Taking the Kids: Gifting a trip the right way

Consider the kids’ ages before booking expensive activities. I remember one grandmother terribly disappointed that her young grandchildren didn’t appreciate the scenery on a single-gauge railroad trip in Colorado and couldn’t wait for the ride to end.

I’m not saying toss out all of the gifts under the tree. I’m just suggesting giving a trip or an experience for next year, a birthday, anniversary, etc. It needn’t be a holiday trip either. Picking a time that works with everyone’s schedule can take some work. If you are giving a trip, don’t make it a surprise!

Every year, the Angelos who live in the Pacific Northwest gather their kids and grandkids who range in age from 23 to a baby for a trip together — this past summer to the high-end Brush Creek Ranch in Wyoming. “It is important to take time out for each other,” said Linda Angelo. “We want these memories for our grandchildren.”

Other families opt to charter their own boat — it may not be that much more expensive than a typical cruise — in Alaska or Baja, for exa mple. Another family had chartered a boat from AdventureSmith Explorations or Un-Cruise Adventures.

My in-laws generously paid for all six kids and grandkids to attend a family reunion at the YMCA of the Rockies in Colorado — so popular for family reunions that there is special staff to help them organize their trip.

Traditional cruises, however, are overwhelmingly popular for multigenerational groups and I have met many of them on board. According to the Cruise Lines International Association State of the Cruise Industry 2023, c ruising continues to be one of the fastest growing sectors of tourism, according to the report, but today 73 percent of cruise travelers are sailing with family members that represent at least two generations.

It's easy to see why — activities for all ages, one price for lodging meals, and entertainment, and the ability for family members to go their own way during the day and gather for dinner. Remember, no one wants to be in lockstep the entire time!

If you are thinking about giving a trip in the coming year, it’s wise to work with a travel adviser who not only can get you the best deal but also field everyone’s concerns and questions. Once you have the dates set, consider everyone’s ages, interests and mobility.

Are they outdoors-lovers? Maybe cabins near a national park would be a good fit. Are they beachgoers or snow aficionados? Do they want something familiar or something they have never done? Do they love Disney and all things theme park? Do you want something where no one has to do any heavy lifting – a cruise, an all-inclusive resort, a dude ranch, for example – or does your gang prefer a more hands-on experience where they share the cooking and chores.

If the “gift” is a big rental house at the beach or snow resort, discuss in advance who will be responsible for grocery shopping, cooking and clean-up and most important, who is paying for what.

Often, grandparents spring for the trip but their kids pay for flights and extras. In other cases, the “kids” treat the grandparents. It is key to be upfront about all things money.

Also consider how well everyone gets along. You want to make sure there is sufficient space (and bathrooms) for family members to get away from the group when needed. And no fighting about politics, parenting or lifestyle.

Merry Christmas!

And happy travels in 2024!

========

(For more Taking the Kids, visit www.takingthekids.com and also follow TakingTheKids on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram where Eileen Ogintz welcomes your questions and comments. The fourth edition of The Kid’s Guide to New York City and the third edition of The Kid’s Guide to Washington D.C. are the latest in a series of 14 books for kid travelers published by Eileen.)