How to Plan a Multigenerational Trip Everyone Will Love
April 12, 2024
In today’s busy world, it can be difficult for families to find time to connect without the interruptions of the outside world. By making your next vacation a multigenerational trip, you can connect with your loved ones on a deeper level and create memories that will last a lifetime. Before scheduling your trip, here are some considerations to ensure that everyone — from your grandparents to the youngest child — enjoys themselves on your journey:
Make Your Trip Transparent
When planning a solo trip, it’s easy to understand what you’re willing to pay for the experience. For multigenerational trips, it’s important to be upfront with your family regarding the prospective costs for travel, rental cars, hotels, food and activities. Failing to do so can lead to drama — something to avoid at all costs during family vacations — hurt feelings, canceled plans or stressful financial situations.
Instead, clearly outline the potential costs of the trip before it is booked, as different households likely have different budgets, and not everyone may be willing to pay the same amount. Additionally, if this trip is a gift from a family member, make it clear who is covered and for what to avoid confusion.
Know Your Group Needs
If you’re traveling with older adults or young children to a hotter climate than they’re used to, it’s important to consider their unique health risks and avoid activities, such as sunbathing and hiking, that can pose a direct risk to their health.
As people age, their body’s natural ability to regulate their temperature begins to deteriorate, and they’re more likely to take medications that affect the body’s ability to control its temperature or sweat. Therefore, exposure to significantly hot weather isn’t just uncomfortable; it’s dangerous, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. At the same time, infants and children rely on the adults around them to keep them cool and hydrated. Too much activity can quickly overwhelm them.
When traveling in a multigenerational group, ensure your party has plenty of access to air conditioning and shade while keeping healthy fluids, such as water and sports drinks, handy. Additionally, blending physical activities, such as hiking and biking, with slower-paced ones, like visiting a museum or notable restaurant, can ensure everyone feels comfortable. Securing travel insurance with accident and sickness medical coverage can provide you with valuable peace of mind if a loved one becomes ill during your travels.
Set Up a Base Camp
When planning vacations as individuals, we may be willing to skimp on our accommodations on the assumption that we’ll be so busy catching the sights and sounds that our rooms will only be a place to sleep. However, when planning a multigenerational trip, a suite of rooms or standalone property with all the amenities you expect at home can make all the difference.
For older adults, the option to lounge in an air-conditioned living room or under a covered porch can offer a peaceful respite as the rest of the party tackles the day under oppressive heat. At the same time, a private kitchen can allow flexibility for young picky eaters and people with dietary restrictions that the region may not be able to accommodate otherwise. Plus, with the option to stay in one room, cousins can get up to positive relationship-building mischief.
Find an All-in-One Package
If this list feels like a tall order to accomplish on your own, don’t worry. Some options make planning easy, such as resorts or cruises.
Many resorts offer packages designed specifically for families, which are full of beneficial perks for adults and children alike. These can include things like complimentary ferries to local attractions and hotel transfers, making getting to your destination a breeze, as well as adult-focused amenities, such as spas, poolside bar service and award-winning restaurants. Meanwhile, children will be entertained during day camps, participating in local arts and crafts, cultural events and more. Additionally, some resorts offer family-oriented rooms with bunk beds for the kids, which can result in a more peaceful night for the adults. To start your search, consult this article by Forbes Travel Guide.
Take to the open sea on a family-friendly voyage, allowing your group to take in many cultures and sights from the ship’s comfort. Cruises cater to a wide range of audiences and desired experiences, with activities ranging from comedy shows, singers and movie nights — some even boast on-deck entertainment like waterparks and roller coasters, a sure win among the adrenaline aficionados in your group. Like resorts, cruises offer staterooms designed to accommodate families. If a cruise seems more your family’s speed, use this list from Travel Awaits to plan your trip.
With proper planning, a multigenerational trip can be the vacation of a lifetime. Don’t let the unexpected — such as a sudden illness or injury — ruin your trip. Work with your Gallagher Personal Insurance advisor to ensure you have the proper coverage to protect you and your loved ones during your travels, especially if you’re going outside the country.