Unfortunately for many of us, the holidays approaching means one thing — travel. And travel means we’re going to be spending some money. Of course, we want to spend the holidays with our families. But that can get expensive — flights, hotels, meals on the road — it adds up fast. And that’s on top of buying gifts!

Since AI tools like ChatGPT first became available, people have found all sorts of creative ways to use them. You might not think of AI as a way to save money on travel, but ChatGPT can help with that, too. Here are a few of the ways you can use ChatGPT to make your holiday trips more affordable this year.

Estimate How Much Your Trip Will Cost

Before you get too far into planning all the details, you probably want to know how much your trip will cost. You can use ChatGPT to get a rough idea. Tell it where you’re going, when you’re traveling, how many people are traveling, and how long you’re staying — and it can break down all the costs for travel, lodging, food, activities and so on. It will make an educated guess at the typical cost for each category and then total them up for you. This is a nice way to quickly get a ballpark figure without looking up all the prices and guessing yourself.

For example, ChatGPT could tell you what airfare tends to cost during the holidays, based on how far in advance you’re booking. It would do the same for each category, considering the cost of food and everything else at your destination.

This is great information to have because you can look at where your money will be going and where you might be able to cut back. Maybe you don’t need to rent a car or maybe you can limit your dining out.

Compare Accommodations

If you’re visiting family for the holidays, they might not have a lot of extra space for guests — or maybe you just need a place where you can take a break from them. You need to find someplace affordable where you can stay that’s also nearby. ChatGPT can help you with this, by comparing your options for hotels or rentals.

Try asking it for recommendations on the most affordable neighborhoods near your family. You could also ask for advice on how to adjust your search settings to narrow down what you’re looking for.

Once you start finding a few potential places to stay, you have a thousand browser tabs open. That can get overwhelming really fast. So let ChatGPT sort through the chaos. Copy and paste the details of each listing and let ChatGPT weigh their pros and cons.

Help You Pack Smarter

It’s easy to overpack when you’re bringing gifts for the whole family. If you have too many bags, or if they’re too heavy, you’re going to run into your airline’s baggage limits, and you’ll end up spending more than you can afford on baggage fees.

But ChatGPT can help you pack smarter. Ask it for tips on how to stay under your airline’s limits. Tell it what gifts you’re bringing, and how long you’re staying, and it can help you pack more efficiently.

Earn and Use Your Travel Rewards

Ask ChatGPT how to make the most of your credit card’s travel rewards program. Just tell it what specific card you have. It can explain complicated point systems in simple terms. This could help you save money or earn points toward your next trip.

Maybe you already have a stash of frequent flier miles or reward points you’ve been saving up. ChatGPT can help you figure out the best ways to use your rewards. For example, it can tell you about loyalty programs that your credit card has partnered with — like hotels or airlines — so that you can transfer your points.

There’s additional documentation needed you might not be aware of

For those looking to head to the US, Visa and entry requirements can be a little more complicated than for the typical quick European getaway. And despite being close allies, Brits still need to apply for special documentation to enter the country.

Passport requirements to enter the US are relatively relaxed. In many countries, travellers need at least six months of validity remaining on their passport to enter.

However, for those looking to visit the US, passports need only be valid for the duration of their planned visit. It’s important to remember if you’re travelling through a different country that there may be different requirements for this.

What is an ESTA?

An ESTA, or Electronic System for Travel Authorisation Visa Waiver, is a document which anyone without a visa or US passport needs to enter the country. These can be applied for online through US Customs and Border Protection.

All UK citizens will need to apply for an ESTA if their trip is less than 90 days, even if you’ll only be in the US for a brief period of time such as a connecting flight or ship. However, you won’t be able to apply for an ESTA if you’ve been arrested, have a criminal record, have been refused entry or have been deported from the US or if you’ve previously overstayed under an ESTA waiver.

People who have been in Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen on or after March 2011 cannot normally apply for an ESTA, according to the UK Government website. Those who have travelled to or been in Cuba after January 12, 2021, also can’t apply for an ESTA.

What are the US Visa requirements?

If you’re planning to stay for more than 90 days in the country, or can’t apply for an ESTA, you must apply for a US Visa. Those looking for more information on the US Visa application process can find this online.

The UK Government advises that travellers plan their application as far in advance as possible before travelling, as appointments at the US embassy in London are limited.

Other requirements

There are currently no Covid-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering the US. Details of other vaccination requirements can be found online.

Rules on which goods can be taken in or out of the US are strict. Travellers must declare anything which may be prohibited or subject to duty or tax.

Children under 17 must also have a valid ESTA, be able to provide evidence on the purpose, location and length of their trip. They must also have written consent from one or both parents if travelling alone, with only one parent or someone who is not a parent or guardian.

