Four in 10 children have visited five countries before the age of eight – something most parents didn’t achieve until later in their life. The poll of 2,000 mums and dads of under-18s who have been abroad with their youngster, found eight in 10 had taken their child abroad by the age of six, with 82% of these trips happening before primary school.
Of those who have taken their kids abroad before starting school, 40% wanted their child to experience new places from a young age, while 34% wanted to start travelling as early as possible. Meanwhile, 33% chose to go abroad before school age to avoid peak holiday prices.
View 4 ImagesParents are taking their young children abroad more often(Image: Club Med)
The research commissioned by the holiday provider, Club Med, which offers premium all-inclusive sun and ski holidays to destinations worldwide showed Spain as the most popular destination for family holidays overseas (57%). This was followed by France (50%), the United States (32%) and Italy (29%).
Nicolas Bresch, managing director, UK, Ireland & Nordics at Club Med, which runs Kid’s Clubs ranging from four months to 17 years said: “It’s clear that children today are growing up as global travellers, often experiencing international holidays at a much younger age than previous generations.
“We are seeing growing demand for destinations that combine ease, flexibility and enriching experiences for every member of the family, from in-resort Kid’s Clubs and activities to local excursions.
“Families are increasingly looking for opportunities to discover new cultures together, whether that’s on a sun holiday or a ski escape.”
The research indicated a shift in how families now organise holidays, with 56% of parents saying they preferred all-inclusive accommodation when travelling abroad with children.
But going somewhere known for being child-friendly was a main consideration (41%), followed by kid-friendly meal options (40%) and offering a wide variety of activities in resort (31%).
View 4 ImagesMany are eager to go travelling as soon as possible(Image: Club Med)
Nearly two-thirds (64%) said their child had some or a lot of influence when it came to booking a holiday abroad.
In addition, of those who said their youngsters had a say in the getaway, 51% admitted they had an impact on the destination (51%), while 43% said kids played a role in deciding the type of holiday booked, according to OnePoll.com figures.
Others claimed children influenced decisions about available activities (39%), food options (38%), and travel dates (37%).
Parents also appeared comfortable adapting their travel habits, with 40% said they now travelled abroad more as a family since having children.
View 4 ImagesFamily-friendly activities are a key factor when it comes to choosing a destination(Image: Club Med)
Attitudes towards early travel were overwhelmingly positive, with more than nine in 10 (92%) parents saying travelling internationally from a young age benefited children. The most commonly cited benefits included exposure to different cultures (74%), curiosity about the world (71%) and increased confidence (59%).
More than half also said early travel could strengthen family bonds (56%) and has the potential to help children become more open to trying new foods (54%).
Nicolas Bresch, spokesperson for the brand, added: “Family travel has evolved significantly, with children now playing a greater role in shaping where families go and what they experience once they arrive.
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“Holidays today are about much more than simply getting away; they are opportunities to inspire curiosity, build confidence and create meaningful shared memories.
“Whether families are discovering new ski slopes together or enjoying sunshine destinations, parents increasingly value holidays that combine adventure, relaxation and dedicated experiences for children through Kid’s Clubs and tailored family activities.”