Joy of Multi-Generational Travel: Building Bonds Across Ages!

Today, we’re diving into the magical world of multi-generational travel, where laughter echoes through the ages, and memories are woven with threads of shared experiences. It takes a little bit of planning, but it could be one of the most memorable trips of your children’s lives….and maybe the grandparents too.

I’ve been lucky enough to be a traveler since I was two years old. My parents instilled in me a sense of adventure and excitement in traveling to new places. My early memories include traveling to Finland to meet my grandparents who lived on a farm – a very different lifestyle from my city life. Later I would spend a few days with just my grandfather before he died. Just the two of us. He didn’t speak English and I barely knew any Finnish. But we coexisted in his tiny apartment and cooked. I learned that silence and smiles was a form of communication and I think of it often. 

When I was laid off many years ago, I had some extra spending money and knew this was the one time when I could go explore Europe before I needed to fully commit to adulthood. There was one person I knew that needed to do it with me – my grandmother. Of course, she had committed to adulthood a long time ago but she could give me the wisdom and comfort of home. And travel we did for 17 glorious days. She had been to Paris many times but had never been to the top of the Eiffel Tower and for a few moments, she was gleeful and “younger” that I was that day.

Today, we try to instill that same adventure with our kids AND make sure they also spend that valuable time with their grandparents. Whether it’s traveling to their homes for the holidays or exploring new parts of the world, there is nothing quite like a multi-generational experience. If it’s a cruise to the Caribbean, exploring Alaska or a long weekend in New York City, our kids will remember this time and the memories they made together. Remembering that first subway ride, walking through Central Park, dog sledding in Juneau, speed boats on Christmas in Saint Martin or just enjoying a game around the table – it’s something that will shape their own sense of who they are.

So how do you make these trips memorable and something that both the young and older generation will enjoy? It takes a bit more planning perhaps than normal but can be so worth the time.

Pacing & Mobility

Remember those afternoon naps I came to love? Well they may have been for my grandmother but if you have young enough children, they may need it too.  So pacing and mobility is something to take into consideration.  It’s essential to consider the physical limitations of older or younger family members. Some activities may require adaptations or alternatives, and it’s important to plan with their comfort in mind. This may mean skipping strenuous hikes or opting for more accessible attractions. We recently went to Broken Bow for a long weekend with my dad. I knew he liked hikes so we thought this would be a good trip. I looked up options for trails but neglected to do enough research on which trails would be easier than others. He was a trooper and made it up a very long hike uphill (I struggled a bit myself) but I should have prepared a bit more.

Balance Interests

Balancing Interests is probably the hardest part of planning a multi-generational trip. Different generations may have varying preferences and interests. Finding activities that cater to everyone’s tastes can be a delicate dance, but it’s also an opportunity for discovering new experiences and broadening horizons. The best option is for everyone to have an open mind about joint activities. While the younger set may want to do ziplining and the older set would enjoy a museum, the idea is to do something together. Maybe something entirely new for both would be a good idea. We recently took the the kids and my in-laws to experience two cool and very interactive experiences: Immersive Picasso and an Escape Room. Making these both interactive meant that the kids enjoyed them and I can promise that the older generation had never experienced an Escape Room before. It was an unique experience for them both. And it’s important to note that not every moment of the trip has to be spent together. But you should make an effort to plan some joint activities and definitely plan a “come back together” time each day to share your day’s experiences.

A cruise is an excellent way to accommodate several generations. With so many activities and fun itineraries, it’s so easy to find something for everyone. And that note above not having to spend all the time together, this is easy on a cruise. Every day you get a calendar of activities and you can determine which ones everyone wants to do and which ones you might go your separate ways. But at the end of the day, you meet back up for dinner and share your highs for the day. We recently went on a cruise to celebrate the 50th wedding anniversary of my in-laws. There were 10 in our group (it’s a common theme) and everyone had a blast – from the youngest to the oldest. We celebrated and spent time together building memories we will cherish.

Flexibility in Itinerary

While it’s important to have a rough itinerary in place, leave room for spontaneity and flexibility. This allows for impromptu detours, rest breaks or extended exploration of a particularly captivating spot. It also helps accommodate varying energy levels and interests. 

When I had the opportunity take my daughter on a multi-generational trip to New York City, I knew we had to do it. She would meet distant cousins and family she hadn’t met and perhaps never meet again. We were traveling with my father and uncle and they made the introductions. There were weather delays that cut our trip short on the front end by one day but it didn’t stop us from having an amazing adventure. My father showed us around and we lived through her eyes as they lit up as we turned every corner of the city. It was also great for me as I spent time getting to know my cousins and keep up with their lives thru facebook now.

Plan for Downtime

Factor in some downtime during the trip. This could be in the form of afternoon naps, leisurely mornings, reading a book out on the porch or relaxation time at the accommodation. It’s essential to strike a balance between adventure and relaxation. That trip to Europe with my grandmother – Funny enough one of the best parts of the trip was the afternoon naps we took. It allowed me to slow down and just enjoy the trip. I still love to nap to this day.

Consider Special Dietary Needs

If any family members have dietary restrictions or preferences, make sure to plan meals accordingly. This applies to the younger set as well. Research restaurants that offer a variety of options to cater to different taste and dietary requirements. 

Communication is Key

Maintain open lines of communication with all family members involved in the trip. Sit down with the younger set and outline the agenda so they can get excited and ultimately aren’t complaining when they aren’t as excited. Explain why this trip is unique and special for them and for their grandparents. They may not get it right away but there is a treasure trove of life experiences, stories and wisdom just waiting to be unleashed on a multi-generational trip – and I mean that both ways. This ensures that everyone’s needs and preferences are taken into account. Regular check-ins can help address any concerns or adjustments that may need to be made along the way.

Create Opportunities for Bonding

Plan activities that encourage bonding among family members. We like to play board games but watching a movie, cooking together or sharing stories over a meal are great ways to continue to bond. Every year when we visit my family for the holidays, we schedule time for a family football game. We wear matching jerseys and for two hours we go full board as if we were playing for the NFL. Sure we are a bit slow and I’ve twisted my ankle, but sign me up each year. I promise these are the memories the kids will remember and not what they got for Christmas. These interactions foster stronger connections and create lasting memories. 

Document the Journey

Whether it’s creating a video after the trip or writing in a journal, preserving the memory makes you want to do more of these trips. Find a way to encourage everyone to document the trip in their own way because it provides a unique perspective from each family member. In some cases, the trips and time with your family may not be very frequent and this time can be so special for everyone. The kids grow up fast and there is only so much time for these special moments.

Exploring new landscapes together fosters a sense of unity and belonging. It reinforces the notion that no matter where life’s journey takes you, you’re a part of something greater, rooted in a shared history and a common future.

As you traverse new landscapes together, a powerful sense of unity emerges. You become more than a collection of individuals; you become a family, bound by shared experiences and a collective vision of the world. This sense of belonging, of being part of something larger than yourself, is a gift that will resonate through the generations.

Let the world be your classroom, and let your family’s story be the masterpiece that unfolds. Safe travels, legacy builders! 🌍👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Check out these European group tip options.