This week, I wasn’t buried in a spreadsheet—I was buried in 27 browser tabs titled:
“Best things to do in Seattle with kids.”
“Seattle on a budget.”
“Local coffee shops that don’t suck.”
I was planning a trip. Or trying to. Until I let AI take the wheel.
1. From Research Overload to Real Plans
Normally, planning a trip means this:
10 tabs open
4 conflicting blog posts
One spreadsheet that never gets finished
Instead, I tried this prompt:
“Plan a 4-day trip to Seattle for 2 adults and 2 kids. Prioritize food, nature, and budget-friendliness.”
And in under 30 seconds, AI gave me:
A daily itinerary
Local restaurants
Outdoor adventures
A few just-for-fun detours (yes, including donuts)
It even worked in nap time.
2. Packing Lists and Local Gems
I asked AI:
“Give me a packing list and one local gem per day.”
It nailed it:
Layers? Check.
Rain gear? Check.
Local park with a hidden playground + skyline view? Big win.
I didn’t have to dig through reviews or ask the internet for the 12th time if kids like ferry rides (they do).
🧰 Tools to Try
Roam Around – Drop in your destination + days, get a ready-to-use itinerary
GuideGeek – Travel chatbot that answers your questions, instantly
ChatGPT – Custom plans, packing lists, weather-aware tweaks, and more
✅ Try This Prompt
“Plan a 3-day trip to Asheville for two adults. Prioritize hiking, good coffee, and relaxed vibes. Include a packing list.”
You’ll be packed before your friend finishes reading Yelp reviews.
🎯 Bottom Line
AI can’t book your flight or carry your bags. But it can make the planning part faster, easier, and actually kinda fun. And that’s half the battle.
👉 Ditch the tabs. Keep the adventure.
Send this to someone planning a trip—or just dreaming about one.