A significant majority of Germans express openness to having artificial intelligence (AI) handle their complete vacation planning, according to a recent survey released Thursday by Bitkom, the German Association for Information Technology, Software and Digital Services. The survey, conducted among 1,006 individuals aged 16 and over, revealed that 58% of respondents could envision outsourcing their entire holiday arrangements to AI.
A quarter of those surveyed (25%) stated they would definitely trust AI for this purpose, while an additional 33% indicated a leaning towards this approach. Younger demographics, aged 16 to 29, exhibited the highest acceptance, with 66% comfortable relinquishing complete planning and booking responsibilities to AI. Even among the oldest age group, those aged 65 and over, nearly half (46%) expressed this willingness.
The acceptance of AI assistance is already evident in various preparatory stages of vacations. Currently, 22% of German holidaymakers have utilized AI-powered applications to receive accommodation suggestions, with a further 44% open to this possibility. Similarly, 18% have received AI-generated recommendations for destinations and 44% are open to exploring this feature in the future.
AI is also making inroads into planning local activities. Twelve percent of respondents have already used AI for suggestions regarding attractions, leisure activities and events at their vacation destination, with 39% expressing openness to this aspect. Regarding on-site navigation and routing, such as city tours, 11% have already received AI-powered suggestions and 39% are open to this option.
While enthusiasm for AI-powered vacation planning is high, some areas remain less appealing to German holidaymakers. Only 8% have utilized AI to create packing lists and only 15% see future potential in this application. Current information about destinations, including travel warnings and vaccination requirements, is currently only trusted by 1% of respondents, although 46% acknowledge potential future utility.
Bitkom Research conducted the survey via telephone between April 29th and May 21st, 2024, polling 1,006 individuals aged 16 and over, including 955 who regularly take holiday trips.
