Tips for Grandparents Traveling with Grandkids

Multigenerational travel is a growing trend, especially for grandparents and grandkids. Grandparents often have the time and the funds for a vacation — not to mention they want to create memories and bond with their grandchildren. Traveling with grandchildren can be one of the most rewarding experiences for grandparents and the entire family. It was filled with unforgettable moments that bring everyone closer together. Wit’ser it’s exploring new places, experiencing different cultures, or simply enjoying time away from the routine, family travel offers countless opportunities for fun and bonding. Hoit’sr, it’s no secret that traveling with grandkids comes with its challenges – keeping them entertained, managing their needs, and dealing with the unexpected.

Today, I will provide practical tips to help make traveling with grandkids enjoyable for everyone.

Tips for Grandparents Traveling with Grandkids

An AARP study indicated that over 50 percent of grandparents have at least one grandchild who lives more than 200 miles away, and about 30 percent live more than 50 miles from their closest grandchild. Travel is a great way to get better acquainted and develop a relationship with the child.

We took our first family vacation this summer to Saint Augustine with our granddaughters. This is now going to be an annual vacation. Next year, we’re headed to Jamaica and renting a house on the ocean for the entire family. We needed a year to plan for this trip because everyone needs a passport.

1. Consider their Ages

When planning a family trip, it’s crucial to choose destinations that cater to all ages, offering activities and experiences that everyone can enjoy. Family-friendly locations with parks, museums, and kid-friendly attractions should be high on the list. Creating a flexible itinerary is key, allowing for spontaneous changes based on how the day unfolds for the kids. It’s also important to book accommodations that provide comfort and convenience, such as hotels or rentals with amenities like cribs, extra beds, and kitchens, which can make a significant difference in managing daily routines.

2. Packing Smart when Traveling with Grandkids

Packing for a family trip can be challenging, but focusing on essentials that serve multiple purposes can help lighten the load. Compile a packing checklist so both your grandchildren and their parents know they’ll need it. It’s wise to pack versatile clothing that can be layered or repurposed. This not only saves space but also ensures you’re prepared for various activities and climates. Be sure your grandchildren have books, puzzles, games, electronics, or their preferred entertainment for flights, train journeys, or car rides. Bring along sufficient chargers for phones, iPads, and other electronics. Backpacks are the perfect solution for your grandchild’s entertainment needs for travel.

3. Get Your Grandkids Excited about the trip

You may be the trip leader, but that doesn’t mean you have to do all the planning on your own. From the get-go, you should involve your grandchildren in the planning process of the trip. Involving the grandkids in planning can be a great way to keep them engaged and excited about the trip. Letting them choose activities or pick their favorite snacks gives them a sense of involvement and ownership. It’s also important to build in downtime during the trip. Whether it’s a quiet afternoon at the hotel or a relaxed evening, downtime helps prevent burnout and keeps everyone happy and relaxed.

4. Navigating Airports and Flights with Ease

Navigating airports and flights with kids can be a daunting task, but a few strategies can make it smoother. Arriving at the airport early allows you to check in and go through security without the stress of last-minute rushing. When it comes to boarding, some parents prefer pre-boarding to settle in early, while others opt to board last to minimize the time their kids spend on the plane. In-flight comfort is crucial for keeping kids content during the flight. Thankfully, airlines have inflight entertainment to help keep the grandchildren entertained. But bringing along their favorite snacks and even small toys can make a big difference in keeping them entertained and comfortable.

5. On-the-Go Meals: Keeping Everyone Fed and Happy

Keeping everyone fed during travel is essential to maintaining a happy and cooperative group. Packing healthy, easy-to-carry snacks is a great way to fend off hunger between meals and keep energy levels up. While trying local foods can be an exciting part of the trip, it’s also wise to have familiar food options on hand for picky eaters. Planning meals around the day’s activities can help ensure that you have the flexibility and quick options available, especially when dealing with tired or hungry kids.

6. Make sure you bring all the required travel documents.

Children aren’t required to have identification for domestic trips. But to travel overseas, you’ll need passports for your grandchildren, no matter how old they are. We planned a year for our Jamaica vacation, and that gave our son plenty of time to apply for passports for our grandchildren.

It’s also wise to carry with you a notarized letter signed by both parents permitting you to travel with your grandchildren without their parents.

7. Creating Memories when traveling with grandkids

Creating lasting memories is one of the joys of family travel. Documenting the journey through a travel journal, photo diary, or even a daily vlog can be a fun way to capture each special moment. Involving kids in souvenir shopping allows them to choose personal mementos, making the trip more memorable for them. At the end of each day, please take a few minutes to reflect on the day’s experiences, sharing what you’re grateful for and what stood out. This practice of reflection and gratitude can deepen the connection and create lasting, positive memories.

Family travel can be an incredibly rewarding experience with the right preparation. By planning, packing wisely, and keeping everyone entertained and engaged, you can ensure that your journey is not only smooth but also full of joyful memories. With the right approach, traveling with grandkids can become a cherished family tradition.

Do you travel with your grandchildren?

Until next time!