Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a journey across the globe, multi-generational travel refers to when multiple generations of a family travel together. While many of us imagine traveling with family to be kind of stressful, the phenomenon has evolved to become an increasingly common and thoroughly enjoyable one. 

In fact, according to Skift Research, 31% of travelers are interested in multi-generational travel that includes parents, in-laws, and children. This is particularly the case for those with significant wealth, who are hoping to find engaging experiences that connect with everyone in their party. 

After years of simmering under the radar, the trend of luxury multigenerational travel has entered the lexicon at full force. An industry that thrives on paying attention to every specific detail, luxury hospitality is picking up on the lucrative nature of multigenerational travel. And with 57% of Americans planning to take longer trips in 2025, this could mean major returns for all facets of the industry.

Looking at the Whole Family 

Luxury multigenerational travel is a phenomenon that’s rife with misinterpretations. 

Many assume the only people who spend significant money on travel are older folks, which is a falsehood. A recent McKinsey report challenges the perception that luxury travelers are primarily older adults, revealing that 80% of high-end travelers are under 60, with peak travel spending occurring among those aged 40 to 60, Hotels reported.

Previously, the idea of traveling with your family implied that the trip had to fit into a specific box. Either it was a trip for the adults, or one specifically for the kids. It was never a vacation meant for everyone to enjoy. In a recent viral LinkedIn post, a travel expert made it clear that parents want travel that fuses luxury with the needs of the whole family. 

“Parents, especially upper-net work and high upper-net worth parents, are no longer willing to compromise. They want to travel as a family without sacrificing sophistication, design, or experience,” he wrote. 

What Multigenerational Travel Means For Development 

As hotels work to cater to the desires of travelers, multi-generational travel is catapulting development at hotel chains. InterContinental Hotels Group is currently revamping all its luxury suites and rolling out new training to cater to new trends in multigenerational travel, Skift reported. “Our luxury and lifestyle business has been the fastest growing for us and probably fastest growing in the industry,” CEO Elie Maalouf recently said in Boston, adding that the segment now represents about one-third of IHG’s rooms in upscale and luxury categories, marking a substantial share gain.

Similarly, Beaches resorts, the family-friendly arm of Sandals Resorts International, are now expanding to meet multigenerational travel needs. They’re investing nearly $1 billion in Caribbean expansion. 

That’s also the case with Abercrombie and Kent, who recently announced the debut of A&K Private Estates, a new collection of five villas in Tuscany. Called “The Chianti Collection,” these estates range from restored farmhouses to ancient towers and include offerings like a cooking lesson with an Italian chef or expert-led wine tasting at the villa or estate winery, Luxury Travel Advisor reported. Across the globe, travel meant for the family is kicking off significant hotel development. 

Luxury Real Estate

Luxury real estate has a stronghold on the multigenerational travel market because high-end properties are desirable venues for those seeking a unique experience in an exotic destination. Families are willing to spend significant money to find lodging that meets the needs of everyone in their party, and the luxury real estate market thrives on that customizable nature. 

Consider the “monster villa” phenomenon, where resorts create residential compounds that exude luxury and cater to large parties. The same goes for venues like the Conrad Punta de Mita unveils Casa Five, designed for up to 36 guests seeking a private, all-inclusive retreat with tailored services and curated experiences. Spots like these go far beyond the typical adjoining hotel rooms. 

By leaning into luxury real estate’s ability to hone in on the details and create curated properties, the real estate market is tapping into the valuable multigenerational travel market. 

Overlooking a highly lucrative market like luxury multigenerational travel is a serious mistake. As travelers plan to take trips that are longer than ever, the industry must evolve to cater to their needs. Professionals who work in the travel realm view families as an untapped resource and understand that businesses need to fit their needs to thrive. As the hotel and real estate industries rapidly expand to capitalize on multigenerational travel’s potential, it’s clear that all businesses need to possess that same adaptability.