Multigenerational trips can also deepen family ties.
It allows kids to see parents or grandparents in different roles, she says.
PLANNING
1.
WhatsApp seems to be the most seamless, she says, although other options include iMessage and Facebook Messenger.
Assign trip-planning roles
Planning a group trip can have a too many cooks in the kitchen feel.
To avoid the congestion, divvy up planning roles and responsibilities.
Most group trips have an overarching leader to sort details, monitor booking and keep everyone in the loop.
Discuss roles and confirm whos doing what via email, text or shared documents for easy reference.
Keep a spreadsheet or shared document with final costs and booking confirmations, so everything is in one place.
Plan well in advance
Travel is booming, and that means things book up quickly.
Generally, planning at least a year out gives groups the greatest flexibility and choice, Stewart says.
Be flexible
Planning a trip around multiple schedules can be tricky.
If your lifestyle allows it, be flexible with dates.
Hire a travel agent
Planning a vacation for two people can be all-consuming.
Its a trend were seeing more and more, she says.
She notes that having an around-the-clock support team is worth the investment, particularly for flight delays or cancellations.
Get insurance
Transit hiccups abound.
Thats why Stan Sandberg, cofounder of insurance comparison site TravelInsurance.com, says travel insurance is critical.
It may simplify some of the steps, he says.
Typically, though, standard travel insurance requires each household to be covered under their own policy.
Thats because travel insurance is regulated on a state level.
Multigenerational and group travel is about the people first, Stewart says.
Your inheritance is to go on the trip with us, she told her family.
The family took three separate bike tours across Europe, from the Netherlands to Italy.
As a Virtuoso agent, I can extend Virtuoso amenities to clients, she says.
This includes perks such as free breakfast or resort credits.
When booking a hotel, always ask if theres a group rate or discount.
Take into account the health and fitness of your fellow travelers.
Split payments via apps
There are several ways to go about splitting up your vacation costs.
You could have each family or household tally their costs, then combine and split them at the end.
Do a run-through
Communication is key when youre planning a group trip.
Early arrivals will ensure everyone can get through security and to the gate well before boarding time.
Ask your trip members if they have TSA Precheck or Global Entry.
Be ready to improvise
Just like flexibility, being open to improvisation is critical.
Spend your evening vacation meals discussing the next days plan to gauge how your companions are feeling.
If thats the case, improvise, and embrace plan B.
