The way we plan trips has changed a lot, especially with the rise of AI travel tools. Many are now using these tools to organise holidays quickly and easily. But how do they really compare to human travel agents?
AI tools are great at sorting through endless travel options fast. They can pull up flights, hotels, and activities in seconds. But there’s something about a human travel agent that technology can’t quite replace. They understand the complexities of travel, know the ins and outs of the industry, and can offer advice based on experience.
In this article, we’ll break down the advantages and disadvantages of both. You’ll see how they measure up in terms of price, ease of use, personalisation, and trustworthiness.
AI Travel Tools: Speed, Convenience, and Efficiency
Planning a trip has become much faster with AI travel tools. These systems can instantly find flights, hotels, and activities, saving you the time and effort of searching through multiple websites. Their main advantage is speed. Instead of spending hours comparing options, you get results in seconds.
Besides speed, AI tools are also efficient. They remember your past preferences, like favourite destinations or types of hotels, and use this data to offer personalised suggestions.
For example, tools like RoutePerfect and Wanderlog will suggest similar locations to those you’ve stayed in before. This saves time, as you’re not overwhelmed with choices that don’t suit your tastes.
Furthermore, AI is available around the clock. You can plan your holiday anytime—whether it’s late at night or during a lunch break. Unlike human agents, who have limited working hours, AI tools are always accessible.
While it’s great for straightforward trips, it lacks the insight and expertise a human might offer. It can recommend highly rated hotels but won’t know the hidden gems or consider personal touches like cultural nuances.
Human Travel Agents: Expertise and Personal Touch
While AI tools are fast and efficient, human travel agents offer something different. They bring expertise and a personal touch to travel planning.
Human travel agents have first-hand experience. Many have visited the destinations they recommend, which gives them a deeper understanding of what a place is like. Furthermore, they consider details that an algorithm might miss, like cultural insights or tips on the best time to visit a location.
Besides, human agents are skilled at handling complicated travel plans. They can manage all the logistics if you’re planning a multi-stop trip, a special occasion, or travelling with a group. They can book flights, hotels, transfers, and activities, ensuring everything fits together smoothly.
Over time, they learn your preferences, travel habits, and what you like on a holiday. This means they can offer more tailored recommendations for each trip. Moreover, their suggestions aren’t just based on reviews or data but come from their own knowledge and experience.
Cost Comparison: AI vs. Human Travel Agents
Each option has its own pricing structure, and understanding how they compare can help you make a smart choice.

AI travel tools, like ExplorerG and AskLayla, are much cheaper. They often offer free services or minimal fees. These tools work quickly and rely on automation, so there’s no extra cost for personal service. They can search for flights, hotels, and activities in seconds, showing you the best available prices.
Besides, AI platforms can compare options across multiple websites, which means you can choose from a wide range of choices without having to spend hours browsing.
However, while AI tools might seem cheaper initially, there can be hidden costs. For example, some platforms charge booking fees, or the lowest-priced options may come without important extras like flexible cancellations.
On the other hand, human travel agents usually charge a service fee. This fee varies depending on the complexity of your trip and the agent’s experience. While this might make them seem more expensive, they can often provide added value. Agents frequently have access to exclusive discounts or deals unavailable through online platforms.
Which Option Offers Better Personalisation?
AI travel tools use data to personalise recommendations. These tools remember your past bookings and preferences and suggest options matching your style. If you tend to book beach holidays or prefer budget hotels, the AI will pick up on this and show you similar options.
Besides, AI tools are fast. They can filter hundreds of flights, hotels, and activities in seconds, offering instant results that fit your needs. These tools are also great at providing precise suggestions. You can set filters for specific dates, budgets, or activities, and the AI will present the best matches.
Human travel agents, on the other hand, offer personalisation in a different way. They get to know you and understand where and why you want to go. Moreover, they can suggest special experiences or hidden spots that AI might miss.
However, personalisation through a human agent can take longer. They often need more details before they can fine-tune your trip. Additionally, agents may not always remember your preferences for future bookings unless you’re a regular client.
In contrast, AI tools keep track of your choices and preferences, making it easier to get consistent, personalised recommendations every time you plan a trip.
Trust and Reliability: Who Can You Rely On?
AI travel tools are known for being fast and consistent. They provide instant access to the latest information on flights, hotels, and activities by pulling from multiple sources. Besides, they are available 24/7, meaning you can book or adjust your plans at any time.
On the other hand, human travel agents take a personal and hands-on approach. Many travellers find comfort in knowing there’s a real person who can step in when plans change. This personal touch can make you feel cared for, especially when your trip is disrupted, and a travel agent can act quickly to rebook flights, find alternative accommodations, or negotiate with airlines.
Besides, human agents build relationships with their clients over time. This allows them to understand your travel preferences and offer tailored advice that goes beyond what AI can provide.
That said, AI tools have the advantage of being always available. Unlike human agents, who may not be reachable outside of office hours, AI tools are ready whenever you need them.
Which is the Best Option for Different Types of Travellers?
The best choice between AI travel tools and human travel agents depends on the type of traveller you are and what you need from your trip planning.

AI tools like TripCost AI and ExplorerG are excellent for budget travellers. AI tools are ideal if you’re looking to save money and prefer handling your bookings yourself.
These platforms allow you to customise your travel plans from start to finish, providing suggestions that match your preferences and past trips. You have control over your bookings, which is great if you enjoy planning your own itinerary.
On the other hand, luxury travellers or those planning more complicated trips might prefer the expertise of a human travel agent. If you want a personalised and curated experience, a travel agent can carefully design your trip. Furthermore, they often have access to exclusive perks, upgrades, or insider deals that you won’t find online.
So, in short, AI travel tools are perfect for budget-conscious, independent, or tech-savvy travellers who want fast and convenient solutions. Human travel agents are better suited for luxury travellers, those with complex needs, or anyone who values expert guidance and personalised service.
Takeaway
Both AI travel tools and human travel agents offer unique benefits, and the best choice depends on your travel needs. AI tools provide speed, convenience, and budget-friendly options. On the other hand, human travel agents excel in offering personal service, expert advice, and handling complex itineraries. Whether you prioritise fast, data-driven results or personalised guidance, each option has its strengths—it’s all about finding the right fit for your trip.