Packing up the car to the point of bursting, buying copious amounts of snack foods, and hitting the road with the music blaring to your favorite sing-along tune is a childhood memory that many of us can relate to. Many of the unforgettable anecdotes from our childhood revolve around traveling with family, but it isn’t always as easy as tossing a few suitcases in the car.
Getting excited about an upcoming Caribbean cruise, spending a week at grandma’s house, or even heading over state lines to the beach can be challenging for single parents, common-law parents, or those going through a divorce. Add step-parents, legal guardians, and widowers into the mix, and it can seem nearly inconceivable to take your dream vacation.
We are here to show you that it still can be possible to make those travel plans. However, it is best to ensure that all of the necessary and recommended steps are adhered to. Like anything, the first time is always the most challenging to navigate, and after that, it should be smoother sailing. Check out our guide for traveling with kids as a modern family.
Single Parents
Whatever the reason for traveling solo with your kids, you will have similar considerations. Here are a few of our ideas on how to ensure a fantastic trip as a single parent.
Top Travel Tip – Travel Light
Contrary to popular opinion, you don’t need very much when traveling with kids. The more you have, the more that will inevitably get lost, so pack smart instead. Remember that you’ll likely be the only one hauling the luggage.
If you are traveling with very small children, strollers or baby carriers are certainly lifesavers. However, regardless of the age of your kids, try to ensure you always have at least one free hand. Backpacks are a fantastic option for all, as even the little ones can carry their own snack, water bottle, and a special toy.
Documentation
We highly recommend traveling with documentation that states your relationship to your child and your status as their sole guardian as a single parent. Depending on your situation, we recommend having digital versions, as well as the original documents or certified copies of the following:
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