Summary:
- India leads APAC in grandparent-grandchild trips, according to Hilton.
- About 96 percent say such holidays improve grandparents’ wellbeing.
- 72 percent now prioritize shared family time over personal relaxation.
INDIA IS AMONG the top countries in Asia Pacific where grandparents and grandchildren travel together without parents. This “skip-generation” travel trend is growing fast, with 79 percent of Indian families taking such trips—second only to China at 86 percent.
According to Hilton’s 2026 Trends Report, nearly 79 percent of Indian families have taken or plan to take such holidays, compared to 60 percent across the Asia Pacific.
“The rise of skip-generation travel highlights a fascinating shift in how families are connecting,” said Ben George, Hilton’s senior vice president and commercial director for Asia Pacific. “Hilton is committed to creating experiences that cater to every generation under one roof—from family-friendly amenities to wellness offerings for all ages.”
Nearly 72 percent of Indians value quality time over downtime, above the Asia Pacific average of 61 percent, the survey found. Around 67 percent of Indian travelers see these trips as a way to create lasting memories, while 96 percent believe they support grandparents’ health and happiness. More than half of Indian families, 57 percent, also prioritize senior-friendly and wellness-oriented stays.
Tal Shefer, Hilton’s senior vice president of brand management in Asia Pacific, said travel in India remains deeply rooted in family bonds.
Beyond skip-gen, multi-generational travel is also on the rise, the report said. Nearly two-thirds, 65 percent, of families in India take holidays with three or more generations at least once a year – a trend particularly strong in China with 78 percent as well.
Hilton’s 2026 Trends Report draws on a survey of more than 14,000 travelers in 14 countries conducted with Ipsos, insights from 5,000 Hilton team members and feedback from 1,000 Hilton Honors members.
Separately, Hilton survey also found that the American Road trip is set to return ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary in 2026, with travelers driving at their own pace.
