Traveling with Grandchildren: Making Memories Together

Traveling with grandchildren without their parents has become known as skip-gen travel, short for skip-generation travel. Unlike a vacation with the whole family, it’s an opportunity for grandparents and grandchildren to spend time together, away from their daily routines. Just the two generations making memories together.

A few years back, one of my clients began taking trips with her grandchildren, one at a time. From a Disney cruise to a week in London, she loved making memories and sharing fun moments with them.

What Makes Traveling with Grandchildren So Meaningful?

Traveling with grandchildren is about building real connections and creating lasting memories. It gives you the opportunity to slow down, share stories, and see the world through each other’s eyes. Whether you explore Europe, visit a national park, discover a new city, or take a cruise, the bond you create is the real destination.

Why Now Is the Perfect Time

With everyone’s busy schedules, focused quality time matters more than ever. These trips give grandparents the chance to:

 ·     Share stories and wisdom beyond the usual family conversations.

·      Pass down traditions and perspectives.

·      Rediscover the world with fresh wonder.

 And grandchildren get to:

 ·     Experience independence in a safe, loving environment.

·      Deepen their bond with grandparents.

·      Learn naturally through adventure and curiosity.

These moments become stories and memories your grandchildren will treasure for years to come.

The Unique Magic When Parents Are Not Along

Traveling with grandchildren without their parents creates opportunities for a different kind of experience. Children may become more adaptable, engaged, and curious. Grandparents can be fully present, say yes to spontaneous detours, enjoy gelato in quiet piazzas, and take time to enjoy each moment instead of rushing. It’s a gentler and more meaningful way to travel.

Planning a Vacation with Your Grandchildren

Here are a few simple tips to help:

• Let the grandchildren have a say: Involve them in choosing the destination and activities. Children appreciate having their opinions heard, and they’ll be more excited about a trip they helped plan.
  
• Keep the itinerary light: Focus on quality, not quantity. Don’t try to squeeze too much into each day.
  
• Choose accommodations carefully: A centrally located hotel makes sightseeing and dining easier. Depending on the children’s ages, connecting rooms or a suite may give everyone a little more space and privacy.
  
• Pick experiences everyone will enjoy: Cooking classes, boat rides, and interactive museums can create wonderful shared memories. Consider everyone’s interests, abilities, and energy levels.
  
• Set expectations before leaving: Talk about ground rules, staying together, and what the grandchildren can and cannot do on their own.
  
• Plan for downtime: Balance scheduled activities with free time. Choose convenient flights when possible, and remember that grandparents and grandchildren may need breaks at different times.
  
• Don’t forget the paperwork: When traveling without the parents, make sure you have the necessary parental permission documents, identification, and medical authorization. Requirements vary depending on the destination and type of travel. For more information, review the U.S. Customs and Border Protection guidance on traveling with children. For more travel preparation tips, see my Essential International Travel Checklist.

The Emotional Return on Investment

Years from now, your grandchild may not remember every place you visited. But they will remember how you made them feel, the special conversations you shared, and the feeling of being truly seen and understood. Those moments become a legacy more meaningful than any souvenir.

Is traveling with grandchildren right for your family? If you’re ready to start planning a special vacation together, I’d love to help you create an experience that’s personally yours.

It’s Your Time to Travel.