While going abroad when you have young kids can be a nightmare, travelling with them when they become adults is often a really great experience.
Not only are they older and able to more fully enjoy the sights you’ll see together, but they also can add their own input to the trip, and potentially put you on to some places you never would have known about before. If you needed more of a reason to consider going on a trip with your not-so-little anymore kids, here are some things to consider.
1. You finally get to be friends, not just parent and child.
Gone are the days of “Because I said so!” Now you can hang out like actual adults. Sharing a beer at a cool rooftop bar in Bangkok or swapping stories over tapas in Barcelona — t’s a whole new dynamic. You might even discover your kid’s got a wicked sense of humour you never knew about. It’s like meeting a new friend, except this one knows all your embarrassing stories already.
2. They can actually help with the planning (and maybe even some of the paying).
Remember when planning a family trip meant juggling everyone’s nap schedules and packing enough snacks to feed a small army? Now your kids can pull their weight. They might even introduce you to this newfangled thing called “Google Maps” or find some hip local spots that aren’t in your trusty guidebook. And hey, if they’ve got grown-up jobs, they might even chip in for dinner. Win-win!
3. You get to see the world through fresh eyes.
Your kids have their own interests and perspectives now, and that can make familiar places feel brand new. Maybe your history buff daughter will drag you to that museum you always skipped, or your foodie son will introduce you to cuisines you can’t pronounce. Suddenly, that same old beach holiday becomes an adventure in disguise.
4. It’s quality time without the distractions of daily life.
Source: Unsplash No more competing with work, laundry, or their social lives for attention. When you’re exploring a new city or lounging on a beach, you’ve got their undivided attention (well, mostly — we can’t promise they won’t be Instagramming). It’s a chance to really catch up and connect without the usual interruptions of “real life” getting in the way.
5. You can finally go to the places you’ve always wanted to visit.
No more compromising on destinations to accommodate young kids’ needs. Want to take that wine tour in Tuscany? Go for it. Fancy a challenging hike in Patagonia? Pack those boots. With adult kids, your travel options open up wider than an all-you-can-eat buffet. The world is your oyster, and now you’ve got travel buddies who can actually appreciate it with you.
6. They might actually teach you a thing or two.
Source: Unsplash Turns out, those expensive college tuitions might pay off in unexpected ways. Your kids have probably picked up some skills or knowledge that could come in handy on the road. Maybe they speak a language you don’t, or they’re savvy with travel apps you’ve never heard of. Embracing their expertise can make the trip smoother and give them a confidence boost. Just don’t let it go to their heads!
7. You’ll create new inside jokes and memories.
Source: Unsplash Shared experiences are the gift that keeps on giving. That time you both got lost in Tokyo and ended up in a cat café, or when you accidentally ordered the spiciest dish in Thailand and cried — these become the stories you’ll laugh about for years to come. It’s like building a secret language of memories that only your family understands.
8. It’s a chance to see your kids as the adults they’ve become.
Source: Unsplash Sometimes it’s hard to shake the image of your kids as, well, kids. Travelling together gives you a front-row seat to see them as the capable, interesting adults they’ve grown into. Watch them navigate a foreign city, make new friends at a hostel, or handle a travel hiccup with grace. It’s like seeing the final product of all those years of parenting — and it’s pretty darn cool.
9. You can indulge in grown-up activities together.
Source: Unsplash No more kiddie pools or cartoon character meet-and-greets. Now you can enjoy wine tastings, late-night jazz clubs, or thought-provoking art galleries together. Want to try that fancy restaurant with the 12-course tasting menu? Go for it. Fancy a spa day that doesn’t involve rubber duckies? The world is your oyster, and you can slurp it up together.
10. They’ll keep you young and adventurous.
Your kids might push you out of your comfort zone in the best way possible. Skydiving in New Zealand? Why not! Salsa dancing in Cuba? Let’s give it a whirl! Their energy and enthusiasm can be contagious, reminding you that age is just a number and adventure has no expiration date. Just maybe draw the line at matching tattoos — or don’t, we won’t judge.
11. You’ll gain a new appreciation for each other.
Travel has a funny way of bringing out the best (and sometimes the worst) in people. Seeing how your kids handle stress, navigate new situations, or connect with locals can give you a whole new respect for them. And hey, they might even realise that you’re not just a walking cash point and laundry service — you’re actually pretty cool in your own right.
12. It’s a way to pass on your travel wisdom (and learn some new tricks).
All those years of family holidays have made you a travel pro, right? Now’s your chance to pass on your hard-earned wisdom about packing light, finding the best local spots, or haggling like a boss. But be prepared — your kids might have some new-school travel hacks up their sleeves too. It’s like a cultural exchange program, but within your own family.
13. You’re investing in a lifetime of closeness.
At the end of the day, travelling together is about more than just seeing new places. It’s about strengthening your bond, creating shared experiences, and laying the groundwork for a close adult relationship that lasts a lifetime. Plus, if you play your cards right, maybe they’ll be inspired to take you on trips when you’re older. Think of it as an investment in your future holiday fund!
