Top 10 AI prompts for booking your next trip: Travel ideas, hacks, and planning tips

Planning a holiday can be overwhelming with so many details to consider—where to go, what to do, how to pack, and how to stick to your budget. Fortunately, AI is here to make your travel planning easier. By using the right prompts, you can gather all the information you need for a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here are 10 AI prompts to help you plan your next adventure, from destination ideas to travel hacks.

1. Discovering new destinations

Prompt: "Suggest some destinations based on a beach holiday with outdoor activities, and budget-friendly options for a week-long trip in September."

AI can give you a tailored list of potential destinations that match your specific preferences. Whether you’re craving sun, sand, and sea, or you’re looking for a destination with both cultural activities and relaxation, AI can offer ideas that might not have crossed your mind. It will consider factors like weather, activities available, and the season you’re travelling in.

Tip: Refine your prompt further to specify aspects like "local cuisine" or "historical landmarks" to get even more specific suggestions.

2. Budget-friendly travel options

Prompt: "What are the best budget-friendly destinations for a 3-day trip with a focus on cultural experiences and outdoor activities?"

AI can help you balance your dream holiday with a reasonable budget by suggesting locations known for being affordable. With AI’s ability to analyse various travel and pricing trends, it can recommend places that match your budget while still offering rich cultural experiences and outdoor fun.

Tip: To get a clearer picture of costs, follow up by asking, "Can you break down expected costs for flights, accommodation, and meals in these locations?"

3. Creating a custom itinerary

Prompt: "Create a 5-day itinerary for [Destination] that includes historical landmarks, hidden gems, and local food experiences."

Let AI handle the details of your daily itinerary by providing a perfect blend of the most iconic landmarks and lesser-known gems. By inputting your preferences, AI will build a plan that takes your interests into account. Whether it’s history, art, or food, this will ensure your trip is perfectly curated.

Tip: Don’t forget to factor in some flexibility. AI might suggest a packed schedule, so adjust it according to how much time you’d like to spend at each place.

4. The best time to visit

Prompt: "When is the best time to visit [Destination] for good weather, fewer crowds, and local events?"

AI can help you find that sweet spot between perfect weather and avoiding peak tourist season. This will give you the chance to enjoy your destination without the overwhelming crowds and high prices that come with peak season travel.

Tip: Pair this with a follow-up prompt like, "What events or festivals should I look out for during this time?" to make sure you don’t miss any unique local happenings.

5. Packing tips for your trip

Prompt: "What should I pack for a 10-day trip to [Destination] in [Month], considering outdoor activities, city exploration, and varying weather?"

Packing can be tricky when you’re visiting a destination with varying climates or diverse activities. Ask AI for a packing list based on your destination’s weather and the type of activities you’ll be doing. It will ensure you have everything from comfortable shoes for exploring to the right clothes for a beach day or hiking adventure.

Tip: Double-check the forecast closer to your departure for any last-minute changes and tweak your packing list accordingly.

6. Finding local experiences and activities

Prompt: "What are some unique local experiences in [Destination] that aren't typically found in guidebooks?"

AI can help uncover hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path activities you may not find in traditional guidebooks. Whether it’s a local cooking class, an underground art scene, or a quiet beach that only locals know about, AI can suggest activities that will give you a truly authentic travel experience.

Tip: Ask for a variety of experiences, such as “outdoor adventures,” “cultural experiences,” or “relaxation spots” to get a well-rounded list of ideas.

7. Exploring local cuisine

Prompt: "What are the must-try foods in [Destination] and where can I find the best local food experiences?"

Food is a highlight of any trip, and AI can point you to the best places to eat in your destination. Whether you're after street food, fine dining, or a local delicacy, AI can suggest where to go based on authentic experiences, not just the most popular tourist traps.

Tip: Follow up by asking, "Are there any local food markets or festivals that I should visit?" to enhance your culinary exploration.

8. Sustainable travel tips

Prompt: "What are some sustainable travel tips for [Destination] and eco-friendly accommodations or activities?"

If you want your travels to have a positive impact on the environment, ask AI for sustainable options. It can suggest eco-friendly accommodations, transportation options, and activities that reduce your carbon footprint and support local communities.

Tip: Explore AI’s suggestions for eco-tourism activities or volunteer opportunities in your destination.

9. Getting around the destination

Prompt: "What are the most efficient and affordable ways to get around in [Destination], and how do I avoid common transport pitfalls?"

AI can give you the inside scoop on local transport options, whether it’s buses, metros, or taxis. This prompt is especially useful for figuring out how to navigate a new city without overspending or running into common transport issues like strikes or delays.

Tip: Ask for specifics on ticket pricing, transport apps, or tourist passes that offer discounts on multiple forms of transportation.

10. Optimising your travel schedule

Prompt: "Suggest a day-by-day plan for [Destination] that includes the most popular attractions but also allows for downtime and local exploration."

AI can help you balance sightseeing with relaxation. It will craft an itinerary that allows for the must-see spots while also suggesting opportunities to explore less touristy areas, relax at local cafes, or even simply wander around and enjoy the destination without a rigid schedule.

Tip: Customise your itinerary to your pace—if you’re someone who likes to rush through activities, ask AI for a more packed schedule; if you prefer slow travel, ask for longer breaks between activities.

Disclaimer: While AI is a fantastic resource for travel planning, it may not always have the most up-to-date or region-specific information. We recommend cross-referencing AI’s suggestions with trusted travel websites, blogs, and official sources to ensure you have the latest details, especially regarding opening hours, ticket prices, and seasonal changes.