How to plan a multi-generational family holiday

What is a multi-generational family holiday?

Multi-generational travel generally involves family members from three or more generations holidaying together, such as grandparents travelling with their adult children and grandchildren.

These trips might range from a weekend getaway in regional Victoria to a cruise, resort holiday or overseas adventure. They can be particularly appealing for milestone birthdays, anniversaries and family reunions, but you don't need a special occasion to organise one.

The key is planning a holiday that gives everyone opportunities to spend time together without expecting the entire group to do everything together.

8 tips for planning a multi-generational family holiday

Choose a destination that works for everyone

Before booking flights or accommodation, discuss what each person wants from the holiday. One family member might dream of hiking and sightseeing, while another would prefer restaurants, museums or relaxing by the pool.

Consider practical factors such as travel time, climate, accessibility, healthcare access and ease of getting around. Families travelling with young children may want to avoid complicated transfers, while older travellers may prefer destinations where attractions, restaurants and accommodation are relatively close together.

For overseas trips, also check passport and visa requirements well before departure.

Agree on a holiday budget early

Budgeting can be one of the trickiest parts of organising group travel, so agree on expectations before anyone books.

Discuss how accommodation, transport, meals and activities will be paid for and whether costs will be divided equally or by household. It can also help to distinguish between shared expenses and optional extras.

Remember that different generations may have different budgets. Building free or inexpensive activities into the itinerary can make the trip more accessible while still allowing family members to book additional experiences independently.

Find multi-generational family accommodation

Accommodation can make a significant difference to how smoothly a group holiday runs.

Holiday homes and serviced apartments can work well because they provide communal spaces where everyone can gather, while separate bedrooms give family members some privacy. A kitchen and laundry can also be valuable when travelling with children or staying for more than a few nights.

Hotels and resorts may suit families who prefer facilities such as pools, restaurants, room service and organised activities. Consider booking separate rooms or adjoining accommodation rather than expecting several generations to share one space.

Accessibility matters, too. Check for stairs, lifts, accessible bathrooms, parking and the distance between accommodation and key facilities if anyone in the group has limited mobility.

Plan activities for different ages and interests

Trying to keep everyone together from breakfast until bedtime can make a family holiday exhausting.

Instead, choose a handful of experiences that the whole family can enjoy together, then leave room for smaller groups to pursue their own interests. Grandparents might visit a gallery while parents take children to a theme park, for example, before everyone meets again for dinner.

When planning shared activities, check age restrictions, accessibility requirements, walking distances and fitness levels beforehand. Booking popular attractions in advance can also prevent a large group from missing out.

If you'd rather have professionals handle the itinerary, learn how to choose the perfect family tour instead.

Don't overfill the itinerary

A flexible itinerary is particularly important when travelling across generations.

Young children may need naps and early nights, while other family members may prefer slower mornings or regular breaks. Rather than scheduling several major attractions every day, allow time to rest, explore independently or change plans.

Consider making one meal or activity each day the main family event. This creates a regular opportunity to spend time together while giving everyone freedom around it.

Make transport as simple as possible

Think about how your group will travel both to and around the destination. Hiring multiple cars may provide flexibility on an Australian road trip, while public transport can be easier in destinations with extensive train or metro networks.

For flights, consider whether everyone needs to travel together. Different households may find different departure times or airports more convenient.

If you’re travelling with babies or young children, check the requirements for child restraints and prams. Older travellers should also consider walking distances, luggage handling and whether transfers or accessible transport need to be arranged in advance.

RACV Members save up to 15 per cent on car hire worldwide. Remember to check whether you need an International Driving Permit, as requirements vary by country

Consider everyone's travel insurance needs

Travel insurance is worth considering for both domestic and international holidays, particularly when several family members are travelling together.

Insurance needs can differ considerably between generations. Older travellers or people with existing medical conditions may need to check eligibility, overseas medical cover and policy conditions carefully, while families should understand how children and dependants are covered.

For example, RACV Travel Insurance allows up to two adults plus their children, stepchildren, foster children and/or grandchildren on the same policy.⁺⁺

Check what a policy covers for cancellations, overseas medical expenses, luggage, rental vehicles and planned activities, as well as relevant exclusions and excesses. Always read the Product Disclosure Statement before choosing cover.

RACV Members save 15 per cent on family travel insurance.*

More: What you need to know about family travel insurance

Share the planning responsibilities

One person shouldn’t have to organise the entire family holiday. Divide responsibilities according to people’s interests and strengths – one person could research accommodation, another could arrange transport, and another could look into restaurants or activities.

A travel agent may also be able to simplify the process by coordinating bookings and recommending options that suit the group’s different needs and budgets.

Create a shared itinerary containing booking details, addresses, important phone numbers and planned activities so everyone can access the essential information.

More: 10 reasons to book with a travel expert