solo parent travel tours

Flying Solo: Best Single-Parent Vacations to Take With the Kids

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

As a single mom, traveling with my children while they were young was always a bit of a struggle. Carrying the gear for everyone, finding seats on flights together, keeping hands on both kids as they made their way through crowded attractions or airports, and don't get me started on the onboard lav situation.

But honestly, nothing was as bad as wanting to enjoy an all-inclusive type of vacation and being penalized for traveling solo. In fact, being single may cost you more than $2,671 additional per year. Think about it -- things like hotel rooms, car service, resort stays and some tours don't generally cost less just because there's only one adult involved.

Many all-inclusive resorts and cruises often have rates based on double occupancy, even when offering "kids stay free" packages. If you travel as a single parent, you are often forced to pay the additional fee for the nonexistent second adult in order to enjoy the ease and comfort of all-in-one-vacations.

But thankfully, the travel industry is starting to recognize that single parents want to travel, too, and more and more companies are waiving fees and making it easier for solo parents to travel with their children. Here are some of my favorite single-parent vacation options.

All-Inclusive Resorts

Hyatt ziva resorts.

For solo parents who are into the miles-and-points game, you're no doubt already familiar with Hyatt's Ziva brand of all-inclusive resorts. You can book Hyatt Ziva properties throughout Mexico ( Cancun , Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta ) as well as the Hyatt Ziva Rose Hall in Montego Bay, Jamaica . And, beginning Nov. 1, 2019, at the Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

While redeeming points at an all-inclusive property will zap your points balance, you'll have everything you need to have a fantastic vacation with your kids at your fingertips. Award nights at the Los Cabos and Puerto Vallarta properties can be booked from 20,000 World of Hyatt points per night for a standard room for two people. Additional guests over 3 years old cost an extra 10,000 point per night (with a maximum of four people in a room).

Suites at those resorts start at 32,000 points per night and are also 10,000 points for each additional person per night. Rose Hall and Cancun are slightly pricier with standard rooms for two set at 25,000 points per night and 12,500 points per night for additional guests. Award rates have not yet been announced for the forthcoming Hyatt Ziva Cap Cana. You can earn World of Hyatt points with the World of Hyatt Credit Card to use at these resorts or transfer them to Hyatt at a 1:1 ratio from Chase Ultimate Rewards and cards such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve and Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.

IHG All-Inclusive Resorts

IHG Rewards Club members can cash in on an all-inclusive stay in one of Holiday Inn's all-inclusive resort options where kids stay free. The Holiday Inn Resort Montego Bay is 50,000 points per night and the Holiday Inn Los Cabos is 40,000 points per night -- both include food, drinks and activities. Learn how to maximize IHG Rewards Club points for family travel .

Single Parent Package in Saint Martin

Sonesta Maho Beach Resort & Casino in Saint Martin may have received a devastating blow from Hurricane Irma in 2017, but it's wrapping up its yearlong, full renovation in February 2019, creating a near-brand-new resort catering to families. There you'll find five restaurants, a fun children's club, large pool with waterfalls overlooking the ocean and activities for kids and families. The resort features a Single Parent Package, waiving the single supplement fee and offering free stays for kids 12 and younger with discounts for older kids.

If you want to arrive well-rested and in style, here's how to fly to the Caribbean in a lie-flat seat .

Wyndham Rewards All-Inclusive Resorts

While all-inclusive resort operator Smile Resorts is Canadian-operated, you don't need to live in Canada to take advantage of its single-parent vacation offers. The collection features flight and accommodation packages, yes, mainly from Canadian airports (save for Buffalo, New York), with single-parent supplement fees waived.

Properties include Casa Marina Beach Resort and Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach , both in the Dominican Republic, and Park Royal Ixtapa in Mexico. Each features kids clubs, pools, beaches and all you want from an all-inclusive resort. Kids ages 2 to 12 can eat and stay free, and teens are discounted, as well. You don't have to book through Smile Resorts to stay at the Viva Wyndham Dominicus Beach. If you have Wyndham Rewards points , you can spend 15,000 per night for a room. Just be aware that you'll likely get a room with a king bed, so this option might not work if you're traveling with multiple kids or older children that can't share a bed with you.

Grand Palladium All-Inclusive Resorts

Grand Palladium Hotels and Resorts are all-inclusive properties scattered across the Caribbean in Mexico, Jamaica and Dominican Republic (not to be confused with Palladium Hotels, which are adult-only resorts). The five-star resorts focus on the Raggs dog squad characters, with character breakfasts, kids club and extra-special family programming, like dance parties. It also offers single-parent rates, allowing up to three kids to stay in the same room at 50% off room rates at properties like Grand Palladium White Sand Resort & Spa in Riviera Maya .

Palace Resorts

Palace Resorts cater to single parents -- just think: 24-hour room service available (included) so someone can treat you to breakfast in bed daily. The Kids & Teens Stay Free package, which runs through Dec. 23, 2019, cuts out the single supplement and gives you a room with your kids 17 and younger, who travel for free. All the amenities of an all-inclusive, such as a playroom, teen hangouts, dining and activities, can be found at 10 oceanfront resorts in Jamaica and Mexico, including the Moon Palace Resort in Riviera Maya.

Beaches Resorts

Beaches Resort, the popular family-friendly all-inclusive chain in Jamaica (three properties to choose from) and Turks & Caicos opens up a few of its months during the year to single parents with solo-parent deals. The properties feature multiple price-point accommodations from simple studios to multi-bedroom villas, and offers more than a dozen dining options, full waterparks, Sesame Street character-themed activities, kids' clubs and programs for infants to teens ... and yes, even for parents.

Most mainstream cruise ships are not truly all-inclusive, but they do offer all your needs in one convenient location with lots of inclusions. Yet, with all of the tricks and treats cruise lines are offering for families , single parents don't always find breaks, unless they are sailing with MSC Cruises , an Italian cruise operator. For single parents, choose the All-in-One package, which creates an all-inclusive package for you and your brood, sans a second adult, with Babycare, Miniclub, Juniors Club, dining, waterparks, shows and activities.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Lines (DCL), which can also be more expensive than many other large lines, may be worth the price when considering just how much they offer to single moms and dads. DCL connects solo parent travelers at meals to help them find and connect with one another and even plans activities specifically for single-parent families. Booking a state room with one adult and children is also a bit cheaper than a room with two adults and children. For example, a six-night Caribbean trip out of Galveston with two adults and two children starts at $3,250, while the same room with one adult and two children starts at $2,562.

On the Disney Cruise Line are included kids clubs, teen programs, family-friendly accommodations and, of course, a touch of Disney Magic onboard and during excursions. To help save with the pricy cost of a Disney Cruise, consider purchasing discounted Disney gift cards .

Solo Studios on Norwegian Cruise Line

If you are considering a cruise without the kids at some point, I have to give a quick nod to Norwegian for introducing a room class just for solo travelers . These studios are "cozy" (OK, small) at 100 square feet, but you won't pay the dreaded "single traveler tax." These rooms have exclusive use of a Studio Complex and Lounge. This is an area just for solo travelers staying in the studios where you can watch TV, order room service, have a drink and chat with other travelers.

Tour Groups

Solo parent trips with intrepid travel.

If you're aiming to take on a more adventurous vacation with the kids, tour groups can help you plan and maneuver through all of the logistics at one price -- just show up and enjoy the trip. One of the best tour groups for families is Intrepid Travel, which specifically launched tours just for solo parents . The tours are kept small -- just three to five families -- and pair you and the kids with other solo parents who understand what it's like to travel as a single parent.

Tours are catered to kids with stays at hotels that have swimming pools, dining at restaurants with kid-approved menus and programming that connects your kids to school studies or hobbies. Another plus? Kids 17 and younger receive a 10 percent discount. The exotic tours mean you can show kids the world with the help of others and choose from visits to Morocco, Costa Rica, Vietnam or India in 2019.

OARS Single-Parent Camping Trips

For parents who love outdoor adventure but understand camping without another adult is tricky (just putting up a tent alone can be a real feat!), OARS offers single-parent camping and rafting trips in the US. While connecting other single-parent travelers and, often, teens, you can visit the western states of Colorado, Arizona, Colorado and Alaska. The majority of the tour options for families take place during school breaks.

Bottom Line

Whether you are a single parent, or your partner simply isn't always available to travel with you and the kids, don't be too nervous to travel alone with your children. You may find hotels and resorts willing to help (or even offer single-parent discounts) as packages for single parents traveling with kids are becoming increasingly available. When the trip is all about you and your kids, you're guaranteed to wind up with memory-making experiences for the whole family.

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More than a quarter of all children growing up in the United States come from single-parent homes. Yet despite these large numbers, most traditional family travel experiences don’t cater to the needs of single parents, often deterring them from planning vacations with their children. At Ciao Bambino, we offer customized solutions to make the travel dreams of all our clients, including single parents and their kids, come true.

Moms and dads come to us with a variety of experiences on their wish list, and every family has their own travel style. For example, some single parents seek lodging options that have a kids’ club so that they can get some solo time while their children carry on having fun and making memories. Not only do we have a vetted list of properties with this type of service, but we’ve experienced many firsthand or via the continual feedback loop of our many clients. Parents can rest easy knowing we only recommend the highest-quality properties and childcare options.

We’re also incredibly knowledgeable about room configurations and can often secure helpful perks like free breakfast and early check-in. Rooms with a balcony or living room suite are great for single parents who want to enjoy downtime while the kids nap or when they head to bed early. At many of our favorite hotels, we’re on a first-name basis with the general manager and concierge staff, who in turn look after our clients personally. This type of attention is valued greatly by single parents, who may need someone to make a middle-of-the-night run to a pharmacy for medicine or diapers or just handle last-minute dining reservations.

For more complex trips, our advisors take the hassle out of traveling the world with kids and save single parents lots of precious time in the planning process. We can book private airport transfers as well as other transportation services so that navigating around a destination is never a concern. Ensuring that every itinerary we create is full of fun, age-appropriate activities is our specialty, but we also incorporate relaxing downtime into every trip so that traveling with kids still feels like an actual vacation. Some of our favorite ideas for single parents and kids include:

Small Group Tours

One of the easiest ways to make family travel feel manageable for single parents is to link up with other families to join in the fun. The children on these kid-friendly small group tours turn into instant playmates, while the adults enjoy conversation and activities on their own from time to time. There are so many destinations and travel methods possible on this type of trip, from a tour around Japan to a river cruise through Germany. We can sort through the options and determine the best fit for your family’s priorities.

No parent wants to juggle navigating foreign roads while entertaining kids in the back seat, all on their own. Enter Switzerland, which offers single parents a beautiful, laid-back destination that also has the most well-developed train network in Europe. It’s easy to access even the smallest, most charming villages by rail here, and we know lots of wonderful hotels just a short walk from the various train stations. Switzerland also has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, meaning visitors who value safety feel at ease.

Nothing says relaxation like quality time spent together on sunny beaches or around kid-friendly resorts. Parents love the mix of onsite activities, the large selection of room configurations and plentiful dining options at the many family-oriented resorts found on the more popular islands, like Jamaica, Turks and Caicos and the Bahamas.

Dude Ranches

As kids get older, they value travel experiences that feel quite different from day-to-day life at home and vacations that allow them to experience something completely new. Dude ranches are the perfect foray into this type of travel, and they work exceptionally well for single parents also. The ranches offer plenty of activities, both organized and unplanned, meaning you’ll never hear the words “I’m bored.”

For a trip across the pond that feels both manageable and fun, London answers the call. There’s so much to do here, from fascinating historical sites to hands-on museums. Build in some downtime too, like going to see a West End show or playing in a park. We love to book single parents and their children in our favorite centrally located hotels, where the staff pride themselves on knowing guests by name. Our top guides making sightseeing a breeze; let them entertain children with hilarious and spooky stories to make the city come alive.

Truly effortless travel logistics are the big draw when booking a family cruise experience. We love putting our knowledge of the various routes and ships that sail in destinations around the world to work for our clients, ensuring their experience on board is incredible.

Ski Getaways

Dreary winter weather can make the days feel as though they drag on forever. By booking a ski trip, families get much-needed outdoor time plus incredible bonding moments as they tackle new skills and conquer challenging slopes together. One of our favorite pro tips for single parents looking to ski with their children is to invest in ski butler service, so that you’re not stuck dragging heavy gear to and from the mountain. We’re happy to make these arrangements for our clients.

Can thrilling adventure exist alongside peaceful serenity for single parents looking for both? It can in Costa Rica! We love booking clients on top-notch half day adventures, like guided hikes to see monkeys and sloths, ziplining tours through tree canopies and whitewater rafting through amazing ecosystems. Leisurely afternoons and evenings on the beach or by the pool offset this high-energy fun; you can enjoy Costa Rica’s incredible weather and brilliant sunsets through all four seasons.

Easy flight connections and a wide range of kid-friendly resorts make Mexico hugely appealing to families. Some of our favorite properties have dedicated baby concierges, parent/child yoga classes and, even better, single-parent pricing.

In addition to designing trips in these destinations and many others, we’re also happy to make special arrangements that streamline travel for single parents. Services like luggage or equipment shipping make traversing airports with the kids less stressful. We also love booking photography sessions with amazing photographers around the world to ensure our clients are actually in some of the pictures from the amazing trips we plan for them.

Every family deserves the kind of quality time together that can only be achieved when venturing away from home, even if it’s just for a few days. Our travel advisors take the pressure off parents’ shoulders and design trips that meet every family’s unique needs. With our help, traveling solo with kids can feel the way it was always intended: fun and unforgettable.

Experience the Best Family Vacations for Single Parents

Let ciao bambino plan your dream trip.

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Top Family Travel Tips

Best places to visit in switzerland with kids, 10 ideas for a memorable mother-son vacation, 7 kid-friendly cruises we love, our happy travelers, "i couldn't be happier with my experience. just talking with cary gave me a baseline foundation to build on - one that i didn't have time to get from reading a guidebook and distilling it. i am not sure how i would have gotten this trip together without her help. i will definitely get in touch before our next trip".

