Travel tips for single parents

Travel can be a magical bonding experience for parent and child. That may be more true if you are a single parent, sharing travel experiences between just the two of you.

Though travelling as a single parent can be rewarding, it can also be harder if you have a young child, because there isn’t an extra set of hands to help.

Here’s some top tips on how to travel smart and enjoy adventures with your little, as a single parent. We sourced tips from savvy single parents on what to pack, keeping you kiddo entertained, choosing your destination, staying safe and more. Happy travels!

Choosing the right destination

The perfect trip for a single parent family will offer plenty of activities for parent and child. The destination should be safe, of course. And you may value a destination that’s easily accessible, with convenient amenities.

If it is one of your first trips as a single parent, it may be a good idea to travel domestically. Canada offers unlimited options for safe and fun trips with children.

If you want an urban adventure, head to Vancouver and visit Science World, for interactive STEM experiences, fun for both parent and child. And explore the playgrounds and beaches at Stanley Park.

Lovers of the outdoors should choose from one of Canada’s many provincial and national parks. Strathcona Provincial Park in British Columbia is known for easy, kid-friendly trails.

If you’re travelling internationally, Mexico is a great pick, writes Kimberly Miles, a single-mom traveller who heads She Buys Travel. The country is home to many all-inclusive resorts with kids clubs that can give you a break when you need it. Miles writes that some resorts, such as Palace Resorts, let kids stay for free.

“ Some [resorts] even have the occasional single parent promotions that waive the single supplement fee- [rooms] — so it’s always best to check when booking your hotel,” Kimberly writes.

Handling airports smoothly

Be mindful when booking travel times. “ Try to time your travel when you think your baby will be at their best,” writes a single parent traveller on Travel Mad Mum. “I paid a bit extra for a more suitable travel time which I wouldn’t have done before having my daughter.”

Check in online, so you wait in one less queue at the airport. And get a security precheck. Have all of your travel paperwork in one place that is easily accessible.

Packing efficiently

Don’t forget to make a check list well ahead of the day you pack, that way you don’t forget any essentials. Be sure to pack light and if your trip is short, consider carry-ons instead of checking bags. Utilize packing cubes or dividers to keep things organized and easily accessible.

Keeping your child entertained

Of course, movies and games can be downloaded on tablets and phones to keep kids occupied. And there’s plenty of non-screen options. Get your kid excited about your trip with a destination-themed sticker and activity book.

For older elementary school aged kids, get their imaginations going by packing books with stories related to your destination. Check out this list from Conde Nast Traveller for interactive low sensory toys for kids of all ages.

Managing trip finances

Unfortunately, as a parent, there is less flexibility with school aged children to take advantage of the cost savings of off-season travel. Children are often in school at this time. However, if there is such a window in your child’s school calendar, or your child is preschool age, take advantage of cheaper shoulder seasons.

Also, all-inclusive resorts are often an affordable way to package accommodation and food costs into one fee. And major cities have many free and low-cost cultural and educational activities for kids.

Safety and health considerations

Be sure to let loved ones know of your travel plans. It may also be a good idea to schedule check ins. If you’re travelling internationally, be aware of local emergency numbers. Also, pack a small first aid kit for minor incidents. Consider a more extensive first aid kit for trips when you will be doing a lot of outdoor activities in more remote places.

Travel insurance for the unexpected

You should know that your provincial or territorial health insurance plan may not fully protect you or your child if you venture outside of your home province or territory. A travel insurance plan with emergency medical benefits from Allianz Global Assistance may help fill coverage gaps if you or your child experiences a medical emergency.

And let’s say your kid is diagnosed with the flu and you have to cancel your trip. Trip cancellation and interruption benefits by Allianz Global Assistance may reimburse certain non-refundable expenses if your trip is cancelled, interrupted or delayed for a covered reason. Our baggage benefits may also reimburse certain non-refundable expenses if your baggage is lost, damaged or stolen.

Building memories

Travel is a wonderful way to create core memories with your child. Take plenty of pictures. You may want to start a travel scrap book or journal. Maybe encourage your child to start one, too!

Just remember to relax, breathe and enjoy the journey. This is a trip you and your child may cherish for a lifetime. To make the experience as smooth as it is fun, consider our tips on travel, planning, packing and more.