
28 Under-$25 Travel Finds To Make Your Next Trip Breezy
A pair of anti-nausea acupressure wristbands if you've been dreaming of lying deck-side with your piña colada but know your body may have other plans. These bands work by applying pressure to the Nei-Kuan point, which can help alleviate symptoms like nausea and vomiting. Reviewers with motion sickness have tested them against car, flight, and sea sickness and say they actually work — turning even skeptics into very thankful believers.
A cosmetic bag that holds *so many* products and keeps them all organized in little compartments (including a center zipper-pouch to separate your brushes and keep the bag clean — genius). One reviewer says it's like having a vanity with you on vacation! It has a super elegant, chic look and can be opened flat to see everything inside, so no more dumping everything out and taking up the already very limited hotel counter space.
A collapsable trunk organizer for those "uh-oh" road-trip moments when you hear all your travel gear rolling around the back after hitting a particularly ~sharp~ turn. The compartments and pockets are perfect for organizing all your essentials, and it's ultra-sturdy so they can even be stacked on one another! Or, it can be partially collapsed and put in the passenger seat to hold all your roadtrip snacks — Arizona tea and yogurt pretzels, anyone?
A pack of body wipes if you're traveling somewhere with limited showers, need to clean off that icky feeling after a long flight, or just want to quickly freshen up before dinner after a day of sweaty sightseeing. These wipes have an oh-so-refreshing blend of antibacterial and soothing ingredients like aloe vera, vitamin E, and oatmeal to help keep your skin hydrated while reducing grime. Reviewers love how large they are (12x12!), how gentle they feel on sensitive skin, and best of all, that they do 👏 not 👏 tear.
A neck pillow-eye mask hybrid so you can finally catch some travel zzz's *without* that awful crick in your neck (or jolting awake when you feel yourself leaning toward the stranger in the middle seat). This design is *truly* innovative — it attaches to the flaps of a plane's (or car's!) headrest and uses the eye mask to keep your head in place for total 360-degree support. And the fact that reviewers say the Velcro doesn't catch on hair might just make it the answer to all your sleeping woes.
A Tessan universal travel adapter that'll take all the thought out of charging your essentials (because you've got other things to worry about, like how the heck to get to the Airbnb). This little powerhouse works in over 200 countries and can plug in up to six devices at once (watch out for max watts, tho!), truly living by the motto "no device left behind". And it does it all while being a super portable little cube!
A waterproof electronics organizer with a double-layer design so you'll know exactly where your chargers are — instead of rummaging in your bag, pulling out everything but what you need. It has different slots and compartments to keep your wires tangle-free and a spongey interior to cushion all your gadgets, and reviewers especially appreciate the bright color options so they can quickly spot it in their bag!
Luggage-connector straps that'll make life a little easier for all the designated bag holders out there (we thank you for your service). These straps attach along the tops of your wheeled suitcases to create a train of luggage so you can stroll more smoothly with everything in tow. Reviewers have used these to securely transport five (and even eight) suitcases at once!
Or, a bungee luggage strap so you don't need to lug your personal item on your back or constantly catch it when it slips off your carry-on. These adjustable straps stretch to hold your extra bags firmly to your luggage *and* have an easy slip-on design so you won't be fumbling when it's time to put everything away in the plane (and there's a line of people waiting behind you 😥).
The Uniqlo crossbody bag if you don't want to carry a ton, but still want *just* enough space to keep your hands water bottle free. This super sleek bag has little details that make it a great travel companion, like roomy space and pockets so your essentials are *always* ready and organized when you're running out the door to make that reservation. Plus, it keeps everything close to your body and safe from rogue pickpockets — not today, sticky fingers, not today.
Or an RFID-blocking travel pouch you can wear as a crossbody, over your neck, and even under your shirt for max security. It's got a super slim, lay-flat design and compartments with zippers that'll keep your valuables extra secure — so next time you're in a packed train, you can quickly place everything out of sight instead of keeping a steel-tight grip on your bag.