–Marks Family Trip

"We absolutely loved the resort. Everything was really easy and especially family-friendly."

–Memmott Family Trip

"Everything was perfect! The room set up was great. We all enjoyed ourselves. We can’t wait to plan for next year! Thank you again!"

–Rembert Family Cruise

"We are enjoying our last full day. We had a great time. You did a great job. We will have to have you do all our trips in the future."

–Shindle Family Trip

Family-Friendly Hotels

Casa montani », california park hotel », borgo scopeto relais », borgo santo pietro », albergo villa marta », albergo santa chiara », punta regina positano », al gelso bianco », internazionale domus », grand hotel excelsior vittoria », grand hotel de la minerve », colle san paolo », casa zorzi », hotel londra palace », hotel flora », ac palacio del retiro », hotel arts barcelona », marbella club », puente romano beach resort and spa », hotel ritz madrid by belmond », parador de nerja », majestic hotel and spa barcelona », hospes las casas del rey de baeza », hotel alfonso xiii », parador de granada », aguilas5 sevilla suites », los suenos marina and resort », finca rosa blanca », bosque del cabo », tabacon grand spa thermal resort », monteverde lodge and gardens », the springs resort and spa », reserva conchal beach resort », lapa rios ecolodge », anantara golden triangle elephant camp and resort », anantara hua hin resort and spa ».

Casa Montani

Rome, italy.

California Park Hotel

Forte dei marmi, italy.

Borgo Scopeto Relais

Castelnuovo berardenga, italy.

Borgo Santo Pietro

Chiusdino, italy.

Albergo Villa Marta

Lucca, italy.

Albergo Santa Chiara

Punta Regina Positano

Positano, italy.

Al Gelso Bianco

Barberino val d'elsa, italy.

Internazionale Domus

Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria

Sorrento, italy.

Grand Hotel De La Minerve

Colle San Paolo

Panicale, italy.

Arquà Petrarca, Italy

Hotel Londra Palace

Venice, italy.

Hotel Flora

AC Palacio del Retiro

Madrid, spain.

Hotel Arts Barcelona

Barcelona, spain.

Marbella Club

Marbella, spain.

Puente Romano Beach Resort and Spa

Hotel Ritz Madrid by Belmond

Parador de Nerja

Nerja, spain.

Majestic Hotel and Spa Barcelona

Hospes Las Casas del Rey de Baeza

Sevilla, spain.

Hotel Alfonso XIII

Parador de Granada

Granada, spain.

Aguilas5 Sevilla Suites

Los Suenos Marina And Resort

Playa herradura, costa rica.

Finca Rosa Blanca

Santa barbara de heredia, costa rica.

Bosque Del Cabo

Cabo matapalo, costa rica.

Tabacon Grand Spa Thermal Resort

La fortuna de san carlos, costa rica.

Monteverde Lodge and Gardens

Monteverde, costa rica.

The Springs Resort and Spa

La fortuna, costa rica, reserva conchal beach resort, playa conchal, costa rica.

Lapa Rios Ecolodge

Puerto jiménez, costa rica.

Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp and Resort

Chiang rai, thailand.

Anantara Hua Hin Resort and Spa

Hua hin, thailand, build a lifetime of memories.

Caribbean Family Vacations

London Family Vacations

California Family Vacations

Mexico Family Vacations

New York City Family Vacations

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Tiny Footsteps Travel

Single Parent Travel Tips for 2024

Looking for single parent travel tips?

Are you wondering how you can survive a trip alone with kids, or if you should even try?

Look no further. Travelling as a single parent is rewarding, challenging, something that may occasionally make you want to tear your hair out…. but also such a meaningful bonding experience, that makes memories that you will remember and cherish for a long time.

I was a single parent for 6 years. During that time, I went on trips with my daughter; often during the summers when I was off from my teaching job. Many people thought I was crazy to want to take a 5 year old overseas by myself, but I felt I had no other choice.

I wanted to travel; my life was already hard enough to be honest, and I didn’t want to give up something that had brought me so much joy before becoming a parent.

Now that I have left my teaching position and have started a travel blog , I have more freedom to travel. I’m married, with a second child and we go on many family trips together. All my experience travelling alone as a single parent still comes in handy.

I want to help other single parents see that its possible to go on trips alone with your kids, and you don’t need to hold back from making these precious memories with them.

So, let’s dive in – single parent travel tips!

My Single Parent Travelling Experience

I spent the first six years of my oldest daughter’s life as a single parent, and in that time, I went on countless trips with her. We spent two months in California, a month in Italy using the train system to visit historical sites and ate way too much gelato and pasta, three weeks road-tripping through the rolling greens of Ireland .

We sailed on a Disney cruise , did the Beatles tour in Liverpool , England, and swam in the ocean in Cuba. I took countless flights, and stood in security lineups with her all by myself; often while she was on the verge of tantrum.

It wasn’t always easy, and it was rarely a relaxing vacation. But at this risk of sounding cheesy- those trips are some of my favourite memories to look back on.

Tips for Travelling as a Single Parent

Here are some of the best tips for single travel tips I can offer after years of experience; countless flights, and different types of vacations. Following some of these tips should help you enjoy the trip as much as your kids

1.  Walk yourself visually through the trip you’re planning

Unless you’re spending the entire time in an all-inclusive resort an hour away from your home, planning a trip single-handedly requires some thinking ahead, especially if there are kids involved. Without an extra set of hands, situations can be pretty tricky.

Walk yourself through all the little steps of your trip and just prepare yourself for the potential areas where you might struggle. 

For example: 

-how you’re going to avoid having to lug carry-on luggage and a toddler to the airport bathroom when you have to pee before check-in

– how you’re going to set up the tent by yourself while your two kids are running around

-how you will manage sitting through meals at a fancy resort with a fussy baby

-how you can use the restroom on an airplane with a baby or toddler who is sleeping 

Some people, when considering these details, might sway away from the idea of doing this alone. Considering all these details isn’t meant to scare you away from the idea – you’d be doing it to prepare yourself for those little hassles, and have a solid backup plan to make life easier.

Want to go on a cruise, but want to find a way to squeeze in some adult time? Look for a cruise company that offers daycare.

Terrified of standing in long security lineups alone with a fussy toddler? Go prepared with snacks, activities and other ideas to distract them.

Concerned about being alone at the gate with a one-year-old and luggage at the gate, and then realizing that you need to do a diaper change or go to the bathroom? Back as light as possible for the carry-on, so that you can easily scoop everything up

Will those moments still be hard? Almost certainly. But you can make it much easier on yourself with the right preparation and planning. I think if everyone planned their trips as a single parent, the process of the more stressful moments would go so much smoother.

2. Connect with other single parents

Travelling alone can be an isolating experience. You may not have others in your destination who you can rely on. There are single parents in the destination you’re travelling to, and many single parents who also travel solo with their kids. Use the internet (bearing safety in mind of course) to connect with them. They may have stories, tips and inspiration. 

Let’s say you want to plan a one-week trip to Nashville alone with your children – try searching for online groups devoted to the single parents of Nashville. There may be people there that would be able to provide insider advice, or maybe even meet up for playdates if everyone feels comfortable.

I’ve done this before, and having the adult company on my trips made it that much more enjoyable. Of course you want to be safe with this as well – single moms with their kids, especially can be the most vulnerable on a trip.

Another trick is to join Facebook groups dedicated to single parents who travel. I’ve seen people arrange to meet up or travel together in these groups, and provide advice to each other.

• Worldschoolers – Single Parents  
• Single Parents Who Travel!

Make use of the internet and connect, connect, connect!

3. Don’t forget the legalities

This isn’t one of the most ‘fun’ tips, but its definitely something to keep in mind before embarking on a trip alone with your kids.

I’m not a lawyer, or able to legally advise you on what documentation you will need if travelling internationally with your children. This will depend on which country you reside in, as well as which country you’re visiting. Some aren’t strict at all, while others are very strict.

At many airports around the world, I was stopped in customs and asked for the appropriate documentations for bringing my child into that county. I was even asked when returning to my home country, Canada .

Here are some links to check out from different countries.

Canada United States Australia

4. Make sure at least ONE of these boxes is checked off for you

As much as I can say that travel with kids is amazing and rewarding, and you’ll be glad you did it – the truth is that it can be very hard work , especially without someone else to rely on.

Its exhausting having to clean, cook, drive, dress the kids, and look after them all on your own – you know this, because you likely do it at home. On a trip to a new place, there’s the added stress of having to navigate the new environment , possibly a language barrier and customs you’re not used to at home.

Yes, it can all be rewarding and exciting, but it can also lead to the kind of trip where you feel like you need a ‘vacation from your vacation.’

I found I enjoyed my solo-parent trips more when at least one of these things was crossed off my plate:

• cleaning services
• meals cooked for you, or you’ll be eating out most meals
• your accommodation is conveniently located so you’re close to everything you want to do
• shuttles to activities so you don’t have to worry about car rental or driving 
• some form of supervised childcare so you can get a break
• engaging activities for your kids so that even if you’re watching them, they’re having fun (ie: beach and sand toys, or live entertainment)
• Prior to your trip, research the nearest hospital or clinic near where you’re staying. Hopefully, you won’t need this, but in the event that you do, knowing the process ahead of time can reduce the stress in that situation

Even if just one thing off of the list applies to your trip, then you will have an easier time looking after your littles and being present with them while you enjoy your trip with them.

5. Consider tour companies that specialize in single-parent trips

You could go on any tour, but single-parent tours are designed with your needs as a single parent in mind. 

• You have support 
• You have the company of other adults and can connect with them
• The trips are designed to not put you in awkward situations that are difficult to manage without another parent. There is a lot of support on these trips.

Of course, these kinds of trips come at a cost, and aren’t the cheapest way to travel. When looking into them, you might find it doesn’t fit with tip # 2 on this list, budget. These trips are more of a luxury, and not exactly the cheapest way to travel.

Here are some great single-parent travel companies.

Single Parents on Holiday

Single parents on Holiday  is UK based and has been in operation since 2005. Most of their trips are in Europe. We went on their Magredi farm trip in Northern Italy, and it was one of the most rewarding trips I’ve ever taken with kids . My 4-year-old made her own pasta dough from scratch, made her own jam, visited animals, and got to ride a tractor.

The farm, called Gelindo dei Magredi had a swimming pool, playground and a restaurant where we ate traditional Italian food – they even accommodated me as a vegetarian. The farm is also located an hour away from Venice.

While staying on the farm, we went on a day trip to Venice , and to Lake Barcis, a beautiful village in Northern Italy close to the Slovakian border. Having the company, and the other single parents for support, made our trip enjoyable, relaxing, fun and just overall an amazing memory to look back on.

It was a trip that my daughter and I still talk about to this day. I have not tried their other trips, but based on the organization, communication and quality of our Magredi trip, I would recommend this company.

Cotripper  was founded by Krystin Hargrove, a single parent herself.  Its a smaller travel company, and focuses solely on single mothers. When you sign up for their email list, you’ll get an email asking you about the age of your child(ren) – under 5, over 5, or both; your answer to that will be saved to your profile and customized which tours they advertise to you going forward. 

Single Parents Who Travel

Single Parents Who Travel is a company that was created off of the Facebook group by the same name which started in 2013. Today, in addition to being a virtual travel community for single parents, they also plan luxury, all-inclusive-themed trips to a different destination each year.

Other travel agencies that focus on single parent travel

In addition to tour companies that focus solely on single parents, many travel agencies have tours you can book that are catered to single parents: Sunwing, Intrepid Travel, Transat, Sell off Vacations and Trafalgar all have packages created exclusively for single parents travelling with children.

Best Holiday Destination for Single Parent Families

The best holiday destinations for single parents depend on the parent; their comfort level, interests, finances and what kind of support system they have.

To find the best vacation destination for you and your kids, think about:

• your finances
• where you’re genuinely interested in going
• where you’re from, and how much time you have to travel
• the legalities – can you get the required documentation to bring your child to the country you’d like to visit?

If you’re a mom, one of my favourite places to ask for general advice about travel from like-minded moms is the MOMS (Girls Love Travel) Facebook group. Note that you need to first be a member of the original GLT (Girls Love Travel) group before you can request to join the mom one- but its worth it!

Looking for budget-friendly family travel ideas? Read my post on Family Travel on a Budget

Conclusion: Tips For Single Parent Travel

A trip alone with our kids can be very hard work, but with attention to planning, you can enjoy the trip too. From my experience, I can tell you that you won’t regret the trips, no matter how much other people say it’s not worth it if your kids don’t remember them.

Years later, my daughter and I still enjoy flipping through scrapbooks and photo books of exotic places I took her to when she was younger. She remembers dipping her feet into the ocean in Cuba, eating gelato in Italy, and the rolling greens of Ireland. Even the trips she doesn’t remember – I still remember them and in the moment, I know that they benefited her.

What it's like travelling with kids as a solo parent

Feb 17, 2020 • 6 min read

Travelling solo, with kids. It sounds like an oxymoron – how can you be alone when you have little people with you? – but as any parent who has hit the road without a co-pilot knows, it’s very much a one-person show. Being a single-parent traveller will bring a host of unexpected challenges, all of which can be overcome. Believe it or not, travelling solo with kids is even better than travelling solo. 

Hitting the road alone

Some parents have to travel solo with kids because their partner is working, not interested in travelling, or are otherwise incapacitated. Others travel with their kids because they’re single parents. If that’s the case, you’re probably used to some of the logistics required, but you might not be prepared for the experiences you’re to have.

Early nights

When you’re operating on a child’s timeline, dinner is usually eaten early, which means restaurants are empty, with no need to book. Many countries have a  dining-out culture  that means kids are well catered for with smaller portions of healthy delicious meals (not just chicken nuggets and chips). Waitstaff in many countries are exceptionally kind and friendly to children; you may see them sneak a secret caramel or lollipop at the end of the evening. 

