Single parent, will travel: 9 obstacles to overcome

One of the most adventurous things a single parent can embark on, is going on an international vacation alone with their kid(s).

When I think back on all my week-long vacations at resorts (the ones I can remember at least), I noticed lots of singles, couples and families. I don’t recall ever meeting a single parent traveling alone with their kids. Maybe now that I’m nearly-divorced, my ‘single parent radar’ will be turned on. Either I never noticed this type of traveler, or there just aren't that many of them. Is it because single parents have a harder time saving up money, or the thought of being a lone parent in a foreign country is terrifying? This post compiles the top nine obstacles. Let me know if I’m missing any. Future posts will provide ideas for overcoming them:

1.    Lack of funds

2.    Don’t know how to plan a trip

3.    Not sure if the other parent will agree to letting you take the children out of the country

4.    Entertaining a child for one week straight sounds daunting (or downright scary)

5.    Can’t get time off work

6.    Don’t want to take the child out of school

7.    Worried about sickness while away

8.    Fear of crime / civil unrest

9.    Can’t speak the native language or understand the currency

Have any of the above negative thoughts been killing your dreams of flying somewhere far away? There could be underlying fears: some are reasonable yet solvable; and others that are not based on reality but nonetheless a fun-killer. The first step is identifying your obstacles and figuring out if fear is holding you back. Second, brainstorm solutions to each obstacle (check back here for future posts). Third, commit to following through on the solutions you decide on. This is a very simplistic breakdown. If you need greater assistance, I recommend reading up on how to implement life changes, which includes setting and achieving goals.

I want to end this post on a huge positive note – so here’s why you shouldn’t wait one more minute to book a trip:

• It’s an amazing opportunity for your kids to learn about another culture;

• You can teach your kids about saving money for trips and other big ticket items;

• Go while you're all relatively healthy;

• It shows the kids that travel can continue even though the family dynamics have changed;

• You’ll create memories that will last a lifetime;

• Experiencing fun and adventure together will help you bond more; and

• You are a super, hardworking parent, and you deserve a vacation!