A Parent/Adult-Child Vacation

by HEIDE TYVAN

Traveling with adult children can be an exciting and rewarding experience for parents. It allows them to bond and create new memories outside of the home. However, it’s important to keep one thing in mind. Your adult children are no longer kids, and they deserve to be treated as such.

Smart and independent young adults will want to try new experiences on vacation. Some can be shared with parents. Others? Not so much. If adult children are old enough to legally participate in an activity, parents should consider stepping back to respect their child’s decision.

To make that easier, here are some tips for parents traveling with their adult children.

Privacy

Your children are now adults, and they deserve privacy just like anyone else. This means they should have their own room or at least some private space while on the trip. Give them the room they need to relax, unwind, and recharge.

Habits

Your children are changing. They have developed their own habits when it comes to sleep, food, drinks, and all aspects of their daily routine. It’s important to respect these habits, even if they are different from your own. For example, your child may prefer to sleep late or rise early. They may have different dietary restrictions or preferences. Celebrate the differences.

Driving

Your adult children are probably able to drive legally, and it can be a great way for them to experience independence and explore on their own. If they are of legal age, let them drive, too. Offer to be a passenger or navigator. This will allow them to take the lead and gain more confidence in their driving skills.

Flirting

Flirting is a normal part of being a young, single adult, and it’s important to respect this aspect of their lives. Young adults may be attracted to someone on the trip, and they should be allowed to pursue these interests without fear of judgment from their parents.

Correction

No one likes being corrected in public, especially not adult children with their parents. If you need to have a conversation with your child about their behavior, it’s important to do so in private, away from other people. This will help to minimize any embarrassment or discomfort, and it will allow your child to feel heard and understood.

Communication

Communication is key when traveling with adult children. Before the trip, discuss your expectations, budgets, and any other concerns you may have. During the trip, be open to each other’s ideas and suggestions, and make time for one-on-one conversations. This will help to build trust and strengthen your relationship.

Flexibility

Young adults are often more spontaneous and adventurous than their parents, and it’s important to be flexible and open to new experiences. This may mean trying new foods, activities, or destinations that you wouldn’t normally consider. By being open to new experiences, you can create lasting memories and bond with your child.

Allow for Independence

Young adults crave freedom, and this should be respected while traveling. Encourage your child to explore on their own, and let them make their own choices. This will help them to feel more confident and independent, and it will also give you some time to relax and recharge.

Vacations with your adult children can help guide them to be successful travelers on their own. Respecting their privacy, habits, and independence will help create lasting memories and strengthen your relationship. They might make mistakes, but with communication lines open, they’ll be free to ask your advice on how to fix things.

Remember, your adult children are no longer children. They deserve to be treated as adults.