KAYAK Introduces AI Mode: A Game-Changer for Holiday Travel Planning
KAYAK, the leading travel search engine globally, has rolled out an innovative new feature called AI Mode. This natural-language search capability utilizes the power of ChatGPT to provide a more intuitive and user-friendly experience right from the homepage. This launch comes just in time for the busy holiday planning season, catering to travelers looking for smarter ways to book their trips.
Transitioning to Conversational Search
CEO Steve Hafner announced that the company initially launched KAYAK.ai in April as a testing ground for advanced AI functionalities. With AI Mode officially integrated into the main site, KAYAK introduces a whole new way of interacting with travel data. No longer confined to preset search fields, users can type in their travel queries in everyday language to receive accurate, contextual responses. This evolution represents a significant shift in how travelers can explore options, making it easier to plan entire trips in a matter of minutes.
How to Use AI Mode
Using AI Mode is straightforward:
1. Click the
AI Mode icon on KAYAK's website, accessible through both desktop and mobile browsers.
2. Enter travel-related questions as if you were asking a person.
3. Get real-time results, as KAYAK aggregates data from numerous travel providers, ensuring you're always updated on the latest information and prices.
4. Discover, compare, and book flights, accommodations, and rental cars seamlessly from one platform.
Perfect Timing for Holiday Travel Planning
The introduction of AI Mode couldn’t have come at a better moment. KAYAK notes that the period from mid-October to early November is crucial for securing the best holiday travel deals. With a surge in search demand, consumer data indicates that flight prices this season are looking favorable compared to last year, trending below previous averages.
Kate Williams, KAYAK's Travel Trends Expert, emphasized that travelers shouldn’t delay in making bookings. Notably, certain dates offer hidden gems in pricing; for instance, November 24 is projected as the most affordable day to fly for Thanksgiving, averaging $415, while Christmas Eve promises significant deals for those planning festive getaways. These insights can easily be accessed through AI Mode, helping users navigate the complexities of holiday travel without unnecessary stress.
Maximizing Holiday Savings with AI Prompts
For those eager to make the most of this feature, KAYAK suggests a variety of festive prompts to help generate actionable trip ideas. Whether you're dreaming of a picturesque winter village or planning a wild New Year’s Eve celebration, try these sample queries to see how AI Mode can serve you:
- - “Find hotels in NYC near Rockefeller Center for December 23rd.”
- - “Cheapest Caribbean destinations for a one-week stay.”
- - “Rent a car from ORD that accommodates 6, perfect for transporting gifts.”
- - “Flights from BOS to London for a family of four, departing December 20 and returning December 27.”
- - “Estimate costs for Kevin McCallister's New York adventure.”
- - “Where are the best spots for New Year’s celebrations?”
- - “Locate a charming winter village for under $600, including flight and hotel.”
What’s Next for KAYAK AI Mode
Currently available in English for US-based users, KAYAK plans to expand AI Mode to support additional languages and countries shortly, with voice search capabilities following shortly thereafter. This ambitious rollout reinforces KAYAK's goal of remaining at the forefront of travel technology, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a seamless travel planning experience.
KAYAK continues to establish itself as the go-to travel search engine, owned by Booking Holdings (NASDAQ: BKNG), helping millions of users find flights, accommodations, and rental cars effortlessly. By leveraging AI tools like ChatGPT, KAYAK is transforming how we approach travel planning and making it easier than ever to enjoy holiday adventures.
For more tips on crafting effective travel prompts, don’t forget to check out KAYAK’s blog, which is a treasure trove of insights for both seasoned travelers and novices alike.