A collapsible water bottle because while you and your 30-ounce Stanley may be attached at the hip (lips? straw?), it's admittedly not the most travel-friendly. This ultra-lightweight bottle has, literally, got layers to it. It holds 16 ounces of water and has a collapse-as-you-go design, so you're never taking up unnecessary space in your bag. And if you don't have the room to spare, no problem — it's got a nifty little carabiner built right in.
A set of *compression* packing cubes that don't just keep all your clothes organized, but have some double-zipper action that helps squeeze all the extra air out (i.e., space for more options). What's left are super dense, super compact cubes that save up to 40% of space — which is especially helpful if you love the thrill of carrying two week's worth of clothes in a carry-on. Now you can easily pack double the amount of underwear you could ever need for your trip... ya know, just in case.
A pack of travel-size laundry detergent because a capsule wardrobe is all fine and dandy until the staple plain white tee starts getting some pit stains. These liquid packets are safe for most fabrics, gentle on sensitive skin (unscented!), and work whether you're handwashing in a sink or using a machine. They'll leave your clothes stain-free and smelling fresh *without* having to use up your daily meal budget on laundering fees.
And a portable travel clothesline so no matter where you are, you won't be plagued by a slightly musty, clothes-didn't-dry-all-the-way smell (iykyk). The lightweight line is made of a stretchy bungee material with hooks on each end for easy looping, has attached clips and stoppers that keep everything from bunching in the center, *and* can be lengthened or shortened. It's perfect for outdoor trips or travels abroad (because fair warning, the rest of the world isn't too keen on dryers).
A set of macrame hat clips that'll be an extra set of hands keeping your sunhat crumple-free and photo-ready. It's super easy to hook onto the strap of your tote and strong, so you can even put it on the side of your luggage (which admittedly, we could be a little more gentle with) without worrying that it'll come flying off.
A microfiber travel towel that won't track in all the sand from your beach day back to the hotel room thanks to its sand-resistant material (plus, the ones the hotel provides are normally too itty-bitty anyway). These towels are thin and lightweight enough to roll up for easy carrying, yet still super absorbent and quick-drying! And with vibrant colors and designs (that don't fade, BTW) you'll be suntanning in style.
A mini handheld fan, the ultimate budget travel find that has not one, not two, but three functions! You're overheating in line at a theme park? No prob, turn on those (quiet! powerful!) blades. It's hour five of sightseeing and your phone's out of juice? Oh, it's also a portable charger. You take an evening hike and the sun goes down a little *too* fast? Yeah, it's a flashlight too (and brighter than a phone)! It does everything so well, you may even experience a divine awakening, like one reviewer did.
A pack of Liquid I.V. for an extra boost of electrolytes that can help you stay hydrated on those days you hit 25,000 steps (and your body feels every single one). These drink mixes can really come in handy after a particularly sweaty day of sightseeing or a ~long night out~. Plus, they're individually packed and quickly dissolve in water, so perfect for on-the-go use!
The Megababe odor-blocking foot spray, because when we're trekking through our Euro-summer itinerary for ten hours, our feet aren't exactly gonna smell minty fresh — until now. The ~magic~ of the spray is in the tea tree oil, which is anti-microbial and can help fight odor-causing bacteria *before* they have a chance to stink. Simply spritz the minty lavender "toe deo" on clean, dry feet for hours-long protection that has saved reviewers from those grueling, fume-producing 10-hour and 12-hour shifts.
A Gold Bond Friction Defense stick because there are fewer things that can kill your vacay vibe like chafing (*shudder*). The stick's formula easily glides onto skin and can be put anywhere where friction occurs, like between thighs and under your clothes or gear. It creates a barrier against chafing without feeling greasy, has aloe to soothe any roughed-up skin, *and* reviewers say it holds up against sweat or getting wet! For anyone who has gone to an amusement park only to end the day with a limping, circular walk, this one's for us.
