Why Every Mom Should Travel Alone At least Once

Are you thinking of going on a solo trip but unsure where to start? Are you in need of a real break, but getting nervous by the idea of leaving your kids for more than a day? If this is you, stop making excuses, book something and go. You deserve it more than ever! 

I just got back from my first solo trip since having kids and I can only confirm, it is the best! It will not only help you as a person, but it will strengthen your relationship with you partner and kids too.

Scroll down to read more about my experience.

Leaving the house by yourself: Overcoming Fear

The days leading towards my trip felt different: uncomfortable, yet exciting. I almost canceled my trip, unsure if I could leave the kids behind... Figuring out how things work pumping-wise (I was still nursing at the time of this trip) felt more stressful than it was.

Going on this trip meant stepping out of my routine and comfort zone, which made me stronger as a mom and as a person.

I left the house with a small suitcase, which I had packed just before I left. I made sure to stack the freezer with delicious homemade meals (they were still there when I came back😊).

Just 5 minutes in the cab I started to miss them already, and on top of that I realized I completely forgot to kiss my husband goodbye as I was so focused on the kids. 

Missing them is hard, but at the same time, it feels good to be just me again.

On my way to the airport I got a little nervous. Did I pack everything I needed? Of course, I did bring my bag, but because I only had to take care of my own bag this time it felt a little off.
There were no little humans climbing on my back or holding on to my legs. The suitcase felt super light. When traveling without kids you will notice there is just so much more room for headspace. 

It was just so revitalizing, I didn’t need to pack for snacks, diapers, or other stuff. I could wear nice clothes, without being afraid of ruining them. Before departure I had so much time to enjoy my own meal, to work a little bit and to explore all the airport stores as I didn't have to watch my kids.

On the airplane, I could finish an entire movie, read a good chunk of a book, and get some sleep. It was the best!

Side note: If there’s something good about traveling with kids, it’s that when you’re so focused on making sure your kids are ok, staying hydrated, getting some sleep, staying quiet, etc., you almost forget about how small those coach seats really are…

Embracing Adventure and Discovering Your True Self

During my trip I realized how much I had missed having some time for myself. Just being me as a person and not being a mom for a second. It was good to get some distance from my kids as it made me realize how much I love them and how much they have grown over the last couple of years.

They look so much bigger when facetiming them and not seeing them IRL every single day. When you zoom out, you suddenly notice how much you have accomplished as a family.

By the time you need to go home, you will be looking forward to seeing your kids again. Perhaps you’ll even appreciate a little more what you have. And, in my case, the kids love it too as I bring small presents for them :).

Whether you’re going on a solo trip, visiting family and friends, or going on a mom's trip, it will allow you to soak up some quiet time and get enough headspace to take care of yourself and family again.

It allows you to spend more quality time with the people you are visiting. Without the kids around you’ll have more time to discover new places you would like to see, try out different food, and to take care of yourself. 

Do whatever works for you. Start scheduling something, stick to the plan, and just go.
You won’t regret it!

Remember to be a good parent you need to be great in taking care of yourself first.

Do I need to say more?