When we think about family vacations, many of us imagine the traditional setup: parents, kids, maybe some extended family, all heading to a theme park or a beach destination. But over the past few years, there's been a noticeable shift in how families approach travel. More and more families are exploring multi-generational trips or what some are calling “skip-gen vacations.” These types of trips are changing the way we experience family travel, and I couldn't be more excited to see it unfold.

As someone who has experienced both sides of this trend—being part of a multi-generational trip and also taking time to travel with just my parents—I've seen firsthand how these trips can offer new dynamics, deeper connections, and even a bit of personal relaxation. And honestly, with the fast pace of life, a vacation like this can be the perfect way to reset, enjoy quality time, and see the world in a way we hadn't thought possible.

What Exactly Are Multi-Generational Trips and Skip-Gen Vacations?

If you're scratching your head wondering what these terms mean, don't worry, I've got you covered. A multi-generational trip typically involves three or more generations of a family traveling together—think grandparents, parents, and kids all on the same vacation. This could mean heading to a beach resort, hiking in the mountains, or exploring a new city together.

On the flip side, skip-gen vacations are when grandparents take their grandchildren on a trip without the parents. It’s a unique dynamic where grandparents get to bond with their grandkids, often creating memories and experiences that might not happen if the whole family was together.

Both types of trips have gained popularity in recent years because they offer something different. The usual family vacation is fun, but these new dynamics help strengthen relationships and give people the chance to see each other in a different light. I personally think there’s something so special about sharing these experiences with family members of all ages.

• Multi-Generational Trips: Includes parents, children, and grandparents all traveling together.
  
  

• Skip-Gen Vacations: Grandparents take their grandchildren on vacation without the parents.
  
  

• Stronger Bonds: These trips often lead to deeper relationships and new memories for everyone involved.
  
  

I had the chance to experience both types of trips, and each has its own unique charm. One trip to the mountains with my entire family—grandparents, parents, and cousins—was an experience I won’t forget. The older generation brought wisdom and humor, while the younger generation added energy and fresh perspectives. In contrast, a skip-gen trip I took with my grandparents allowed me to experience a quieter, more reflective side of life, focusing more on the simple pleasures of nature and the stories of my family’s history.

Why Are These Trips Becoming More Popular?

Over the years, the way we travel has evolved. Families are no longer sticking to the typical “parents and kids” vacation model. There are a few reasons behind this shift. For starters, families are spread out more than ever before. With different generations living in different cities or even countries, planning a trip together is a way to reconnect and spend quality time.

Then there’s the growing number of people who are taking advantage of retirement. More grandparents are healthy, active, and want to spend time with their grandchildren. These skip-gen vacations allow grandparents to travel with their grandkids, often offering a more relaxed pace than a typical family vacation.

In addition, technology has made it easier for families to plan these trips. With booking sites and apps that make it simple to organize everything from accommodations to activities, multi-generational travel has never been more accessible.

• Globalization: Families are more spread out, making joint trips an opportunity for reconnection.
  
  

• Active Grandparents: With more grandparents staying healthy and energetic, they’re more inclined to travel.
  
  

• Tech-Friendly: Travel technology has made organizing trips easier for multi-generational groups.
  
  

For example, a few years ago, my family went on a trip to the Grand Canyon. My grandparents were able to join, and while they didn’t hike down into the canyon, they were still part of the experience. They had their own pace, enjoyed the scenery, and even told us stories about their past travels while we trekked. This type of dynamic is something I now treasure, as it’s not just about visiting a place, but about sharing those moments together, each from a different perspective.

The Benefits of Multi-Generational and Skip-Gen Vacations

There are a ton of benefits to these new types of family trips. For one, they create lasting memories that everyone can cherish. Whether it’s a beach vacation, a road trip, or a cultural experience abroad, the variety of perspectives brought by each generation can make the trip feel richer and more meaningful.

Another great benefit is the chance to build stronger connections. Sometimes, we don’t realize how little we truly know about family members until we spend time together outside the typical family setting. On a multi-generational trip, you might find yourself listening to your grandparents share stories you’ve never heard before, or you might witness how your parents interact with your kids in a way you haven’t seen before. These experiences help deepen relationships and create a stronger sense of family unity.

• Quality Time: Traveling together allows for uninterrupted quality time.
  
  

• Shared Experiences: Every generation can bring something different to the table, making the trip more diverse.
  
  

• Bonding: These trips help strengthen family ties through shared experiences.
  
  

For me, one of the most memorable moments from a family trip was when my grandfather took my niece aside and started teaching her how to fish. It was a quiet moment that showed the beauty of these types of vacations—they allow for learning and connection in a way that can’t always happen in everyday life.

What Should You Pack for These Trips?

Packing for multi-generational trips or skip-gen vacations can be a bit more complex than just packing for yourself. Depending on where you’re going and how many people are involved, it’s important to plan ahead and make sure everyone is prepared. Here are a few tips:

• Versatile Clothing: Be sure to pack clothing that can be worn in a variety of settings, whether you’re hiking, dining out, or relaxing by the pool.
  
  

• Travel Games: Bring along games or activities that can engage everyone, from kids to grandparents. A deck of cards, a family trivia game, or even a simple puzzle can go a long way in making downtime fun.
  
  

• Health Essentials: Make sure you have any medications or first aid supplies that might be needed. It’s always a good idea to be over-prepared, especially if you’re traveling with elderly family members or young children.
  
  

On one of my trips, I made sure to pack a few things to keep myself relaxed during downtime, like my favorite vape juice. A nice, quick break with my Jam Monster Salt Grape flavor was the perfect way to unwind after a long day of activities. Whether I was sitting on the porch after dinner or relaxing during a break, vaping gave me a moment to recharge. And when you're traveling with family, taking those small moments for yourself can make a huge difference.

Traveling with Family: It's About the Experience

When it comes down to it, family travel—whether it's multi-generational or a skip-gen vacation—is about creating meaningful memories and enjoying the experience. Traveling with family members of all ages adds depth to the journey, with everyone bringing something unique to the table. From the stories and traditions shared by grandparents to the curiosity and energy of younger generations, these trips become richer because they're built on different perspectives.

The best part? These trips don't have to be limited to a single generation. Whether it's taking a trip with your kids, spending quality time with your parents, or getting away with your grandparents, the opportunity to connect and bond is invaluable.

For me, combining the fun of traveling with the connection of family has led to some of the best memories. The next time I hit the road with my loved ones, I'll definitely be packing my Jam Monster Salt Nic Flavors , because these kinds of trips deserve to be enjoyed with a little extra relaxation and sweetness. And if you've never tried it, check out the Jam Monster flavor list —there's a perfect one for every traveler looking to add a bit of flavor to their journey!