As travel patterns shift in response to changing societal dynamics, one notable trend gaining significant momentum is multigenerational travel. This phenomenon, which has grown considerably in recent years, shows no signs of slowing down. The 2023 Family Travel Association (FTA) Annual Family Travel Survey revealed that over half of the parents surveyed were planning trips with both grandparents and children, a major driver of this growing market. The survey also pointed to the vital role grandparents play in organizing these trips, with 54 percent of grandparents actively planning and booking multigenerational vacations. Furthermore, nearly half of the respondents indicated they had participated in such trips within the last three years, and a significant portion plans to do so in the coming years.
The appeal of multigenerational travel is multifaceted, with the experience offering valuable opportunities for families of all ages. Chloe Johnston, the founder of Chloe Johnston Experiences, emphasizes how travel fosters a sense of wonder and connection among all generations. “Travel expands people’s imagination and possibilities in life,” she notes, highlighting how these experiences help create lasting memories. For children, trips with grandparents and parents can be particularly enriching, as they get to witness their older family members’ reactions to new cultures and environments, which in turn fuels the children’s excitement.
However, the dynamics of traveling with three generations can present challenges that require careful consideration. One key challenge is balancing the different mobility levels within the group, particularly when older family members have limited mobility. To accommodate this, Johnston recommends tailoring the trip to suit everyone’s abilities, with options such as hiring drivers or choosing activities that are less physically demanding. Yet, she insists that the key to a successful multigenerational trip is finding ways to engage everyone, whether through enriching cultural experiences or fun adventures that everyone can enjoy.
Dining experiences also play an essential role in these trips, providing families with moments of connection and cultural immersion. Johnston suggests early dinners at larger restaurants that offer interactive experiences, such as raclette dinners in the mountains or riverboat cruises that combine dining with sightseeing. For those seeking a more hands-on experience, she recommends exploring food markets in Europe or participating in cooking classes that highlight regional cuisines. These experiences not only deepen family bonds but also allow everyone to explore new tastes and traditions together.
Resorts are another excellent option for multigenerational travel, offering a wide array of activities that cater to various interests. While beach vacations remain a favorite, with 44 percent of grandparents planning beach trips in 2024, resorts provide much more than just sun and sand. Activities like snorkeling, zip-lining, cultural tours, and spa treatments allow families to diversify their experiences while still enjoying the comforts of an all-inclusive environment. For families traveling with young children, all-inclusive resorts are especially appealing as they often offer childcare services, giving parents and grandparents a much-needed break while the kids are entertained with age-appropriate activities.
Properties like those in the RIU Hotels & Resorts chain exemplify this versatility. They provide options for multigenerational families to split their stay between family-friendly areas and adults-only sections of the resort. This setup allows everyone to enjoy their vacation while ensuring that both the younger and older generations can have their own time to relax or engage in activities tailored to their needs. Such flexibility ensures that the family can bond without feeling like they are compromising on their individual vacation experiences.
As multigenerational travel continues to rise in popularity, it becomes clear that the benefits extend beyond mere family bonding. These trips offer unique opportunities for cross-generational learning, relaxation, and cultural exploration, enriching the lives of all involved. Whether it’s sharing a quiet moment over dinner or embarking on an adventure together, the memories created during these vacations will last a lifetime.