Read more:  Unlikely destinations for an unforgettable family holiday

Going out at night is nearly impossible, unless you can find a reliable, trustworthy sitter. But who has the energy to stay up all night after a full day of travelling experiences? Children in bed early wake up early too – so get your rest when you can. If you’re craving some socialising you can also check into accommodation with common spaces, like larger guesthouses and hostels. Striking up a conversation and finding out about other people’s travels is obviously  easier in social accommodations  than at a hotel or AirBnB. 

Managing sickness

Getting ill is never pleasant, but it’s something you need to be prepared for. Before you depart make sure you have a well-stocked first-aid kit with all the essential medicine you’ll need if you get struck down by a tummy bug, someone gets a cut or a bruise, or worse.

Old-school as it may sound, a  phrasebook is your best friend  in a medical emergency when you don’t speak the host country’s language. If all else fails, you can point to the descriptions you need to describe symptoms or request medicine at a pharmacy or a clinic. Unlike phones, books never run out of battery charge or get their screen smashed if you drop them. Also make sure you’re  properly insured before you leave , so you can seek professional help without worrying about the cost.

Have some rainy-day activities in your travel kit – not just for rainy days, but for any days you’re on the road and not well enough to go out. Staying at accommodation that also serves food, especially breakfast, is also a good idea, so you don’t need to go out if you’re feeling under the weather.

“Where’s your mother/father?”

Ask any parent who’s travelled alone, and they’ll report being asked this with great regularity. Having a short backstory at the ready will help satisfy nosy parkers. Be prepared for more  serious questions when you cross borders , though. You may need to take your children’s birth certificates with you (especially if you do not share a family name with them), as well as a letter from their co-parent saying you have permission to travel with them.

Curiosity may be behind some of the questioning, but child protection is paramount. If someone wants to know why you’re on a bus from Liverpool to London without your children’s mum, try to remain courteous, rather than outraged – there are some kids out there not as fortunate as yours.

Be mindful what you  share on social media  too. The current thinking for child safety is to hold back any holiday snaps until you’re back home, even if you do have all your accounts locked down to private settings. If you do want to share, be very aware of what information you put out there. A hilarious near-miss tale might be amusing in retrospect, but your co-parent back home may be having heart palpitations. 

Will I be lonely?

This is the perennial question for anyone setting off on a solo trip. The answer is always yes and no. There will be moments in life when you will feel lonely. Sometimes these moments arise even in the company of others; while on the road, the company will include your children. Making new memories, enjoying new experiences, and developing new perspectives together is a beautiful way to continue to deepen your lifetime bonds – but you will also meet new people.

Much to my surprise when I’ve travelled with my kids, strangers are usually open and friendly, not hostile and suspicious as I feared – just as they are with solo travellers. Children will play with other children, even without a shared language. They can easily strike up a game of tag or hide-and-seek, or kick a ball around, without needing to understand what the other is saying. 

Read more:  Strangest places in the US to take your kids

Adults, both locals and other travellers, are often more than willing to help you out in any way they can, even if you’re coping just fine. In cultures where the care of children is a shared enterprise don’t be surprised if your guesthouse hosts insist on minding your kids while you have a nap or eat a meal in peace.

Be warned, though: in more patriarchal societies, both male and female solo parents will raise some eyebrows – women are not expected to do this work alone, and men don’t often show their parental side in public spaces. You may be a curiosity, and not always a welcome one. 

New perspectives

In different places you may also be exposed to parenting philosophies that are at odds with your own. In  Hong Kong  I was amazed at how well-behaved other children were, and tried to achieve the same with my own kids (‘You will stand in this queue in the cold for an hour without complaint: see how the other kids are doing fine’) but one does not become a strict parent overnight.

In  Morocco  I was told by a well-meaning but old-fashioned parent that physical punishment was the appropriate response to a fussy eater. I am not sure my high-school French was enough to explain why this was not what I had read in my ‘new age’ parenting handbooks. 

Read more:  5 destinations to see wildlife with your kids

What surprised me the most travelling solo with my kids was the interactions I had with younger adults who were more willing to embrace kids and a solo parent than I expected. After playing my kids at table tennis at a hostel in  Australia , a bunch of carefree backpackers reminded me that I once thought family life meant sliding into a suburban dystopia. But in fact, people all over the world keep working, travelling and living life just as they did before they started a family.

If you want to get a feel for travelling with your kids but you’re not ready to go on a fully independent adventure,  there are now tours available  that will let you having life-changing experiences along with other like-minded families. 

If making new friends while getting outside your routine and comfort zone is the only reason you want to do it, it’s the only reason you need. Bon voyage!   

Subscribe to our  Lonely Planet Kids newsletter  and get 30% off your first Lonely Planet Kids book purchase.

This article was first published February 2020 and updated February 2020

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Best Tour Companies for Singles

Book your next adventure with one of these options.

Ligaya Malones is an editor, blogger, and freelance writer specializing in food and travel. Ligaya's work has appeared in publications including Lonely Planet and BRIDES.

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A recent study showed that the solo travel industry is projected to experience a significant influx in the upcoming years. Whether you want to experience a solo adventure, see the world at your own convenience, or hope to meet new people along the way, there’s always something worthwhile about traveling by yourself. 

Luckily, there are plenty of travel companies that cater to solo travelers to make planning stress-free. Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best companies for every budget and travel preference to support your wanderlust—including our top picks for women-only and solo parent travel.

8 Best Tour Companies for Singles of 2024

• Best Experience: Exodus Travels
• Best for Ages 35-50: El Camino Travel
• Best Sustainable: G Adventures
• Best for True Solo Travel: Black Tomato
• Best for Ages 25-39: For The Love of Travel
• Best for 50+: Overseas Adventure Travel Rates
• Best Female: Wild Women Expeditions
• Best for Solo Parent Travel: Intrepid Travel

Best Experience : Exodus Travels

Courtesy of Exodus Travels

Traveling solo on an Exodus Travels group trip means access to self-guided and guided excursions around the world for every type of traveler. Choose a walking wine holiday in Portugal or explore Egypt via cruise boat and sleeper train, for example. Additionally, its Exodus Edits collection offers shorter itineraries of up to five days and is geared towards travelers in their 30s and 40s—though they’re ideal for anyone looking for more vigorous activity such as ziplining and surfing in Costa Rica or sampling street eats and beach hopping in Sicily. 

There is no single supplement fee when you room with a fellow traveler, and chances are you may end up with your own room anyway. Booking a travel itinerary with UK-based Exodus Travels includes a full refund should the company need to cancel your trip and a complimentary trip transfer to another tour or different person up to 21 days before the scheduled trip. Plus, travelers who book their third or more trips with Exodus receive a 5 percent discount on their next booking.

What’s more, the company works to curate trips that align with a number of United Nations sustainable development goals including goals for responsible consumption and production, empowering local communities, and climate action considerations. Exodus Travels (founded in 1974) was awarded Best Operator in National Geographic Traveller’s sixth annual Reader Awards in 2021.

Best for Ages 35-50 : El Camino Travel

Courtesy of Encounter Travel

According to El Camino Travel ’s founder, Katalina Mayorga, elder millennials are their strongest customer base. That means if you were born between 1980 and 1985 approximately, you’ll find yourself among curious, like-minded solo travelers looking to immerse themselves in destinations like Trinidad and Tobago, Colombia, and the Eastern European nation of Georgia. Some trips even add a professional photographer to capture shareable shots so you can remain in the moment.

All of El Camino’s guided, small group trips max out at 12 participants. They’re also curated with an ethos of preserving and protecting local culture, the environment, and communities. For example, some of their partners include the Environmental Research Institute Charlotteville in Tobago and La Sierra Artist Residency in Santa Marta, Colombia.

Best Sustainable : G Adventures

Courtesy of Intrepid Travel

G Adventures is particularly known for its sustainable, responsible ethos. The company works with small, locally-owned hotels and operators to ensure your travel dollars benefit the community you’re visiting; outlines policies around child and animal welfare practices; aims to reduce single-use plastics, and works to ensure experiences taking place in Indigenous communities align with community goals.

Founded in 1990, G Adventures specializes in small group adventure tours to a host of destinations from Asia to South America and Africa to the Arctic. Nearly half of the travelers on every trip are flying solo, and there’s no single supplement if you choose to bunk with a same-sex roommate. Or, select your own room for a fee. 

A Chief Experience Officer leads each group tour and itineraries are searchable by travel style. For example, find wellness-centric trips like nine days of daily yoga, visits to Hindu temples, and partake in traditional healing ceremonies in Bali. Or travel with their partner, National Geographic, for an exclusive guided tour of South Africa’s Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden and a visit to Soweto township in Johannesburg, the home of Nelson Mandela. 

G Adventures partnered with hostel booking service Hostelworld in 2021 to launch its Roamies itineraries. Its combination of backpacking and organized travel itineraries includes countries like Albania, Mexico, the Netherlands, and Vietnam. The trips are marketed to 18- to 35-year-olds, though like-minded individuals keen on budget travel and communal environments may enjoy these trips, too.

Best for True Solo Travel : Black Tomato

Courtesy of G Adventures

Black Tomato specializes in bespoke luxury travel experiences. For those interested in traversing around the world solo and willing to pay a premium for tailored itineraries, its adventurous or culturally immersive experiences may just be your ticket.

Your travels might look like hiking and biking in Patagonia, embarking on a spiritual pilgrimage through Bhutan and India, chasing glaciers and geysers in Iceland, or learning to cook Georgia and Armenia’s local dishes or Japan’s regional cuisine.

In 2017, Black Tomato launched its Get Lost adventure travel experience. With the support of a dedicated team, and without prior knowledge of where they're headed, Get Lost participants will find their way home from an undisclosed location. The location is selected based on a pre-travel questionnaire about which environment clients would like to immerse themselves in. Then, they show up at the airport and the adventure begins.

Best for Ages 25-39 : For The Love of Travel

Courtesy of Contiki

With 80 percent of individuals traveling with For The Love of Travel jet -setting solo, each trip is packed with opportunities to meet fellow Millennial and Gen Z travel enthusiasts. For example, within your small “crew” of up to 14 people, make new friends doing snow sports and unwinding in saunas in Lapland or devouring tacos and sipping mezcal in Mexico City. Trips range from four to nine days, including weekends in Colorado’s Rocky Mountain wilderness or an extended weekend in Costa Rica where you’ll hike through rainforests, relax in hammocks, and hike, bike, or surf.

According to company feedback, the average FTLOT traveler is 30 years old and interested in meeting new people while traveling . The company bills itself as a mid-range travel company, where “​​we might stay in a more basic hotel for a couple of nights so we can include a Michelin-worthy meal and a private catamaran ride.” 

In 2022, FTLOT plans to offer at least 10 new itineraries including to Belize, Turkey, and Spain’s Basque Country. And for those with the flexibility, the company launched Sojrn in 2021 featuring month-long, themed stays in destinations like Cape Town—focused on biodiversity—and a fashion-oriented stay in Paris.

FTLOT requires an initial deposit and allows installment payments if not paid in full.

Best for 50+ : Overseas Adventure Travel Rates

Courtesy Flash Pack

Overseas Adventure Travel is primarily aimed at American travelers aged 50 and over. It offers guided itineraries to worldwide destinations, including Africa, Antarctica, Asia, and the South Pacific, with trips ranked by activity level and accompanied by a list of physical requirements to help select an itinerary that is best suited for you. For example, their Japan and South Korea itinerary advise that participants be able to carry their own luggage as the selected hotels do not have porter service.

Some of Overseas Adventure Travel’s most popular trips include 17 days of wending the Adriatic from Croatia to Bosnia and Herzegovina (think a walking tour in Dubrovnik, sampling traditional Bosnian food in Sarajevo, and exploring the countryside near Zagreb). On another popular trip, you spend 15 days traveling through Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia, ending in Helsinki, Finland. All trips offer pre-and post-itinerary extensions, and either waive the single supplement entirely or offer a discount on a private room.

The company offers a free Roommate Matching Program which helps you find a like-minded, same-sex roommate. If they can’t find a match, your single supplement is deducted. Small group sizes typically average 13 travelers.

Overseas Adventure Travel won the Solo Travel Award for Best Tour in 2017 and 2018, thanks in large part to its policy of offering a limited number of single spaces for each itinerary.

Best Female : Wild Women Expeditions

Courtesy of Overseas Adventure Travel

It began as an all-women, Canada-based canoe tripping company in 1991, and Wild Women Expeditions is perfect for boundary-pushing women who want to travel independently and enjoy the safety and support of an organized tour. The company also prioritizes hiring female tour leaders and on-the-ground guides. It offers outdoor adventures for women of all ages and identities and with a range of physical abilities (“whether your greatest skill is tracking a storm or talking up a storm, summiting mountains or summoning courage, keeping your kayak in line or coloring outside the lines,” as the company describes).

The company travels to 31 destinations around the world like Egypt, Tanzania, and the Azores islands. Itineraries are typically adventure-based and are filtered on their website by activity, with options ranging from sailing to cycling and horse riding. Imagine yourself sea kayaking and snorkeling in the Galapagos or scaling glaciers in Alaska. 

Most guests are solo travelers and there’s no single supplement to worry about as accommodation is typically in a shared room or cabin. Though if privacy is a priority, you can usually snag your own room for a nominal extra fee. Group sizes are kept small and social with between six and 14 women, depending on the itinerary you choose. The average group size is eight. 

Wild Women Expeditions also takes care to curate trips that avoid or minimize the disturbance of wildlife; supports environmental education and advocacy projects; and partners with social justice and women’s rights organizations.

Want to take a look at some other options? See our guide to the best women-only adventure travel companies .

Best for Solo Parent Travel : Intrepid Travel

Courtesy of Wild Women Expeditions

Intrepid ’s family-themed holidays welcome adults traveling with children, including solo parents looking to travel with their kids without the stress of planning and coordinating a trip. Since each family’s travel needs and preferences are different, every itinerary includes an “essential trip information” section where Intrepid outlines whether the trip would be a good fit for you and your kids, as well as a physical rating from least to more strenuous activities. 

