Travelling with kids as a Single Dad can be a rewarding and fun experience, but it can also be challenging and stressful, especially for single dads. You have to juggle many things at once, from planning the trip, packing the luggage, keeping the kids entertained and safe, and dealing with any unexpected issues along the way. But don’t let that stop you from exploring the world with your kids and creating lasting memories. Here are some tips to make your travels easier and more enjoyable for everyone.
1. Plan in advance and involve the kids as much as possible
One of the best ways to reduce stress and avoid problems is to plan your trip well in advance. Research your destination, book your flights and accommodation, arrange your transportation, and check the weather and local events. You can also involve your kids in the planning process by asking them what they want to see and do, and letting them help you pack their own bags. This will make them feel more excited and invested in the trip, and also teach them some responsibility.
2. Be realistic about your destination
While it’s tempting to choose a destination that you’ve always dreamed of visiting, you have to consider if it’s suitable for your kids’ age and interests. For example, a long-haul flight to a remote island may not be the best idea for toddlers who need frequent naps and snacks. A busy city with lots of museums and monuments may not be appealing to teenagers who prefer outdoor activities and adventure. Try to find a balance between your own preferences and your kids’ needs, and look for destinations that offer something for everyone.
3. Anticipate the journey
The journey itself can be one of the most stressful parts of travelling with kids, especially if you have to deal with long flights, layovers, delays, or cancellations. To make it more bearable, you should prepare some essentials for yourself and your kids, such as:
- Snacks and drinks: Pack some healthy and easy-to-eat snacks and drinks for yourself and your kids, such as fruits, nuts, granola bars, water bottles, or juice boxes. Avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks that can make your kids hyperactive or restless.
- Entertainment: Bring some books, toys, games, puzzles, iPads, or whatever else can keep your kids busy and happy during the journey. You can also download some movies, shows, music, or podcasts that you can watch or listen to offline.
- Comfort items: Don’t forget to pack some comfort items for yourself and your kids, such as pillows, blankets, headphones, eye masks, ear plugs, or stuffed animals. These can help you relax and sleep better during the journey.
- Documents: Make sure you have all the necessary documents for yourself and your kids, such as passports, visas, tickets, boarding passes, insurance cards, vaccination records, or emergency contacts. Keep them in a safe and accessible place.
4. Link up with another family or families
Travelling with another family or families can be a great way to make your trip more fun and less lonely for yourself and your kids. You can share the costs of accommodation, transportation, food, and activities. You can also take turns watching each other’s kids while you enjoy some adult time or solo activities. Look for other single parents who are traveling with their kids through online forums or groups, or ask your friends or relatives if they want to join you.
5. Look for packages and deals
Travelling with kids can be expensive, but there are ways to save money and still have a great time. One of them is to look for packages and deals that offer discounts or perks for families or single parents travelling with kids. For example:
- Cruises: Cruises are one of the most popular options for single parents travelling with kids because they offer an all-inclusive experience that covers accommodation.
- Resorts: Resorts are another option that offer a variety of amenities and services for single parents travelling with kids. You can enjoy pools, spas, restaurants, kids’ clubs, entertainment, and activities without having to worry about transportation or logistics. Some resorts also offer special packages or discounts for single parents, such as the Single Parents Package at Jet2Holidays who offer a special discount of £60 when you use code J2HSPF60
- Tours: Tours are a great way to explore a new destination with a group of like-minded travellers and a professional guide. You can choose from a variety of tours that suit your interests and budget, and let the tour operator handle the details. Some tour companies specialize in single-parent travel, such as Signature Vacations and Sell-Off Vacations. They will know the best tours, properties, and cruises that accommodate single parents travelling with their kids.
6. Adjust on the go
No matter how well you plan your trip, there will always be some unexpected situations or challenges that you have to deal with. The key is to be flexible and adaptable, and not let them ruin your mood or your trip. Here are some tips to help you adjust on the go:
- Have a backup plan: Always have a backup plan in case something goes wrong, such as a flight delay, a hotel cancellation, lost luggage, or a sick child. For example, you can have an alternative flight option, a list of nearby hotels, a copy of your travel documents, or a first-aid kit handy.
- Communicate with your kids: Traveling can be stressful and tiring for both you and your kids. It’s important to communicate with them regularly and check how they are feeling. You can also ask for their feedback and suggestions on what they want to do or see. This will help you avoid conflicts and make them feel more involved and valued.
- Be positive and have fun: The most important thing is to have a positive attitude and have fun with your kids. Don’t let minor setbacks or inconveniences spoil your trip. Focus on the good things and the memorable moments. Laugh at the funny situations and learn from the mistakes. Remember that you are travelling with your kids to bond with them and create new memories that they will carry with them forever.
Those were our tips for travelling with kids as a Single Dad! You might also enjoy reading ‘What to Write in Your Single Dad Tinder Bio’
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Sources used in ‘6 Essential Tips for Travelling with Kids as a Single Dad’ :
- Poirot, L. (2019, January 23). Flying Solo: Best Single-Parent Vacations to Take With the Kids. Retrieved from https://thepointsguy.com/guide/single-parent-vacations-with-kids/
- The Best Travel Package Deals for Single Parents. (2014, April 12). Retrieved from https://petergreenberg.com/2014/04/12/package-deals-single-parents/
- Erickson, D. (2016, January 29). 10 Tips For Traveling With Kids: A Single Dad’s Guide. Retrieved from https://goodmenproject.com/featured-content/10-tips-for-traveling-with-kids-a-single-dads-guide-kcon/
- 6 Tips for Single Parent Vacations. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.familyvacationcritic.com/6-tips-for-single-parent-vacations/art/