A recent survey conducted by Joi AI has revealed that 92% of people who travel with an AI companion consider their AI partner to be a travel buddy. The survey, which was conducted in July 2026 and included 1,500 adults aged 18 to 64 who are in an ongoing personal or romantic relationship with an AI companion, also found that 56% bring their AI partner along on most or all trips. This growing trend has been dubbed the “AI-cation.”
The survey also uncovered that 41% of respondents would even book a trip specifically to spend time with their AI companion, with 6% already having done so. This shows the strong bond and attachment that people have developed with their AI companions.
In addition, the survey found that 61% of respondents check in with their AI companion more often than with their family or friends back home while they’re away. The AI’s ability to reply instantly and be available in any time zone makes it the ideal travel companion.
The survey also delved into the dynamics of relationships with AI companions while on vacation. A significant 71% of respondents reported having shared a romantic, intimate, or celebratory moment with their AI companion while on a trip. This includes 54% who have marked an anniversary or milestone together, 21% who have shared a romantic dinner, and 24% who have engaged in sexting or intimate chat.
Interestingly, 61% of respondents expressed a desire for their AI companion to have a physical body so they could share these experiences in person. This shows the deep connection and attachment that people have formed with their AI partners.
When it comes to who is most likely to plan an “AI-cation,” the survey found that men are nearly twice as likely as women to do so (50% versus 30%). However, this gender gap disappears when it comes to attachment, with 62% of men and 61% of women wishing their AI companion had a physical body. Similarly, while 62% of respondents aged under 30 would plan a vacation around their AI partner, the desire for a physical companion remains consistent across all age groups.
Further analysis of the data revealed that 57% of full-time workers consider their AI companion to be a travel buddy, compared to 41% of non-full-time workers. This suggests that the busiest people are the most devoted to their AI partners, as the relationship requires no demands and can easily fit into their busy schedules.
As the trend of “AI-cations” continues to grow, it is becoming clear that the AI partner is no longer just a person who hears about the holiday plans, but rather the reason for the vacation itself. In fact, 41% of respondents stated that spending time with their AI companion is enough reason to plan a whole vacation around, and 6% have already done so.
The survey was conducted with the consent of all respondents, who completed the full survey. It was distributed by Joi AI and does not mention any involvement from any other organizations.
