Can AI plan your next walking holiday? Yes and no.
Sometimes it's better dealing with humans
Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the way we plan holidays, and walking adventures are no exception.
From finding lesser-known trails and comparing guided walks to organising accommodation, transport and itineraries, tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini and Claude can make researching your next walking holiday quicker and easier.
A study by Edith Cowan University (ECU), involving 421 Australian travellers, found that reliability and accountability were among the most important factors influencing whether people trusted AI to plan their holidays. Some 28.8 per cent of Australians already use generative AI to find deals, research destinations and create itineraries.
For walkers, AI can suggest trails to suit different fitness levels, identify attractions, compare walking operators and help organise multi-day adventures. It can also provide inspiration for destinations you might not have considered.
However, there are risks when using AI to plan wilderness walks. Information can be inaccurate, including trail distances, walking times, access points and seasonal closures. AI can even recommend routes that don’t exist. Incorrect information about water supplies, weather or track conditions could have serious consequences in remote areas.
Mobile reception is another consideration. An AI assistant won’t be much help if you’re halfway along a wilderness track without phone coverage.
The Australian Government’s Smartraveller website also warns that AI can provide outdated or incorrect travel information.
AI is a useful research and planning tool, but walkers should always check recommendations against official national park websites, reliable maps and local authorities. Carry appropriate navigation equipment and know how to use it.
AI can help organise your next walking adventure, but it shouldn’t replace proper preparation and sound judgement in the bush.
