Family vacations are a great way to connect. Multi-generational vacations offer families the chance to spend quality time together while having new experiences, with many people calling them the ultimate way to make memories with extended family.
Multi-generational travel — including grandparents, adult children, and grandchildren — has been growing more popular as pandemic restrictions fade. In fact, many parents prefer multi-generational vacations over trips with just their kids.
While these vacations are the source of many fond memories, multi-generational vacation planning can be challenging. Coordinating lodging, travel, and activities can be difficult when there are multiple schedules, preferences, and abilities to consider.
But don’t let this be a dealbreaker! Here are some tips for planning a multi-generational vacation to make your trip more enjoyable.
1. Start planning for your multi-generational vacation early
Getting a big group of people together in a single location at the same time requires a lot of planning and patience. One way to tackle this problem is to start planning at least six months before the vacation date. Retired adults might have more free time, but working adults probably need to clear their schedules, request time off, and prepare their kids for the time away.
Planning early also provides more options for flights and accommodations and can make it easier to coordinate travel logistics. Taking care of these logistics beforehand gives you space to be more present with your family. Splitting responsibilities among different family units helps ensure that everything doesn’t fall to a single person. So, go ahead and start the family trip group chat to begin planning.
2. Choose a destination that caters to all ages
The point of a vacation is to have fun, so when choosing a destination, ensure that it caters to all generations of your family.
For example, while a European wine tour might appeal to many adults, it’s probably not the most fun for kids under 21. Likewise, if anyone in your family has mobility issues or limitations, a location that requires a lot of walking and standing may not be ideal.
Consider your family members’ ages, interests, budgets, and availability to find a place that has something for everyone. Visiting a family-friendly beach resort could be a great way to cater to everyone’s needs. It’s accessible to seniors, relaxing for adults, and full of entertainment for kids and teens. Beach resorts also tend to provide amenities like meals, transportation, and scheduled activities, easing the logistical pressure on adults and allowing them to enjoy their vacation.
3. Create a reasonable activity schedule to reduce stress
When you’re on vacation, it’s tempting to pack your schedule. When else do you get to do so many new, fun activities with your family?
But remember that planning a trip with multiple generations is a marathon, not a sprint. Packing in as many activities as possible doesn’t guarantee the best vacation.
Leave space in your schedule for downtime so everyone has some time to unwind. Some of the best memories come in between the planned outings as family members get to relax and spend time together. Also, provide different activity options to give your family more choices if they want to do something different. Families can break into smaller groups for activities tailored to their interests and ages.
4. Create lasting memories
Multi-generational family vacations are memorable because they force families out of their usual routines. Create lasting memories with your family by doing something you don’t ordinarily do — like hiking to the top of a mountain, trying different cuisines, or singing karaoke. Ask your grandkids what they want to do so you can make this a trip they’ll remember.
Don’t forget to take lots of pictures! Create an album just for multi-generational family vacations so your experience will live on for years. Encourage family members to share photos and write down memories.
Make the most of your time with family
Traveling with your kids and grandkids can be challenging to coordinate, but it’s worth the experience. You get more time with your family to strengthen relationships and make memories to last a lifetime.
Keep the whole family unit in mind when planning, but don’t leave everything to one person. And when scheduling activities, provide alternative options and leave room for downtime. If you’re heading out on a multi-generational vacation with your family soon, ensure your Medicare coverage is up to date so you can get the care you need even when away from home.
