Three generations of our family – my husband, our kiddos, and my parents, “Bubba” and “Bram,” have shared some fun travel adventures.
I’ve traveled with my parents for so many years. Why stop now that I have kids of my own?
Here are some perks of traveling with the grandparents:
Happy Grandparents = Happy Kids
…no one makes our LO laugh like his ‘Bubba’. What a great distraction in pubs, restaurants, museums, public transportation, etc. We parents can only entertain for so long, right?
Helpful Grandparents = Happy Parents
…it’s nice to know you can call in reinforcements. On our first long haul flight with a 6 month old, my mom kept me company in the back of the plane while we entertained the little guy.
But don’t forget – they’re on vacation too, so don’t rely on that help. Be prepared and understanding if they aren’t exactly jumping at the opportunity.
They can also be a second set of brains (non-baby-brains!) for figuring out where to go. My dad knowing his way around London definitely takes some stress out of it. The Tube can be tricky-tricky.
The grands add another element
…a more mature one. So it’s not all kids, all the time. We love those kiddos more than anything, but we need some adult conversation too. I know what you’re thinkin’ – “Grandparents?! Exciting?!” But my parents are fun, which brings me to my next plus…
You’ll get more out of your day
…we definitely stay up later, instead of crashing at 7pm! Although, this could be dangerous if you can’t hang the next day. The kids might actually be fine, but it’s you and your sanity we worry about.
An extra hand with luggage can come in handy
…especially for longer trips. Bubba’s new nickname was ‘The Sherpa’ after our first big Euro trip. What a compliment for a 70-year old man! He wishes he had their stamina. I don’t know how they do it.
Sherpa or no sherpa, I recommend packing as light as possible, and having the right travel gear to free up your hands.
Free tours and history lessons, without the wait
…well, only if grandpa is a should-be Jeopardy champion, like my dad. He knows more about history and culture than many of those contestants. So forget tours and long ques with a toddler (because those just are not a good combo), if you have your own human encyclopedia
The Memories! The Pictures! The Great Times!
…you’ll have a great time with the people you love, all in one trip! What an experience to be able to share with three generations.
Note: The more people you travel with, the more coordination it takes. I’d still recommend planning ahead together. Talk in advance about what each person wants to do and see. Make sure the grandparents know in advance that you may have to be on your own schedule at times. For example, as soon as the kiddos are ready, you may be out the door? Because you never know when the next feeding, diaper change, or nap will be…
Traveling with your little ones is enjoyable with or without the grandparents. Still not convinced to venture out with those cute little rascals? Then check out my Top 10 Reasons to Travel with Your Baby or Toddler.