Planning your trips with AI: useful and accessible information, but sometimes inaccurate

Planning a trip has never been easier... and more complex. Artificial intelligence (AI) is now present in every step: from searching for flights to planning itineraries to booking accommodations. While tools like ChatGPT and Gemini promise time savings and inspiration, they're not immune to the occasional misstep.
The advantages of AI for travelers Tailor-made itinerariesForget spending hours poring over guidebooks or comparing dozens of blog articles. Chatbots and AI apps can generate comprehensive itineraries in the blink of an eye. You enter your dates and interests (food, culture, the outdoors, the beach, etc.), and we'll suggest a balanced itinerary that fits your budget.
Compare flights and accommodationBooking a plane ticket or finding a hotel can quickly become a mission. AI, integrated into platforms such as Google Flights, Skyscanner, and Kayak, scans thousands of options in real time to find the best combinations of price, duration, and comfort.
Practical adviceNeed a packing list for a week in Iceland or culinary recommendations for Lisbon? AI can generate checklists or mini-guides tailored to your destination, the season, and even your travel style.
Unearthing hidden treasuresBeyond major attractions, AI can become an ally in unearthing lesser-known addresses. By analyzing thousands of data points scattered across the web, it highlights neighborhood restaurants or lesser-traveled trails that often escape traditional platforms.
But be careful! Information is sometimes inaccurate or outdated.The AI draws its answers from data available online; however, some of it is incomplete or outdated. It might recommend a restaurant that has been closed for two years, mention a museum under renovation, or provide outdated transportation schedules. Verification with official sources is still essential.
Data protectionApplications and AI agents often collect personal information (dates, locations, habits, etc.). When connecting to public wireless networks while traveling, this data becomes particularly sensitive. Increased vigilance is required.
Over-personalizationBy learning from your preferences, some platforms end up locking you into your habits. You risk seeing only destinations that resemble your past trips, to the detriment of new discoveries. AI will never replace intuition and curiosity, nor the joy of the unexpected.
LE Journal de Montreal