As families prepare for August vacations, new survey data shows that artificial intelligence is playing a growing role in how travelers research and plan their trips.
According to Deloitte’s 2026 Summer Travel Survey, 89% of families say spending quality time together is the primary reason they travel, while 88% say vacations improve their family’s well-being.
At the same time, travel can create challenges. A 2026 survey from AAA and Bread Financial found that 59% of travelers have experienced tension or arguments with a travel companion.
Researchers note that planning a trip often involves coordinating accommodations, transportation, itineraries, dining options, budgets and schedules, particularly for larger families or groups.
Deloitte’s survey found that the use of generative AI for travel research has more than doubled over the past two years. One in four travelers now report using AI during the planning process.
The survey also found that Millennials are the most likely generation to use generative AI for travel planning, with 36% reporting they use the technology to research trips.
Among travelers who use AI, Deloitte found it is most commonly used for:
- Researching accommodations (54%)
- Exploring destinations (52%)
- Finding restaurants (49%)
- Creating itineraries (42%)
- Comparing flights (39%)
The findings highlight a broader shift in how travelers gather information before booking vacations, with AI joining traditional sources such as travel websites, review platforms, and recommendations from friends and family.
The survey results come as August remains one of the busiest months for family travel, with many schools still on summer break and seasonal attractions operating during peak travel season.
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