Multi-generational holidays are a good way for families to build up memories and are now moving away from the ubiquitous Disneyland trip to more adventurous treks.
In the last year, more than 12.5 million people in Britain had a break consisting of at least three generations.
There are plenty of organisations that organise family adventure holidays from safaris to water sports, culture trips to tropical beaches. Or just rent a large house and enjoy being together.
Plan your money
This needs discussing: if meals out are on the agenda, who will pay and how much will be spent.
Work out babysitting
If you are happy to take charge for a couple of evenings, let everyone know in advance. You may be happy to take the youngsters off for a whole day so parents can have time to themselves or you may like to take off for a day alone.
Cooking
Cooking can be great fun on holiday with new ingredients to try, again perhaps organise being catering chief on alternate days, with teenagers helping.
Sleeping arrangements
Communication about bedrooms is vital. Some people like total privacy in their bedrooms, or you may not mind a toddler diving under your duvet at 5am. If not, keep the door shut and ask everyone to knock, if that is your preference.
Bathroom etiquette
Sort out a bathroom rota. If you have a set bathroom routine, bath before dinner perhaps, let your family know. And if everyone is sharing one or two bathrooms, it could be useful to have a 10 minute shower rule, especially if teenagers are with you.
Logistics
Time is important too, getting a whole family out of the door at once can be fraught with tension; not everyone goes at the same pace.
Treats
Treats can be contentious, it’s worth checking that your grandson really is allowed as much cola or sweets as he likes. Do not try to undermine strict parenting rules just because you are on holiday.
Bedtimes
Although holiday times are generally more relaxed, knowing what is normal or expected if you are babysitting means everyone has a better time the next day. Most youngsters go to bed far later than we ever did. They probably get up later too.
Flexibility
Be flexible it will not be the same as life is at home, but that’s the fun of a holiday. Eating at unusual times, doing different things and being surrounded by your family, are all to be enjoyed.
