Free travel planner? Use AI for your next trip

I'm going to Europe soon, and planning my trip was a breeze. Yes, really! AI did a big chunk of the work for me - and it can help you plan your next getaway, too.

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Here are a few ways to turn AI into your travel agent. There's a whole industry of paid sites and apps popping up, but I haven't found any that are useful enough to pay for. For this, let's stick with using the big bots:

1. Describe your likes and wants

Your AI travel buddy can do so much more than suggest tourist traps - it can help you create a truly tailored adventure. Remember, the more info you put in about who you are and what you like, the more "you" the suggestions will be.

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By interests

AI can curate a list of spots that match your hobbies or those of the group you're traveling with:

By weather

AI can suggest destinations based on your preferred climate at any time of year. So much easier than looking up weather charts!

By occasion or vibe

Not sure where you want to go? Let AI find the perfect match for your mood. If you're not sure how to word the vibe you're looking for, tell AI how you want to feel on your trip.

The best part? AI doesn't just offer generic lists; it crafts your dream trip based on what you love, need or just want to experience.

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2. Simplify bookings and reservations

AI does more than just answer questions. It simplifies the whole planning process so you can focus on the fun part of travel.

Flights and transportation

AI can assist in finding the best flight times, routes and transportation options based on your budget and preferences.

Hotels and accommodations

Get specific with your accommodation needs, and AI will help you sort through the options. It can do the hard work of sorting through reviews, amenities and location for you. So sweet.

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3. Ask the right questions

This one hit the jackpot for me: "What are unique experiences in Berlin and Vienna during the first week of January?" The results? Festive Christmas markets, snowy countryside escapes and a hot springs spa. Not bad, right?

For every city on my trip, I got creative with prompts:

Don't stop at the basics! Dig deeper, and you'll have your travel buddies asking, "How'd you know about this?"

4. Time to pack like a pro

We've all forgotten our phone chargers or overpacked like we're moving abroad for a weekend trip.

Share this with your favorite travel buddy and start planning for your next getaway. Bon voyage!

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