Together Time: 7 Perfect Trips for Every Generation

Planning a trip that caters to multiple generations can be a bit like solving a complex puzzle. But fear not! With the right approach, you can create an unforgettable experience that everyone will cherish. Let’s dive into the key aspects of planning your perfect multi-generational getaway.

Involve Everyone in the Planning

Getting input from all family members ensures everyone feels invested in the trip. This approach not only builds excitement but also helps address individual preferences and concerns.

Tips for Inclusive Planning:

1. Host a Family Planning Party: Arrange a casual get-together where everyone can brainstorm ideas. Make it fun with themed snacks based on potential destinations!
2. Create a Shared Online Document: Use tools like Google Docs to compile ideas, preferences, and concerns. This allows everyone to contribute, even if they’re not physically present.
3. Use Polls for Decision Making: For key decisions like destination or accommodation type, create online polls to ensure everyone’s voice is heard.
4. Assign Roles: Give each family member a specific planning task based on their interests or expertise. Grandpa might research historical sites, while tech-savvy teens could be in charge of finding the best apps for the trip.

Consider Mobility and Health Needs

Choosing destinations and activities that accommodate any mobility or health concerns is crucial for ensuring everyone can participate comfortably.

Strategies for Inclusive Travel:

1. Conduct a Health and Mobility Assessment: Have an open discussion about any physical limitations or health concerns within the group.
2. Research Accessibility: Look for destinations and accommodations that offer good accessibility features, such as ramps, lifts, and grab bars.
3. Plan for Medical Needs: Ensure easy access to medical facilities and pharmacies. Research local healthcare options at your chosen destination.
4. Consider Pace and Distance: When planning daily activities, be mindful of walking distances and the overall pace. Mix active days with more relaxed ones.
5. Investigate Special Services: Many attractions offer services like wheelchair rentals or special tours for those with mobility issues. Book these in advance when possible.

Balance Together Time and Individual Exploration

Planning group activities while also allowing for some independent time prevents feeling overwhelmed and caters to diverse interests.

Achieving the Perfect Balance:

1. Create a Flexible Itinerary: Plan one main group activity per day, leaving room for smaller group or individual explorations.
2. Designate ‘Free Choice’ Days: Allow family members to pursue their own interests on certain days, then reconvene for dinner to share experiences.
3. Use the Buddy System: For independent exploration, pair up family members with similar interests or complementary abilities.
4. Plan Multi-Generational Activities: Look for experiences that can be enjoyed at different levels, like cooking classes or museum visits with both general and kids’ tours.
5. Schedule Downtime: Build in rest periods, especially for the youngest and oldest family members.

Pack Smart

Encouraging each family member to pack essentials while also bringing along games and activities for downtime ensures comfort and entertainment throughout the trip.

Packing Pro Tips:

1. Create Packing Lists: Develop age-specific packing lists to ensure nothing essential is forgotten.
2. Pack for Versatility: Choose clothing items that can be mixed and matched, and are appropriate for various activities.
3. Bring Multi-Generational Entertainment: Pack card games, puzzles, or electronic games that can be enjoyed by different age groups during downtime.
4. Consider Shared Items: Coordinate who will bring shared items like first aid kits, sunscreen, or travel adapters to avoid duplication.
5. Pack Comfort Items: Encourage each family member to bring a small comfort item from home, especially important for children and older adults.

Document Your Journey

Assigning a family historian to capture photos and memories, or creating a shared online album, ensures that your special moments are preserved for years to come.

Creative Ways to Capture Memories:

1. Rotate Photographer Duty: Assign different family members to be the “official photographer” each day, ensuring everyone gets a turn behind the camera.
2. Create a Travel Journal: Bring along a blank journal where family members can jot down thoughts, paste tickets, or draw pictures throughout the trip.
3. Use a Shared Cloud Album: Set up a shared online photo album where everyone can upload their photos and videos in real-time.
4. Make a Trip Scrapbook: Collect mementos throughout your journey and spend an evening during the trip working on a collaborative scrapbook.
5. Record Video Diaries: Encourage family members to record short video diaries sharing their favourite moments or reflections on the day.

All our best tips can be found in these guides:

• How To Plan A Trip
• How To Save For A Trip
• Packing Tips