Multi-Generational Travel is on the Rise: What Families Really Want on Vacation
At Somewhere Beyond Vacations, we’ve noticed a growing trend among families—more and more are choosing to vacation with multiple generations. Recent insights from Beaches Resorts reveal that families are no longer just planning solo trips or immediate family getaways. Instead, parents, kids, and grandparents are all joining in on multi-generational vacations, creating more meaningful and memorable travel experiences.
In a survey of over 1,000 North American families, 74% of respondents said they’re excited about taking extended family vacations. Parents are prioritizing trips that include everyone, from kids to grandparents, to make the most of their time together. In fact, nearly 50% of parents are now opting for multi-gen vacations over solo getaways, and it’s easy to see why—76% of them agree that travel is the best way to create lasting family memories.
Grandparents: The Ultimate Travel Companions
One of the most surprising findings is that grandparents are playing a bigger role in family vacations than ever before. Sixty-one percent of parents said grandparents are more active on trips than expected, with 62% even noting that they’re more adventurous than anticipated. With grandparents joining in on activities like scuba diving, hiking, and even planning the vacation, they’re proving to be valuable companions for all ages.
In fact, 58% of millennial parents say today’s grandparents are far more active than their own were, and many families are making an effort to build stronger bonds between the generations. Seventy percent of parents are facilitating more time between their kids and their grandparents, helping to create a lifetime of memories.
Making Multi-Gen Vacations Stress-Free
It’s not just about bonding—parents are finding that having grandparents along makes vacations less stressful. Seventy-two percent of families said grandparents are incredibly helpful during trips, making it easier to relax and enjoy the vacation. With grandparents often taking on a share of the planning and covering expenses, many parents are more than willing to treat their parents to an all-inclusive vacation or even book a second room so kids can stay with their grandparents.
The survey also found that 49% of parents are willing to cover all expenses for grandparents to join, and 46% would book a second room for the kids to stay with their grandparents. This growing trend highlights the importance families are placing on shared experiences and the desire to spend quality time together, especially on vacation.
Kids Crave Family Time Too
It’s not just parents and grandparents who want to travel together—kids are just as eager to spend more time with their families while on vacation. Sixty-five percent of parents said their kids crave more vacation time with the entire family. Interestingly, many children are opting for family activities over Kids Clubs, with 66% of parents saying their children would rather spend time together as a family. This desire for bonding spans across generations, making multi-gen vacations more valuable than ever.
Book Your Next Family Vacation with Somewhere Beyond Vacations
At Somewhere Beyond Vacations, we specialize in creating unforgettable family vacations that cater to every generation. Whether you’re planning a Caribbean escape, a European adventure, or a relaxing beach getaway, we’ll craft the perfect multi-gen vacation tailored to your family’s unique needs.
Ready to plan your next trip? Our experienced travel agents will help you find the best vacation deals, book family-friendly accommodations, and customize trips filled with activities for all ages. Contact us today to start planning your ultimate family vacation and create memories that will last a lifetime!
