Global Rescue survey finds rapid rise in AI use among international travellers

Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming a mainstream tool for international travel planning, with 51% of experienced travellers now expecting to use the technology when organising trips, according to new research from Global Rescue.

The travel risk and crisis response provider found that AI adoption had increased substantially since March, when 36% of respondents said they expected to use the technology for travel planning.

In the latest survey, 31% said they would use AI to narrow down travel options, while 20% would primarily use it for inspiration. The proportion saying they would not use AI for travel planning fell from 36% in March to 26%.

Trust in AI remains limited

However, growing adoption has not translated into unquestioning trust. Nearly 60% of respondents said they trusted AI-generated travel information only after checking it against other sources, while 25% said they did not trust it at all. Just 6% said they mostly trusted AI-generated information without verification.

More than a quarter (27%) of travellers said they had encountered incorrect or outdated information generated by AI. Most identified the error before departure, but 3% said inaccurate information had affected their travel plans.

The findings have implications for travel insurers and assistance providers as AI becomes more deeply embedded in the customer journey.

Incorrect information concerning entry requirements, local risks, or other travel conditions could result in disruption and assistance needs, while the findings suggest travellers continue to value human oversight when circumstances change.

That caution was particularly apparent when respondents were asked about automated travel decisions. Some 61% said they would not allow an AI assistant to independently make decisions such as rebooking flights or changing itineraries. A further 11% would permit AI to act with their approval, while 20% said their willingness would depend on the circumstances.

No respondents said they would allow AI to make such decisions without human approval.

Dan Richards, CEO of The Global Rescue Companies, said: “The adoption curve has accelerated remarkably. In only three months, AI has moved from an emerging planning tool to something that a majority of experienced international travellers expect to use.

“But increased use should not be confused with increased trust. Travellers are embracing AI as an assistant, not an authority.”

Global Rescue surveyed experienced international travellers between 30 June and 9 July 2026.

Travellers increasingly expect travel insurance providers to deliver seamless digital experiences as AI and mobile technology become central to how trips are planned and managed, according to recent research from Allianz Partners.