Here are some practical tips to maintain personal hygiene during flights

It’s crucial to practice good hygiene habits while traveling. It can help in preventing illness and minimize the spread of germs. Dr. Subhashree Samantaray, Infectious Diseases Specialist, Manipal Hospitals, Bhubaneswar shares some practical tips to maintain personal hygiene during flights:

Hydration is Key

• Cabin air is typically dry with humidity levels often below 20%, which can lead to dehydration.
• Drink water regularly throughout the flight. Steer clear of alcohol and caffeine in excess as these will further dehydrate you.

Hand Hygiene

• Airplanes are shared spaces with many high-touch surfaces, making them potential hotspots for germs.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, and use alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol) when soap isn’t available. To lower the risk of infection, avoid touching your face, especially the areas around your mouth, nose, and eyes.
  

  Oral Hygiene

• Dry mouth can be a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to bad breath and an increased risk of oral infections.
• Rinse your mouth with water after meals. Chewing sugar-free gum can stimulate saliva production, helping to keep your mouth moist.

Respiratory Hygiene

• Respiratory infections, including colds and flu, are easily spread in close quarters like an airplane cabin.
• Wear a mask, especially if you or others around you are showing symptoms of illness. To stop the spread of germs, cough or sneeze into your elbow rather than your hands.

Skin Care

• Dry cabin air can lead to skin dehydration, irritation, and even exacerbation of skin conditions like eczema.
• Apply a fragrance-free, hypoallergenic moisturizer before and during the flight. Lip balm is also essential to prevent chapped lips.

Infection Control

• In a closed environment like an airplane, germs can spread easily, leading to various infections.
• Disinfect high-touch surfaces, such as tray tables, armrests, and seatbelts, with disinfectant wipes. Carrying your own blanket and pillow can further reduce exposure to germs.

Gastrointestinal Comfort

• Eat light meals and avoid gas-producing foods before and during the flight. Consider bringing over-the-counter remedies for indigestion or gas if you’re prone to these issues.
• Moving around time-to-time during a long flight helps with both circulation and reduce the feeling of discomfort.

Sleep Hygiene

• Poor sleep quality during long flights can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections.
• Bring a sleep mask and earplugs to help create a restful environment. Try to maintain a sleep routine if you’re on a long flight.

Post-Flight Hygiene

• The flight environment can leave you feeling unclean and increase the risk of skin irritation and infections.
• Shower as soon as possible after your flight to cleanse your skin and refresh your body. Pay attention to areas prone to irritation, such as underarms and feet.

Travel vaccines

• Before travelling abroad, be up to date with routine vaccinations like MMR, DTaP, Polio and influenza.
• Consult with your doctor or visit a designated ‘Adult Immunization clinic’ for destination-specific vaccine advices like COVID-19, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis and meningococcal vaccines including malaria chemoprophylaxis.
• Keep a copy of your vaccination records, as you may have to produce it at the time of immigration at international airports.

If you’re lucky, then you’ll still have a vacation to look forward to in 2024. After all, the year isn’t over yet! However, for most people, their adventuring is done for the year, which means now’s the perfect time to begin thinking about the adventures you’ll take in 2025.

It’s a big old world out there, and that makes it difficult to figure out where to visit. That’s why we thought it’d be a good idea to round up the trending destinations for 2025. We’ve put together thirteen fantastic countries to consider visiting. Book now, and you’ll have a great adventure to look forward to once the new year rolls around!

Slovenia

Slovenia has a lot going for it, which makes it somewhat surprising that it’s still considered a relatively alternative destination within Europe. If you’ve been to the crowded — and often expensive — countries of Western Europe, then Slovenia will be a breath of fresh air. And we mean not that literally; there’s plenty of stunning outdoor space to be found here. Aside from beautiful national parks and lakes, visitors can enjoy a thriving food scene and architecture that is straight out of a fairytale.

Scotland

Visitors to the UK often focus exclusively on London, and that’s a shame because the United Kingdom has a lot more to offer beyond its capital. The further north you go, the more interesting — and beautiful — things become. Exploring Scotland is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that can take you through ancient highlands, deeply inviting pubs, castles, and much more. You’ll need to do a bit of work to make the most of Scotland (a car is recommended), but the trip will be well worth the effort. There are simply few places on earth more magical than Scotland.

Bolivia

South America has been an increasingly popular travel destination for some time now, yet for some reason, Bolivia has been largely overlooked. That makes now the perfect time to plan a trip because you have to imagine that, sometime soon, Bolivia is going to become a lot more popular than it is now. During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to visit its colorful cities, trek through the Andes, and experience the mind-bending Uyuni Salt Flats. It’s a landlocked country, which gives it a slightly different air to what you typically find in South America. In other words, it’s a fascinating place to explore.

Sri Lanka

Beautiful beaches, thriving cities, and some of the world’s finest national parks (and plenty of wildlife!)? Sign us up. Sri Lanka has something to offer every type of traveler, from luxury-focused explorers to wildlife-spotting adventurers, and everyone in between. To get the most from this fascinating, beautiful country, it’s recommended to take a look at joining a tour; there’s so much to see and do here, and there are plenty of Sri Lanka tours available that can help you to get the traveling experience you’re looking for. In any case, whether you’re trekking through tea plantations, spotting wildlife, or simply enjoying its beaches, you’re sure to have a memorable time in this one-of-a-kind corner of the globe.

