Mastering Multigenerational Family Vacations: 13 Tips for a Stress Free Trip
Multigenerational family vacations can be magical opportunities to bond. However, balancing the needs and preferences of a diverse group requires thoughtful preparation.
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of living in or visiting 40 countries, some solo, some with friends, some with family. Now, as a mom of two young children, travel looks a bit different, but it’s just as rewarding—especially when it involves our extended family.
I recently returned from a trip to California with great grandparents, grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins, and my children for a total of 4 generations and over 20+ relatives. It was a bit hectic navigating different schedules, abilities, food allergies, meal preferences, etc, but I’m glad I planned it. It was a memorable experience for my youngest child to be able to spend time with his great grandparents from Hawaii.
Below, you’ll find ideas and helpful tips to make your trip go smoothly that worked well for me in my multigenerational trip planning process. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer international journey, these tips will help you navigate the challenges of multigenerational travel and create a trip everyone will cherish.
1. Involve Everyone in the Planning Process
A successful trip starts with including all voices in the planning process. Grandparents might prefer quiet afternoons, while kids want to explore every playground in sight. By involving everyone, you’ll ensure the itinerary reflects the group’s diverse interests and creates anticipation for the trip.
Tip: Host a family meeting or video call to discuss ideas and create an itinerary together. Ask each person to contribute at least one activity or destination they’d like to experience. Use tools like shared Google Docs or the notes app in your phone to keep everyone organized and on the same page.
2. Choose a Destination with Something for Everyone
When picking a location, versatility is key. Destinations like Budapest, Hungary or Lucerne, Switzerland offer a mix of activities- great restaurants, walking, cultural experiences, and relaxation. Look for places that cater to different energy levels and interests.
Tip: Consider accommodations that offer communal spaces and nearby attractions suitable for all ages, like family-friendly resorts or large vacation rentals. National parks, beach towns, or large cities with diverse activities often work well for multigenerational groups, depending on the interests of the group.
We recently rented an Airbnb across the street from a park in San Jose, CA, United States. We had four generations staying together including great grandparents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and grandchildren. The kids could play in the park when great grandparents rested and I could easily put the baby down for a nap knowing other members of the family could walk to nearby attractions.
3. Set Clear Expectations Upfront
Before you embark, it’s essential to establish expectations around budgets, roles, and responsibilities. Multigenerational trips often bring together people with different travel styles, so clarity is key.
- Budget: Discuss financial contributions and budgets openly to avoid misunderstandings. Decide how costs like meals, accommodations, and transportation will be divided.
- Roles: Decide who will handle meal preparation or activity planning on different days. Assigning responsibilities can help avoid confusion.
Tip: Use shared planning tools like Google Docs, group chat, or a shared notes document on your phone to keep everyone informed. Setting expectations before the trip ensures a smoother experience once you’re there.
4. Build in Downtime
With so many personalities and preferences in the mix, everyone benefits from rest and time to relax. While it’s tempting to fill every moment with activities, down time is very helpful and needed.
Tip: Schedule free afternoons or unstructured time. Let individuals or smaller groups choose how to spend it—whether it’s napping, exploring, or enjoying peace and quiet.
During a multigenerational trip to Lucerne, Switzerland, it was lovely to have days when we planned nothing besides just spending time together, playing games, cooking, talking. These were some of the most memorable days for my 5 year old when he could simply play in an unstructured way, with his cousins.
5. Balance Togetherness with Personal Interests
Not everyone will want to do the same activities, and that’s okay! It’s perfectly fine for family members to split up during the day to pursue their own interests.
Tip: Encourage everyone to come back together as a whole family for shared moments, like a group meal or an evening stroll. These touchpoints keep the family connected while allowing for individual exploration.
6. Be Flexible with Dining Plans
With multiple generations, dietary preferences and routines can vary widely. Mealtimes can either be a highlight of the trip or a source of stress if not approached thoughtfully.
Tip: Opt for accommodations with a kitchen for easy meal prep, or choose restaurants with diverse menus. Consider meal times that work for both young kids and older adults. Packing snacks can also help bridge gaps between meals.
