Digital Travel: Germany’s growing trust in AI for holiday planning

Imagine you’re sipping coffee on a rainy Thursday in Berlin, scrolling through endless vacation options. Flights, hotels, activities, it's overwhelming. Then, you casually ask your AI assistant, “Where should I go this summer?” Within seconds, it presents a curated trip, budget-friendly flights, a boutique hotel with lake views, and restaurant bookings you didn’t even know you wanted. Sounds futuristic? For many Germans, it’s already happening.

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A recent survey by Bitkom, Germany’s digital industry association, shows that 58% of Germans can now imagine letting AI plan and book their vacation. That’s more than just a passing trend, it’s a clear sign that the way we travel is transforming. One in four respondents said they’d “definitely” trust AI with vacation planning, while another 33% said they’d probably do so.

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But this isn’t just about hypothetical beach days or dream trips. AI is already making its way into our travel routines in subtle, helpful ways. Around 22% of people have already used AI tools to find accommodation suggestions. Whether it’s a hidden eco-lodge in the Alps or a city apartment close to the action, AI is getting better at knowing what you want, sometimes before you even know yourself.

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And it doesn’t stop at bookings. Some travelers now turn to AI to suggest local excursions and activities, plan day-by-day itineraries, and even build customized packing lists. Picture receiving a notification: “You might want to bring hiking shoes, light trails near your hotel look popular this week.” Sure, only 1% currently use AI for more technical travel info like entry regulations or health alerts, but the potential is huge. As platforms get more intelligent and trustworthy, we may soon see AI handling everything from passport renewals to last-minute emergency changes mid-trip.

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This shift isn't just about convenience, it reflects a growing comfort with digital tools managing personal experiences. What once felt impersonal now feels like having a smart, tireless travel concierge in your pocket. Of course, some travelers still enjoy the thrill of piecing trips together manually. But for the rising number of Germans handing the reins to AI, it’s less about giving up control, and more about gaining time, peace of mind, and surprisingly good recommendations.

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So, when it comes to planning your next holiday… would you trust an algorithm to do it better?

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