Booking.com, a global leader in digital travel, has released its ‘Gen.Voyage!’ research, shedding light on intergenerational travel trends among over 8,000 travellers across 11 markets, including India. The study, the first of its kind in the Asia-Pacific region, reveals that more than half (57 per cent) of Indian travellers plan to embark on intergenerational trips in the next year.
In India, the cultural importance of close-knit families plays a significant role in travel planning. With grandparents, parents, children, and extended relatives often living together, family vacations are designed to strengthen bonds and create lasting memories. Rather than focusing solely on sightseeing, these trips prioritise experiences that bridge generational divides, offering activities that cater to all ages.
The research highlights that multigenerational households in APAC are 43 per cent more common than the global average, emphasising the region's unique family dynamics and their impact on travel behaviour. For Indian families, 51 per cent value the joy of bonding during vacations, while 43 per cent see these trips as opportunities to reconnect with relatives they don’t often meet. Additionally, 44 per cent believe intergenerational travel helps them learn from different generational perspectives.
“Indian families have a deep-rooted tradition of valuing extended family bonds. Intergenerational travel offers a unique opportunity to strengthen these connections and create lasting memories. Our research highlights the unique way families are planning such trips, from balancing diverse interests to ensuring safety and creating shared experiences. Booking.com is committed to supporting Indian families in making the most of their intergenerational adventures.” said Santosh Kumar, Country Manager for India, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia at Booking.com.
Planning such trips isn’t without challenges, however. Balancing differing interests, managing energy levels, and accommodating dietary needs can be complex. Yet, creating experiences without overwhelming schedules remains key. Indian families often seek reunions, beach getaways, rural escapes, and food experiences, with 32 per cent travelling for special occasions and 21 per cent opting for spiritual trips.
The research underlines the evolving nature of family travel, where the emphasis is on shared experiences that create cherished memories across generations.
