How to Make Vacations More Rewarding For Everyone in the Family

Traveling with friends usually means you're on the same page when it comes to activities, budget, and travel style. But throw in a multigenerational family with varying ages and preferences, and suddenly planning that perfect getaway feels a bit more like herding cats. Picture this: Your tween nephew is itching for an adrenaline-packed adventure, while your 30-something sister is determined to uncover the best antique and vintage shops. Oh, and her toddler, who normally craves the newfound freedom of walking and independent exploration (read: wandering off), is suddenly insisting on her stroller for every outing. And the grandparents? Well, they just want a bit of rest and relaxation amid quality family time.

But here's the good news: With a bit of planning and the right travel hacks, you can create a vacation that satisfies everyone's wanderlust. Keep scrolling to discover nine savvy travel tips that will ensure your family's happiness while on the road. Plus, we'll show you how the United Quest℠ Card can make your journey even smoother — including perks like two free checked bags (terms apply) for your extra kid necessities, priority boarding, and up to 10,000 miles in award flight credits each year (terms apply). Let's make your next family getaway one for the books.

The first step in planning an enjoyable multigenerational trip is to have an open and honest conversation with all family members involved. Discuss everyone's interests, must-do activities, and budget constraints. Be prepared for compromises, but make sure everyone's voice is heard.

This process might sound like a family meeting, and it can be, but it's essential to engage everyone and make sure everyone's desires are considered. For instance, if Grandma and Grandpa are fans of tranquil beach sunsets, while the teenagers are itching for adventure, you can work on finding destinations that offer both. Compromise and planning are the keys to a smooth vacation.

While having a plan is essential, flexibility is the secret sauce in multigenerational travel. Leave some downtime for relaxation or unexpected adventures. Consider a mix of activities that cater to different age groups, such as a morning at the spa for grandparents, an afternoon at the amusement park for teens, and a leisurely beach walk for parents with young children.

Then, enjoy the benefits of spontaneity for fluid blocks of time, which can often lead to the best vacation memories. Say yes to that intriguing roadside farmers market, or let the kids choose an activity for the day. By blending structured plans with open-ended days, you can ensure everyone's needs are met.

Airport travel can be a drag solo, let alone with a large family. But a few things become so much easier with a United Quest℠ Card in your wallet, which gets you up to a $100 Global Entry, TSA PreCheck®, or NEXUS fee credit. Whether you're traveling domestically or internationally, the perk can save you time through airport checkpoints, allowing you to get on your way to that dreamy family retreat even faster.

Oh, and priority boarding? You're in! The primary cardmember and companions on the same reservation will be invited to board United-operated flights before general boarding. Keep the VIP perks going once you're on board by treating the fam to in-flight snacks, drinks, and Wi-Fi — you'll earn 25 percent back on these purchases as a statement credit. (You'll also receive $125 in statement credits each year for United purchases.)

"Me" time is the golden ticket for any parent, and guess what? You don't have to compromise on adult-only moments during vacation. Planning ahead for reliable childcare can be a game-changer (and won't leave the grandparents to feel obligated so they can enjoy moments to themselves, too). This can be as simple as booking a trustworthy babysitter through your hotel or resort or researching local childcare services at your destination.

With the United Quest℠ Card, you get access to The Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection℠ — a network of the world's finest hotels, resorts, lodges, and spas. Choose your next stay that aligns with your idea of relaxation and enjoy program benefits like daily breakfast for two, property credits, room upgrades, and early check-in and late check-out upon availability.

Leverage the benefits of group travel — these savings can significantly add up when you're traveling with extended family. Booking flights, accommodations, and activities as a family can often lead to discounts and group rates (hello, shared experiences!). With the United Quest℠ Card, you'll earn three miles per dollar spent on United purchases, which adds up quickly when booking flights for a group. The primary cardmember and a companion also enjoy perks like two free checked bags (terms apply), making packing for the entire family more manageable. The perk will help ease any worries about packing light or cramming everything (like diapers, medications, and favorite toys) into carry-ons.

Choosing the right place to stay is critical for a harmonious multigenerational trip. Search out family-friendly resorts and hotels with amenities like pools and kids' clubs, which can keep the little ones entertained while still offering comfort and relaxation for the older generations. Also, consider accessible rooms if grandparents have mobility concerns, and if you have a particularly large family, vacation rentals can provide spacious and homey accommodation options.

Dining out with a multigenerational group can sometimes resemble a culinary jigsaw puzzle, but it's also a great opportunity to explore the area's food scene. Seek out restaurants with diverse menus that cater to various tastes, and don't hesitate to try local specialties — you might discover a new family favorite. (Plus, with the United Quest℠ Card you'll earn two miles per dollar spent on dining, including eligible delivery services if you're all wiped by day's end and just want to relax in your room.) Booking accommodations with kitchen facilities can also help, allowing you to prepare meals suitable for different dietary preferences. It's also a great way to bond while cooking together as a family.

Capturing the moments is like collecting treasures from your trip. Document your multigenerational adventure with photos and videos, and encourage everyone to document the journey in their unique way, whether it's through photographs, journaling, or even art. These memories will be cherished for years to come and the mementos will be a joy to revisit long after the trip ends, sparking conversations and allowing your family to revisit those precious moments.

The end of your multigenerational trip doesn't mean the adventure is over. Hosting a post-trip debrief is a fantastic way to bond and learn from each other's experiences. What did everyone love? What could be better next time? Use this feedback to shape your future vacations, ensuring they're even more rewarding for everyone involved.