India leads Asia-Pacific in skip-generation travel

In a notable shift in family travel dynamics, India has emerged as a leader in the Asia-Pacific region for skip-generation holidays, where grandparents and grandchildren embark on vacations together, leaving parents behind. According to Hilton's 2026 Trends Report, nearly 79 per cent of Indian families have either taken or are planning such trips, surpassing the regional average of 60 per cent.

Understanding Skip-Generation travel

Skip-generation travel, often referred to as "grandcations," involves grandparents taking their grandchildren on trips without the parents. This trend has gained momentum globally, and India is now at the forefront. The motivations behind these trips are diverse. For Indian families, a significant driving factor is the desire to create lasting memories between grandparents and grandchildren, with 67 per cent citing this as their main motivation—the highest in the Asia-Pacific region. Beyond memory-making, 65 per cent of respondents view these trips as opportunities to strengthen family bonds, while 47 per cent appreciate the chance to pass down cultural traditions and values. Moreover, 96 per cent of Indian participants believe that such trips positively impact the well-being of grandparents.

India's unique position

India’s prominence in skip-generation travel can be attributed to a combination of cultural, social, and infrastructural factors. Indian society has traditionally placed a strong emphasis on family bonds and respect for elders, providing a natural foundation for multi-generational travel. Increased life expectancy and healthier lifestyles among grandparents allow them to engage actively in travel activities with their grandchildren. Additionally, modern Indian families often have both parents working, which creates a greater desire for quality time between grandparents and grandchildren. Complementing this, India’s expanding tourism infrastructure, including senior-friendly accommodations and services, further facilitates such travel experiences.

Global context and comparisons

Globally, skip-generation travel is on the rise, with countries like China reporting high participation rates as well. However, India’s unique blend of cultural values, extended family structures, and evolving tourism infrastructure positions it as a regional leader. The focus on intergenerational bonding and family-centered experiences sets India apart in the Asia-Pacific context.

Future Outlook

The continued growth of skip-generation travel in India reflects a broader societal shift toward valuing intergenerational experiences. As families increasingly seek meaningful connections and shared memories, this trend is likely to influence travel planning, tourism offerings, and hospitality services in the coming years. India’s leadership in this emerging segment highlights how cultural traditions, modern family dynamics, and enhanced tourism infrastructure can combine to create a new global trend.