Family First: 75% of Gen Z and Millennials Now Crave Multi-Generational Travel
A new Airbnb report reveals 75% of Gen Z and Millennials in India now prefer multi-generational travel to strengthen family bonds.
The traditional image of the solo backpacker or the "friends-only" getaway is shifting. According to a recent report by Airbnb, multi-generational travel trends are on the rise in India, with approximately 75 per cent of Gen Z and Millennials showing an increasing inclination to travel with family members across different age groups.
The Drive for Deeper Connections
The "Intergenerational Travel Insights 2026" report suggests that the motivation behind these trips is deeply emotional. Rather than just visiting a landmark, younger travelers are prioritizing the people they are with. The key drivers for these journeys include:
- Shared Memories: 55 per cent of respondents identified creating lasting memories as a primary motivator.
- Collective Joy: 52 per cent associated these trips with the simple pleasure of having fun together.
- Stronger Bonds: 51 per cent highlighted the importance of strengthening relationships with friends and family.
Gen Z Leading the Family Charge
Interestingly, Gen Z is emerging as a powerhouse in this trend. About 70 per cent of Gen Z respondents admitted they are more likely to embark on multi-generational trips now than they were a few years ago. The data shows a unique blending of social circles, with over 60 per cent of Gen Z reporting that they traveled with both their parents and their friends over the last year. In comparison, this figure stood at 49 per cent for Millennials and 46 per cent for another segment of the surveyed group.
This sentiment is echoed in another Airbnb study titled Never the Same, which found that three out of four Gen Z travelers value their travel companions more than the actual destination they are visiting.
Changing Travel Habits and Preferences
This shift in mindset is directly impacting how people book their stays. Airbnb has noted a significant spike in demand for larger accommodations. Domestic searches for stays catering to groups of five or more guests—specifically those including at least one child or infant—have surged by over 55 per cent year-on-year.
Top Destinations for Big Groups
When traveling in large family clusters, certain Indian destinations are emerging as favorites. The most-searched locations for groups of five or more include:
- Bengaluru
- Goa
- Hyderabad
- The Nilgiris
- Puducherry
The "Stay-In" Culture
The report reveals a surprising preference for relaxation over rigorous sightseeing. About 63 per cent of respondents say they enjoy spending quality time together at their accommodation more than exploring the local area (56%).
When it comes to bonding activities within the rental, the preferences are clear:
- Shared Meals: 57 per cent prefer eating together.
- Gaming: 45 per cent enjoy playing games as a group.
- Entertainment: 39 per cent prefer watching movies or shows together.
Prioritizing Inclusivity in Planning
Planning a trip for three generations requires a delicate balance. The survey indicates that 59 per cent of travelers prioritize destinations that offer something for everyone in the family. Furthermore, 55 per cent emphasize the importance of choosing accommodation that meets the diverse needs of all family members, ensuring comfort for both the youngest and the oldest travelers.