4 Simple Tips for Planning a Multigenerational Family Vacation in the U.S.

Taking the multigenerational family on vacation sounds like fun. Until you realize how much work it could be.  As a grandparent with an large extnded family, I know how complicated multigen travel can be.  Here are my tried and true simple tips for planning a multigenerational family vacation in the U.S.

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4 Simple Tips for Planning a Multigenerational Family Vacation in the U.S.

A multigenerational trip can be fantastic. The idea of going away with your children, grandchildren and maybe other relatives and friends can be appealing. Especially if you live far apart, or don’t get much chance to spend together normally. But it also has its challenges.

 

Let’s be real — even if you all live in the same city, work, life, chores, homework and everything else get in the way – and getting together for family holidays is complicated. You might discover that you only see your adult children briefly, perhaps as they drop the grandkids off (if you’re lucky), and many families that live close together rarely find the time to sit down and eat together.

But, while multigenerational family travel can be exciting, there is a lot to think about and organize. Traveling in a big group can be stressful, not to mention expensive. Here are some of the things that 3 simple tips for planning a multigenerational family vacation in the US.

1. Explore the U.S. on Your Multigenerational Family Vacation

Traveling internationally can just add to the stress and make everything more complicated than it needs to be. There’s really no need. That’s why it’s a great idea to stay in the US.  Especially when there are wonderful places to stay like a hotel near Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, and absolutely loads to see without having to leave the country.

With more than 50 states and such diverse climates, cultures, and geography, you will discover the best multigenerational family vacation. Make it a road trip to one of the United States’ 58 national parks. Or how about a beach vacation to Florida? And multigenerational families love Disney!

If your family is traveling from all over the country, make sure you choose a destination that’s easy for everyone to access.

With so many things to see and do in the United States, your family’s only problem will be deciding where to go.

2. Keep Travel Arrangements Simple

Your travel arrangements will depend on where everyone is based and your final destination. If your families live close to each other, consider cutting expenses by renting a van or mini-bus to travel together.

Or maybe some family members prefer to have more control of their time?  Taking your own cars and going separately allow everyone to have options to escape on their own without spending all of your time together.

3. Accommodations Do Matter

When it comes to choosing the right accommodation, the location is essential. You’ll want everyone to be able to travel easily. But, you also want to make sure that there is plenty to do on site, and nearby. When taking a multigenerational trip, make sure that there are activities for everyone to enjoy. You might want to spend some time relaxing by the beach or taking walks by the lake. But, young children will want playgrounds and swimming pools.

You’ll also want to think about sleeping arrangements. In a hotel, you might just take rooms next to each other. But, other options include lodges, trailers or even tents.

Then, do you want to all stay together? OR separately and just meet up for meals and activities. It can be a good idea to have a little space on your break.

4. Dine In Or Dine Out?

Food is something else that you’ll need to consider. Eating out is fantastic. But, you might not want to do it every day. If you are traveling in the summer, try having picnics together. This can be a great option if some of your party are fussy eaters.

When you do eat out, try to consider everyone’s needs and tastes. Take it in turns to chose restaurants so that everyone is happy.

And what really makes the best multigenerational family vacation? The answer is just as simple as these tips — being together and enjoying each other’s company.