Australian travellers are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence (AI) for trip ideas, but new government advice warns the technology can create costly mistakes if not carefully checked.
The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s (DFAT) fresh travel warning flags the risks of relying on AI tools for overseas travel planning, including incorrect visa advice, outdated transport details and missing costs.
On its Smartraveller website, DFAT says that while AI can process large amounts of data quickly, helping travellers explore destinations, build itineraries and compare options, holidaymakers should treat AI-generated answers as a starting point rather than a final source of truth.
Gen Z trends
The travel warning lands as AI becomes more commonplace in trip planning.
DFAT research into Gen Z travel behaviours found that nearly one in three (30%) young Aussie travellers use AI tools when preparing overseas trips.
Other findings in DFAT’s Gen Z research show that 28% use AI for information about visas and entry requirements, 27% for safety advice and 19% for advice about local laws and customs.
In its update, the department adds that AI can provide inaccurate or incomplete information because it does not always verify the details it shares.
Specific issues DFAT identifies include closed hotels, unavailable attractions, incorrect border requirements and misleading interpretations of local laws.
To ensure a safer experience, DFAT recommends travellers cross-check AI responses with official sources, including Smartraveller, government websites, airlines, tourism bodies and reputable travel businesses.
For travel advisers, the advice reinforces the value of expert knowledge and trusted sources when helping clients prepare for international journeys.
AI advantage
Despite the potential for things to go awry, DFAT says that AI can still play a useful role in the planning process. It can do this by helping travellers discover ideas, organise research, translate languages and create personalised suggestions based on budgets and interests.
Ultimately, the key message from DFAT is that AI should support travel decisions, not replace proper research or professional advice.
In an interview with Karryon earlier this year, Flight Centre Global Managing Director Andrew Stark said that AI had impacted the travel agency giant in a positive way, pointing to productivity gains and revenue wins – not the doom-and-gloom headlines.
For travel advisors wanting to use AI for smarter research and planning, check out our AI Masterclass.
KARRYON UNPACKS: AI is changing how Australians plan holidays, but DFAT’s warning highlights why human expertise remains essential. Travel professionals can help ensure AI suggestions are checked, accurate and ready for real-world journeys before booking trips.
