When you are a single parent, even the simplest task can become complex. The thought of planning a vacation for your family may have you quaking in your boots. It doesn’t have to be overwhelming, though. Holidays and vacations can be a fun and rewarding experience if you plan ahead and do some research. There are many all-inclusive family holidays that you can choose from, that will give you and your kids an amazing and memorable vacation.
Single Parent Tip #1 – Budget
The first thing you need to know is what your budget is. This will determine how long you can get away for, and what time of year to go. Some packages will be cheaper in the off-season; March Break is usually one of the more expensive times to go. Holidays as a single mom or single dad don’t have to be expensive; there are some great deals out there to be found you just have to look a little closer and do your homework!
Single Parent Tip #2 – Research
Once you know your budget, do some online research for all-inclusive family holidays. You should have an idea of where you’d like to go. Keep in mind that if you take them out of the country, you may have to get your ex’s permission. Depending on your kids’ ages, include them in the decision process. They will no doubt have an opinion of where they’d like to go. Perhaps you could narrow it down to three choices and have them pick the destination. Make a game out of it, and have them draw a name out of a hat. Make a list of things that you need to pack, and have them help you. There are dozens of ways to involve your kids in the process.
Single Parent Vacation Planning Resources
The sites listed below will assist you in researching, planning and budgeting for your trip.
Single Parent Tip #3 – Logistics
Single parent holidays can be made less stressful by planning your travel arrangements around your children’s schedule. If you are driving, you can do the bulk of it at night, while they are sleeping. Make frequent stops and keep snacks and drinks in the car. Don’t forget coloring books or other activities to keep them entertained. If you are flying, it can be a little more difficult to travel around the kids’ schedule (the pilot wouldn’t appreciate being told to fly only at night) so make sure you bring lots of activities and snacks. Chances are your kids will be so excited about flying they will be too excited to sleep anyway. To make travelling easier if your children are very young, you may want to enlist the help of a family member, friend or nanny to accompany you on your trip. (Keep in mind that you’ll have to pay their way.)
Single Parent Tip #4 – Go All-Inclusive
Cruise Ships at Port in Grand Cayman
There are just as many all-inclusive family holidays resorts as there are couples holidays resorts. Once you have arrived, you and your children will be treated like royalty. You won’t have to worry about extra expenses such as tips, drinks, food or activities, because it’s all paid for beforehand. The only thing you will need to purchase is souvenirs. Single parent holidays can be every bit as fun and exciting as couples holidays.
Going on holidays and vacations as a single are becoming more popular, as more people are getting divorced and going their separate ways. Children don’t have to suffer and neither do your vacations! Set your budget, research your options, plan your trip and enjoy your time with your children whether it be on a road trip or all-inclusive stay on an island resort!
There Are Currently 2 Comments on this Post
All-inclusives in the Dominican seem to be very popular. I've always thought cruises were a great deal for the money as well. Not as much flexibility but you get to see a few international ports for about what a hotel room costs per night.
The all inclusive vacay sounds awesome! Even being married with only 1 child I feel like we haven't had a chance to go on vacation. Thanks for the links!