When we were in Switzerland for a multi generational holiday (three generations!) it became apparent that mealtimes would be a struggle. The small town we were in often had tiny restaurants that could not accommodate large groups.
On our first day there, our group of 4 adults and 4 children needed to eat quickly. While we had hoped to eat at a restaurant with local Swiss food, the only restaurant that could quickly accommodate our large group was a pizza restaurant. While not as exciting as I would have wanted for our first meal in Switzerland, it was the meal that needed to happen.
7. Plan Age-Appropriate Activities
Multigenerational trips are a great time to prioritize activities that everyone can enjoy. Shared experiences foster bonding and create lasting memories.
Tip: Schedule a mix of group activities, like boat rides or cultural tours, and smaller, age-specific outings. For example, kids can visit a local playground while adults enjoy a museum. Research local attractions in advance to ensure they’re suitable for your group.
8. Pack Thoughtfully
Packing for a multigenerational trip requires extra attention. Younger travelers might need more gear, while older adults appreciate practical comforts.
Tip: Create a shared packing list for inspiration (don’t be like my family member who showed up to Tokyo in winter with only open toed sandals) and encourage everyone to pack light but intentionally. Include essentials like first aid kits, snacks, and versatile clothing. Don’t forget items that make traveling with kids easier, like portable high chairs or strollers.
9. Prioritize Kids’ Routines
Younger travelers thrive when routines stay consistent, even on vacation. Familiarity can help them feel comfortable in a new environment and know that plans will change, and flexibility will be required.
Tip: Stick to regular nap times and meals whenever possible. Bring comforting items like a favorite blanket or bedtime story to ease transitions. If travel disrupts sleep schedules, try to build in extra downtime to compensate.
10. Celebrate Each Other’s Differences
One of the joys of multigenerational travel is learning from each other’s perspectives. Kids might surprise you with their adaptability, and grandparents may appreciate activities they wouldn’t normally try.
Tip: Use the trip to discuss family history, share stories, and create new traditions. A simple moment, like cooking a family recipe together, can become a treasured memory.
11. Embrace the Unexpected
Even the best plans can go awry. Flight delays, rainy days, or cranky toddlers might challenge your patience, but these moments often turn into cherished stories.
In our recent multigenerational trip, the Airbnb we rented for the backyard area was full of wasp nests, they were swarming everywhere. It was not ideal and meant we had to do some readjusting of our plans, we spent a lot more time indoors than we had thought, but it created some sweet opportunities for connections between great grandparents and our little ones.
12. Keep Communication Open
Good communication is the foundation of a successful family trip. Encourage everyone to voice their needs and concerns respectfully. I know, depending on family dynamics this may be easier said than done, but attempting clear communication will help with planning.
Tip: Establish regular check-ins during the trip to adjust plans or address any challenges. This can be as simple as a quick morning meeting over coffee or text in the group chat.
13. Capture the Memories
Multigenerational trips are special, and documenting them ensures the memories last forever. Assign someone to be the trip’s unofficial photographer, or rotate the responsibility.
Tip: Create a shared album where everyone can upload photos and videos. After the trip, consider making a photo book to gift or upload favorite photos to a digital picture frame.
In our recent multigenerational trip, I had originally hired a family photographer. They had to cancel last minute, but that didn’t stop me- I was determined to capture a group picture of the great grandparents, aunts, uncles, parents, siblings, and grandchildren. I set up a tripod and managed to capture a decent photo of all us, with two small children this is truly a miracle.
Multigenerational Family Vacations Final Reflections
Multigenerational travel is an opportunity to create moments that bridge generations. By planning thoughtfully, being flexible, and focusing on shared activities, you’ll return home with special memories.
I’m currently planning a multigenerational trip to Portugal and Morocco. We all have very different travel styles, interests, activity levels and rest needs. I’ll be implementing these tips myself as we continue to plan, book, and get excited for our next big family trip.
As an avid traveler, I’ve seen firsthand how family trips—though sometimes challenging—are worth it. Whether you’re embarking on a small family getaway or a multigenerational vacation with extended family, I hope these tips help make your next trip memorable.
