Grand getaways: Skip-gen travel is redefining family holidays & creating new opportunities for accommodation providers

A growing number of Australian families are holidaying without the parents, and it is not because of family drama. It is a rising travel movement called skip-gen travel, where grandparents take their grandchildren on holidays, leaving Mum and Dad at home.

According to Hilton’s 2026 Trends Report, more than half (51 percent) of Australian travellers have either taken or are planning to take a skip-gen holiday. The trend, already mainstream in markets like China (86 percent) and India (79 percent), is quickly gaining traction in Australia as families seek more meaningful, multi-generational travel experiences.

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Why this matters for the accommodation industry

For operators, skip-gen travel represents a growing guest segment that blends family needs with premium service expectations. These guests are typically multi-room bookers who value comfort, accessibility, and interconnecting options, but also expect quality dining, wellness amenities, and activities suited to both young and older travellers.

More than half of Australian families (57 percent) say family suites or interconnecting rooms are their top priority when booking, followed by on-site kids’ activities (42 percent) and wellness or relaxation facilities (38 percent). These preferences align closely with the hospitality industry’s focus on experiential and inclusive design, suggesting hotels that can cater to skip-gen groups will gain a strong competitive edge.

“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.”

A holiday that is good for the heart

Hilton’s research shows 91 percent of Australians believe travelling with family benefits the health and wellbeing of grandparents. It is a finding that aligns with a growing focus on wellness tourism and active ageing, both key themes for operators looking to attract older travellers.

Skip-gen trips are seen as a way for grandparents to bond with grandchildren (63 percent) and create shared memories (64 percent). For hoteliers, that translates into opportunities to offer curated experiences, from family-friendly dining and cultural excursions to spa treatments that cater to every age.

From relaxation to reconnection

While global travellers list rest and recharge as their main motivation for leisure travel (56 percent), Australians are increasingly prioritising family time. For 59 percent, quality time together outweighs downtime. Culinary experiences (72 percent) and visits to cultural landmarks (69 percent) top the list of preferred activities, offering hotels an opening to partner with local operators and promote authentic, educational, or food-led excursions.

Building the perfect skip-gen stay

Designing accommodation that serves three generations means blending comfort, convenience, and connection. Thoughtfully designed spaces, accessible features, and flexible dining options are all key. From family-sized villas and suites to adjoining rooms with shared lounges, properties that think beyond traditional layouts can win loyalty from this growing demographic.

“In Australia, travel is deeply embedded in family and togetherness,” said Tal Shefer, Senior Vice President, Brand Management, Asia Pacific, Hilton. “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.”

The big takeaway

Skip-gen travel is not just a feel-good trend, it is a market shift with staying power. As family structures evolve and grandparents play a bigger role in childcare and family life, hotels that understand and cater to this new dynamic stand to benefit.

Whether it is offering multi-room packages, age-inclusive wellness options, or storytelling experiences designed for every generation, operators who invest in family-centric innovation today will capture the loyalty of tomorrow’s most connected travellers.

Tips: Capturing the skip-gen market

• Promote interconnecting or family suite packages: Highlight comfort, accessibility, and togetherness in your marketing.

• Offer shared experiences: Cooking classes, storytelling sessions, and local tours appeal to both grandparents and grandchildren.

• Design with accessibility in mind: Include handrails, step-free access, and flexible room configurations to support older guests.

• Add wellness and downtime options: Spas, gentle fitness programs, and relaxation areas help grandparents recharge while kids play.

• Use inclusive messaging: Position your property as a place for every generation to connect, not just families with parents in tow.

The latest edition of AccomNews is out now! Read it HERE