Expedia Group announced a new set of travel-planning tools Wednesday, including ways for families and groups to book different hotel room types together, compare properties with AI and build more flexible vacation packages.
The updates are part of the company’s fall product release, which includes more than 30 new and enhanced features across Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo.
Different rooms, one itinerary
Expedia’s multi-room booking feature lets travelers choose different room types at the same hotel, pay for them together and manage the stay through a single itinerary. That could help larger families or groups whose travelers need different room configurations.
The company also announced more flexible packages. Travelers can fly into one city and stay in another, or include a hotel or rental car for only the days they need rather than for the full trip.
More help choosing a stay
Hotels.com’s enhanced AI Compare tool lets travelers compare shortlisted properties in one place. The comparisons can focus on priorities such as location, amenities, price and policy details, with follow-up questions to help explain the differences.
On Expedia, family-friendly maps show nearby features such as beaches, playgrounds and restaurants. A conversational Activity Planner offers suggestions for activities, restaurants and events based on the trip and the traveler’s preferences.
Another tool, Property Expert, provides AI-powered answers to property questions using hotel details, guest reviews and reservation information. The company says travelers can use it before or after booking.
The tools are meant to bring more of the planning process into one place, from picking rooms to deciding what to do after arrival. Travelers can read more in Expedia Group’s fall product announcement.
