Traveling with your grandchildren provides an opportunity to connect with them on another level, while also giving mom and dad some much needed time away. But as a grandparent, there are a few things that you should have to help make the trip go smoothly.
You can replace things such as toothbrushes and combs, but you can’t replace vital documents such as passports, or give consent to treatment without the proper documentation.
We’re sharing our tips for traveling with your grandchildren so that you can worry less and have A LOT of fun along the way!
Letter of Permission
This is something that most grandparents will never have to show or use, however it’s a great thing to have just in case. Templates for these types of letters can be found online or you can complete your own with the checklist below.
Things your Letter of Permission should do:
- Provides the name of Parent(s)
- Gives the parents consent for child to travel with Grandparents
- Includes kid(s) full names and dates of birth
- Lists name of grandparent(s)
- Indicates travel period, from departure to return (plus a few additional days in case plans change)
- Signed by the parent(s) with date signed
- Provides contact information for parents including full name(s), address, and major telephone numbers
- Name of notary and date notarized
Wondering where to find a notary? Check places like banks, law offices, CPAs, or USPS.
Travel Planning With Your Grandkids
Instead of planning the trip FOR your grandkids, consider planning it WITH them. Not only will they enjoy having a say, but you’ll be giving them a life lesson in planning a meaningful travel experience.
If you’ve selected a cruise or tour already, allow your grandkids to help pick the excursions.
And, if you’re thinking about traveling to Disney, our travel advisors can help you and your grandkid(s) plan the ultimate itinerary!
Gather Travel Documents for Your Grandkids
You’ll want to make sure to have your grandkids health insurance card and a “consent for treatment” form for each grandchild.
Traveling outside of the country for an amazing cultural experience? You’ll need their passports and a letter from the parent(s) giving you permission to take them across international borders. This document should include complete information for the parent(s) and a summary of your itinerary.
Depending on where you are going, you may also need a copy of each child’s immunization records. We are here to help in any way we can, including making sure you have all the documentation necessary for your travels!
Most importantly… HAVE FUN!!!
When things go wrong, and if we’re being REALLY honest they will, make sure to deal with the problem as easy-going as possible.
Sometimes the best vacation stories are when “disaster” strikes. Plus, this will allow your grandchildren to see how they should handle difficult situations as they arise in life.
Plan/take travel games that you can play along the way, try new foods, ride the rides. Whatever the vacation may be, make the most out of your time.
Let your hair down and remember, they’re only this age once and memories last a lifetime!
What is your ideal vacation with your grandkids?
We’d love to help you plan it!
Have you already decided on a destination to travel with your grandkids? Please fill out our adventure planning form here and one of our advisors will be in touch soon!