5 Tips on How to Book the Perfect Multi-Generational Holiday
Written by Maria Hughes
Travel Expert
Reviewed by Graeme McKenzie
Communication Expert
Published
Updated
Planning a family holiday that includes kids, parents and grandparents? Multi-generational holidays are on the rise, and for good reason. They offer an increasingly rare opportunity to make shared memories and maximise family time. But when planning a trip with such a wide range of needs and preferences, getting it right takes careful thought.
From choosing the right destination and accommodation to organising travel arrangements and making sure everyone has the right insurance cover, a little extra planning can help make the experience enjoyable for every generation.
Maria Hughes, travel expert at goodtogo shares her five-step guide to booking a multi-generational holiday that ticks every box - from comfort to cost.
1. Save Money by Skipping the Peak Summer Rush
Summer holidays may seem like the obvious choice, especially for families with school-age children. But high prices and intense heat can create challenges for both the youngest and oldest travellers in your group.
Consider travelling during less crowded school breaks like the Easter holidays, May half term, or autumn break. Planning ahead is especially important for larger groups, as booking flights, accommodation and activities early can help you secure better prices and ensure everyone’s needs are considered.
Not only will you likely find lower prices, but the weather can also be more comfortable - making the trip safer and more enjoyable for all.
Booking outside of the peak summer months can also reduce the cost of your travel insurance, particularly important if some of your party have pre-existing medical conditions.
2. Choose a Climate That Works for Everyone
Hot climates can be more than just uncomfortable - they can be a genuine health risk, especially for young children and older adults. Maria recommends avoiding destinations known for extreme summer heat and opting instead for regions with milder weather - it’s all about protecting the well-being of every member of your travelling party.
When travelling with multiple generations, think about how everyone will cope with the climate. Younger children may struggle in high temperatures, while older travellers or those with certain medical conditions may need extra care in hot or humid environments. Choosing a destination with comfortable weather can help everyone enjoy the holiday at their own pace.
If you are travelling to somewhere hot, check out our guide on travelling in a hot climate to help you stay cool and safe.
3. Think Practically About the Destination
When choosing where to go, think beyond the bucket list. Destinations with long travel times, steep hills or poor infrastructure can make things tricky for older relatives and young children.
Shorter flight times, well-connected transport options, and walkable resorts can make the entire trip more accessible and relaxing for everyone.
It’s also worth thinking about the journey itself, not just the destination. Consider how easy it will be to get from airports, train stations or ferry terminals to your accommodation, and whether transport options are suitable for everyone travelling.
If you’re staying in Europe, have a look at our guide to the most popular European destinations, and make sure your European travel insurance policy suits your group’s needs.
4. Plan Your Journey in Advance
Travelling as a larger group can make the journey more complicated, especially when different ages and mobility needs are involved. Booking key parts of your journey in advance can help everything run more smoothly.
When travelling by plane, train or ferry, consider reserving seats together where possible so everyone can travel comfortably. Many airports, train stations and ferry terminals also offer assisted travel services for passengers who need additional support, so it’s worth arranging this ahead of time.
For airport journeys, pre-booking services such as fast-track security can help reduce waiting times and make the experience less stressful, particularly when travelling with young children or older relatives.
5. Accessibility is a Must, Not a Maybe
Make sure your accommodation and holiday plans meet the accessibility needs of everyone in your group. Look for hotels or apartments with ground-floor rooms, lift access, and accessible facilities. This will not only make access easier (and safer) for older travellers, but you’ll be grateful for it when lugging prams, coolers and the rest of the kids’ gear in and out of your accommodation too!
Don’t forget to consider how accessible local attractions, transport and day trips are as well – most will cater for those with restricted movement and prams, but during busy times of day or in peak season, it’s likely pram spaces will be limited. Phone or email ahead and ask the staff for the quietest times to visit to avoid disappointment on the day.
6. Think Ahead About Transport and Parking
Getting to and from your destination is an important part of the holiday experience, especially when travelling with a larger group. Planning transport in advance can help avoid unnecessary stress and make the journey more comfortable for everyone.
If you’re driving, consider pre-booking airport or ferry terminal parking where possible, particularly during busy travel periods. If you’re hiring a car, make sure you choose a vehicle large enough for everyone and their luggage, including any equipment such as prams or mobility aids.
It can also help to arrange transfers or transport between airports, stations and your accommodation before you travel, so everyone knows what to expect when you arrive.
7. Budget Smarter with Destination Dupes
Group holidays can be expensive, especially with the cost of flights, accommodation and spending money, but you don’t have to sacrifice quality for cost.
Look into cheaper alternatives to popular destinations - like Montenegro instead of Croatia, or Sicily instead of the Cinque Terre. You can also cut costs by staying outside of major cities or tourist hotspots.
We’ve written an article about enjoying that VIP experience on a budget – have a read for more tips and advice to keep enjoyment high and costs controlled.
Ready to Travel?
Multi-generational holidays can be a truly rewarding experience - if planned right. By choosing the right destination, prioritising accessibility, and budgeting wisely, you can make sure everyone in your group has the trip of a lifetime!
With a family of all ages, make sure you’re covered with travel insurance. Our travel insurance covers everyone, but particularly those over the age of 65! goodtogoinsurance offers individual, couple, family and group policies that provide cover for all ages and most pre-existing health conditions.
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