An airplane pocket organizer that'll save you the hassle of rummaging through your bag mid-flight searching for the elusive ChapStick. It hangs from the pocket in front of your seat and can be pre-packed with all the wipes, chargers, and entertainment you'll need (it even has a spot to hang your wireless headphones from!). Reviewers say it doesn't take up any leg room and is *so* convenient to slip back into their personal item at the end of their flight without worrying they've forgotten anything.
A 16-piece travel toiletries set to take away the worry that your must-have products won't make it through TSA unscathed. This comes with all the leakproof bottles and jars you'll need to carry your faves (including scoopers and a funnel for easy transfer!) *and* stores them in a clear, reusable TSA-approved bag, so you can rest easy knowing your skin and hair routines are safe.
Or, a set of leakproof toiletry sleeves for your larger bottles because when you land, you want to be "go go go!" — not staying in to wash your clothes after your favorite lotion explodes. These elastics can stretch and mold over most full-sized bottles (minus anything with a pump — tho you can always try separating the top!) and if they catch any leaks, they are super easy to rinse out and reuse.
A foldable jewelry organizer that'll replace that Ziploc bag so you'll actually wear your jewelry — not leave it in a tangled mess you'll deal with when you get home. It has handy elements to keep your bling organized (and scratch-free!), like a roll for your rings, an earring panel, buckles for your necklaces, and little zipper compartments for everything else. The soft material is slim and packs nicely, and it's especially helpful if you're going the carry-on only, capsule wardrobe route and need someplace to store the ✨ accessories ✨ that'll make each outfit feel new!
A sleek travel wallet so you're not scrambling for your passport under the penetrating, impatient gaze of the TSA agent. It has *tons* of space to organize all the currencies, cards, documents, and passports (yes, plural; it fits two!) you need for your trip — even a handy little pen holder so it won't get lost in the black hole that is your personal item. And it has RFID blocking, so it helps protect your private info and gives you a little extra peace of mind.
A foldable duffel perfect for when your luggage is full, but you just know you're going to be coming back with trinkets and souvenirs galore. It's super lightweight yet durable, and can be used as a personal item that fits under the seat of an airplane — yes, the smaller airlines too!

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Hamilton Spectator
11 minutes ago
- Hamilton Spectator
Planning a cottage getaway? Essential supplies and last-minute checks for your August long weekend trip
If you are one of many families heading out camping or cottaging for the Civic holiday, there's a few extra things you might want to keep in mind. Celebrated on the first Monday of August the civic holiday is a public holiday in Ontario, but it is not a federally mandated statutory holiday across the country. According to Vrbo , Canadians are embracing local travel, with shorter stays and domestic destinations on the rise. Places like Kawartha Lakes offers great rates and are perfect for families, Vrbo spokesperson Kyla Moore told Metroland Media. So as you grab sunscreen, towels and bug spray, here are a few extra things you will also have to consider prior to arrival. There's a lot of meal planning ahead of time to ensure no one goes hungry over the course of your visit. If you are renting an Airbnb or Vrbo spot, ensure you consult with the owners about what oils, spices and condiments might be available. It can make packing a bit lighter if you don't have to bring your own salt and pepper. And you'll also want to consider what your crowd will eat upon arrival. Whether it's lunch or dinner, family members are likely to feel a bit snackish when you arrive. Plan to have something you can throw together quickly, like a charcuterie board of crackers, cheeses, meat, and fruit, school snacks or burgers and hot dogs. Whether you are right on the lake or just nearby, know if there's a sandy beach entry or rocky, dock-only entry. This could make a difference when planning if life jackets or floating devices need to be on all the time, and how much supervision young children may need. It's not always something you consider when you're ready to have fun, but ensure you plan ahead for what to do in an emergency. Is there good cellular service and Wi-Fi? Can you provide directions to the property? Inquire where the closest hospital and fire station are, in case you need that information. And learn if there's a fire extinguisher on site. And what would you do if there is a power outage? Summer storms can leave renters and campers without electricity for some time, so it's