A family vacation is a great way to bond, see new sights and learn together. It’s a break from everyday life that exposes the whole family to new cultures, foods and experiences. And research shows that a well-planned vacation can actually improve your mood and increase feelings of wellbeing upon returning home.
But planning a successful multigenerational trip takes more than just time and money. It requires patience, compromise and a firm grasp on what your goals are for this time away. Whether you’re traveling with young children, high-energy elementary school kids or angsty teenagers, it’s important to choose destinations that are family-friendly and offer activities for everyone.
Whether it’s a beach, a national park or a city, you want to make sure there is something that will interest each member of the family. A museum, for example, is a good choice for adults and teens, while a waterpark or amusement park will appeal to the kiddos. If you’re travelling overseas, consider taking a language class, or make it a project to learn about the area ahead of time (and take advantage of the internet to do so).
If possible, plan your family vacation during off-season months. This can save you money on hotels and airfare, as well as reduce the likelihood of crowds and lines. It can also be a much more relaxing experience for all.
A multigenerational vacation is a great opportunity for grandparents and parents to bond with their grandchildren, and it’s important to plan activities that allow them to do so. Younger children might love to play on the sand or swim in the pool, while older kids might enjoy more thrill-seeking activities such as theme parks and hiking.
It’s a good idea to start planning your family vacation far in advance, at least a few months out. This is not only to help ensure that you can secure affordable flights and accommodations, but it’s also to give you the best chance of meeting your family’s unique needs. If you wait to book, last-minute prices can be sky-high, and it may be hard to find the type of accommodations you need if they’re not available.
Once you’ve decided on the destination and travel dates, it’s time to decide how you’ll get there. Some families choose to drive and pack plenty of snacks and entertainment for the little ones, while others prefer to fly and enjoy the extra legroom and convenience that comes with it. Either way, it’s important to plan ahead for unexpected delays like bad weather or road closures that could throw a wrench in your itinerary. The goal is to get from point A to point B as smoothly as possible, without sacrificing the fun and memories that you’re there to make.