For example, an itinerary through part of the Amazon Jungle in Peru advises the jungle can be very hot and humid, and that the weather can be unpredictable in the Andes. On the other hand, an 11-day trip to Borneo island in Southeast Asia lists a minimum age of 5 and outlines a range of accommodations from hotels to guesthouses and jungle camps; on a few occasions, travel times between destinations range between four to five hours. Trips to Costa Rica, Tanzania, China, and Morocco are also listed.

Individuals under 17 years typically receive a 10 percent discount, and the company requires that adults have at least one child under 18 years traveling with them. As part of Intrepid’s commitment to responsible travel, itineraries support initiatives surrounding sustainability and conservation, climate education, and preservation of Indigenous culture.  

Mathieu Young / Getty Images

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Single Mom Vacations with Kids: Where to Go and Tips for Having Fun

Kimberly Miles

Traveling as a single mom doesn’t have to be terrifying. From staycations and road trips to cruises and solo family tours, there are several options for single parent families to have a blast alongside their kids without breaking the bank. Here we share several single mom vacation ideas for your next international or domestic getaway alone with the kids.

For single parents, the thought of traveling alone with children can be overwhelming to say the least. From the planning to handling all of the logistics, there’s no telling how the trip will pan out.

I’ll never forget the first single mom vacation I took with my son, just two years old at the time. Aside from safely getting to and from our destination, all I could think about was whether it would be enjoyable and affordable.

Much to my surprise, there are many destinations that are family-friendly, even for the single parent. And with the travel industry seeing single and solo parent travel on the rise, travel is becoming easier and more affordable. Here we share several different ways you can take an incredible single mom vacation that everyone will enjoy.

Take a Domestic Single Mom Vacation

If you’re traveling as a single parent for the very first time, it’s easier to start small and stick to the states. Here are a few domestic destinations that pack plenty of fun for single parent families, no passport needed:

Arizona has a number of all-inclusive resorts that offer so much to do that you won’t even have to leave the resort. Between the massive resort waterparks, spas, children’s programs and kids clubs, you can sit back and vacation in style. Outside of the resorts, there is plenty to do with the kids including exploring the museums, hiking the Grand Canyon or a visit to Bearizona Wildlife Park.

Florida is a popular single parent destination with plenty of fun activities that parents and children can do together. There you’ll find several popular kids theme parks such as Legoland, Seaworld and Disney World . Additionally, there are several beautiful family-friendly beaches and numerous outdoor activities. Many resorts across Florida offer kids clubs and daily activities to keep the little ones busy while you spend alone time at the spa or enjoying a kid-free meal.

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is a great option for a tropical Caribbean vacation that doesn’t require a passport. San Juan, Puerto Rico was the first place I’d traveled with my son as a single mom when he was just two years old. If there’s anything I wish I’d done differently, it’s to have stayed longer!

Puerto Rico has a number of family-friendly beaches that are safe for children and small enough to keep an eye on them as a single parent. There are also plenty of other places to explore with children, including El Yunque National Rainforest, the two forts: Castillo San Felipe del Morro and Castillo de San Cristóbal , the bioluminescent bay and the Rio Camuy Cave Park.

While Puerto Rico doesn’t have any completely all-inclusive properties, there are several family-friendly hotels that offer all-inclusive packages that bundle together your stay with other incredible perks.

International Destinations for Single Mom Vacations

Traveling internationally as a single mom can seem like a big, scary step. But thankfully, there are many international destinations that are both affordable and single-parent friendly. Here are a few of my favorite places to travel for a single mom vacation:

Mexico was the first international destination that I traveled to as a single mom when my son was just three years old. In fact, it is Mexico’s family-friendly environment that helped sway my decision to make Mexico my home!

One of the perks of Mexico with kids is that many local restaurants have free supervised kids clubs. This makes the dining experience enjoyable for the whole family. As a single mom, having this option when my son and I go out to eat together is a win-win. He gets to play and meet other local and traveling kids, and I have a moment to myself to relax and enjoy my meal.

Mexico has numerous all-inclusive family resorts with fancy kids clubs and plenty of activities, making it a popular destination for family vacations. Some of these resorts let kids stay and play for free (such as Palace Resorts ), and some even have the occasional single parent promotions that waive the single supplement fee– so it’s always best to check when booking your hotel .

Costa Rica is another excellent idea for a single mom vacation, especially if your child loves nature and outdoor activities. My son and I first traveled to Costa Rica when he was just three years old, and he has been asking to go back ever since.

With Costa Rica having a large expat community, it isn’t hard to find other English speaking families. We actually ran into a couple of other single moms traveling with their little ones while in the airport. I was also surprised to find that there was a separate customs line for families who had kids in strollers. As a single mom traveling with a fussy three year old, this was a life saver that helped us quickly get in and out of the airport.

When it comes to activities, Costa Rica has plenty of beaches and nature to enjoy without spending a lot of money. From our Airbnb, we could spot monkeys, sloths and other wildlife while sitting on our porch or taking a dip in the pool. However, there are also various tours and activities for children of all ages that you can book and meet other families. Booking a private tour of the Manuel Antonio National Park was very affordable (and highly recommended for an enjoyable experience).

Ever since my single momcation, Aruba has remained on my list of places to return with my son because of the vast number of family-friendly activities. Aruba is a small island that isn’t overwhelming to drive around alone. In fact, many other single parents I know have said that Aruba was by far one of the best vacations they have taken as a single parent.

Aruba has a “One Happy Family” program at several of its hotels and resorts that provide discounts and deals for kids ages 12 and under. These specials include free accommodations when sharing the same room as an adult, free daily breakfast, a family gift, kid cocktail upon check-in and a VIK (Very Important Kid) passport. Most of these hotels all sit on calm, swimmable beaches, giving you the option of how you want to soak in the sun with your kids.

There are also a number of family-friendly tours for all ages. I’ll never forget the ATV tour where tour guides were so incredibly helpful to a family traveling with their 5- and 8-year-olds. Both kids as well as the parents had the time of their lives!

SheBuysTravel Tip : Before traveling out of the country as a single parent, make sure you have your paperwork in order just in case you are asked for it! If you share custody or if the other parent is listed on the child’s birth certificate, bring a signed and notarized document from the other parent stating you have permission to travel with them to that particular destination. If you have sole custody, bring along a copy of your custody documents.

“Go” on a Staycation

Staycations are a much more affordable single mom vacation option and great for a short weekend getaway. Since you’re likely driving your own vehicle, there’s no need to worry about transportation. I’ve personally found plenty of gems in my own backyard that were worth exploring with my son and no more than a 30-minute drive away.

My son and I are no strangers to staycations. In fact, we try to take one every now and then for a small change of scenery and for a fun way to act like a tourist in our own city. Sometimes we splurge on expensive hotels and resorts, but many times we prefer to stay in affordable family-friendly hotel chains such as the Holiday Inn or Choice Hotels where kids stay and eat free. That way we have extra money to splurge on room service or to save up for a bigger getaway!

Set Sail on a Cruise

Cruises are a highly-recommended vacation option for single and solo parents. And if booking a closed-loop course (starting and returning to the same US port), you won’t even need a passport!

Cruise ships take the hassle out of planning. Everything you need is in one place: lodging, meals and fun activities and excursions. Solo parents have plenty of opportunities for some “me time” while on the cruise thanks to the kids’ clubs. Additionally, there will be other families traveling, making it easy for them to meet friends. If you ask me, it’s the best way to see multiple parts of the world as a single parent family.

Here are a few cruise lines that are great for single parents and kids:

Disney Cruise Lines

Although on the expensive side, Disney Cruise Lines is still a popular choice for single mom vacations. These magical cruises pack a ton of family-friendly activities for both kids and adults. From exciting family entertainment to themed accommodations with 24-hour room service, it won’t even feel like you’re traveling alone. In fact, every single parent I know who has cruised with Disney has said it is well worth the cost!

Disney Cruise Lines is also known to place single parent families together during dinners, taking the pressure out of traveling alone. My son is very friendly and talkative, so I know he’d enjoy meeting a new family. There are also forums where single parent families can meet and chat before the cruise.

MSC Cruises

Voted the “Best Family Cruise Line,” MSC Cruises are specifically built for moms, dads and children to enjoy time together as well as separately. With kid clubs for ages ranging from 0-17, even the older kids in the family will be able to enjoy themselves.

Children under the age of 18 who travel in the same cabin as their parents, cruise for free year-round on select cruises. They also frequently waive the single supplement on select itineraries. It’s definitely worth checking into when booking to see whether it applies to your trip!

Norwegian Cruise Lines

Single parents traveling alone with their children will find plenty to do on Norwegian Cruise Lines . Children have plenty to do including zipping down twisting water slides, swimming in the pool or playing a game of basketball on the multi-use sports deck. There’s also a complimentary cruise youth program for children ages 6 months-17 years. There, they’ll have fun playing with other kids while you relax at the spa and mingle with other adults.

When it comes to accommodations, there’s a small (yet swanky) suite designed just for solo travelers. While more expensive than a double-occupancy room on a per person basis, it’s less expensive than the single supplement. There’s also complimentary family dining.

Travel with a Family Tour Group

One thing that I have learned as a solo traveler is that traveling alone doesn’t mean that you’re alone! With these tour groups, you’ll be enjoying an action-packed single mom vacation with other traveling families. Another bonus? You don’t have to do any of the planning– just pack your bags and get ready to have fun!

G Adventures

G Adventures specializes in planning small group travel of no more than three or four families. For the single parent traveler, this is an excellent way to meet other worldwide families while building everlasting friendships!

These family trips aren’t just vacations, but fun hands-on educational experiences that expose you to the culture and language. Some of their most popular family trips include Peru, Thailand, Costa Rica, Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands.

Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel offers solo parent vacation packages to far away and exotic destinations. Some of the destinations include Morocco, Thailand, Vietnam, Egypt and India. You and your children will take part in fun yet educational age-appropriate activities such as snorkeling amongst the coral reefs of the Red Sea, hiking the Amazon jungle, exploring Chinese temples and dining with local families.

The best part is, they take care of all of the planning and arrangements so that you don’t have to stress about a thing. To make it even more affordable for single parent traveling families, they even offer 10% off for children under the age of 17.

For single parent families who love outdoor adventures but don’t feel comfortable doing it alone, OARS has you covered. This tour group offers diverse outdoor family vacations appropriate for families with children as young as four years old.

Most of their trips take place in the western states of Colorado, Arizona, Colorado and Alaska. There, you’ll participate as a group in exciting activities such as river rafting, camping, kayaking or horseback riding. There are also international family trips to Peru, Costa Rica and Mexico. The tours usually take place over school breaks so you don’t have to worry about missing a day of class!

Although not a tour group, Club Med creates unforgettable all-inclusive experiences built especially for single parent families. Single moms and dads can relax knowing that the kids will be spoiled and pampered from the moment they arrive. Club Med takes care of all the logistics including accommodations, transportation, meals and club access for children ages 4-17. Adults can snorkel or relax poolside knowing that their kids are having fun making friends in their own club. For single parent families traveling with children under the age of four, there’s a cozy Baby Club Med. There’s also the Club Med Baby Welcome service that will have a crib waiting in your room upon arrival.

With locations all over the world, there’s no shortage of activities for the family to participate in. Whether it’s snorkeling, swimming, skiing or snowboarding, you’ll be sure to find the ideal vacation for you and your family.

Trafalgar takes the stress out of planning a single mom vacation with action-packed itineraries appropriate for all ages. They take care of all the logistics ensuring that adults, children and teenagers create unforgettable memories alongside other families.

Whether it’s jungle-trekking in Costa Rica, island-hopping in Greece or even exploring one of the many national parks right here in the USA, you’ll be sure to have a one-of-a-kind, fully-immersive experience.

Vacation Express

Vacation Express is an online booking site that offers family-friendly vacation packages to the best beaches in the Caribbean. Their destinations include Cancun, Jamaica, Bahamas, Dominican Republic, Panama and Saint Lucia.

In addition to the kids’ clubs, kid-friendly entertainment and restaurants, their line of “Smile” resorts waive the single supplement fee for single parents sharing a room with their kids. Additionally, up to two children ages 2-12 can stay, play and eat free. Teens get special pricing as well!

Plan a Road Trip

Going a vacation doesn’t have to mean getting on a plane, train or boat. Sometimes the best places are a short road trip away . Road trips are great for single parents who are on a budget or don’t have time for lengthy trips.

The first road trip I took with my son was to New Jersey when he was just two years old. It was helpful to be in control of our own schedule and take breaks as needed. It was also nice that he could play with his toys in the car without disturbing other passengers. My recommendation is to get up bright and early before traffic and to safely get to your destination before dark.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How can I save money when traveling as a single parent?

A: There are several ways to save money when traveling as a single parent. Consider booking your trip during the off-season when prices are lower, or look for package deals that include flights, accommodations, and activities. You can also save money by cooking your own meals instead of eating out every night.

Q: What are some family-friendly destinations for single parents?

A: There are many family-friendly destinations for single parents, including theme parks like Disney World and Universal Studios, beach resorts like Hawaii and the Caribbean, and cities with plenty of cultural attractions like New York City and Paris.

Q: How can I keep my kids entertained during long flights or car rides?

A: Bring plenty of snacks, games, and activities to keep your kids entertained during long flights or car rides. Consider downloading movies or TV shows onto a tablet or phone, or bring a portable DVD player. You can also play games like “I Spy” or “20 Questions” to pass the time.

Q: How can I ensure my kids stay safe while traveling?

A: It’s important to research your destination beforehand and be aware of any potential safety concerns. Make sure your kids know what to do in case they get lost or separated from you, and consider purchasing travel insurance to protect yourself and your family in case of an emergency.

Q: What are some tips for traveling with young children?

A: When traveling with young children, it’s important to pack plenty of snacks, diapers, and other essentials. Try to stick to your child’s usual routine as much as possible, and be prepared for unexpected delays or changes in plans. You can also bring a stroller or baby carrier to make getting around easier.

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10 of the best tour companies for solo travellers

Discover the best tour companies for solo travellers, from luxury flashpacking to holidays for single parents.