good to have a backup plan for eating and charging devices. For cooking on outdoor campfires, some municipalities may have fire bans in place, so you should also be advised of that ahead of time. That's even if the property has a fire pit. And if your property is not on level ground, having rocks or uneven terrain can be challenging for those with mobility issues from accessing all areas of the site, so consider fall prevention measures. Uneven ground may also lead to cuts and scrapes with little ones, so bring along a first aid kit with plenty of bandages. You also want to include some tweezers in case anyone gets a sliver from sticks or wood in the area. Booking a vacation rental can be easy when most of the necessities are already provided. 'Essentials like extra sheets and towels are often included and handy amenities — such as a washer and dryer — make it easier to pack light,' Moore said. Things like a hair dryer, iron, blender, rice cooker, air fryer and slow cooker may also be included in the rental. If it's going to be hot, you'll want to know if there's air conditioning, or if you need to have ways to cool down. And if you're travelling with your pet, you will want to know if it's pet friendly, and if it's fenced off. 'Vrbo recommends reaching out to your host if you're unsure what's provided and checking guest reviews for firsthand insights.' It's also good to know in advance where you're supposed to dry wet towels and swimsuits. Some places have railings or laundry lines to hang them on, while other places will leave you flinging them on nearby branches. And if you are travelling with children, you'll want to know what they can do when they're not in the water. Is there a sandbox or flat area to play soccer? And if it rains during the weekend, you will want to know ahead of time if there are books and board games, of if you need to pack that. Packing extra charging cables for devices is also not a bad idea. You'll also want to know ahead of time how to dispose of garbage and recycling on the property. Various municipalities have different regulations, and you won't want to attract any unnecessary wildlife. If you're in a rental, the host should be able to confirm those details for you — and whether they have a bear-proof bin somewhere. Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .


Buzz Feed
14 hours ago
- Buzz Feed
28 Under-$25 Travel Finds To Make Your Next Trip Breezy
A luggage drink caddy to hold your essentials (iced latte, breakfast, emotional support water bottle) while you stay on top of the boarding passes and passports. This helpful holder attaches right to your luggage handles and can be quickly slipped on and off for max travel efficiency. The airport staff will all definitely agree you're the smoothest traveler they've ever seen — not that we care what they think... A pair of anti-nausea acupressure wristbands if you've been dreaming of lying deck-side with your piña colada but know your body may have other plans. These bands work by applying pressure to the Nei-Kuan point, which can help alleviate symptoms like nausea and vomiting. Reviewers with motion sickness have tested them against car, flight, and sea sickness and say they actually work — turning even skeptics into very thankful believers. A cosmetic bag that holds *so many* products and keeps them all organized in little compartments (including a center zipper-pouch to separate your brushes and keep the bag clean — genius). One reviewer says it's like having a vanity with you on vacation! It has a super elegant, chic look and can be opened flat to see everything inside, so no more dumping everything out and taking up the already very limited hotel counter space. A collapsable trunk organizer for those "uh-oh" road-trip moments when you hear all your travel gear rolling around the back after hitting a particularly ~sharp~ turn. The compartments and pockets are perfect for organizing all your essentials, and it's ultra-sturdy so they can even be stacked on one another! Or, it can be partially collapsed and put in the passenger seat to hold all your roadtrip snacks — Arizona tea and yogurt pretzels, anyone? A pack of body wipes if you're traveling somewhere with limited showers, need to clean off that icky feeling after a long flight, or just want to quickly freshen up before dinner after a day of sweaty sightseeing. These wipes have an oh-so-refreshing blend of antibacterial and soothing ingredients like aloe vera, vitamin E, and oatmeal to help keep your skin hydrated while reducing grime. Reviewers love how large they are (12x12!), how gentle they feel on sensitive skin, and best of all, that they do 👏 not 👏 tear. A neck pillow-eye mask hybrid so you can finally catch some travel zzz's *without* that awful crick in your neck (or jolting awake when you feel yourself leaning toward the stranger in the middle seat). This design is *truly* innovative — it attaches to the flaps of a plane's (or car's!) headrest and uses the eye mask to keep your head in place for total 360-degree support. And the fact that reviewers say the Velcro doesn't catch on hair might just make it the answer to all your sleeping woes. A Tessan universal travel adapter that'll take all the thought out of charging your essentials (because you've got other things to worry about, like how the heck to get to the Airbnb). This little powerhouse works in over 200 countries and can plug in up to six devices at once (watch out for max watts, tho!), truly living by the motto "no device left behind". And it does it all while being a super portable little cube! A waterproof electronics organizer with a double-layer design so you'll know exactly where your chargers are — instead of rummaging in your bag, pulling out everything but what you need. It has different slots and compartments to keep your wires tangle-free and a spongey interior to cushion all your gadgets, and reviewers especially appreciate the bright color options so they can quickly spot it in their bag! Luggage-connector straps that'll make life a little easier for all the designated bag holders out there (we thank you for your service). These straps attach along the tops of your wheeled suitcases to create a train of luggage so you can stroll more smoothly with everything in tow. Reviewers have used these to securely transport five (and even eight) suitcases at once! Or, a bungee luggage strap so you don't need to lug your personal item on your back or constantly catch it when it slips off your carry-on. These adjustable straps stretch to hold your extra bags firmly to your luggage *and* have an easy slip-on design so you won't be fumbling when it's time to put everything away in the plane (and there's a line of people waiting behind you 😥). The Uniqlo crossbody bag if you don't want to carry a ton, but still want *just* enough space to keep your hands water bottle free. This super sleek bag has little details that make it a great travel companion, like roomy space and pockets so your essentials are *always* ready and organized when you're running out the door to make that reservation. Plus, it keeps everything close to your body and safe from rogue pickpockets — not today, sticky fingers, not today. Or an RFID-blocking travel pouch you can wear as a crossbody, over your neck, and even under your shirt for max security. It's got a super slim, lay-flat design and compartments with zippers that'll keep your valuables extra secure — so next time you're in a packed train, you can quickly place everything out of sight instead of keeping a steel-tight grip on your bag. A collapsible water bottle because while you and your 30-ounce Stanley may be attached at the hip (lips? straw?), it's admittedly not the most travel-friendly. This ultra-lightweight bottle has, literally, got layers to it. It holds 16 ounces of water and has a collapse-as-you-go design, so you're never taking up unnecessary space in your bag. And if you don't have the room to spare, no problem — it's got a nifty little carabiner built right in. A set of *compression* packing cubes that don't just keep all your clothes organized, but have some double-zipper action that helps squeeze all the extra air out (i.e., space for more options). What's left are super dense, super compact cubes that save up to 40% of space — which is especially helpful if you love the thrill of carrying two week's worth of clothes in a carry-on. Now you can easily pack double the amount of underwear you could ever need for your trip... ya know, just in case. A pack of travel-size laundry detergent because a capsule wardrobe is all fine and dandy until the staple plain white tee starts getting some pit stains. These liquid packets are safe for most fabrics, gentle on sensitive skin (unscented!), and work whether you're handwashing in a sink or using a machine. They'll leave your clothes stain-free and smelling fresh *without* having to use up your daily meal budget on laundering fees. And a portable travel clothesline so no matter where you are, you won't be plagued by a slightly musty, clothes-didn't-dry-all-the-way smell (iykyk). The lightweight line is made of a stretchy bungee material with hooks on each end for easy looping, has attached clips and stoppers that keep everything from bunching in the center, *and* can be lengthened or shortened. It's perfect for outdoor trips or travels abroad (because fair warning, the rest of the world isn't too keen on dryers). A set of macrame hat clips that'll be an extra set of hands keeping your sunhat crumple-free and photo-ready. It's super easy to hook onto the strap of your tote and strong, so you can even put it on the side of your luggage (which admittedly, we could be a little more gentle with) without worrying that it'll come flying off. A microfiber travel towel that won't track