Travelling with families, the challenges and delights!

One thing COVID has taught us is how important family is, especially if you are far apart from each other. 

So we know that many of us are looking for places to travel where everyone can come anywhere and reconnect. 

It’s a fabulous way to come together and spend some quality time.

Apart from the obvious benefits of baby-sitters on tap, often grandparents may have already travelled to destinations or have a different outlook on places, that will enhance your own experience.

Travelling with families,  such as grandparents, aunts and uncles and in-laws to celebrate a special occasion or a destination wedding, you can be certain that multi-generational family travel is increasingly popular.

But what are the pitfalls? How can you make it easier on everyone?

Getting around may be a little limiting as you will often either have to get 2 vehicles or a large minivan/multi seater.

Baggage for everyone may not fit many vehicle types as well. 

The increasing popularity of alternatives such as small group tours can solve that easily.  Tours are no longer for either young 20-somethings drinking their way around Europe, or the oldies on a big bus – if it is Tuesday it must be Amsterdam! 

There are many fantastic small group companies offering amazing experiences throughout Australia and the world. Relax and let someone else do the driving!

Going to one place, such as a beach getaway is ideal.

It means you can book into the same hotel, have a little flexibility, and transport is not usually required. 

Booking with a good agent means you can be sure all transfers will be booked to get you from the airport to your beachside resort easily.

Most resorts will happily place families in interconnecting rooms, or ensure you are close for ease but also allowing privacy when needed.

Book a private villa in the South Pacific or Asia, and you will have your own private swimming pool, can cook for yourselves, and have a relaxing getaway to come together for a celebration, wedding, anniversary or birthday.

Cruising is another option.

You can leave the “getting around” to others, unpack once and visit many amazing destinations.

Many cruise lines offer interconnecting cabins, and on board activities are tailored for different age groups with a multitude of activities to keep everyone happy and busy. 

It may be a while until we head to Europe, but options such as Uniworld now offer European river cruises specifically designed for multi-generational families which can be a great way to find out about Europe.

Activity Holidays are always a great option for families.

Australia and New Zealand offer an amazing choice for winter trips, ski, snowboarding and so on. Even for non-skiers there is plenty to do.

So take that old expression that the family that plays together, stays together, and let us create a trip that will bring fond memories for many years for everyone!