How to Plan a Memorable Family Holiday for All Ages

Travelling with the whole family—children, parents, and grandparents—is a great way to create lasting family memories.

The shared memories, laughter, and togetherness can bring a family closer than ever.

However, when planning a trip with elderly relatives—especially those requiring mobility aids—specific considerations are crucial to ensuring everyone has a wonderful experience. 

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a holiday abroad, balancing everyone’s needs is key.

This guide will provide helpful tips, recommendations for inclusive activities, and practical advice on travelling with mobility aids, so you can plan a stress-free and enjoyable family holiday.

Things to Consider When Planning a Multigenerational Trip

Choose Accessible Destinations

Your first step is selecting a destination that caters to everyone, including elderly family members with mobility aids.

Check for places with good accessibility, including flat terrain, elevators, ramps, and wide doorways in hotels and attractions.

Beach holidays on flat shores or historic towns with paved paths can be wonderful options. 

When researching destinations, look for accommodations that specifically mention being wheelchair or mobility-aid friendly.

Websites like Booking.com and Airbnb often include a “wheelchair accessible” filter to refine your options. 

Travel Tip: Call ahead to confirm accessibility features. Assumptions can often lead to disappointment, so it’s better to double-check! 

Plan the Right Pace

While younger family members may want to hop from one activity to the next, senior relatives may need more downtime.

Strike a balance by planning flexible schedules with plenty of rest periods.

Opt for activities that allow everyone to participate together, even at a slower pace. 

For instance, instead of a day packed with sightseeing, break it into a morning activity followed by a leisurely lunch and afternoon relaxation.

Choose accommodations with comfortable lounges where elderly relatives can unwind while others explore. 

Travel Tip: Build “rest days” into the itinerary for longer trips to ensure no one feels exhausted, especially if the destination involves time zone changes.

Healthcare and Medications

Ensuring the health and safety of elderly relatives is a top priority.

Make a list of all their medications and pack them in clearly labelled containers.

Also, keep a document listing their medical conditions, emergency contacts, and physician information in case of an emergency. 

Additionally, research the location of the nearest hospitals or medical centres at your destination.

If you’re travelling internationally, consider travel insurance that covers pre-existing conditions—it’s a safety net you’ll be glad to have. 

Travel Tip: Use a small, portable cooler if any medications need to be refrigerated during travel.

Transportation Considerations

When travelling with mobility aids like mobility scooters, walking frames, or wheelchairs, transportation logistics are important to consider.

For flights, airlines usually accommodate mobility aids free of charge, but you’ll need to notify the airline in advance. 

If you’re renting a car, choose an accessible vehicle, such as one with enough trunk space for a walking frame.

Public transport may also be an option, but check if systems like buses, trains, or trams are accessible at your destination.

Travel Tip: Consider renting a lightweight or foldable wheelchair or scooter for easier handling during travel. 

Recommendations for Activities That Suit All Ages 

Explore Scenic Trails and Parks

Nature is a great equaliser.

Parks and scenic walking trails with accessible pathways offer a serene environment where everyone can enjoy time outdoors.

Choose locations with benches for resting and flatter terrain to accommodate mobility aids. 

Cruises

Cruises are an excellent option for multigenerational travel.

They combine accessibility with a wide range of activities.

Elderly relatives can enjoy leisurely on-board entertainment, while younger family members take advantage of pool decks or fitness centres.

Modern cruise ships are often designed with mobility aids in mind, featuring wheelchair-friendly cabins and lifts. 

Travel Tip: Choose river cruises for shorter durations and calmer waters if an ocean cruise feels too overwhelming. 

Cultural Tours and Museums

Museums and cultural tours are inclusive activities that can cater to various interests, from art and history to science and technology.

Many museums now provide wheelchair-accessible routes, as well as benches and guided tours geared toward senior visitors.

Making Memories Together

Whether you’re exploring a new city, relaxing on a cruise, or taking a weekend road trip, planning a family trip with elderly relatives is far from impossible—and an excellent way to create priceless memories together.

With a bit of extra planning, you can rest easy in the knowledge that everyone, regardless of age, enjoys the adventure.

Photo Credit: Depositphotos