Reconceptualizing the “Sandwich Generation”: Perceived Caring Identities and Family Vacations

This paper will present an instrumental case study of the perceived care experience before and after cross-continental travel from perspectives of the adult child and parent within a tri-generation relationship. In the context of this sandwich generation, it is important to understand: (1) how each party understands their caring roles and (2) how this may provide insight into strategies for supporting a positive and meaningful family travel experience. Findings indicate that although caring roles seem to remain a consistent part of individuals’ identity, perceptions of caring roles and how they affect leisure and travel behaviour may exist in a state of flux while travelling. The role of external family support seemed to be key in mediating the shifting of how caring roles are perceived while on vacation. We also reflect on how the cultural context of the setting may contribute to these understandings