The Rise of “Gramping” as a New Trend
In recent years, a growing trend has emerged where grandparents take on the role of caregivers during school holidays. This practice, known as “gramping,” involves spending time with grandchildren in a caravan or holiday home, often leading to a unique bond between generations. Experts suggest that this shift is largely influenced by the rising cost of living and the need for affordable childcare solutions.
“Gramping” is part of a broader movement called “skip generation” travel, where children go on vacation while their parents remain at home. This arrangement not only provides an opportunity for families to save money but also allows grandparents to engage in meaningful activities with their grandchildren.
Trevor Parry, a 68-year-old from Stockport, spends his summer holidays with his grandson Elliott, who is eight years old, at a caravan in Porthmadog, Gwynedd. Trevor describes the experience as rejuvenating, stating that it has given him a “new lease of life.” He emphasizes how being with Elliott has made him feel younger and more energetic than he would be if he were alone at home.
Dr Linda Osti, a senior lecturer in tourism management at Bangor University, highlights that a U.S. study found grandparents are increasingly interested in traveling with their grandchildren to create lasting memories. While this trend has existed for generations, she notes a significant increase in recent years, with some studies indicating a “three-digit increase in this type of travel” over the past 10 to 15 years.
Elliott’s mother, Natalie Bass, 39, works full-time and looks after her youngest child, Charlotte, five, at home. During the school holidays, Elliott’s parents and sister spend weekends at the caravan before returning to Stockport. Natalie acknowledges the importance of her father’s help in managing childcare costs, saying it helps reduce the financial burden during the summer months.
She also expresses joy in seeing the bond between Elliott and his grandfather grow stronger. “There’s just nothing better,” she says. “Imagine when he’s older saying: ‘I spent every summer with my grandad.’ I didn’t really get that when I was growing up, so I think that’s going to be really nice.”
Avril Hackett, 76, from Warrington, Cheshire, views her plot at Treetops Caravan Park near Holywell, Flintshire, as her “safe place.” During the summer, she shares it with her granddaughter Emily, eight, and says she loves being there more than she does at home. Avril enjoys babysitting during her holidays to help with childcare costs and finds that the experience brings unexpected benefits.
“It makes you do things that you wouldn’t do when you’re on your own,” she explains. “I wouldn’t go down to the beach on my own, but I’d go down with her.”
The British Holiday & Home Parks Association reports that many of its members have noted an increase in “gramping” this year. They emphasize that holiday parks are generally seen as safe environments with minimal vehicle traffic and extensive grounds for exploration.
Andy Walker, joint managing director of Treetops, believes this trend will continue to grow. “I can see that happening more and more,” he says. “Certainly times are tough for people, and grandparents want to help families out as much as they possibly can.”
As this trend continues to gain momentum, it raises questions about whether short-stay breaks at home will become a long-term solution for families seeking affordable childcare and quality time with their loved ones.
