Traveling together is a great way for grandparents and grandkids to get to know each other better.
"I've had a blast taking my grandchildren with me on vacation," says Yvonne, who has four grandchildren ages 8 to 17. "I'm doing things with them, like white water rafting and scuba diving. I did not do these activities with my own kids."
"Parents are busy," she explains. "Grandparent travel is really on the upswing."
Orlando, the Disney theme parks, and cruises are great trips for grandparents and grandchildren. They offer activities that both generations will enjoy. Other ideas are beach tips, parasailing, and camping.
Years ago, multiple generations lived in the same household. There were many opportunities to pass along family history and wisdom. Now families must create those times. Traveling with grandkids is a way to have fun and build bonds. Unlike when the entire family gets together, there is time to interact one-on-one. And added benefit is parents get time alone together.
After vacations together, grandparents and grandkids can stay in touch through letters, phone calls, texts, and e-mails.
Consider a short, 3-day trip when a grandchild reaches school age. Younger children handle shorter trips better than lengthy vacations. A teen might like a 2-week trip packed with activities. However, it is best to shorten the stay if you are traveling with little ones.
How do you know if child is ready for a night away from Mom and Dad? Consider a trial run. Try an overnight stay at a hotel not far from home. That way you can return home sooner, if you need to. Here are some tips to help plan your trip:
Travel tips:
"The secret is to have fun with the kids," Yvonne says. "They give you a different perspective. It is the most wonderful experience. It slows you down and helps you take a breath."
Grandparents Foundation, Inc.
http://www.grandparentsfoundation.org
Are we there yet? How and where to travel with your grandkids. Grand Times website. Available at: http://www.grandtimes.com/travelch2.html . Accessed October 11, 2021.
Traveling with children. Transportation Security Administration website. Available at: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/special-procedures/traveling-children. Accessed October 11, 2021.
Traveling with grandkids. Road Scholar website. Available at: https://www.roadscholar.org/grandparent-travel-guide. Accessed July 10, 2017.
Last reviewed October 2021 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Last Updated: 10/11/2021