Start With The Big Picture
First, give the itinerary a simple common-sense check. Does the flow of the trip make geographical sense? AI tools can sometimes create illogical routes, sending you backtracking across a city or region. A recent study found that 25% of AI itineraries
had this kind of flawed planning. Use a tool like Google Maps to plot the main locations for each day. Look at the overall map and ask yourself: Is this a sensible path? Does it group sights by neighbourhood? This initial five-minute check can expose major structural problems before you waste time on the finer details. Also, consider if the plan respects the constraints you set. If you asked for a relaxed pace or specific exclusions, make sure the AI has actually followed your instructions.
Verify All Flights and Transit
An AI-generated flight number or train time looks official, but it must be verified. AI models often pull from outdated data, which means prices, schedules, and even flight routes can be wrong. Go directly to an aggregator like Google Flights or Skyscanner, or the airline's official website, to confirm every detail. Pay close attention to layover times. AI is notoriously bad at factoring in real-world buffer time for things like airport security, terminal changes, or potential delays. The same applies to ground transportation. Don't trust an AI's estimate for a train journey or a drive between cities. Use official rail operator websites or mapping services to check real-time schedules and travel durations.
Scrutinise Your Accommodation
An AI might recommend a hotel that sounds perfect, but reality can be different. One of the biggest mistakes is letting the AI choose your hotel's location without checking it yourself on a map. Use Google Maps and its Street View feature to explore the neighbourhood. Is it a safe, well-lit area? Is it close to public transport? How far is the walk to the nearest cafe or shop? Next, verify the hotel itself. AI has been known to suggest hotels that are permanently closed. Cross-reference recent reviews on multiple platforms like Booking.com, TripAdvisor, and Google Reviews. Look for feedback from the last few months to get a current picture of the hotel's condition and service. Pay attention to comments about cleanliness, noise, and whether the amenities match the advertisement.
Fact-Check Every Activity and Restaurant
This is where AI plans often fall apart. Studies have shown that over half of AI itineraries can suggest visiting an attraction outside of its opening hours. Some even recommend restaurants or sights that no longer exist. For every museum, gallery, park, or tour on your itinerary, go to the official website to check opening times, ticket prices, and if you need to book in advance. This is especially critical for popular attractions that sell out. When it comes to food, AI recommendations can be generic or based on outdated reviews. Once you've confirmed a recommended restaurant is still open, check recent reviews to see if the quality is still high.
Assess the Real-World Pacing
AI itineraries are often overly ambitious, packing too much into one day without accounting for the human need for rest, meals, or spontaneous discoveries. A plan might look efficient on paper but feel exhausting in practice. Look at the schedule for each day and be realistic. Did the AI plan a strenuous hike the day after a long-haul flight? Does it have you rushing between appointments with no time for lunch? Use Google Maps to calculate walking and transit times between each activity. Often, the five-minute walk suggested by an AI is actually a 15-minute journey. Build in buffer time throughout your day for a more relaxed and enjoyable trip.
