The start of a new year often inspires travel plans—and for many families, that means roping everyone in on the fun.
You see, multigenerational travel rose in popularity in 2023, and the trend is expected to continue through 2024. One study found that 54% of travelers want to plan a family vacation or family reunion abroad,1 while another found that 47% of travelers are planning a multigenerational trip.2
Multigenerational travel often includes grandparents, their adult children, and their grandchildren—but it could also expand to include other branches of family as well. After years of lockdowns and restrictions, families are eager to make up for lost time and create lifelong memories. And the remote work boom is making it easier than ever!
Are you planning a multigenerational vacation with your family? Check out these five tips to help plan your family adventure.
1. Start planning well in advance.
When you’re coordinating school and work schedules for multiple branches of a family, it’s best to start planning at least six months in advance. Consider working with a travel agent, who can help coordinate schedules and facilitate communication of travel plans.
2. Consider budget and who’s paying for what.
Money can be a tricky topic when it comes to multigenerational travel. Safari company African Travel reported a 20% increase in safari bookings in 2022, with 40% of trips arranged by and paid for by grandparents.3 However, grandparents can’t always afford to foot the entire bill.
When it comes to multigenerational travel, it’s important to make sure everyone is on the same page about who’s paying for transportation, lodging, activities and meals—and how expensive those things will be. It’s crucial to understand that not everyone may be able to afford international destinations, first-class tickets or luxurious accommodations. Quality time spent together is what’s most important, so be inclusive and choose places everyone can afford.
And if someone else is footing the majority of the bill for a trip you’re taking? You can show your gratitude by picking up the tab at a dinner or paying for an activity.
Check out these 8 destinations that feel international, but don’t require a passport!
3. Consider ages and abilities of family members.
Will there be any mothers with babies on the trip who need special accommodations? How about toddlers who are into everything and thrive on routine? Will there be any elders who have mobility issues? It’s important to consider family members who have special needs when choosing your destination, mode of transportation and planned activities. Remember that not everyone has to participate in every activity, but it’s important to have some activities planned that everyone can join in on.
4. Plan for a good mix of activities and downtime.
Yes, you want to make the most of your trip and destination, but going nonstop is difficult, especially during a multigenerational vacation. Be sure to work a few days of leisure into your itinerary to allow elders to recharge and young children to enjoy some relaxed playtime.
U.S. National Parks make a great multigenerational family travel destination! Consider one of these five parks.
5. Plan for a mix of dining in and out.
If your lodging has a kitchen, staying in and cooking saves money and avoids the hassle of dining out with a large group. Plus, it’s often easier for families with young children! However, experiencing local food is also part of the experience, so be sure to plan at least a couple meals out. And remember, not everyone has to eat together for every meal.
Keep reading: Passport delay are increasing: what you can do
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Whether your goal is to travel more in retirement, pursue your passion, or spend more time with family, we’re here to help you plan for the future. Check out BankersLife.com to learn more.
1Booking.com, Travel Predictions 2023, https://www.booking.com/articles/travelpredictions2023.html, 2023.
2Trafalgar, Family travel is trending massively for 2023—and here’s why, https://www.trafalgar.com/real-word/family-travel-2023/, 2023.
3The Drum, 2023 summer travel trends: why multi-generational travel is booming, https://www.thedrum.com/opinion/2023/07/26/2023-summer-travel-trends-why-multi-generational-travel-booming, 2023.
