Global hospitality giant Hilton has identified an upward trend of grandparents taking their grandchildren on holiday, without the children’s parents, prompting further investment in family-friendly that span all ages.
Hilton’s 2026 Trends Report, which surveyed more than 14,000 global travellers across 14 countries, shows the trend, dubbed ‘skip-generation’ (skip-gen) travel, is gaining momentum in Australia and across Asia Pacific.
In Australia, 51% of respondents said they have taken – or are planning to take – a skip-gen holiday, while across Asia Pacific, the trend is strongest in China (86%) and India (79%).
“The rise of skip-generation travel highlights a fascinating shift in how families are connecting,” said Hilton Senior Vice President and Commercial Director, Asia Pacific, Ben George.
“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.”
For 58% of families across the Asia Pacific region, and 64% in Australia, the motivation for skip-gen travel is a desire to create lasting memories.
Travellers also cited strengthen bonds between grandparents and grandchildren (63%), and enjoying travel as a unique, shared experience (46%) among their reasons.
The trend is also believed to support the wellbeing of grandparents, according to nine in 10 (91%) Australian respondents, and 60% say quality time spent with grandchildren is the most valued part of travel for grandparents.
The popularity of multi-generational travel continues to rise in Australia, with a third of families (33%) taking holidays with three or more generations at least once a year.
Hilton reports that more than half (57%) of families in Australia prefer interconnecting rooms or family suites, while 42% prioritise kids’ activities on-site, and 38% cite relaxation and wellness activities as important.
Hilton is tapping into these trends through thoughtfully-designed accommodation, accessible wellness offerings, inclusive dining experiences, and services that are catered to both children and seniors alike.
“In Australia, travel is deeply embedded in family and togetherness, and we’re seeing that reflected in the continued growth of multi-generational holidays,” said Hilton Senior Vice President, Brand Management, Asia Pacific, Tal Shefer.
“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.”