As we look ahead to 2026, artificial intelligence (AI) is poised to play a significant yet supportive role in the realm of travel planning. Insights from the Global Rescue Winter 2026 Traveller Sentiment and Safety Survey, which gathered perspectives from over 1,400 current and former members, reveal that while 36% of travellers are inclined to leverage AI for inspiration or to narrow their choices, a substantial majority remain cautious, favoring human insight and personal experiences.
Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies, remarked, “Travellers are curious about AI but are not prepared to relinquish control.” The survey also uncovers interesting gender disparities: 25% of men are likely to utilize AI as a decision-support tool, compared to 19% of women. In contrast, a higher percentage of women—36%—opt not to use AI at all, marginally surpassing the 35% of men who share this sentiment.
Geographical variation further complicates the landscape, with both US and non-US travellers showing a similar reluctance toward AI, with 37% preferring to avoid its use altogether. However, travelers outside the US exhibit a stronger inclination towards human guidance, with 31% relying primarily on personal recommendations, compared to only 22% of US respondents. Interestingly, American travellers are more willing to use AI to refine their options, with 24% opting for this approach, which is over double the 11% of non-US travelers who do the same.
The survey highlights a notable hesitation in trusting AI-suggested destinations, as 41% of respondents expressed they would be unlikely to visit a place recommended by AI without independent verification. As Richards pointed out, “AI may present new travel ideas, but it seldom secures the deal without human validation.”
As AI technology continues to shape how we discover travel opportunities, its role remains one of enhancement, fostering informed choices while upholding the importance of human judgement.
This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.