Morocco

Morocco is one of the world’s best travel destinations. It offers a nice mix of adventure and comfort — you’ll eat and sleep extremely well here, but you’ll also get lost in the Labyrinth medinas, have a chance to sleep out in a desert under a billion stars, and travel across the country in a shared ‘Grand Taxi.’ It’s only a stone’s throw from Spain, Morocco is very much its own place. Spend a week or two traveling around Morocco, and we promise that you’ll return home having found your new favorite travel destination.

Nepal

It doesn’t take much to see what makes Nepal such a captivating travel destination. There aren’t too many places on the planet that can offer such an intimate connection to natural wonders that’ll take your breath away. Aside from trekking near Mount Everest, visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy the country’s new assortment of culturally-integrated hotels, view wildlife, and taste magnificent cuisine. Visiting Nepal does require a big sense of adventure, and it’s unlikely that things will run smoothly all the time, but you’ll leave feeling highly satisfied that you made the effort.

Latvia

Latvia, as with many countries in that part of Europe, is often overlooked by visitors to the continent. And that’s exactly why you should go. There’s no mass tourism here, which means appealing prices and your choice of hotel rooms. What the country does possess is a lot of charming cities — especially Riga — great hiking, history, and an interesting food scene. As with other countries on this list, Latvia might become a go-to destination in the coming decade, making 2025 the perfect time to plan your trip.

Brazil

Does Brazil need any introduction? This fascinating, gigantic South American country has a lot to offer all types of travelers, though the ones who will be most rewarded by a trip to Brazil are the ones with a big sense of adventure. Take an adventurous spirit with you, and you may well end up exploring The Amazon, Iguazu Falls, and the country’s extensive rainforest. But visitors who stick to the main cities will also have a pretty great time — there’s not a city on earth that can match Rio’s energy, and there are plenty of great hotels and a jaw-dropping food scene, too.

South Africa

South Africa is very much a “choose your own adventure” kind of arrangement. You can stay in the cities, and enjoy some of the most thriving, cosmopolitan towns on the continent, or you can take a journey out into the wilderness to see wildlife in its natural habitat. When you’re not viewing the Big Five, you can enjoy the main cities, such as Cape Town, which offer sandy beaches and a near-endless number of activities and excursions. You’ll also find some of the world’s best wine here — make sure you plan a trip to the country’s best wineries.

Italy

Is there ever a bad time to visit Italy? Not in our book. The Italians figured out how to live well a long time ago, and that’s not going to change anytime soon. If you like food, wine, and art, then there’s arguably no better place on the planet to spend a week or two. If it’s your first time visiting Italy, then it’s recommended to visit Rome and Florence. If you’re looking to take a deeper dive into the country, then look at visiting the Lake Como area, Sicily, Venice, or the Amalfi Coast. Wherever you go, we’re confident you’ll have an exceptional time — it’s a country that’s easy to love.

Japan

There’s no country on the planet like Japan. Take a trip to this Asian country, and you’ll find mountains, beaches, and the most futuristic cities on earth. Given the distance and expense involved in taking a trip to Japan, it’s recommended to make a pitstop at as many cities as you can. The classics include Tokyo, Hiroshima, and Osaka, but it’s also worth looking beyond those popular destinations. Ine, for example, might just be the most beautiful village in the country and also offers easy access to nearby islands.

Botswana

Botswana’s popularity has been steadily increasing in recent years, and today it’s one of the most popular destinations in Southern Africa. The country offers a wide range of activities for the adventurous traveler, including boat safaris and canoe boating, and sightings of some of Africa’s most elusive wildlife, including rhinos. A trip to Botswana can be expensive, but there’s a good reason why — only low-level, eco-friendly tourism is permitted here, which has resulted in what is perhaps the best-preserved wilderness in all of Africa. If you do go, be sure to stay in one of the rural, wild camp accommodations that are available. There’s no experience like it.

Switzerland

As with Botswana, if you want to visit Switzerland then you’ll need to pay for it — while there are plenty of budget-friendly destinations in Europe, Switzerland is not one of them. The country is relatively small, which makes it great for train travel lovers — you can get virtually everywhere, including many rural places of interest, via train. And these aren’t any old train journeys; along the way, you’ll pass some of the finest scenery you’ll find anywhere on Earth. Even if you’re not normally a hiker, it’s recommended to pack your hiking boots for this trip. There are simply too many magnificent places to explore.

Conclusion

And there we have it! In truth, we could have made this list a lot longer — in recent years, many historically overlooked destinations have grown in prominence, and that trend is set to continue. The list above includes highly diverse countries where visitors can choose what type of adventure they want, from exploring the great outdoors to enjoying the best cities that the world has to offer. So keep our recommendations in mind when you begin planning your next adventure; we’re sure you’ll have a great time!