S ingle supplements, hidden extra charges, being made to share a room — sometimes solo travellers feel as if they’re being penalised. Not any more. We’ve put together a list of the top tour operators that offer solo traveller holidays and have adventurous trips ideal for meeting new people and immersing travellers in local culture, no matter their age. And solo doesn’t always have to mean single. Perhaps your partner is unable to travel at the same time or has different interests, perhaps you’re a single parent, or a teenager looking for life-defining experiences. Heck, even if you do have a travel buddy, the trips offered by these tour companies make solo travel look so good you’ll be tempted to leave them at home.

Main photo: on the shore of Lake Pehoe in Patagonia (Getty Images)

1. G Adventures

Best for local culture Founded in 1990 by Bruce Poon Tip when he was just 22, G Adventures connects travellers with local people in the countries they visit and is now the world’s largest small-group adventure travel company. Tours are hosted in over 100 countries and run the gamut from classic and 18–30 tours to wellness, rail and local living tours that base travellers with a host family. Most of the trips do not have a single supplement and accommodation is based on a twin-share basis with another traveller of the same sex. What sets G Adventures apart is its focus on putting money back into local communities and supporting indigenous peoples, women and youth through its non-profit partner, Planeterra Foundation. It supports more than 80 community development projects globally and 90 per cent of travellers visit a social enterprise project on their tour.

2. Intrepid

Best for sustainability Carbon neutral since 2010, an early adopter of carbon offsets, and with its own not-for-profit foundation, Intrepid was started in 1989 by two Australian friends, Darrell Wade and Geoff Manchester. Thirty years on, 50 per cent of its customers are single travellers and it lives up to its name by heading particularly far-flung areas of the globe, including Samoa, Papua New Guinea and the tiny African country of Djibouti. Intrepid also ventures into the Polar regions too, including voyages on the ice-strengthened Ocean Endeavour, which takes 200 passengers.

Best for travellers short on time When the 1970s hippie trail across Asia was in its heyday, John Gillies and David Burlinson drove an overland truck into the Hindu Kush — word spread and they built three more trucks to take groups from London to Kathmandu. That spirit of adventure still informs Exodus trips and solo travellers are eligible to join, with the most popular destinations for singles including Vietnam , Sri Lanka and Costa Rica . They also provide Exodus Edits — bite-size, adventure-packed trips for people in their thirties and forties that are designed to eat into annual leave as little as possible and allow travellers to take multiple shorter trips in a year.

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4. explore.

Best for adventure Explore! is a trusted adventure travel company with tours in all seven continents spanning everything from cycling the Amalfi coast to jungle hikes in Jamaica . Roughly half of its customers travel solo, alongside a mix of couples or friends travelling together. The average group size is 12 and trips are graded from “relaxed”, with more free time, to “full on”, with less downtime. While solo travellers can join all tours, Explore! also provides exclusively solo traveller tours that are broken down into categories for those in their thirties, forties, fifties and sixties, as well as self-guided walking and cycling holidays that solos can undertake.

Best for 18-35s In the summer of 1962 New Zealander John Anderson began to organise tours of Europe out of his minivan and Contiki was born. The backpacking spirit is still alive and strong, with the company catering exclusively to 18 to 35-year-olds and visiting a list of destinations that spans six continents. Seventy per cent of their travellers join trips solo and there’s a strong emphasis on “social travel” — group sizes can range from anywhere between 12 and 52 people — to help people forge lasting friendships. As an added bonus, trips can be paid for in instalments and cancelled free of charge.

6. One Traveller

Best for mature travellers One Traveller is a family-run company that hosts holidays exclusively for mature single travellers, ranging in age from 50 to fit 80-year-olds. Group sizes are larger (on average around 25) and the company provides strong European and Asian offerings, as well as a handful of destinations further afield such as Japan , Chile and Morocco , plus ocean cruises and UK holidays. “Scenic” and “Relaxed” tours cater to those with lower fitness levels and most tours include Vox audio guides for those with a hearing impairment.

onetraveller.co.uk

7. Solos Holidays

Best for private rooms What started as golfing holidays for players whose partners didn’t want to join them has grown into tours for solo travellers on six continents. Holidays are organised by activity: from golf, skiing, tennis and treks to city breaks and cultural “discovery” tours that range from two nights to two weeks and are aimed mainly at travellers aged 40 and above. Unlike many operators, Solos ensure travellers always have sole use of either a single or double/twin room with no extra fees; there is no sharing of twins or single supplements.

solosholidays.co.uk

• Best golf hotels in Europe

8. Flashpack

Best for posh backpacking Married couple Radha Vyas and Lee Thompson founded Flashpack in 2014 after seeing a gap in the market between off-the-rack tours for single 20-year-olds and those aged 50-plus — they designed adventurous tours with a touch of luxury for travellers in their thirties and forties. Trips are classic itineraries interspersed with “can’t-do-it-by-yourself” experiences such as learning to make pastel de nata in Lisbon or canyoning through hidden caves in Slovenia . And with 80 per cent of “Flashpackers” keeping in touch after the trip, it’s great for making lasting friends.

flashpack.com

• Best destinations for solo female travellers

9. Rabbie’s

Best for the UK Although Rabbie’s has now started trips within Europe, Robin Worsnopp started his company in Scotland in 1993 with a single Sherpa van. Some trips — especially in the UK — are day trips but increasingly there are also longer versions. Most prices in the UK don’t include accommodation (although Rabbie’s can book hotels for their guests) and welcome children, while European overnight tours include hotels. What’s universal is Rabbie’s fleet of driver-guides and 16-seater minibuses that can head into offbeat and single-track territory with ease. The London to Edinburgh Adventure winds its way through Stratford-upon-Avon, Conwy in Wales , Whitby, the Lake District and the borderlands of Cumbria and Scotland .

rabbies.com

10. We Road

Best for budget For those in their twenties, thirties and forties, you’ll start getting to know your fellow travellers via WhatsApp two weeks before. Trips are divided into specific themes, including beaches, speedy trips and trekking — all with co-ordinators that you can message directly. At between eight and 15 people, group sizes are small. The “360” holidays aim to cover as much ground as possible (backpacks rather than suitcases are recommended). The Japan 360 trip ticks off all the main cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima and Osaka plus bamboo forests, bullet trains and the Buddhist temples of Kamakura.

weroad.co.uk

Additional reporting by Sarah Turner

• Best cruise lines for solo travellers • Best destinations for solo travellers

Take me there

Inspired to do some solo travelling, but yet to book your trip? Here are the best options with Jet2Holidays and Tui . Alternatively, try a solo tour with one of our preferred partners here .

Sign up for the Times Travel Newsletter here .

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Vacations For Single Parent Families: Going Solo With Kids 2024 Guide

Vacations for single parent families and becoming easier to do. You may be hesitant to undertake single parent travel, but just because you’ll be the only adult in the party doesn’t mean you have to forgo seeing that exotic beach or go skiing.  Going on  family vacations  as a single-parent family is entirely feasible – it may simply mean a little more preparation.

Hotels, resorts, cruises, and tours assume, as always, that a family simply means two adults and two or more kids. The rates and space are created based on this criterion that served all concerned quite nicely, till about a few decades ago.

Changes in the social scene and within the conventional family structure did not seem to warrant any serious changes in the travel business until more recently and solo parents are now more widely considered.

More and more families now consist of just one parent (single parents) and one or two kids. While they seem to be managing quite well on most fronts, it’s when it comes to travel, single parent families travel can seem challenging.

At the end of the day, single parents, probably more than anyone, need and deserve that amazing family vacation. As a parent, the one thing that has helped keep me sane is planning annual trips for my family. Taking the time to pick out a destination and book our tickets has made the whole family look forward to something special each year. You may have heard of the single supplement fee, which is often required for single occupancy in a room. But there are ways around this fee and it doesn’t have to mean that you are excluded from traveling on your own. I have found that family resorts can be the perfect solution for single parents. These resorts offer special packages and discounts that make the cost of travel more affordable,

Get all the information you need and plan well, and you should be able to pull off your next family holiday getaway without a hitch.  Here’s what you should know about single parents travel…..

Family Vacation Budget And Costs – What You Need To Know Upfront

When travelling as single parents, keep in mind that you’re not alone. Between  40 to 50 percent of marriages in the U.S. end in divorce, which means there are lots of other parents who know the struggle of planning for a vacation on their own. Here are some tips to help:

• You may want to set a budget first before deciding on your destination.  The closer you are to home, the less you’ll have to spend on airfare and transportation.
• If you are set on travelling far from home, try to choose a period that doesn’t coincide with the peak season.
• Try to book early so that you won’t be forced to settle for costly tickets, at least 3 months in advance is ideal.  If you’re lucky, you may even be able to avail of package deals and promotions – keep your eyes out for deals.
• Save up a little bit of money  every month so you’re not taking a big chunk out of your paycheck when the time comes to buy tickets or pay for gas. Every little bit helps.
• When you book all inclusive resorts – all your costs – lodging, meals, drinks, activities – are booked up front which makes budgeting easier.

These days, many families choose “all-inclusive resorts” vacations at resorts that cater especially to families.  These resorts have special rates that are cheaper than those at regular hotels when you book for a family.  

Family packages  may include suites that comfortably for one adult or sleep four or even six people, buffet meals and access to child-friendly facilities. However, some of these places base their charges on rates for two adults plus kids.

So even if they say that there’s a kid’s discount or that children below a certain age are free, if you’re single parents family they may charge one of your kids the adult rate just to get the minimum price for a family room.  Others will have you pay a “single’s supplement fee” that could be half the price of the adult rate or even more.

The key to spending less on your accommodations would be to find a resort that charges by the room instead of per person.  Read the advertised rates carefully and go for those that price “per room per night” rather than “per person per night.”

Single Parent Travel Ideas For an Inexpensive Vacation

Here are some simple travel ideas that will help you have an inexpensive, stress-free, and simply awesome vacation.

Explore Your Options

One of the biggest challenges of going on a holiday as a solo parents is the cost.  Vacations can be expensive, and it they are even more so when you have no one to split the costs with.  One of the simplest solutions is to steer clear of the regular tourist traps that tend to be more expensive and plan for a holiday that’s off the beaten track. 

Keep in mind that the people who live in all those exotic beach locales that you are eyeing in the glossy brochures are not millionaires, yet they enjoy the same soft white sand, balmy breezes, and crystal-clear water. 

Instead of booking a tour or a room at a popular resort, do some research on your own and see whether you can visit those tropical islands or that charming Asian city without paying tourist prices. 

This strategy is ideal with older children or teens that will be more self-sufficient and willing to go on an adventure.  This way, you will have a refreshingly different experience free of crass commercialism.

Consider House Rentals vs. Hotels

Are you planning a simple trip to a nearby lake or beach town?  If that is the case, you should look into renting a cottage instead of booking a room at a hotel.  That way, you will avoid the single supplement fee that you will often encounter when you reserve a family package that is meant for groups with two adults plus children. 

A cottage by the lake will be very charming, and it will also give you a greater degree of privacy.  You will even get to save some money on your meals.  Because these places come with kitchenettes, you will not have to eat out all the time.  And who knows?  You may even be able to interest your kids in learning to cook.

Best Rental Sites Similar To Airbnb:

• Best Overall:  VRBO
• Best for Quality Control:  Plum Guide
• Best for Big City Vacations:  Sonder
• Best for Hotel-Level Service:  Vacasa
• Best for Small House Renters:  Getaway House
• Best for Multi-Stop Trips and RVs:  Outdoorsy
• Best for a Splurge:  Marriot Homes & Villas
• Best for Combining with Car Rentals and Flights:  Priceline
• Best for Also Planning Activities:  TripAdvisor
• Best for Any Type of Lodging:  Booking.com
• Best for a Home on the Road:  RV Share

Travel with Another Family

This is one of the nicest solo parents travel ideas if you are on a budget.  Get in touch with other single moms and dads and get a rental.  You will be able to avail of larger discounts and savings as a big group, and your children will have companions that they can play with and perhaps develop lasting friendships with in their own club in the future.

These family friendly, travel ideas should help you to have fun and enjoy the benefits of travel without spending more on your vacation than you can afford.

Where To Go – What Are The Best Vacations For Single Parent Families? 

If you’ve got more time and money to spend on your family vacation, you can choose to go overseas and maximize all the logistics benefits of travel.  Bear in mind however that you’ll also have many more details to attend to, such as negotiating a language barrier and getting all the pertinent travel documents together.

When travelling as single parents with younger children, you might want to make it easier on yourself by choosing a place that you’re familiar with, or at least one where all the accustomed conveniences are within easy reach.  For instance, you may want to save that backpacking trip to a third world country for when you’re alone or when your kids are in their late teens or twenties.

Family vacations are made more pleasant when you’re at a destination that acknowledges and supports your status. Increasingly hotels and resorts provide thoughtful extras to make single parents feel welcome and enjoy their stay.

Be flexible about your vacation options.  You can have as much fun in the next state as you would halfway around the world.  After all, what’s important is that you and your kids can enjoy some time together. 

Popular vacation destinations include the beaches of  Florida ,  Virginia Beach ,  Mexico  or the  Caribbean .  You can also head up to a lakeside resort in the mountains.  If you like, you can even head to  Europe  or all the way to Australia and  New Zealand .

From the Florida coast to the Caribbean, there are dozens of places that you could visit with your kids.  Here are some ideas on where kids stay and what to do on single parent vacations.

Visit a theme park

Theme parks are some of the most kid-friendly places in the world.  They’re great if you can’t really spend an extended period on vacation either because you have to get back to work, your budget is limited, or you’re having trouble with logistics. 

Theme parks concentrate a lot of fun and activity into a single place, and the problem you might have will be choosing what attractions to visit from among so many.  To make the most of your time, plan ahead and involve your children in the process – ask them what they want to see and do, and come to an agreement with them.

Enjoy a national park

As a parent, you may not have a very big vacation budget.  But don’t worry – some of the most enjoyable experiences are relatively cheap.  If you have sturdy, school-age children, all you may need is the price of admission to one of our beautiful natural parks. 

