Across Asia Pacific, skip-generation (skip-gen) holidays are on the rise – and India is leading the way. Hilton’s 2026 Trends Report reveals that families are redefining how they travel, with a stronger focus on stays that foster togetherness, create lasting memories, and strengthen bonds across generations.
Skip-gen travel on the rise: Almost 8 in 10 families in India are booking holidays without parents
In India, nearly eight in 10 (79%) respondents report having taken – or planning to take – a skip-gen holiday, compared to 60% across Asia Pacific. In fact, almost half (43%) of respondents in India say they have done so in the past year alone, underscoring how cross-generational travel has shifted from novelty to mainstream.
“The rise of skip-generation travel highlights a fascinating shift in how families are connecting,” said Ben George, senior vice president and commercial director, Asia Pacific, Hilton. “Hilton is committed to creating experiences that cater to every generation under one roof – from family-friendly amenities and Confirmed Connecting Rooms to wellness offerings that appeal to travellers of all ages. By designing experiences that anticipate the needs of multi-generational families, we aim to make every stay as seamless and memorable as possible, helping guests create meaningful moments together.”
More than a vacation: Creating memories is the top priority for skip-gen travellers
For families in India, skip-gen holidays are all about cherishing time together. More than two-thirds (67%) say their main motivation is to create special memories between grandparents and grandchildren – the highest across Asia Pacific, compared with 64% in Australia and 63% in New Zealand.
Beyond memory-making, families cite other compelling reasons for grandparents and grandchildren to travel together without parents, including to strengthen bonds (65%), enjoy the trip as a unique experience (53%), and passing on culture and traditions (47%).
Wellbeing boost: 96% say skip-gen trips support grandparents’ health
Family holidays support health and wellbeing. Almost all respondents in India believe traveling with family improves grandparents’ wellbeing. Quality time with grandchildren is most valued, and wellness amenities, accessible dining, and senior-friendly services help older generations travel comfortably while enjoying these benefits.
Quality time over downtime: Families prioritize shared experiences over relaxation
For many travellers in India, spending time with family outweighs personal relaxation, with 72% prioritizing quality time over downtime. Popular activities include visits to historical and cultural landmarks (67%) and culinary exploration (66%), reflecting families’ desire for discovery, learning, and meaningful connection.
Rooms for all ages: Making multi-generational travel seamless
Multi-generational travel is on the rise in India, with 65% of families taking holidays with three or more generations. Key motivations include strengthening family bonds (68%) and creating lasting memories (57%). Accommodation that offers senior-friendly facilities, accessible dining, and wellness amenities is increasingly important to cater to all generations.
Tal Shefer, senior vice president, Brand Management, Asia Pacific, Hilton, said, “In India, travel is deeply rooted in family and togetherness, and we’re seeing that reflected in the continued growth of multi-generational holidays. At Hilton, every detail is designed For The Stay – so that grandparents, parents, and children alike can feel connected, cared for, and create lasting memories together. Whether it’s a once-in-a-lifetime celebration at Waldorf Astoria, a city break at Motto by Hilton, or a family getaway at DoubleTree by Hilton, every one of our brands is built to bring people closer through meaningful experiences.”
Hilton’s 2026 Trends Report: Key insights for 2026 and beyond
Hilton’s 2026 Trends Report, “The Whycation: Travel’s New Starting Point,” highlights how grandparents and grandchildren are reshaping family travel. Based on surveys of over 14,000 travellers and insights from Hilton team members and Hilton Honors members, key trends include:
Hushpitality: Seeking sweet silence – Travellers increasingly seek destinations that offer calm and moments of quiet, reflecting a shift in why, where, and how people travel.
Home comforts are the new ‘carry on’ – Familiar routines and comfort are now central to travel, allowing travellers to feel at home, recharge, and pursue personal passions.
Inheritourism: Travel runs in the family – Parental influence and family traditions continue to shape travel preferences across generations, from hotel choices to loyalty programs.
