A rising number of British parents are forking out for their adult children to join them on holiday, a new study has revealed.
According to Hilton’s newly released 2026 Trends Report, travel is becoming more emotionally driven, with many choosing trips based on personal meaning rather than destination.
This emerging trend, dubbed the ‘Whycation,’ reflects a desire to rest, reconnect, and create lasting memories with loved ones.
The report, which surveyed over 14,000 travellers across 14 countries, found that 49 per cent of travellers who travel with their kids do so with adult children.
Over a third (36 per cent) admitted they pay the full cost of their grown-up kids, aged 18 and over, to join them on holiday.
But should over-18s be responsible for their own finances, even if choosing to holiday with their parents, or is it a parent’s prerogative to pay for their children to continue making memories together as a family?
It comes after a poll conducted by Newsweek and Redfield & Wilton Strategies in 2023 ignited a fierce debate on the matter – with half of millennials insisting their parents should should pay for them to join in on family holidays.
In the study, which surveyed 1,500 American adults aged between 27 and 42, respondents were decidedly split – with one quarter strongly agreeing that their parents should pay their share, while another quarter mildly agreed.
Hilton’s newly released 2026 Trends Report found that 49 per cent of travellers who travel with their kids do so with adult children
Of the reasons cited, many millennials felt economic hardship and struggles associated with the cost of living has made them more reliant on their parents to foot the bill when heading on holiday, especially if they have the financial means.
However, others see the expectation as a burden to their parents, who have spent much of their lives raising them to become responsible and independent adults.
Among UK respondents in Hilton’s study, 52 per cent agreed that whoever pays for the trip should get to choose the destination.
And over 46 per cent of Brits had booked at least one trip for the year ahead – more than any other country surveyed.
Many are making savvy choices to stretch their budgets, with 51 per cent using loyalty points to save for dream holidays and 48 per cent using them to cover the full cost.
Other money tactics include booking free hotel breakfasts and using public transport.
Regardless of where people stand, Hilton’s 2026 Trends Report confirms that travel remains a top priority, with people looking for added meaning in every trip they take.
Simon Vincent CBE at EMEA, Hilton said: ‘Today’s travellers are choosing to reconnect with friends and family, explore new cultures and enjoy culinary escapes abroad.
Over a third (36 per cent) admitted they pay the full cost of their grown-up kids, aged 18 and over, to join them on holiday
‘With nearly 8,800 hotels worldwide, Hilton is focused on delivering the comfort, reliable and friendly service and choice travellers expect – alongside experiences that reflect how they want to spend their time.’
Meanwhile, a couple have revealed how they ditched their jobs for a year to travel the world by using a clever money-saving hack.
Silvi Drebenstedt and Lucas Roth managed to visit bucket list destinations without breaking the bank.
The couple, who are aged 29 and 33, have been able to save thousands by avoiding pricey hotels.
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More British parents than ever are paying for their adult kids on family holidays – Do YOU agree?
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