Artificial intelligence is changing young people's travel habits

Gen Z - the generation born between 1997 and 2012, young people have grown up with artificial intelligence (AI) as an essential part of their daily lives, not only using the technology to plan their trips but also applying it to every stage of the journey. This demonstrates the level of integration and use of AI, along with their expectations, which will help shape the development of the tourism industry in the future.

Application of information technology in tourism (illustrative photo)

Artificial intelligence (AI) plays an important role and influences the travel habits of Generation Z, according to the latest report on artificial intelligence (AI) by Booking.com, one of the world's leading online travel platforms.

Research shows that 85% of Gen Z describe themselves as “familiar” with AI technology, while 20% say they have a good understanding of how AI works, and the remaining 65% understand the basic concepts. This deep familiarity and trust makes them see AI not just as a tool but also as an indispensable companion on their journeys.

"AI is changing travel habits, from planning to experiencing activities. Gen Z is showing us how this technology can naturally blend into everyday life. From personalized search results to smarter recommendations, Booking.com is using AI to make planning and exploring easier, more comprehensive, and more seamless. With Gen Z travelers setting new expectations, we will continue to leverage AI, not only to simplify choice, but also to inspire and empower meaningful trips for everyone," said Mr. Branavan Aruljothi, Country Manager of Booking.com in Vietnam.

• Accelerating digital transformation, forming and developing a smart tourism ecosystem in Vietnam

• Digitalization to complete the "smart tourism ecosystem"

• Issuing a Program to promote digital transformation of smart tourism in the tourism sector

AI as a Habit: How Gen Z Brings Technology into Everyday Life

Gen Z uses AI technology as an essential part of their daily lives, according to a survey by Booking.com, Gen Z interacts with AI tools multiple times a day, for both work and play. Specifically, 75% of Gen Z use AI-integrated search engines every day, which is also the way they use AI the most. 66% use generative AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini or Claude every day. 59% rely on AI-powered recommendation tools on streaming platforms like Netflix or Spotify. 70% interact with smart devices (security cameras, thermostats, facial recognition...) every day.

This familiarity is evident in their lifestyle choices: 48% use AI to track their health, 43% get smart shopping recommendations, and 37% use AI to recommend restaurants. With AI becoming an integral part of everyday choices, it’s no surprise that 44% of Gen Z use AI to find travel inspiration and help book trips.

AI in Travel: A Companion on Every Journey

For Gen Z, the use of AI in travel is no exception, and AI is even part of the entire journey. This trust is demonstrated in the way they travel and use AI at every stage, before, during, and after trips. Before the trip: Nearly all Gen Z (99%) use AI to prepare for their trip, from getting personalized recommendations based on their specific needs (42%) to researching new destinations and the ideal time to go (40%). During the trip: 99% also trust AI at the travel destination, especially to interpret local languages, signs, menus, or conversations (53%) and to get interesting information about attractions during the trip (47%). After the trip: 96% continue to use AI after returning, mainly to get personalized recommendations for future trips (49%) or write reviews (46%).

In the future, 99% of Gen Z expect AI to help them plan new trips, from researching destinations (42%), suggesting local experiences (40%) to recommending the right restaurant (38%).

Be receptive but considerate

Despite being key drivers of AI, Gen Z approaches the technology with some caution and has clear expectations about how technology providers operate. Fairness, accountability, and transparency are top priorities. Nearly all (93%) of Gen Z have some common concerns about AI.

For Gen Z, they worry a lot about: The risk of AI replacing human jobs, including their own (51%). Concerns about personal privacy and how companies use their data (46%). The potential for AI to introduce bias or unfairness into experiences (44%). They also worry that lower-budget travelers could be downplayed (49%). And a small but notable percentage (18%) feel uncomfortable with AI making decisions completely independently.

These results show that Gen Z is both open to technological advancement and smart about its application. For the travel industry, this opens up a clear path for the future: developing AI in a practical and accessible way, while ensuring convenience, ease and comprehensiveness – the factors that Gen Z value most.

Source: https://bvhttdl.gov.vn/tri-tue-nhan-tao-dang-thay-doi-thoi-quen-du-lich-cua-gioi-tre-20250911101729614.htm