Places like the Grand Canyon are awe-inspiring and can provide a lifetime’s worth of memories. You can always enjoy a hike and include a picnic or some bird-watching.

Take a Hike! The Best Hiking Trails Washington State for Families

Go to the beach

Beach vacations are great for everyone.  You’ll have the luxury of relaxing on soft white sand and listening to the waves lapping against the shore, while your children will be able to swim, make sandcastles, or explore tide pools.  You’ll also enjoy watching people on the boardwalk and going souvenir shopping. 

Just make sure that the beach you visit has adequate facilities such as rest rooms and life guards.

Focus on Outdoor Activities

Plan your family trips and vacations around getting physical.  Most kids today spend too much time indoors, occupied with video games or computers. 

They’ll probably welcome the chance to play some good, old-fashioned sports.  Take them to the Caribbean where they can snorkel or dive, or to local beaches where they can play beach volleyball or football.  In the colder months, you can try skiing or snowboarding.

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Where To Stay With Children When Traveling as Solo Parents

As we mentioned before, single parent travel is often plagued by accommodation issues. Hotel prices are calculated based on two adults sharing the room, with kids who normally get to stay free or on reduced rates.

When a single parents with a child comes along, they still charge double occupancy, which means the parent winds up paying for another adult and forfeits the child rates. For those travelling on a tight budget, this might throw a hammer in the works. Package tours might not be competitive for the same reason.

This issue can be solved if when on a single parent vacation, you check for accommodations that charge per person per night, or per room regardless of number of occupants. Find out beforehand about single supplement factors where hotels charge a single adult anywhere between 50 – 100 % extra.

Off season is perfect for single parents travel for that’s when you can take advantage of offers and discounted rates. Using Airbnb and  VRBO  for rentals is another option. Often the spaces will be larger and with a kitchen so some meals can be made at the rental – laundry is often another plus.

Look for places that are advertised as family resorts.  In addition to the rates geared towards the special needs of family groups, you’ll find that these places are simply more suitable to travelers with children . 

To begin with, they’re likely to have large rooms or suites with two large beds or provide roll-out beds for a fee.  Some resorts even have suites and villas with living areas, kitchenettes and separate master bedrooms and children’s rooms.

Besides the accommodations, the food at these resorts – especially all inclusive resorts where all meals are included – are also more likely to appeal to your children.  You’ll find this a relief if your kids are picky eaters and not inclined to sample local cuisine. 

For instance, at some hotels there are kids’ corners at the buffet with macaroni-and-cheese, burgers, and pizza or a special kids’ menu with similar fare for room service and in-house restaurants.  Some may also have snack bars or ice cream parlors that appeal to your little ones’ tastes.

Another great thing about these resorts are the amenities that will help keep your children safe and occupied while you get a bit of time off to relax.  Look for a place that has a kids clubs or child minding services. 

A nanny or child-minder to watch out for your younger kids will be a big help.  Meanwhile, older kids will appreciate places with arcades,  water parks , playgrounds and  teens’ lounges

Recommended Resorts for Single parents families

Holiday Inn in Orlando offers the Nickelodeon Family Suites just minutes away from  Disney World . An incredible four story water tower in a fabulous water theme park equipped with life guards, character themed bedrooms and more take good care of kids from toddlers to teens, while you get some quality you time.

Franklyn D. Resort, Jamaica

The  Franklyn D. Resort  in Jamaica offers a full time nanny as part of a all inclusive resorts package, leaving you to enjoy your Caribbean vacation. This resort has something for everyone from snorkeling to parasailing and the perfect beach setting.

The kids clubs are perfect for families as parents can relax knowing their children are in good hands with plenty of activities to keep them busy. With a variety of accommodation available, Franklyn D Resort offers great value for money.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet romantic getaway or an action-packed family holiday, this is the place to visit. And with its stunning Caribbean views and tranquil atmosphere, you’ll never want to leave!

Atlantis Bahamas

The  Atlantis in Bahamas  has joined hands with Johnson & Johnson to offer a Gentle Travel Kit and other services for babies and toddlers. All baby needs from pacifiers to cribs, lullaby CDs, and trained babysitters are available within minutes of your call on family vacations here.

This is the perfect destination to take your family on a beach vacation. With its picturesque beaches, crystal clear waters and world-class entertainment, you’ll be sure to make unforgettable memories. The resort also offers plenty of fun activities for kids such as swimming with dolphins, going deep sea fishing or spending time at the water park and kids clubs.

Beaches Resort

Beaches Resorts are a popular all inclusive resorts and destinations among single parents. The resort features a 12-mile beach with clear turquoise waters and a variety of activities for all ages, including Sesame Street® characters, the Xbox Play Lounge, and a teenage disco called Club Liquid. All of these amenities are located on some of the world’s top beaches.

Your kids can enjoy fun and sunshine and the kids clubs while you indulge in a 5-star dining experience at one of the 19 restaurants. There are also 15 bars for a nightcap or colorful cocktail. You can pamper yourself at the Red Lane Spa.

If you’re into sports, try scuba-diving or other water-sports, play a round of golf or tennis, and even participate in a basketball tournament to meet other families. There is lots for the whole family to have an enjoyable experience.

Find Deals For Beaches Family Resorts

Get up to  65% off at Beaches  Family Resorts and the Best Caribbean resorts for kids of all ages

Nickelodeon Punta Cana

If you have young kids, we recommend Nickelodeon Hotels, specifically the recently opened Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana . This resort brand is excellent at offering amenities and services for babies and toddlers, plus their kids club is outstanding, with supervised activities and the unique Nickelodeon Experience™ (which includes breakfast with Spongebob).

Your children will have lots of fun at Aqua Nick with its water slides, splash pads, spray grounds, and lazy river, as well as at Character Central where they can meet their favorite Nickelodeon characters like SpongeBob, Dora the Explorer, and the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

This will give you some time to relax and enjoy the beach, spa, or some quiet time designated for adults. Additionally, since the “Nick” is a large resort, there is a higher chance of meeting other single parents.

Moon Palace, Cancun Mexico

The Moon Palace in Cancun offers great amenities for kids. The Playroom has numerous game rooms, an area for aspiring models to dress up and have their hair done, a dollhouse section, an arcade, two playgrounds, a pirate boat, a sandbox, and a miniature soccer field. There’s also a creativity area available for children to explore their artistic side.

The FlowRider™ is a popular attraction that will test your balancing and surfing abilities, leaving you tired by the end of the If you’re looking for some relaxation, you can visit the tranquil Spa, or join in on the various themed parties, music nights, and other activities to potentially make new friends. As a large resort, there’s a good chance that you’ll come across other single parents on vacation.

Some Helpful Single Parent Travel Tips

Travelling as the only adult/solo parents with a couple of kids can be a real challenge, so some single parent travel tips should come in useful if you want to go on vacation as a single parent family.  Here are some of the things you should keep in mind:

1. Make a plan and stick to it.

It’s important to have an itinerary before you set off on your family travel so that everyone knows what they need to do and when they’re expected to be at each point in the journey. This plan should also include any activities or attractions that may be of interest to the kids.

2. Get organized before you go.

Make sure that you have all the necessary documents for your family trip and items packed, such as passports and tickets. Keep these in a safe place that’s easily accessible so that if anything goes wrong or gets lost during your travels, you can quickly get back on track.

3. Pack light

It may be cute to get your toddler his own tiny stroller bag that he can pull around behind him, but it will be next to useless and will only become one other piece of luggage that you’ll have to carry around. 

Make sure that you only have one piece of large luggage per person with you so that you can move easily. It will also help you to get through customs faster. If you’re travelling with a baby or a toddler, keep in mind that you’ll also have to bring a car seat and a stroller with you and plan accordingly.

4. Bring along a few activities or toys for the kids to do during downtime.

This will help keep them occupied and entertained while you’re travelling. You can also use these to distract them if you’re stuck in traffic or have a long layover.

5. Allow yourself some time to relax and enjoy your vacation as well.

Being a single parent can be stressful, so try to schedule in some breaks for just you where you can unwind and recharge after all the planning and organizing.

6. Prepare your children’s travel documents

If you’re travelling out of the country, you’ll need to get passports for your kids. Some countries also require a visa or your kids’ birth certificates. When applying for a passport, take note that the other parent’s signature is needed on the papers unless you have sole custody or only your name appears on the birth certificate.

7. Watch out for fun activities, and inexpensive activities

Lots of single parents are on a budget, so one of the best single parent travel tips you could get is to look for activities that cost little but are a lot of fun. Try to put yourself in your children’s shoes and you’ll discover that you don’t have to spend too much to make them happy. Take a train instead of a taxi, and visit public park facilities like parks, museums, and zoos.

8. Stay safe

Any parent knows that an eagle eye is required to watch out for kids. If you have more than one in tow, this could be a challenge. Encourage a buddy system, or have older siblings watch out for the little ones. Make sure your children know what to do in case they get lost.

9. Take your time

Being single parents can be stressful, especially when travelling with children. Make sure that you allow yourself enough time to get from one destination to another and to take breaks during the journey. And don’t forget to have fun with your kids too! Enjoy the travel experience – it could be an unforgettable adventure for everyone. 

Required Travel Documents For Single Parents 

Another important thing to remember when on a single parent travel out of your country of residence is to get written permission from the absent parent to take the child out of the country. Getting your kids’ papers in order is essential during single parent travel. 

You want to go smoothly through customs and inspections, so if you’re going out of the country do make sure that you and your children have passports, visas, birth certificates and other papers ready.  You’ll need to get the second parent’s signature on your kids’ passport applications unless you have sole custody of the child or that parent’s name does not appear on the birth certificate.

Can a child travel with only one parent? That depends, different rules apply to different places. Ensure you’re familiar with the law of the land and keep all paper work handy and ship shape. Same goes for travel papers such as passports, visas, immunizations, hotel confirmations, itinerary printouts, ticket printouts and any others that may apply.

Single Parent Travel Consent Form

Safety Considerations For Family Vacations as Solo parents

You’ll need to be  extra vigilant when travelling  as a solo parent, if only because you may be the only adult in your group.  Be sure to read up on your destination of choice so that you’re aware of the closest police outposts and hospitals.  Make sure that other people are informed of your itinerary.  Keep your phone charged at all times and keep some prepaid call cards handy.

Make sure that your children know what to do if they should become separated from you.  Make sure they carry copies of important phone numbers – your own, the hotel’s, and police or medical services.

In conclusion, whether you are a single mom or single dad, vacationing as a solo parent can be done safely and with a lot of fun. With just a bit of extra planning and caution, you can be sure that your family vacations are safe and enjoyable.

Don’t be daunted by single parents attractions available in your destination.  Plan your vacation well and be informed and you and your kids should be all set to have a good time – vacations for single parent families will give your kids memories for a lifetime.

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Check out these domestic and international vacation ideas for single-parent families.

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Photo By: Intrepid Travel

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Photo By: Mount Cinnamon Resort

Most travel companies offer itineraries that are designed for families or solo travelers. But in recent years there has been a rising demand for travel packages that are created for single parents with children. There are now various travel agencies and resorts that offer specialized tours for the single mom or dad traveling with children and Intrepid Travel is one of the first to offer international travel packages to such far away destinations as India. The latter tour includes such sights as the "Pink City" of Jaipur, the Taj Mahal and the Ranthambhore National Park.

Another exotic excursion that Intrepid Travel offers is a solo parent tour of Egypt that includes cruising the Nile in a Felucca, snorkeling amid the coral reefs of the Red Sea, exploring the pyramids or taking the overnight train from Cairo to Aswan.

Rocking Horse Ranch

Another travel agency that caters to single parents is Single Parent Travel which often offers trip outside the U.S. to destinations such as Peru and Guatemala. They also feature vacation packages inside the U.S. to such popular family resorts as Rocking Horse Ranch in Highland, New York. In addition to horseback riding activities, the resort also offers outdoor water sports like mountain tubing (pictured), rock climbing, bungee jumping and other fun family activities. And for single moms and dads looking for cruise vacations for their family, companies like MSC Cruises offer specific destination cruises around the world.

One of the most biologically diverse countries in the world, Costa Rica is an ideal destination for single parents with active children that enjoy outdoor activities. Intrepid Travel offers an itinerary that includes whitewater rafting, hiking through dense rainforests, relaxing in thermal springs or swimming in the shadow of an active volcano.

For those wanting to experience Northern Africa , Intrepid Travel offers a comprehensive eight day excursion through Morocco which includes visiting the bustling city of picturesque Marrakech, a journey into the Atlas Mountains, camel rides across sand dunes and the rich multi-cultural city of Essaouira on the Atlantic coast.

G Adventures is a specialist in small group touring and single parents with their kids are accommodated in several of their international travel packages such as their China trip, a 14-day tour from Beijing to Hong Kong. Highlights include the Forbidden City, the Temple of Heaven, the Great Wall of China, the rugged beauty of rural Yangshuo and the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an.

Beginning with Quito, Ecuador as a departure point, G Adventures’ Galapagos family package is a good fit for parents with children as young as six years old. It is part of their Jane Goodall Collection of tours that promote animal welfare and some of the adventures include seeing giant tortoises in the wild, kayaking at Tortuga Bay, swimming at Loberia beach and a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station on Santa Cruz Island.

Japan, China and India have always been popular Asia destinations but Vietnam is an equally attractive alternative and G Adventures offers a 12-day excursion that combines culture, nature, culinary delights and outdoor activities. Some of the highlights include a cruise along Halong Bay, a guided cyclo tour of Hanoi, a visit to the Royal Tombs and Tien Mu Pagoda in Hue and an exploration of Luon cave.

For those who want to experience a UNESCO World Heritage Site with their children, G Adventures’ nine day Peru experience is a fun option that brings travelers to the magnificent ruins of Machu Picchu, an ancient Incan citadel situated high in the Andes Mountains. Other highlights include a journey into the Amazon rainforest and the Tambopata National Reserve led by experts in the local flora and fauna.

