Multi-generational travel

Almost all Kiwi parents believe multi-generational trips are good for their families. Increasingly, New Zealanders are embracing multi-generational travel, seeing it as an opportunity to spend quality time with the whole family – not just a chance for a free trip from the grandparents and a way to get a helping hand with the kids!

Travel company Expedia has recently completed their annual survey on the travel habits of Kiwis- and 40% reported going on a trip with more than one generation of their family. The figure rises to 45% among those with children.

When it comes to financing these holidays, more than 41% of respondents said the older generation offers to pay. Regardless of whose credit card is used, parents appreciate the additional help with looking after the kids on a multi-generation holiday – some 77% said it makes their holiday more relaxing.

Women appreciate the extra sets of hands more than men with 84% of women saying multi-generational travel makes their holidays more relaxing versus 70% of men.

Kelly Cull of Expedia says, “A multi-generation escape with parents, kids, siblings and grandparents has a positive impact on all family members as they explore, learn and laugh together. What’s more, children get to enjoy the company of other relatives while parents can catch some brief moments alone.”

‘Travelling tribes’ offer the opportunity for everyone to share the fun but also have their own privacy, by renting apartments or rooms side by side. Even extended travel times are less daunting when you are travelling with a group – most families say they are prepared to travel up to 12 hours with multiple generations for their chosen destination.

Cheaper flights and attractive holiday packages is making international holiday travel more accessible to family groups. Kelly says, “While visiting family and friends overseas and opening our children’s eyes to new cultural experiences are key motivations for travelling with kids, it essentially comes down to affordability.”

Interestingly, on average, New Zealand kids today have visited up to four countries while the average adult has travelled to eight.