For travelers hitting the road with older family members—whether they’re parents, grandparents, or in-laws—it’s certainly a different experience than traveling with your peers. Trips like these create lasting memories with those you love. While they’re cherished trips, they can come with some logistical challenges, especially when it comes to managing varying energy levels, mobility, and interests. That’s why we’ve rounded up tips and tricks from the entire team to help you make the most of your adventure.
Itinerary
When you’re young, it can be invigorating to leave the itinerary to the whims of the day. However, when traveling with older generations, it’s essential to have a defined and planned itinerary. This lets everyone know what’s in store for the day. It also allows people to skip activities that they know might be too challenging for them.
James PhamLonely Planet's editor-in-chief, also likes to keep a list of alternative activities that can be easily added if someone doesn't feel up to what's been planned.
When traveling with multiple generations, rest is always a good idea. Alex HowardLonely Planet's editorial director always plans downtime so no one gets caught up in the rush.
And for those who find it difficult to spend long periods of time with their parents as adults, Brekke FletcherSenior Content Director at Lonely Planet, recommends spending time alone. “Plan ahead for some alone time with yourself during your trip. While I think it’s important to disconnect from work while on vacation, it can also be an easy-to-explain escape.” This will give everyone time to regroup and recharge before your next activity.
An important lesson I recently learned on my trip to Ecuador With my mother, who just turned 70, I managed to balance active days with rest days. Although my mother is extremely active, we went horseback riding and a rope course on the same day. We both woke up the next day with aches and pains all over our bodies, as muscles we didn't know existed had undergone a serious workout. I would have given anything to have a rest day, it's the key to not feeling exhausted.
Assess accessibility
Accessibility can often be overlooked by able-bodied travelers, but as we age it can play a major role in ensuring travel remains an enjoyable experience.
Make sure your luggage has four wheels instead of two. This will save you from having to drag your luggage through the airport and to your hotel, making it easier to get around and reducing your effort.
When in doubt, book a car. Navigating public transportation in foreign cities can be intimidating and chaotic, even for the most seasoned traveler. Having a rental car to get around a new place can greatly reduce the stress and anxiety of traveling to different locations. While Uber and Lyfts can be convenient, many cities have banned them, and my mother personally avoids using technology at all costs. A driver is reliable and can provide added convenience.
When James traveled with his 80-year-old mother, he booked a wheelchair for the airport. International airports can be huge and getting to your gate can be a hassle. Having a wheelchair already arranged and ready can save you the chaos of finding a wheelchair and make the journey to your gate less stressful.
Accessibility should also be a factor when choosing your destination. When traveling to Lisbon, know that hill climbing will be part of your daily activities. When I was at the Galapagos Islands, The heat and intense sun exposure every day were exhausting. While some cities have accessible subways, many do not, which is important if stairs are out of someone’s comfort zone. Doing your research and knowing what you’re getting into can prevent problems on the ground that can overshadow the fun you’re supposed to have during the trip.
Alex Howard recommends purchasing travel insurance, especially if any members of your group have health issues. It can give you peace of mind and make things easier if the unexpected happens.
Packaging
Anyone who has ever forgotten an essential item while traveling knows that it can be a major inconvenience. Whether you forgot your adapter, forgot to pack the right shoes, or brought summer clothes when fall seems closer, you always feel uncomfortable and spend a lot more time shopping out of necessity than out of pleasure.
Avoid these hassles by creating a comprehensive packing list. Giving one to your parents before you leave will help you avoid further hassles later. Don't forget to include any extra medications on the list. We like to be over-prepared!
Brekke Fletcher, who wrote a detailed guide on packing for a cruisealso recommend doubling up on some items that you know are necessary but might forget.
For example, I brought two button-down shirts to Ecuador to protect myself from the sun, and my mother ended up wearing one for half the trip after a painful sunburn.
On the ground
Your trip should go smoothly if you plan well in advance, but there are a few things to note along the way.
Keep an eye on the group and notice when people feel like they’ve pushed their limits. Alex Howard mentioned that sometimes his parents don’t say they’re done, even though they are. Noticing when people are slowing down or losing energy can save them from having to announce it to the group. Instead, suggest an alternative activity, like lunch or a relaxing time at the hotel, so everyone has a chance to recharge.
If you're traveling in a group with older family members, give everyone the opportunity to split up. If some people prefer to visit a museum and others go hiking, encourage everyone to do the activity they prefer.
Communication
Overall, the best advice for traveling with seniors is to communicate. Make sure everyone understands what they’re getting into, how to best prepare, and what alternative options there are for activities that might be too far out of their comfort zone.
Jessica LockhartLonely Planet editor-in-chief, visited Newfoundland Jessica discovered that her mother was hoping for a flexible trip that would go with the flow. She found that communicating her expectations was key, as her mother hadn’t realized how much the travel industry had changed in the last 10 years. With social media’s impact on destination popularity, larger crowds, and high last-minute prices (especially for accommodations), booking in advance is a must. Her advice? “Talk about your expectations in advance and see if there’s a way to create some old-world magic to tap into your parents’ travel nostalgia.”