Mount Cinnamon Resort

Single parents with children looking for a vacation getaway that only involves one location and minimum travel should investigate resort packages in desirable destinations such as Mount Cinnamon Resort in Grenada . This seaside Caribbean resort offers a seven-night family package with full access to pristine beaches and water sport activities, yoga classes, natural sulphur springs, picturesque waterfalls and other eco-offerings.

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India Tours for Solo / Single Travelers

250+ india tours for singles / solo travelers with 12,296 reviews.

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Golden Triangle

Jam packed days and nights experiencing the REAL INDIA , from the backstreets of Delhi to the mesmerising Taj Mahal . Abi , a wonderful story teller , took us back in time with his vast knowledge of local history and passion for his country .

India's Top Selling Golden Triangle India Tour w/ Meals and Sunrise Taj Mahal

Great tour , tour guides are excellent learned a lot about the Golden triangle. Our driver Mr Pushpendra who was with us for the whole tour was great, on time pick up and drove us safely to and from the hotels and back to the airport. I would highly recommend this tour for first timers in India specially if you wanted to learn about culture and history

Taj Mahal and Wildlife with Royal Stay at Castles

Had a wonderful time on the tour. Enjoyed every second of it. I highly recommend this tour to other travellers.

Golden Triangle Tour with Varanasi

Excellent experience. The team was well organized and had great communication throughout the trip. The guides were well educated and knowledgeable on all our site visits and very skilled drivers. The accommodations were incredible with very helpful and friendly staff. Highlighted by seeing the Dali llama in Bodhgaya, a wonderful random coincidence!

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.
• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

India's Golden Triangle

This tour provided good insight into the history, culture and religion in India. For a first timer in India, the country was as intense and as wonderful as I expected. My guide Mohsin was calm, collected and informative- he gave us a lot of information into the history of Mughal empires, palaces, and Indian traditions. I went travelling by myself for the first time and felt really safe with Intrepid. I really enjoyed visiting Jaipur in particular and the experience of watching a Bollywood film. I would recommend this tour for anyone who wants an initial taste of India without the hassle of organising everything by themselves.

5 Days Private Golden Triangle India tour from New Delhi

Fabulous selections of sights to see each day. We upgraded one step for hotels and all had great rooms n staff. Super food buffets n dinners selection for on our own were great. Most guides were very formative and helpful. Our driver Danish really made the trip enjoyable. We would go on another TourRadar in the future.

Uncover India: High Deserts & Markets

Our guide Adi was amazing and showed us the best of India.

Indian Getaway

We enjoyed the cities we visited, even though Varanasi was flooded and we arrived super late to Agra. The heritage stay was nice and the optional tour added a great amount to understanding the area.

Golden Triangle Tour With Ranthambore

All in all, an insanely amazing trip. First and foremost, a big shoutout to our driver who was always polite and attentive, demonstrating a very high level of driving skills in this crazy traffic. We felt safe throughout. The organization was also very good. Both the hotels and guides were very friendly, and everything was straightforward. We were among the lucky ones who had the chance to see three tigers, but we also knew not to be disappointed if it didn't happen as it's quite rare. The only criticism concerns the restaurants where you are "dumped" for lunch during long car rides, for example from Delhi to Jaipur. These places, in terms of cleanliness and food quality, border on outrageousness, and you feel ripped off.

Taj Mahal, Tiger and Pink City

The trip was absolutely amazing experience. you get to experience true beauty of India. The tour almost covered everything to do in the cities and some great local experience like walking tours, local home visit for cultural experience. Our driver Ramesh was very friendly. We always felt safe with our driver and the guides. Truly an unmissable experience, everything was perfect.

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Super Saver: India Golden Triangle Tour - 6 Days

All services has been done perfectly we are glad that Amazing India Tours did complete the promise which is done to us that made truly professional company

Best of Southern India

The tour was fantastic, Prem was an awesome CEO. Very knowledgeable, super funny and extremely friendly and helpful. I'd give him 10/10 for making the trip so special.

Classic Rajasthan

Excellent had a great time

India Golden Triangle Tour - 6 Days - All Inclusive

Best experience of India tour we are happy with all services and liked our driver Deepak a lot

Explore Golden Triangle

The tour is excellent and covers a lot of attactions. Driver is kind, warm and very professional. Hotel is basic but clean. Dinner with the local family is a wonderful experience and the sunrise tour of Taj Mahal is magnificent. The Delhi guide does rush through many attractions and not following itinerary, but the Agra and Jaipur guides are amazing. One other suggestion I have is to include the monument entry fees as this would create less hassle at each entry. Would recommend this tour company.

What people love about India Solo Tours

Although I LOVED everything about this trip, I have to say that the experience was 10 times enhanced by our amazing CEO, Manvendra. He went above and beyond and truly made this the trip of a lifetime

Amazing trip with everything running smoothly. Hotels were all good. We had different your guides at each location and they were all excellent. We felt safe being driven by our driver Kan. I were would highly recommend this tour. Very good value.

The tour went above and beyond my expectations. My driver and hotels were excellent.

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Single parent holiday inspiration

Family fun & stress free adventures

We know that families come in all different shapes, sizes and travelling styles. We’ll take you on a family holiday you and the kids will never forget, with enriching experiences, local connections, and family-friendly stays.

Everything taken care of

Travelling as a family can be one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll ever have together - but it can also be stressful, especially if you’re planning it solo. Instead of worrying about the logistics, we’ll take care of it all, including memorable stays like a 13th-century castle in Wales or a real 1800s Montana homestead to relieve the days of the Wild West.

Experiences they’ll never forgetss cruising

Watch your kids light up with the joy of travel with our unforgettable experiences. Swim in the hot springs of a volcanic island in Santorini, cruise through the lagoons of Costa Rica in search of sloths, turtles and toucans, or become a medieval archer at the ‘Winterfell Castle Archery Range' movie set for a behind-the-scenes look into Game of Thrones.  ( Image courtesy of TourismNI )

Fun for everyone

Our single parent travel packages are designed to keep everyone happy, with experiences that will entertain both kids and adults, like riding an Old West train to the spectacular Grand Canyon, visiting Platform 9¾ and Harry Potter's house in England, snorkelling the coral reefs of the Greek Islands, or tucking into real Italian gelato in Florence.

All you need to know about Single Parent Holidays

Where do single parents go on a holiday.

The best destinations to travel for a single parent holiday are places that are fun for all ages. We love Britain and Ireland where you can dose up on history plus get involved with fun interactive experiences. We also go to Costa Rica for its incredible natural adventures, Greece for its amazing island hopping and the USA for its exciting national parks.

Are there tours for single parent holidays with teenagers?

There are plenty of trips single parents can take with their teenagers. Older kids will love ziplining down the volcanoes of Costa Rica, exploring exciting cities like Paris and Rome, wakeboarding and kayaking on Lake Powell in the USA, and discovering world wonders like the Grand Canyon in the USA.

What are some tips for single parents during vacations?

Our top tip for your single parent holiday is to choose a trip that has a range of activities to suit everyone. While mum or dad can treat themselves to a cabaret show with dinner and wine in Paris, the kids will love learning to make real Italian pizza in Rome or painting their own Venetian masks in Venice!

How to plan single parent adventure holidays?

Start planning your single parent family holiday by getting together with your kids and choosing your dream destination to suit everyone. Check out our single parent holidays and family trips for inspiration, then all you have to do is pick your favourite Trafalgar trip, book your flights, pack your bags, and you’re on your way!

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I'm a working mom who enjoys solo travel. I've learned how to keep myself from spiraling into mom guilt while I'm away.

• I'm  a working mom who incorporates solo trips into my business travel.
• I love traveling as a family, but, at times, I miss the spontaneity and flexibility of solo travel.
• To minimize mom guilt, I speak with my son about trips before leaving and ensure his schedule stays the same.

My 6-year-old looked at me as I stood by the door, suitcase in hand, before leaving home for a weeklong business trip to the other side of the world. He walked over, held my hand, and said, "Why are you going away for so long? I'm going to miss you a billion trillion times."

My heart skipped a beat, and my not-so-new best friend, "mom guilt," walked through the door. I felt like it would stay with me for the entire trip. Still, I gave my son a big hug and walked out the door.

I have always enjoyed exploring new places. The thought of boarding a flight brings a big smile to my face. Unlike many people who hate the idea of work travel, I enjoy it. I love checking into a hotel, going to the gym or taking a dip in the pool, grabbing a local coffee on my way to work, going for walking meetings , and exploring the city.

My husband is also an enthusiastic traveler, and together, we have explored the world far and wide. Since my son was born, we've focused on getting him used to traveling. We took him on a 10-hour flight when he was 4 months old, took 30 flights before he turned 2 , and have taken him to nearly 20 countries. It's already clear that the travel bug has bitten him too.

But while traveling with children is fun, I missed the spontaneity and the flexibility of solo travel . You can stay wherever you want, eat what you like, and explore the city without worrying about pushing a stroller, managing bedtimes, or keeping a close watch on your child in an overcrowded area. I also loved how I could sleep past 6 a.m.

A packed working-parent schedule doesn't allow for many solo travel opportunities, but work trips are my way of relishing in something I enjoy.

Moms need to stop feeling guilty

Working moms have long suffered the guilt of not being able to spend enough time with their children. A study conducted by the British Psychological Society in 2022 found that gender stereotypes can predict the levels of guilt that working parents feel, with working mothers feeling higher levels of guilt compared to working fathers.

Another study, conducted by Pew Research in 2015 , showed that children's academic and emotional well-being is not contingent on the time they spend with their mothers.

As a working parent who loves to travel, the feeling is all too familiar. The guilt gets exacerbated when friends and family often look at me with surprise and ask how my child is managing without me. No one asks me that question when my husband is away on business — but that's another conversation for another essay.

I decided to give my guilt structure

After adding more extra days on business trips, I realized how liberating it was to travel alone.

I first tried solo travel while planning a business trip a few years ago. After a week of meetings in New York, I stayed for an extra night and treated myself to a glass of wine at the One World Observatory in downtown Manhattan. I just sat there, swirling my glass and watching the world go by. The sense of calmness was a feeling I rarely find as a working mom, and I loved it.

Related stories

Over the years, I've stopped by the Great Wall on a trip to China, popped into the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, and spent a weekend exploring Angkor Wat, a temple in Cambodia, after a week of meetings in Singapore.

I have learned to handle and even bounce back from my mom guilt spirals.

Here are some steps that helped me deal with the guilt.

1. Lean on your partner or family for support

I can't help but think of the phrase, "It takes a village to raise a child." It does.

Lean on your partner — or friends and family — for support while you are away. They can help you stay connected with your children, reason if your child is upset, and help you be an important part of your child's schedule even when you are in a different time zone.

2. Talk about your travel with your child

Let your child know how excited you are about an adventure. Before you hop on the plane, show them pictures or YouTube videos of where you are traveling.

My son knows how much my husband and I love traveling and is very engaged when I talk to him ahead of a solo trip. We talk about the city, the stories behind it, the food, and the people — and he even requests what souvenirs to bring back.

For example, before my trip to China last year, my son and I discussed the Great Wall and how it was built. He was fascinated and asked me to send him pictures throughout the trip, which helped ease my guilt.

3. Follow your child's schedule

I've found that my son feels more confident and comfortable when his day is predictable and familiar. Ensure that whoever is looking after your child follows their set routine; children thrive in a routine .

Identify the times during the day when they need you the most and plug into their daily routine with Facetime and video calls. It may not be the same as being there in person, but it likely makes them feel comfortable knowing you're just a phone call away.

Time zones can make coordinating schedules tricky — bedtime can come when I'm in the middle of a meeting — so I schedule voice notes, pictures, and videos. I'll even send my husband detailed voice notes to play to our son before he goes to sleep. The bonus is I wake up to some adorable voice notes that are a great start to the day.

4. Walk the guilt away

Despite doing all of the above, the guilt still sneaks in occasionally. So I immediately go out for a quick walk to clear my head .

I remind myself this may feel tough, but I am teaching my son the importance of leaning into your interests and passions. I am also teaching him that his parents may travel for work, but he'll always have a support system back at home.

It's not easy, and sometimes it feels like moving mountains, but the thrill of exploring a new place and the tiny cuddles at the end of the trip make the journey worthwhile.

Watch: Why one mother fled Texas to keep her child safe

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Why choose Intrepid

Just for families

The clue’s in the title. These trips are for single parent families only (including any aunts, uncles or cousins who’d like to come along, of course). As long as you’re travelling with a child under the age of 18, you’re a family in our eyes. Plus, unlike other travel companies, children aged 17 years and younger receive a 10% discount off the price of their trip.

Travel with other families

Travelling the Intrepid way is a bit like travelling with a group of friends. Made up of 3-5 like-minded families, the kids tend to hit it off on these trips straight away, allowing you to enjoy some well-earned R&R. We often find the whole family ends up making friendships with people from all over the world, staying in touch long after the adventure ends.

Small group sizes

Intrepid’s family group sizes are small enough to avoid the crowds and reach some out-of-the-way places, but big enough for a good social mix. Our average group size of 10 allows us to hop aboard local boats, buses or trains, eat at friendly, family-run restaurants and kick back in traditional accommodation and homestays.

Action packed

We know the biggest challenge on a family trip is keeping the kids entertained. So we’ve planned in advance. Nearly all of our hotels feature pools, and each day has a great mix of action-packed adventure and flexible free time. Your local leader can also suggest activities based on your kid’s hobbies or school curriculum.

Safety first

Our leaders are specially trained to run family adventures, so you’re well taken care of. You can also rest easy knowing we conduct safety assessments on all our activities to meet local standards as well as our own comprehensive safety policy. 

Responsible travel

The world’s an amazing place and we want to do our bit to keep it that way. That’s why we choose to travel responsibly, giving back to the communities we visit and helping to create a sustainable world for our children. For us, it’s also about educating the next generation of responsible travellers. 

Atlas Mountains, Morocco

Discover the joys of the High Atlas on a trek through scenic Berber villages, spending a night in a traditional Berber homestay. It’s a chance to discover the culture and tradition of an indigenous population who have stood the test of time. And to go downhill mountain biking, naturally.

