Road Trip App Sēkr Launches New AI Planning Tool

Road trip app Sēkr, a growing platform for outdoor enthusiasts, has released a new AI-based feature named Copilot to simplify trip planning for its users.

Sēkr aims to serve the “van life” community by helping users locate campsites with amenities such as shower facilities, restrooms, overnight van parking, or free Wi-Fi. Additionally, it fosters connections among fellow travelers interested in outdoor activities like rock climbing or skiing.

Currently with a robust user base of over 100,000 people, the app nearly went under in late 2022 due to fundraising challenges. Its 2023 acquisition by longtime Sēkr user and former Microsoft product manager, Harley Sitner, revived the app which first went live in 2016.

Now, the startup is rolling out enhanced features aligned with its core mission of improving the road trip experience. Under the app’s “Trip Planning” tab, users can access Copilot which prompts users to learn about their travel plans and preferences. The new feature then generates customizable itineraries based on their answers.

Itineraries by Copilot highlight unique destinations and hidden gems, from top-rated taco trucks in Baja to scenic areas ideal for a pit stop. The AI-based tool also takes into account community-generated and publicly-available data to hone its suggestions based on a user’s needs. This means it can help users find the best reviewed and rated places on their journey.

“AI isn’t going to create a panoramic sunset, but it will help you overcome the notorious planner’s block, set you up for serendipitous moments, and connect you to an authentic road trip experience co-created by Sēkr’s incredible community of dedicated users”, said Sitner in a comment to TechCrunch.

The platform previously raised $2.25 million in seed funding from investors, and operates on a freemium model.

Learn more about Sēkr by visiting its website here.