AARP Study: Older adults embracing technology to enhance travel experiences

        A new AARP study reveals that adults ages 50 and older are increasingly embracing new technology such as artificial intelligence (AI), navigation apps, and airline websites for their travel needs. Most say they value how technology can save them money (85%) and time (77%) and assist with unexpected travel changes. (77%)
        Interest in learning more about travel technology is strong, with three-quarters of travelers eager to expand their knowledge. However, one-third feel overwhelmed by the number of available digital tools and 13% believe that using technology is not worth the hassle.
        “As older adults prioritize travel, technology can make their trips easier and safer – but many find themselves on the ‘wrong side’ of the digital divide and are eager to learn more,” says Tom Kamber, executive director of Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) from AARP. “Our Senior Planet tech travel classes can help people enhance their trips, from booking and finding deals to assisting in navigation.”
        Additional study findings:
        • People who are comfortable with technology want to learn through online tutorials and videos (47%).
        • Those less comfortable with tech prefer hands-on learning with a friend or family member (39%).
        • Among the four in five who are familiar with AI (87%), most are aware of its use for travel (79%) but remain skeptical about data privacy (70%).
        • Hotel websites (83%) and airline websites (73%) are the top digital tools used during planning, while navigation apps (77%) are used most during travel.
        OATS from AARP offers both online and in-person classes to help older adults learn new skills, save money, and more through its flagship Senior Planet program.
        Senior Planet’s dedicated travel page features upcoming classes, videos, and articles to help older adults plan trips online and learn hacks that can simplify their travel. Classes include Introduction to Booking Vacation Stays Online, Online Travel Sites, Ridesharing Apps, Virtual Museum Tours and more. For more information about booking travel online, navigating online travel sites, and more, visit seniorplanet.org/travel.
        To read the full study, visit AARP.org/traveltech50plus.