Google’s AI is changing how people plan and book travel in 2025. From smarter search tools to personalised ads, it is boosting airlines, hotels and cruise lines worldwide. These innovations help travellers find better deals, improve bookings, and make trips more sustainable.
Google extended its price tracking from flights to hotels in early 2025. Travellers can set alerts for specific destinations and dates. This ensures they receive notifications when rates drop, giving them confidence to book. Hotels see more direct traffic and fewer abandoned searches. The feature also strengthens loyalty, as users return to Google to monitor prices. With hotel rates fluctuating often, this AI-driven tool is helping both travellers and hotel operators plan with precision and lock in better deals.
Google Maps and Search now use Gemini AI to turn inspiration into itineraries. Travellers can upload screenshots of destinations, and AI builds a plan complete with maps, reviews, and photos. This feature shortens the time from idea to booking. It also keeps users within Google’s ecosystem, increasing exposure for partnered airlines, hotels, and attractions. For business and leisure travellers alike, it means less time researching and more time booking. The experience feels personal and curated, making it more likely travellers will commit to their plans.
Google Flights continues to display CO₂ estimates for each flight option. This data comes from the Travel Impact Model, which is open to the public and integrated into search. Eco-conscious travellers can compare emissions and choose lower-impact flights. Airlines that invest in sustainable operations gain visibility through these filters. It aligns with the rising demand for responsible travel and positions Google as a sustainability partner. By making environmental impact easy to understand, AI is driving greener choices without adding booking complexity.
Google’s AI Overviews change how travellers see search results. Instead of lists of links, users get direct answers that highlight top hotels, price ranges, and key features. Hotels with accurate feeds and competitive offers have a better chance of appearing. This benefits properties that invest in strong data and competitive rates. It also means more traffic can go to direct booking pages instead of third-party sites. For travellers, it simplifies decision-making, making the journey from search to booking shorter and clearer.
Google’s Performance Max for Travel Goals uses AI to run ads across Search, YouTube, Display, Discover, and Maps. Hotels can upload property feeds, and AI creates dynamic ads tailored to potential guests. This helps hoteliers reach travellers at every stage of planning. It also optimises budget allocation for the best return on ad spend. As AI becomes central to marketing, those using Performance Max effectively can outperform competitors still relying on manual campaigns. The same strategy can be adapted for airlines and cruises to target high-intent audiences.
Google Cloud has partnered with major travel tech providers like Amadeus and Sabre. These collaborations bring advanced AI into airline retail systems. Airlines can offer dynamic pricing, personalised bundles, and modern order management. This helps carriers sell more than just seats — they can package meals, upgrades, and lounge access based on traveller preferences. Faster processing and smarter recommendations lead to higher ancillary revenue and stronger customer satisfaction. It also prepares airlines for an AI-first future in retailing.
Google’s research with American Airlines and Breakthrough Energy showed AI can cut contrail distance by 54%. Contrails are a major contributor to aviation’s climate impact. By helping pilots avoid humid layers that create these trails, AI reduces non-CO₂ warming. The change requires minimal extra fuel, making it an efficient sustainability win. As governments tighten environmental rules, airlines using such technology can improve their public image and meet climate targets. It is another example of AI driving both efficiency and positive brand perception.
Cruise operators like Royal Caribbean are using Google Cloud to enhance marketing and guest experiences. AI analyses booking patterns, preferences, and on-board spending to tailor offers. It also powers targeted ad campaigns across Google’s platforms. This leads to higher booking conversion and more upsell opportunities. As the cruise industry rebounds in 2025, AI gives companies an edge in attracting both first-time cruisers and loyal guests. It allows them to market itineraries with precision and respond quickly to changing demand.
By making trip planning faster, more personal, and more efficient, Google’s AI tools are boosting the global travel economy. Airlines benefit from better merchandising and visibility. Hotels enjoy stronger direct booking performance. Cruise lines capture more interest through precise targeting. Sustainability features align with shifting traveller values, ensuring long-term demand. As more of the travel journey moves into AI-driven systems, those who adapt early are likely to see the biggest gains in 2025 and beyond.
