Are you planning your first holiday as a single parent? Buckle up. (And remember to put your own life jacket on first!) Between managing childcare, budgeting, and ensuring everyone has a great time, there's a lot to consider. However, with a little planning and a can-do mindset, you can pull off an amazing and memorable single parent holiday. Here are some tips to help you get started.

Planning Advice for Vacations Alone with Kids

Decide on Your Destination

The first step is to decide where you want to go. Consider your child's interests and age, as well as your own preferences. Are you looking for a relaxing beach vacation, an adventure-filled road trip, or a cultural city break? Once you've narrowed down the destination, you can start researching accommodation, activities, and transportation. Check out our guide to single parent holidays and affordable vacation guide for ideas. 

There’s a full chapter on holidays as a single parent in How To Be A Happy Single Parent, you can order your copy here.

Ask For Help

Hop on to the Frolo Feed to ask for help and advice from your fellow single parents on where they've been and any top tips and tricks for your next holiday with the kids. It's such a warm and welcoming space and you'll instantly feel more relaxed about your upcoming adventure! 

Create a Detailed Budget

It’s all about the money! We don’t want to break the bank for the sake of a few days away, however much you need that vacation. Budgeting is crucial when planning a single parent holiday. Start by estimating your expenses, including flights, accommodation, food, activities, and any necessary childcare. Don't forget to factor in unexpected costs, such as medical bills or last-minute changes. Once you have a clear picture of your expenses, you can start looking for ways to save money, such as booking early, using loyalty programs, or finding discounts. You should also make sure you’re not tempted to break the budget in the booking stages, or you won’t have the funds to enjoy the trip once you’re on it. 

Arrange Childcare

Will you want to be solely responsible for your children every single minute of your holiday? If so, great, you’ve got your wish! If not, plan for some childcare during your break, whether it’s opting for a destination with a kid’s club, or inviting a grandparent or friend along to share the work. 

Pack Wisely

Packing for a single parent holiday can be a challenge, as you'll need to account for your own needs as well as your child's. Make a comprehensive packing list and try to pack as lightly as possible. Consider bringing versatile, easy-to-care-for clothing, and don't forget essential items like medications, chargers, and any comfort items your child may need. And never, ever be tempted to leave the pushchair at home if you have young children. It will double as a mobile bed, a trolley, a foot rest: it’s worth the slightly longer wait at arrivals while it comes off the plane. And don’t forget snacks for the journey, lots and lots of snacks.  

Prioritise Self-Care

It's easy to get caught up in the logistics of planning a holiday, but it's important to remember to take care of yourself too. Make sure to schedule in some "me time" during your trip, whether it's a relaxing spa treatment, a solo hike, or simply a quiet moment to read a book. This will help you recharge and be fully present for your child throughout the trip.

Involve Your Child

Involving your child in the planning process can make them feel more invested in the holiday and more likely to have a great time. Ask for their input on activities, restaurants, or even the destination itself. They’ll enjoy it more once they are there knowing they had some input into making it so wonderful. 

Be Flexible and Adaptable

No matter how well you plan, things can always go wrong on a holiday. Be prepared to be flexible and don't be afraid to change your plans if necessary. If your child is having a meltdown, for example, be willing to cut an activity short or find a quiet place to regroup, or ditch it all together. Disappointment comes from the gap between expectation and reality. Try to leave the expectations at home and be open to fun in every form. 

Find Friends

If you decide you don't want to holiday alone with the kids, how about finding a Frolo friend to go with? Create a Meetup on the app for your trip and invite other single parents to join you. Read this blog from frolos Hannah and Jane who did exactly that and had a ball on a joint camping trip in Lake Garda! 

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