #3: AI Doesn’t Know the Latest Travel Trends or Local Events

AI models aren’t psychic, and they don’t always have the latest info on pop-up restaurants, local festivals, or breaking travel restrictions. That’s a fair point. But guess what? Neither do most travel websites until they update.

How to Fix It:

Use AI as a starting point, not the final word. If you get a list of recommendations, fact-check them!

"Can you give me a weekend itinerary for Nashville? Also, tell me how I can verify if these places are still open or if there are any upcoming events happening while I’m there."

Better yet, combine AI with real-time sources: Use AI to generate an itinerary, then cross-check details on Google, Instagram, or local tourism websites.

Bonus tip: Ask AI how to find local events. Try: "What are the best ways to find out about events happening in New Orleans this weekend?"

(Sample results from an optimized prompt.)

Myth #4: AI Travel Planning Still Takes Too Much Work

Okay, so you asked ChatGPT for a trip itinerary, and now you have a full list of recommendations. But booking everything, checking reviews, and creating an actual plan feels like too much work.

How to Fix It:

Use AI to automate the boring parts: Ask ChatGPT to format your itinerary into a Google Doc. Have it create a step-by-step schedule, complete with estimated travel times. Ask for links to official sites where you can book tours or tickets.

Want to be even lazier (er, I mean, efficient)? Try: "Can you turn this itinerary into a checklist with links to book each activity?"

Get The AI Travel Prompts That I Use to Help Me Plan My Trips!

Did you like the prompts I’ve shared in the article so far? If yes, I’ve got more great ones you can use to plan awesome trips! Sign up for the Travel, Eat, Drink newsletter and I’ll send you all the over 20 AI prompts that I use to plan my trips for free!

Final Thoughts: AI Isn’t Your Travel Enemy - It’s Your Secret Weapon

AI travel planning isn’t perfect, but neither is asking your friend who went to Rome once in 2018 and suddenly thinks they’re an expert. The key is knowing how to use AI properly. Be specific, provide context, fact-check, and let AI handle the tedious stuff.

Now go forth, ask better questions, and let AI help you craft your dream trip. Because let’s be real—your human friends are just going to tell you to visit the Eiffel Tower anyway.

Now, who’s ready to let AI do (some of) the heavy lifting for their next trip?

Need help booking a room after using AI to plan your itinerary? I like to check Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo for the best prices and the widest options available.

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, Travel, Eat, Drink will receive a small commission for referring you, at no additional charge to you. Thank you so much in advance if you decide to purchase through the links provided.