in all the sand from your beach day back to the hotel room thanks to its sand-resistant material (plus, the ones the hotel provides are normally too itty-bitty anyway). These towels are thin and lightweight enough to roll up for easy carrying, yet still super absorbent and quick-drying! And with vibrant colors and designs (that don't fade, BTW) you'll be suntanning in style. A mini handheld fan, the ultimate budget travel find that has not one, not two, but three functions! You're overheating in line at a theme park? No prob, turn on those (quiet! powerful!) blades. It's hour five of sightseeing and your phone's out of juice? Oh, it's also a portable charger. You take an evening hike and the sun goes down a little *too* fast? Yeah, it's a flashlight too (and brighter than a phone)! It does everything so well, you may even experience a divine awakening, like one reviewer did. A pack of Liquid I.V. for an extra boost of electrolytes that can help you stay hydrated on those days you hit 25,000 steps (and your body feels every single one). These drink mixes can really come in handy after a particularly sweaty day of sightseeing or a ~long night out~. Plus, they're individually packed and quickly dissolve in water, so perfect for on-the-go use! The Megababe odor-blocking foot spray, because when we're trekking through our Euro-summer itinerary for ten hours, our feet aren't exactly gonna smell minty fresh — until now. The ~magic~ of the spray is in the tea tree oil, which is anti-microbial and can help fight odor-causing bacteria *before* they have a chance to stink. Simply spritz the minty lavender "toe deo" on clean, dry feet for hours-long protection that has saved reviewers from those grueling, fume-producing 10-hour and 12-hour shifts. A Gold Bond Friction Defense stick because there are fewer things that can kill your vacay vibe like chafing (*shudder*). The stick's formula easily glides onto skin and can be put anywhere where friction occurs, like between thighs and under your clothes or gear. It creates a barrier against chafing without feeling greasy, has aloe to soothe any roughed-up skin, *and* reviewers say it holds up against sweat or getting wet! For anyone who has gone to an amusement park only to end the day with a limping, circular walk, this one's for us. An airplane pocket organizer that'll save you the hassle of rummaging through your bag mid-flight searching for the elusive ChapStick. It hangs from the pocket in front of your seat and can be pre-packed with all the wipes, chargers, and entertainment you'll need (it even has a spot to hang your wireless headphones from!). Reviewers say it doesn't take up any leg room and is *so* convenient to slip back into their personal item at the end of their flight without worrying they've forgotten anything. A 16-piece travel toiletries set to take away the worry that your must-have products won't make it through TSA unscathed. This comes with all the leakproof bottles and jars you'll need to carry your faves (including scoopers and a funnel for easy transfer!) *and* stores them in a clear, reusable TSA-approved bag, so you can rest easy knowing your skin and hair routines are safe. Or, a set of leakproof toiletry sleeves for your larger bottles because when you land, you want to be "go go go!" — not staying in to wash your clothes after your favorite lotion explodes. These elastics can stretch and mold over most full-sized bottles (minus anything with a pump — tho you can always try separating the top!) and if they catch any leaks, they are super easy to rinse out and reuse. A foldable jewelry organizer that'll replace that Ziploc bag so you'll actually wear your jewelry — not leave it in a tangled mess you'll deal with when you get home. It has handy elements to keep your bling organized (and scratch-free!), like a roll for your rings, an earring panel, buckles for your necklaces, and little zipper compartments for everything else. The soft material is slim and packs nicely, and it's especially helpful if you're going the carry-on only, capsule wardrobe route and need someplace to store the ✨ accessories ✨ that'll make each outfit feel new! A sleek travel wallet so you're not scrambling for your passport under the penetrating, impatient gaze of the TSA agent. It has *tons* of space to organize all the currencies, cards, documents, and passports (yes, plural; it fits two!) you need for your trip — even a handy little pen holder so it won't get lost in the black hole that is your personal item. And it has RFID blocking, so it helps protect your private info and gives you a little extra peace of mind. A foldable duffel perfect for when your luggage is full, but you just know you're going to be coming back with trinkets and souvenirs galore. It's super lightweight yet durable, and can be used as a personal item that fits under the seat of an airplane — yes, the smaller airlines too!


