With summer in full swing, many parents are navigating how to create magical vacations that the whole family can enjoy—and that a single parent can realistically manage. If you’re new to parenting solo, even simple logistics can feel overwhelming. Ever tried squeezing three kids into one bathroom stall because you can’t leave them alone? One wants to swim, another is napping—and suddenly, vacation feels anything but relaxing. And let’s be honest: the idea of doing it all without another adult can make the whole trip feel daunting.

But here’s the good news: you can do this. It might look different, and that’s okay. Below are a few tips to help you find the kind of vacation that works for you and your family.

Start Small.
Before booking an international flight or tackling a week-long solo adventure, test the waters. Try a weekend getaway or a simple day trip. If you’ve never traveled alone with your kids, see how you all manage a short experience. Think: a trip to the zoo a few hours away, a beach weekend, or visiting family where you have a support system. Start building your confidence—and theirs—in a low-stress setting.

Be Selfish.
Before you dive into planning the most magical experience for your kids, take a moment to check in with you. What do you need right now? If there’s a destination you loved before your divorce, ask yourself if returning feels empowering—or emotionally complicated. Don’t feel pressured to revisit old memories or say yes to plans that don’t feel right. Prioritizing your well-being makes the trip better for everyone.

Consider a Tribe.
Even your married friends want to take trips—so why not team up? Your kids will have built-in playmates, and you’ll have fellow adults to share the load (and the laughs). When you plan with someone who shares your travel style, things tend to go more smoothly—and more affordably. Group rates, shared accommodations, and collaborative meal planning can make the trip easier and lighter on your budget.

Be Prepared.
Any vacation can go sideways—single parent or not. Taking a few extra steps can go a long way toward saving your sanity. Pack extra snacks, backup clothes, and bonus entertainment for travel days. Print copies of itineraries, double-check reservations, and have important contact info easily accessible. Having a plan B—and even plan C—can turn a meltdown into a manageable moment.

Remember the Point.
Your experience may not be perfect—and that’s okay. It will always be different from what your children take away. Stay present. Do your best. What they’ll remember isn’t the hiccups—they won’t care that you forgot the favorite blanket or that you took a wrong turn. They’ll remember the joy, the adventure, the giggles, the love. They’ll remember that you showed up, that you made the effort, and that you’re their parent—the one creating their favorite memories.

Utilize Resources

As a travel advisor, I specialize in planning all types of family trips—whether it’s a mom traveling with two kids or a multi-generational family reunion. Sometimes, you just need an expert to help make it all come together. Working with someone who knows the destination can make all the difference in creating a memorable, stress-free vacation. From answering questions and offering support while you’re traveling to managing the logistics behind the scenes, I’m here to help you relax and enjoy the getaway you deserve.