Key Takeaways:
- AI and AR are reshaping how people plan and book trips.
- Social media is now the top place for travel inspiration.
- Friends, family, and creators have a big influence on travel decisions.
- Travel brands should use these tech tools to connect with customers.
If you love traveling or planning trips, you might have noticed how technology is making it easier and more fun. Snapchat just released a big study with Publicis Media and NRG about how three main technologies—artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), and social media—are changing the travel industry. This study surveyed over 3,100 travelers aged 13-60 across five countries, including the U.S., U.K., Canada, Saudi Arabia, and France.
The study shows that travel spending in the U.S. alone could reach $1.2 trillion by 2027. That’s a lot of money! But how are people deciding where to go and what to do? Let’s break it down.
AI and AR Are Changing How We Plan Trips
If you’re like most people, you probably don’t search for travel plans the way you used to. In fact, 72% of people in the study said they don’t use traditional search methods as much anymore. Instead, they’re turning to new technologies like AI and AR.
AI Helps You Find Your Perfect Trip AI is like a super smart assistant that learns what you like. According to the study, 67% of people think AI does a better job at understanding their travel preferences than older methods. For example, if you love beaches but hate crowded places, AI can suggest quiet, beautiful spots just for you.
AI also makes it easier to find new destinations. Have you ever searched for something just by describing it or using images? That’s called visual and voice search, and it’s becoming super popular. Plus, AI-powered virtual tours and assistants help people explore options faster.
AR Makes Travel Planning More Fun Augmented reality, or AR, is another game-changer. Imagine using your phone to see what a hotel room looks like in real time or “trying on” a vacation spot before you book it. The study says 67% of Snapchat users think AR makes travel shopping more engaging and fun.
Snapchat itself is a great example of how AR is being used. Features like virtual try-ons and interactive filters let people experience travel destinations in a whole new way.
Social Media Is Now the Top Travel Inspiration Source
These days, most people get their travel ideas from social media. A whopping 73% of travelers say they find new destinations, brands, or travel services on platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, or Instagram.
Why is this happening? Well, social media is where people spend a lot of time, and seeing posts from friends or creators makes travel feel more real and inspiring. For example, if your friend posts a cool video from a beach in Bali, you might think, “I want to go there too!”
People Trust Recommendations from Friends and Creators The study also found that friends, family, and creators have a big influence on travel decisions.
- 76% of people said seeing friends and family travel affects where they want to go.
- 75% of people enjoy talking to their friends and family about travel plans.
- 62% of travelers trust creator reviews more than traditional ones.
In fact, Snapchat users are 3.1 times more likely to book a trip if they see it recommended by friends, family, or creators on social media.
This trend isn’t just on Snapchat. TikTok reported that 71% of its European users actively search for travel content, and 77% make travel purchases after discovering destinations on the app.
What Does This Mean for Travel Brands?
If you’re a travel brand, this study has some important lessons for you:
- Invest in AI and AR: Use these technologies to make the travel shopping experience easier and more fun. For example, create AR experiences that let people “visit” destinations virtually or use AI to offer personalized recommendations.
- Be Active on Social Media: Since most travelers find inspiration on platforms like Snapchat, TikTok, and Instagram, brands need to have a strong presence there. Share engaging content and engage with users.
- Work with Creators: Partnering with creators can help build trust and excitement around your brand. People trust recommendations from creators more than traditional ads.
- Join the Conversation: Use platforms where people are already talking about travel. For example, Snapchat’s “Footsteps” feature lets users track their travel history and share it with friends. Brands could use this to connect with travelers in new ways.
The Future of Travel Looks Tech-Driven
As technology keeps advancing, the way we plan and book trips will keep changing. AI, AR, and social media are making travel more personal, interactive, and fun. For travelers, this means better experiences. For brands, it means new ways to connect with customers.
So next time you’re planning a trip, don’t be surprised if AI suggests a destination you didn’t even think of, or if you use AR to “try before you buy.” And don’t forget to share your adventures on social media—you might inspire someone else’s next big trip!
