Skillcation travel trend gains momentum among travelers

A new travel trend known as ‘skillcation’ is gaining momentum, with travelers increasingly seeking trips centered around learning new skills and hobbies. According to a survey of 1,000 Americans conducted by IHG Hotels & Resorts in collaboration with Talker Research, 47% of respondents are interested in this type of travel, and 68% believe such experiences could be life-changing.

Younger demographics are leading the trend, with 41% of Gen Z and Millennials having already participated in a ‘skillcation,’ compared to 16% of Baby Boomers. Many travelers are also pairing these skill-based trips with digital detoxes; 68% of all respondents are willing to disconnect completely, a figure that rises to 83% among Gen Z.

Culinary learning is the most sought-after activity, with 37% of travelers wanting to organize trips around gastronomy. Other popular interests include ukulele lessons and mahjong. Gemma Bull, Vice President of Global Storytelling at IHG, noted that memorable travel is increasingly defined by the skills and stories travelers bring home rather than just the location.