Why Brits are never too old to go on holiday with their parents (and parents are never too old to foot the bill…)

We’re a nation of avid holiday-goers, whether opting for a sun-soaked getaway or a simple sojourn somewhere closer to home. And while many of us take a break to escape the pressures of work and day-to-day responsibilities, one thing we’re not escaping from is our relatives. At least, that’s the case, if you ask the thousands of Brits who choose to holiday with two or more generations of adults in their family.

According to a 2024 poll of 4,000 UK adults carried out by Kent Reliance¹, nearly one-third have been on a multigenerational holiday in the last three years. And far from being some sort of imposed commitment, 60% of multigenerational holiday-goers say these trips are the ones they look forward to the most.

But why exactly do so many of us like to keep so many of our nearest and dearest close when we head off on our travels?

The appeal of multigenerational getaways

Convenience, and the promise of cherished memories are the key motivators for taking multigenerational holidays, according to those surveyed.

As we all know, getting any number of individuals to synch up diaries becomes increasingly challenging the older we get and the more complex family life becomes. But, as they head into their golden years, Generation X (those aged 44-59) are looking to make memories for their children and grandchildren to treasure, while embracing opportunities to enjoy new experiences with loved ones while they still can.

With that in mind, it may come as no surprise that 60% of those aged 44 to 59 choose to pay for their adult children to join their vacations. And far from being a one-off gesture, 29% of those with children over 18 plan to always cover their offspring’s holiday expenses. Whether an acknowledgement of the socioeconomic challenges faced by younger generations, or simply an act of parental benevolence, this decision undoubtedly plays a part in filling the getaway guest list.

Research also showed that Gen Z (those aged 18-27) appreciate multigenerational holidays for the chance to visit better destinations than they would likely be able to afford if travelling on their own dime, while Millennials (those aged 28-43) admitted the presence of childcare was a bonus.

Footing the bill to far-away places

As well as being the primary instigators of these holidays, Gen X are also most likely to pay for multigenerational trips, with more than 1 in 4 reporting that they shell out for everyone including adult children and step-children (63%), as well as their own parents or in-laws (41%).

And we’re not just talking about travel and accommodation; 69% of Gen Xers who paid for the entire share of the holiday said they pay for meals out too, as well as groceries (46%), activities (44%) and holiday essentials (31%). With generosity like that, who needs an all-inclusive?

Perhaps in an attempt to quell any family quarrels or festering jealousy, 1 in 3 said they covered all expenses so that everyone could join in regardless of their financial situation. After all, given that the youngest in Gen Z are just turning 18 and many Millennials are now starting their own families, curating a holiday that suits everyone’s budget and preferences could very likely prove to be tricky.

What’s the catch?

Amongst those that have been on a multigenerational holiday or short break in the last three years, cost is the top consideration when choosing where to go and what to do. And it’s no wonder, with the UK adults surveyed reporting that their next one will set them back an average of £3,233.

That being said, it seems the premium price tag is more than worth it for those that attend, with 73% stating multigenerational holidays have a strong impact on their family bond, and one in five planning to take another one in the next three years.

However, it’s worth noting that not every generation is equally enthused... 30% of the Millennials surveyed confessed that they’d rather not go on multigenerational breaks. And given that this age group is the most likely to have small children in tow, it’s understandable that the complexities of tending to the needs of their little ones while attempting to dedicate time to adult relatives will not only negate any chance of relaxation, but likely rule out the prospect of a ‘holiday’ altogether.

Saving for a sunny day

Still, with nearly half of the UK adults surveyed declaring multigenerational holidays a tradition as well as something they plan to do on a regular basis, it’s clear this trend won’t be sailing off into the sunset any time soon.

So, what are your thoughts on multigenerational holidays? Join in the conversation on our social channels, and look out for opportunities to have your say on holiday savings, expenses and more.

And if you’re planning to join the thousands of Brits heading on a multigenerational holiday in the next few years, at Kent Reliance we understand that savings play a big part in being able to pay for such experiences. From online to branch-only, our savings accounts are designed so your money can gain interest and grow possibility. Put away an amount for a fixed period, or benefit from easy access to your funds, the choice is yours. Find out more here.

¹ The research was conducted by Opinium Research between 14th May 2024 and 17th May 2024. Data was collected via an online survey among a sample of 4,000 UK adults nationally representative of the UK population. 1,152 had been on a multigenerational family holiday in the last 3 years.