Holiday habits of Kiwi families revealed in new intergenerational travel research

Booking.com has unveiled its Gen.Voyage! research on intergenerational travel in Asia Pacific showcasing insights garnered from more than 8000 travellers across 11 markets and territories in the region, including New Zealand.

The research, the first of its kind in APAC, examines the prevalence of intergenerational travel where grandparents, parents, children and other extended family members travel together for leisure.

A new chapter in family travel

In APAC, multigenerational households are 43 per cent more common than the global average. This cultural emphasis on extended family living significantly influences how families approach travel as well, with shared family values and close-knit relationships shaping their holiday choices.

Booking.com conducted this research to better understand how family dynamics across generations could influence travel behaviour and decision making.

Intergenerational travel brings families closer together, with 57 per cent of Kiwi travellers valuing reconnecting with family they don’t often meet; while 51 per cent highlight the joy of bonding and creating lasting memories with loved ones. 24 per cent enjoy learning from different generational perspectives, and 23 per cent cherish watching their children learn from different familial role models.

Planning a trip that delights every generation

Planning a family holiday that satisfies everyone – from seasoned grandparents to the energetic kids and even the occasionally moody cousin – is no small feat. Families often grapple with clashing interests (32 per cent), increased safety and health concerns (16 per cent), and the challenges of diverse dietary needs (14 per cent). Balancing energy levels (23 per cent) and navigating family dynamics (22 per cent) can further complicate the travel experience.

The secret to a successful trip? Creating experiences that resonate across generations.

Nearly one in four (17 per cent) families enjoy travelling for reunions or special occasions, seeing these moments as a chance to unite and celebrate milestones together. Visiting relatives (18 per cent) is another favoured choice, allowing families to deepen their bonds and experience local cultures.

Millennials often take the lead in planning family trips, driving 48 per cent of travel arrangements with their tech-savvy approach across APAC. Yet, it’s not a one-person show – Gen Zs are eager to chip in, with 47 per cent co-planning and personalising itineraries.

Baby Boomers, on the other hand, tend to take a backseat, with only 23 per cent actively involved in planning.

When it comes to trip duration, most families find that four to six days is the sweet spot—long enough to relax, short enough to avoid travel fatigue. In booking their adventures, families show a surprising flair for spontaneity. More than half (51 per cent) of travellers are open to last-minute getaways, booking their trips with less than a month’s notice. This spontaneous spirit even extends to holidays longer than six days, with 40 per cent also booking within a month.

Accommodation choices are as varied as the families themselves. Hotels remain the go-to for 52 per cent of Kiwi families, with resorts following as the preferred option for 30 per cent. A growing trend is emerging towards unique stays – around 7 per cent of families are drawn to culturally immersive stays such as ryokans or hanoks, adding a touch of local flavour and adventure to their trips. Practical considerations are paramount: affordability (49 per cent), proximity to attractions (31 per cent), and convenient on-site dining (13 per cent) lead the decision-making process.

Destinations capturing the hearts of families

Not surprisingly, affordability (64 per cent), safety (48 per cent), and accessibility for all age groups (28 per ent) top the list of priorities when families choose their travel destinations. In APAC, 42 per cent of travellers prefer to travel to domestic destinations, benefiting from shorter travel distances and familiarity with local customs. Meanwhile, 39 per cent crave the excitement of international travel, eager for new experiences and cultural encounters.

For New Zealanders planning travel in the upcoming school holiday break, Booking.com search data reveals city getaways in Auckland, Christchurch and Rotorua as most popular for those staying local, while Australia and Japan are trending for international holidays.

Other destinations experiencing a strong uptick in search popularity include Gisborne, Hong Kong, and Bali’s Canggu and Uluwatu.

The top list of destinations are emerging as clear favourites among families for their blend of cultural allure and diverse activities are:

“Intergenerational travel is an opportunity for travellers to enjoy shared experiences and increased connection across different family generations,” says Booking.com area manager Melissa Ellison.

“This research explores the varied ways families across New Zealand and the wider Asia Pacific region are planning and spending their holidays together, and the reasons to travel – from reconnecting with loved ones to celebrating milestones and creating lasting memories.

“The insights also provide guidance for how Booking.com and the travel industry can tailor their offering for families in Asia Pacific and the specific ways they like to holiday, allowing them to experience the world across generations.”