How Today's Travelers Are Rewriting The Rules Of The Family Vacation

"Though a piece of our hearts will always belong in the "Ahh! Adulting!" era, these days, us millennials are the ones traveling with young kids. That shift has redirected vacations from the overstimulation of our hustle-culture years toward something more intentional, prioritizing presence and connection with loved ones. And the data backs it up. Hilton's 2026 Trends Report surveyed 14,000 travelers across 14 countries, and this year's data sends a clear message: vacationers want their time off to feel meaningful."

"Travelers are increasingly gravitating towards trips that reflect their values and create a sense of comfort. Spending time with family while creating new traditions is key. Bringing the comforts of home along for the ride - from pets to favorite plushies - is another major priority. The bottom line? Travelers - many of them millennial parents - are redefining the family vacation, whether they're leaning into local culture over grand experiences, taking to the interstates over the friendly skies,"

"Almost half (48%) of global travelers reported a rise in families traveling with three or more generations. As millennials become the "sandwich" generation, we're carrying forward our parents' traditions while remixing them for our own broods. In fact, 73% of global travelers say their preferences have been shaped by their parents, and most (66%) report the same for their hotel choices."

A global survey of 14,000 travelers across 14 countries finds vacationers want time off to feel meaningful. Travelers are choosing trips that reflect personal values and provide comfort, prioritizing presence and connection with loved ones. Spending time with family and creating new traditions ranks highly, as does bringing comforts of home—pets and favorite items—on the road. Multigenerational travel is rising, with 48% reporting more trips including three or more generations. Parental influence shapes preferences for 73% of travelers and 66% for hotel choices. Many millennial parents favor local culture, road travel, and blended adventures with home comforts.

Read at Bustle