How do you plan a skip-generation trip for your grandchildren? – A holiday with the grandchildren (and without their parents) can feel wonderfully special. You get time together away from the usual routines, while they gain a little independence and a suitcase full of stories to take home. However, a skip-generation trip works best when the practical details are sorted before the fun begins. From written permission to snack supplies, thoughtful preparation helps everyone feel secure – including the parents waving you off at the airport.
Does your trip suit both generations?
Start with the grandchildren you have, not an imaginary pair who happily walk around galleries for six hours. Consider their ages, confidence, sleep routines, swimming ability, food preferences and experience of flying. Then be just as honest about your own energy, mobility and comfort. A short flight, simple transfer and one well-placed base may be way more enjoyable than an ambitious multi-stop tour.
Then, give each child a meaningful say without handing them the entire booking process. Offer two or three realistic destinations, then ask them to choose a favourite activity each. Younger children may prioritise a pool or animals; teenagers might care more about Wi-Fi, privacy, shopping or trying local food. If you like, browse our travel inspiration for some ideas, but keep plenty of unplanned time as well. One main outing a day, followed by a slower afternoon, can prevent everyone becoming tired and cross.
Are consent and documents in order?
This is the part to complete first, not the evening before departure. UK government guidance says you must get permission from everyone with parental responsibility, or permission from a court, before taking a child abroad. A letter from the person or people with parental responsibility is usually enough to show consent. Include their contact details and the trip’s destination and dates, and keep the signed original in your hand luggage.
It’s also sensible to carry copies of the child’s birth or adoption certificate, plus evidence explaining any different surnames. Check that every child has a valid passport and that names match the booking exactly. Requirements vary by destination, so use the foreign travel checklist to review entry rules and health advice, as well as any extra paperwork.
Leave parents with your itinerary, accommodation details, flight numbers and emergency contacts.
Is a protection plan in place?
Work out the real cost before anyone gets attached to a perfect hotel, then add an emergency buffer that is separate from the ice-cream fund. If the grandchildren are old enough, give them a fixed souvenir allowance; choosing between one treasured item and several plastic temptations is quite useful holiday maths!
Sort cover as soon as you book and check who is insured, which destinations are included, how medical conditions must be declared and whether planned activities are covered. Depending on your age and needs, over 50 travel insurance may be one option to explore, but the policy wording matters more than the label. Save the details offline, give a copy to the parents and carry the emergency assistance number. Also agree who would authorise treatment, pay an unexpected bill or travel out if the trip had to change.
Have you packed for confidence?
Ask the parents for a short written routine covering daily needs and confidences, as well as what usually calms each child. Carry medicines in their original packaging, with enough for delays, and check whether supporting documents are needed. Pack a small first-aid kit, sun protection, comfortable shoes, layers, refillable bottles and one complete change of clothes in hand luggage, too.
Most importantly: Let the grandchildren help. A younger child can choose a comfort toy and pack a small activity bag; an older one can manage headphones, chargers and a day bag from a checklist. Download entertainment and booking documents before leaving home, because airport Wi-Fi has a habit of disappearing when needed most.
Small familiar routines matter too: the usual bedtime story, favourite snack or quiet hour can make an unfamiliar place feel manageable. The most memorable skip-generation holidays are the ones where everyone feels listened to. Your grandchildren may not remember every landmark, but they will remember having your full attention in a new corner of the world.
Poppy Watt