Skift
20 hours ago
- Skift
What if Airbnb Builds the Killer AI Travel Search App?
Airbnb is hiring an engineer for an AI-powered natural language search product. If the tech delivers, it could create new creative pressure in shaping how people choose where to go and stay. Airbnb is preparing to rebuild its internal search engine with generative AI at the core. In a recent job posting for a search infrastructure engineer, the company outlined plans for a 'next generation search platform' designed to support 'generative AI (large language model) use cases.' Candidates with expertise in search and recommendation systems are encouraged to apply, and experience with GenAI or LLMs is listed as a preferred qualification. Search is one of the most critical components of Airbnb's business. It determines how guests discover homes and experiences, and how hosts reach customers. And while Airbnb has not made any public announcements about an AI-native search product, the technical scope and job description point to ambitions beyond incremental improvements. The listing suggests Airbnb is looking to reconstruct its core search product to accommodate AI. The new platform is described as one that will 'power different products at Airbnb,' suggesting that generative AI could become a foundational layer across the company's marketplace. In response to a request for comment, an Airbnb spokesperson said the company is 'always working to enhance the overall Airbnb experience' and is 'actively seeking talented individuals who share our mission to transform the way people travel.' Give Me a Room With a View If Airbnb succeeds in launching a functional AI-powered search system, the move could change how travelers interact with the platform. Traditional travel search engines rely on structured inputs: location, dates, price filters, and a fixed set of amenities. Generative AI has the potential to interpret natural language queries, understand user context, and return relevant results with fewer steps and less manual sorting. For example, instead of filtering by location and bedroom count, a guest might enter a query such as 'a quiet place in the mountains with fast Wi-Fi, a hot tub, and a view' – and receive listings that match even if the keywords don't align exactly. Several other travel companies have begun integrating AI tools into their platforms, including chat-based trip planning assistants and personalization features. When Data is King But Airbnb may be in a stronger position than some of its competitors to make that shift. The company has access to a large volume of structured and unstructured data: millions of listings with detailed attributes, user-generated reviews, booking behavior, search history, and messaging between hosts and guests. This data could support the training or fine-tuning of models capable of delivering more personalized and accurate search outcomes. Airbnb also owns its entire supply-side platform. Unlike online travel agencies that depend on inventory from third-party providers and hotel chains, Airbnb's listings are user-generated and directly managed on its system. That vertical integration provides a cleaner dataset and more flexibility in how results are ranked and surfaced, key advantages for any machine learning application. The introduction of a new AI-native search system could also create competitive pressure in the broader travel sector. Google, Booking Holdings, and Expedia Group have all made recent announcements about generative AI experiments, including itinerary generation and trip planning tools. Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky has previously hinted at AI's potential role in product discovery, referring in past earnings calls to a vision of Airbnb as a kind of intelligent travel concierge. A generative AI system could take that vision further, allowing for contextual, conversational discovery that adapts to different user intents in real time. The company has not disclosed what timeline it is working toward, what specific models it may be using, or whether it intends to partner with external AI vendors or develop proprietary solutions. The job posting does not mention OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, or any of the major LLM providers by name. Beyond the Short-Term Rental What if Airbnb is thinking bigger than site search? There's a huge world of travel beyond short-term rental listings and its new experiences product. Airbnb's focus on design and its ability to attract talent put it in a position to compete in ways that other travel brands can't. Chesky also has a strong relationship with Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI. They've known each other since the 2000s, first at Y Combinator, the startup accelerator. And Altman has talked about the counsel Chesky gave him at OpenAI. Airbnb has always had ambitions beyond booking a room, and the focus on AI search will help it compete against players like Expedia when it comes to airline search or any other part of the travel journey.