15 May 2017, 01:00

Multi-generational holidays bring families together


  • Almost half of over 50s have been on a multi-generational holiday

  • Self-catering villas are the most popular choice

  • Three quarters just wanted the chance to spend time together

  • Saga travel insurance covers multi-generational holidays for up to 10 family members

Research by Saga Travel Insurance* has revealed that almost half (47%) of over 50s have been on holiday with their children, grandchildren or parents in the last 5 years.

The survey of more than 10,000 over 50s, shows that a quarter have enjoyed a multi-generational holiday within the last year and almost two fifths (39%) have done so at some point in their lifetime. Only one in eight (12%) have never holidayed with close family.

Over 50s from the East Midlands have attempted to bridge the generation gap the most with 53% travelling as a family group in the last 5 years, closely followed by families in Yorkshire (52%), the North West (52%) and Scotland (51%). Families from Wales are least likely to have been away together (44%).

The most popular reason for getting away with the family was simply to have an opportunity to spend time together (75%). Other reasons include travelling together to celebrate important family occasions (23%) such as weddings, grandparents offering to share child care responsibilities whilst away (12%) and because of a desire to travel to the same destination (21%) or save on costs (7%).

More than half (56%) of those surveyed said that their multi-generational holiday had been self-catering with a third (35%) booking a villa to live as a family unit and give their break a real home-away-from-home feel.

Whilst a small number of holidaymakers admitted to some minor differences in opinion whilst away, including deciding what activities to do (9%) or where to eat (7%), it seems families that holiday together stay together with four in five multi-generational getaways going ahead without a single disagreement.

Kevin McMullan, Head of Saga Travel Insurance, commented:

“It is great to see different generations of the same family getting away and building lasting memories together.

“Whether people have decided on self-catering, an all-inclusive package or even a B&B, it’s wise to have insurance in place that covers all of the travelling party to give everyone peace of mind so they can concentrate on having a great time.”

Saga Travel Insurance customers can add up to 10 family members of any age to their policy. Unlike other insurance providers, all travellers on the policy are covered for many pre-existing medical conditions and claim limits are applicable per person whilst excesses are only applied per claim.


ENDS

Notes to editors:

* Populus interviewed 10,381 Saga respondents, all aged 50+ online between 20 and 27 February 2017. Data was weighted to be nationally. Populus is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules; for more information www.populus.co.uk

Table 1:

Region/Country

Those who have had a multi-gen holiday in the past 5 years

London

48%

South East

48%

South West

45%

West Midlands

49%

East Midlands

53%

North West

52%

North East

49%

Yorkshire & Humberside

52%

East Anglia

46%

Scotland

51%

Wales

44%

About Saga Travel Insurance

Saga Travel Insurance is Defaqto 5 Star rated. It offers wide-ranging cover including:

  • Cover for most pre-existing medical conditions
  • Up to £10 million emergency medical cover, which can pay for your return home, if necessary
  • Up to £10,000 cover (per person, per trip) should you or your travelling companion have to cancel or abandon your trip
  • Up to £5,000 for lost, stolen or damaged baggage so you’re not left out of pocket
  • 24-hour English-speaking travel assistance helpline for advice before and while you are away.
  • Saga has no upper age limit
  • For more information about Saga Travel Insurance, please visit http://www.saga.co.uk/travelinsurance

Contact

pressoffice@saga.co.uk

Press Office