No matter the destination or type of trip you choose, here are some suggestions from Travel & Leisure magazine for a successful vacation experience:

• Involve grandchildren in the planning process, giving them some choices of activities or destinations. Even younger children should be given some options, so they feel included from the beginning.
• Prepare grandchildren for the destination by providing books, maps, websites, videos, or other materials that acquaint them with the plans and generate interest.
• Discuss with parents the child’s likes, dislikes, health requirements, medications, bedtimes, use of electronics, and house rules that may need to continue on the trip. Grandparents might want to be a bit more flexible — it’s a vacation, after all — but should respect the parents’ guidelines.
• As far as packing, be specific with the grandchildren and parents about what to bring and limitations. Make sure it’s clear who will bring things like first-aid supplies, snacks, and vitamins.
• Bring along sufficient chargers for phones, iPads, and other electronics.
• Be sure your grandchildren have books, puzzles, games, electronics, or their preferred individual entertainment for lengthy travel hours as well as downtime.
• Discuss spending money — who will provide it and how much. For international travel with older kids, using another currency is a good math lesson and learning experience.
• Make some plans for activities, but don’t overdo it. Trying to do too much can be stressful and tiring. Some downtime each day is usually a good idea.
• When glitches, delays, or problems arise, resolve them calmly and with good humor. Your grandkids will learn a valuable lesson about travel and life.
• If the budget allows, take advantage of “front of the line” passes, especially with little ones who might become bored or restless with long waits.
• Especially for international travel, carry copies of the child’s birth certificate, photos, and parents’ consent letter indicating their permission to travel with the children. Have health insurance information, policy details, and parents’ permission for medical treatment in the event of an emergency.
• Younger children might want to have a favorite teddy bear or blanket for bedtime.
• After the trip, share photos, encourage your grandkids to create a scrapbook or photo album, or have a few snapshots framed as reminders of the trip. During the trip, be sure to send a few photos to parents each day.