Nubian village, Aswan, Egypt

Jump on a felucca and sail across the Nile to a Nubian village, where you'll share dinner with a local family. This is a great way to immerse your family in a different culture and learn about another way of life

Ranthambhore National Park, India

It’s one of the premier national parks of India, a place where nature reigns supreme. A game drive in Ranthambhore just might reveal a Bengal tiger stalking among the ruined forts and temples; in this jungle they can be spotted even during the day.

Where we stay

We put a lot of care in choosing the accommodation we stay in, avoiding the big chain hotels in favour of locally-run establishments offering a unique experience. Whether it's a former palace in India or an extravagant riad in Morocco, we choose good quality operators where most rooms will feature ensuites and air conditioning is standard. Wherever possible we pick hotels that provide triple or quad rooms and always try and offer conjoining rooms when they are available. 

Learn more about our accommodation

17th Century Palace - India

Spend a night at one of Rajasthan's breathtaking 17th Century palaces. With its grand courtyards, colourful dining arcades and heritage rooms, the accommodation alone stands out as one of the highlights of the trip. Get to know the other parents over a game of billiards or kick back in the opulent surrounds while the kids take to the pool.

Mountain gite - Morocco

Spend the night in a family-run mountain home in Aroumd, perched on a rocky outcrop with stunning views across the High Atlas Mountains. Surrounded by the smell of woodstoves and bread, this is a unique opportunity to experience traditional Berber culture.

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How to Fly Your Kid Solo, Free of Stress

By Alexander Nazaryan

For many parents and guardians, putting a child on a flight alone may seem terrifying. Belligerent passengers, delays, turbulence: All loom large in a caregiver’s imagination.

Life sometimes leaves no other option. Hudson Crites , 17, of Marshall, Va., was 10 when he started flying unaccompanied to visit his father in Kansas and later Georgia, said his mother, Chelsea Tippett. But the extra attention from airline staff made Hudson “feel special,” Ms. Tippett recalls. Other than a single tarmac delay, he has had no problems.

On rare occasions, children have had troubling experiences. In December, Spirit Airlines accidentally flew a 6-year-old to Orlando, Fla., instead of the intended destination of Fort Myers. Spirit apologized, fired the gate agent responsible and offered reimbursement to the boy’s grandmother for her travel to Orlando. But while the boy was unharmed, his grandmother expressed worry that he had been kidnapped .

If you decide to fly your child unaccompanied, you’ll discover that each airline has its own procedures, fees and routes open to children. While some may find the process complicated, flying alone may be exciting for your child, instilling some independence. Here’s what you need to know.

Before you book, know the process

Regardless of the airline or route, flying an unaccompanied minor differs from an adult or a family catching a flight. Airlines require a trusted pre-authorized adult to be at the departure and arrival gates, and will ask you at booking to provide contact information for those adults. They will also need to present identification at the terminals.

The journey begins at the originating airport’s airline ticket counter. There, airline staff will check your identification and check in the child, perhaps handing them a lanyard or wristband to wear. The agents will provide you with a pass to get through security with your child. You will accompany them to the gate, where you will hand them off to a gate agent. You must stay at the gate until the plane takes off.

In the air, the flight crew will keep watch — but will not babysit, or sit with, your child. If the flight has a connection, a crew member will walk your child off the plane and a gate agent will take him or her to the next gate.

At the arrival airport, the child will be handed off by staff to the authorized guardian or parent who should have already checked in at the ticket counter with proper identification, gone through security with their gate pass and be waiting at the gate.

To learn more about this process, read the Department of Transportation’s online guide, “When Kids Fly Alone,” followed by the website of your selected carrier.

Choosing an airline and paying an extra fee

Before purchasing a ticket, experts advise you to consider an airline’s on-time performance. “Solid on-time performance is hard-earned, and signals a carrier that has tight control of its operation,” said the Ask the Pilot author, Patrick Smith. The Bureau of Transportation Statistics has those numbers.

Booking procedures vary. Delta Air Lines and American Airlines require you to call. United Airlines allows bookings online. JetBlue Airways does online bookings, too, but asks for three printed copies of its forms upon arrival at the airport.

International flights may call for a notarized consent letter describing where the child is traveling, with whom they’ll stay and how long they’ll be there.

On top of the ticket fare, flying an unaccompanied minor can be pricey.

Southwest Airlines charges $100 one way for each child, regardless of distance. Alaska Airlines charges $50 per child if the flight is nonstop; a connection adds $25. On Delta, one $150 fee will cover up to four children, and American’s $150 covers all siblings, with no cap on number. United charges $150 for one child, or two children flying together.

Restrictions: There are plenty

U.S. carriers allow children to fly as unaccompanied minors once they turn 5 and before they turn 18. But regardless of your child’s age, make sure he or she is ready by discussing the trip details and your expectations of their behavior. No policy can replace your judgment.

The low-cost carriers Frontier Airlines and Allegiant Air don’t allow unaccompanied minors, Other airlines have restrictions that, in the broadest terms, differentiate between young children and teenagers. American and Delta restrict children under 8 from routes requiring connections. Both airlines allow children between 8 and 14 to take some connecting flights.

On American, no unaccompanied minor is allowed to take an overnight flight requiring a connection, or a flight that includes a connection on its final leg that also happens to be the last such flight that day (“unless it’s the only flight,” the company adds). Minors are not allowed on code-share flights.

United and Delta have similar rules. Southwest, JetBlue and Spirit don’t allow unaccompanied minors on connecting flights.

JetBlue prohibits minors from flying to Europe, and limits the number of unaccompanied minors in one party to three. Spirit does not allow children on flights to Central or South America. Southwest doesn’t allow children on any international flights. American, United and Delta let minors fly abroad, but restrictions on connections, code-shares and overnights limit options.

American and Delta allow children to opt out of flying as unaccompanied minors once they turn 15 — that is, the child can fly without the assistance of airline personnel. JetBlue ends unaccompanied minor service at 14, while Alaska has an opt-out option at 13. Southwest boasts the lowest opt-out age: 12.

However, you should be able to accompany your child to the gate even if they’re not flying unaccompanied. American requires that you do so for teens between the ages of 15 and 17, even if they’ve opted out.

What to pack

Have a plan to head off your child’s hunger, boredom and thirst. If they are older, make sure they have emergency money and a charged phone.

When her two daughters, then 9 and 11, flew to Denver, Joey Conover of Charlottesville, Va., had a long list for their carry-ons.

“Pack a backpack with iPad, headphones, lightweight book to read, a pad of paper and colored pencils (markers might smear), a small travel game, water bottle (bring empty and fill in airport), snacks, some kind of surprise fidget or animals to play with, hoodie, and a lovey,” she wrote in an email.

“Write your name and phone number on the inside of their arm in Sharpie and put a parent’s business card in a luggage tag on both suitcase and backpack,” Ms. Conover said. (A sheet of paper with all their identification, and their guardian’s contact information, also works. Simply stick in an easy-to-access pocket.)

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

How a group tour changed my whole approach to travel

I 've always considered myself a fiercely independent traveler. I've navigated more than 50 countries on my own, and while I have sometimes booked short excursions, usually for a day, it had never occurred to me to book a group tour. That changed when I decided to take two of my children on a family tour with Intrepid Travel . 

I had planned on spending our winter break in the Middle East but changed my mind at the last minute due to safety concerns . Because of the abrupt change, I knew I wouldn't have time to plan an itinerary, book hotels and arrange transportation before our departure date. However, I didn’t want to let that stop me from having an adventure. I'm glad I took a chance on a group tour because it changed the way I travel. Here's how.

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The trip planning was stress-free

I spent a little time comparing tour companies but quickly honed in on Intrepid. The company offers a variety of itineraries for families at different price points, and a few of my friends had been on its tours and had a good experience. I also liked that Intrepid offers specialized tours for different types of travelers, including family tours . 

At first I planned on an "original" style family tour but upgraded to a "comfort" tour, which included more activities and meals along with upgraded accommodations. Although it cost more, the company's 10-day Morocco Family Holiday tour was still within my budget and looked like a good value. 

BEFORE YOU GO: The 5 most important questions to ask yourself before booking a tour  

Once I committed to a tour, my planning was essentially done. That was a huge relief. I normally spend hours searching for hotels , figuring out some must-do activities in every location along with some off-the-beaten-track attractions, researching transportation options, and gathering restaurant recommendations. Although I often find it's fun, it’s also time-consuming and can become draining for trips that involve several stops.

Even though a group tour was not exactly what I would have planned on my own, Intrepid's Morocco itinerary was fairly close. I thought giving up some control was well worth the trade-off of not having to do all the planning on my own. Because Intrepid uses local teams based at its tour destinations to plan trips, I also hoped having a local involved would bring me to places I never would have found on my own. 

SAVE MONEY: Kids stay free at these 10 all-inclusive family resorts

Instead of reading hotel reviews and booking entry tickets, I spent the weeks leading up to my family vacation learning more about Moroccan culture. I knew this would enrich my experience more than figuring out all of the details for a trip abroad to run smoothly. I'm usually a mix of excited and stressed in the week or two leading up to a big trip. This time I was mostly excited, and my stress was at a minimum. 

Though I won’t stick exclusively to group tours in the future, this trip taught me to not sweat the small stuff so much. I don’t need to spend so much time finding the perfect hotel or restaurant to have a great trip.

Group trips are fantastic for solo travelers and parents traveling on their own

Before I had a family, I often traveled on my own. Though I enjoyed solo travel , it was lonely at times, even more so when I stopped staying at youth hostels and lost access to the fantastic communities they provide. Now I frequently travel with my two younger children. They are fantastic travel companions, but on longer trips I sometimes find myself longing for adult interaction or an extra pair of hands. Additionally, even though my kids usually get along well, they sometimes get sick of each other in the absence of any other playmates. 

TRAVEL WITH TEENS: 10 best vacation ideas for families with teenagers

On my Intrepid trip, I had other adults to talk to throughout the day. That was a refreshing change from my usual experience of going a week or more without speaking to another adult for more than five minutes, usually for transactional matters like checking into a hotel. My kids also quickly made friends with the other children on the trip. Not surprisingly, all of the families on the trip had similar interests and an adventurous spirit. My children and I were the only Americans in the group, and it was interesting learning more about life in New Zealand, Canada and Australia from the other families.

The parents in the group quickly started leaning on one another for support. One mom, also traveling alone with her children, asked me to take one of her daughters on an outing so she could get some one-on-one time with her other child. I asked a different mom to keep an eye on my son while I packed our things for the next day. It was nice not feeling as if I was on my own. 

UNIQUE TRIPS: Hate bus tours? These 7 unique guided tours were made for you

This "it takes a village" spirit is something I want to bring with me in my future travels. Although it’s not possible to replicate the experience of traveling with other families, it is possible to seek out connections away from home. For example, on a recent trip, my son wanted to play soccer with local children who lived near our hotel. Instead of rushing him away so we could squeeze in another activity, I let him play. He wound up meeting up with the other kids every night we were there, sharing candy and communicating with an app. The nights playing soccer were a highlight of that trip for him and something I probably would not have let him do before my experience with a group tour.  

I appreciated a slower pace

I have serious FOMO and often pack too much into my days when I travel. When I first reviewed the itinerary, I noted right away that it had downtime and even an entire free afternoon built into the trip. Though I know many people enjoy that balance, I was worried I would feel bored and come away feeling as if I had traveled halfway around the world and missed seeing all there is to do. 

TRIP REVIEW: Adventures by Disney’s Peru tour is a riveting family adventure

The reality is it’s impossible to do everything. Trying is exhausting and impossible. There is always something left on the to-do list at the end of the trip. It was refreshing to go into a trip not trying to see an entire country in two weeks and being OK with that from the outset. 

Though there were a couple of other things I would have liked to have squeezed in, I was very happy with the balance of activities and downtime. Other than all-inclusive family vacations and trips to family resorts , I normally don’t schedule time to just relax while I am traveling. It was really nice to have time to read and play UNO with my kids. I also liked that Intrepid had a couple of optional activities for those of us who didn’t want quite as much downtime as others. 

MONEY MATTERS: How much should you tip on a guided tour? All your gratuity questions answered  

I do still feel pressure to see and do everything when I travel, but going on a group trip helped me see the value in traveling at a slower pace. Some of my favorite moments from my Intrepid trip happened during scheduled downtime; they gave me and my children time to just enjoy being with one another without the pressures of work and school. It’s a lesson I’ve tried to carry with me as I’ve planned future trips. 

Learning from a local is invaluable 

One reason I chose Intrepid is the company uses all local guides, and most tours use the same guide throughout the trip. It may sound obvious that learning from locals is the best way to get to know a country, but I had underestimated just how valuable traveling with a local guide would be. 

TOUR REVIEW: Adventures by Disney’s South Africa tour is a lesson in culture, history, and beauty  

I learned much about Moroccan culture through our tour guide, who was always willing to answer questions about his life and traditions. He even brought us to his family home to meet his parents and niece, which was a very special experience. Aside from being able to share the history of everywhere we visited, I also liked that our guide warned us about scams to watch out for, shared the tipping culture and gave advice on bargaining. He was also helpful when it came to practical matters like finding an ATM.  

For future trips, I will be more open to taking guided tours with local guides, even if it’s just for a few hours. I will also make it a point to try to talk to more locals, as long as I can do so without bothering them too much. 

Even though it wasn’t what I had originally planned, not only did I have a great experience on my trip with Intrepid, it has also forever changed the way I plan to travel.

How a group tour changed my whole approach to travel originally appeared on FamilyVacationist.com .

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The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY. FamilyVacationist.com and TourScoop.com are owned and operated by Vacationist Media LLC. Using the FamilyVacationist travel recommendation methodology , we review and select family vacation ideas , family vacation spots , all-inclusive family resorts , and classic family vacations for all ages. TourScoop covers guided group tours and tour operators , tour operator reviews , tour itinerary reviews and travel gear recommendations .

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How a group tour changed my whole approach to travel