Kayak, the travel search platform, has introduced a new “AI Mode” that enables users to plan their trips with the help of artificial intelligence before making reservations. This feature, available on the company’s website, allows travelers to ask questions about their journeys and compare or book flights, hotels, and rental cars through an integrated AI chatbot.
Currently, this tool is accessible on both desktop and mobile browsers, utilizing Kayak’s ChatGPT integration to provide tailored responses.
This launch comes after Kayak introduced Kayak.ai in April, a platform designed to experiment with AI capabilities. That site also merged Kayak’s resources with OpenAI’s technology, giving the company’s tech team a space to test AI features before integrating them into the main Kayak.com site.
In essence, the AI Mode brings the same features found on Kayak.ai directly to Kayak’s primary website. The company recommends that users can interact with the chatbot for travel inspiration, such as finding destinations within a certain budget, locating the best deals for specific places, comparing hotel features, searching for direct flights, exploring rental car options, and more.
Image Credits:Kayak
Additionally, users can pose broader questions to the AI, such as “I want to party for NYE — where should I go?” to receive suggestions even if they haven’t chosen a destination. The AI can also help determine the most cost-effective times to travel.
This tool may assist travelers in the early phases of trip planning, when they are still gathering ideas. Still, it remains uncertain whether those using AI will ultimately make bookings through these tools.
At launch, AI Mode is offered in English for users in the United States, with plans to expand to additional languages and regions later this month. Kayak also intends to introduce the feature on more platforms and add voice command functionality in the near future.
Image Credits:Kayak
The travel industry is increasingly being shaped by AI, as both technology providers and travel companies seek to simplify the often complex process of booking trips online. To gauge interest in AI-powered travel solutions, OpenAI has recently partnered with companies such as Expedia and Booking.com. These collaborations now allow those services to function as apps within ChatGPT.
In contrast, Kayak’s approach of hosting its AI chatbot directly on its website may give the company more immediate insights into how travelers are using the AI tool.


