Technology is playing an increasingly important role in how travelers research, plan and manage their trips, a trend that could have implications for hotels seeking to meet evolving guest expectations.
According to Allianz Partners' 2026 Global Travel Confidence Index, more than one-third (37 percent) of Americans planning to travel this summer are using or planning to use artificial intelligence to help plan their vacations. Common uses include destination recommendations, itinerary creation, restaurant suggestions, budget planning and travel research.
"Technology is transforming how people research, plan and manage travel," Emily Hartman, General Manager at Allianz Partners, said in a statement. "Today's travelers expect seamless digital experiences at every stage of their journey. From AI-powered trip planning to real-time travel assistance, the industry is evolving to meet those expectations, and travel insurance is no exception. Travelers increasingly want protection that is accessible, personalized, and available at their fingertips."
The findings suggest that travelers are becoming increasingly comfortable relying on digital tools and personalized recommendations, creating new opportunities for hotels to enhance guest engagement before arrival. AI-powered trip-planning platforms are increasingly influencing traveler decisions about destinations, activities and dining options.
The survey also highlights the continued growth of bleisure travel, as remote-work technology enables travelers to combine business and leisure trips. More than one-quarter (28 percent) of Americans surveyed said they plan to work remotely for a few weeks while traveling, while 23 percent said they aspire to embrace a digital nomad lifestyle for several months.
As technology becomes a more integral part of travel, guests are also placing greater emphasis on mobile-first experiences. Among travelers planning to purchase travel insurance, 64 percent said they value 24/7 access to support and emergency assistance through a mobile app, while 48 percent want the ability to view and manage policies digitally. Another 45 percent expressed interest in initiating claims online and having disruptions handled automatically.
Younger travelers are leading that shift. Gen Z and Millennials were more likely than older generations to prioritize digital experiences from travel providers, according to the survey. Gen Z travelers also showed the strongest preference for self-service tools that allow them to independently manage travel-related needs.
The Allianz Partners Global Travel Confidence Index was conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs between March 20 and April 14, surveying 2,001 U.S. adults.