The latest travel craze among many families has nothing to do with characters, water slides or theme park rides. Instead, it has a lot to do with massages, sipping a latte or cocktail in peace and being alone with your thoughts.
We’re not talking about a solo vacation for couples – although that’s something many parents try to make happen once in a great while, too.
This trend is for just one of the adults in the family at a time – and it’s more popular than you might think. A new survey from travel advisor agency Travel Leaders Group found that among the Americans planning at least two leisure trips throughout the year, 36 percent are planning a solo vacation, Real Simple reports.
Why solo parent travel is growing
What explains the increase?
Travel Leaders Group CEO Ninan Chacko explains in a press release about the survey that the desire among North Americans to travel is “stronger than ever” and they won’t ignore their wanderlust, even if it means traveling alone.
“We’re seeing a rise in solo travel … (and) many people are not willing to forgo vacations because they have no one to travel with – or, in many cases, they simply prefer to travel on their own,” he says in the release.
Making the magic happen
But any parent knows it’s not so simple to jet away to a far-off destination and leave your babies behind. But we’re here to help. There are plenty of tips out there that can help parents plan a vacation without the kids – whether it’s with both parents or only one. Here are three useful tips to consider.
1. Make it a long-term goal
It’s hard enough to afford a family vacation, right? So you might think you’ll never find room in the budget for a solo vacation just for mom or dad alone. But think of it this way: It doesn’t have to happen this year or even next year. Choose a destination and make it a long-term goal, setting aside small amounts of money over the next two, three or even five years. Having something to look forward to is nice, anyway. Plus, consider these budget solo destinations.
2. Make a plan to stay in touch
FaceTime and texting sound good in theory, but you have to make time for it. Between time changes, school and extracurricular schedules for the kids and any activities the parent has planned for his or her solo getaway, it can be tough to connect while you’re away. Make a schedule for exactly when and how you’ll stay in touch. A phone call before bed? A good morning call at breakfast? You’ll know what’s best for your family – just plan ahead!
3. Don’t skimp on the souvenirs
Hearing “what’d you bring me?” from your kids at the end of your solo trip is expected, but it might help your peace of mind (and get your kids through the time without mom or dad) to send a little something – a toy they’ve been wanting, or a special treat like some Kinder Joy Eggs – to arrive in the mail while you’re gone. With Amazon Prime letting you choose your delivery date, this could be easier than you think.
Does a solo parent travel – that means just you, no one else! – sound appealing? Have you done it – and if so, how? Tell us in the comments.
