Traveling for Christmas with kids is hard enough when there are two parents. If you are a single parent, it becomes even more so. It is a tough situation for everyone, and the best you can do is put your best foot forward and hopefully survive the holidays despite being the sole parent.
The idea of going away for the holidays may appeal to you because it is a great way to take your mind off things. It will also help the little ones forget that there is someone special who won’t see them opening their presents this year.
That said, while traveling for Christmas is a great escape, it can also be an intimidating prospect especially when you realize that this is the busiest time of the year. That’s why we have prepared this single-parent guide to travel for Christmas with kids.
1. Both Parents Should Be on the Same Page
Traveling alone with your kids without the other parent can sometimes be a sticky situation legally. You should always get permission from the other parent whether you are married, divorced, or separated if you want to avoid issues like passport control or the authorities coming after you for taking your kids abroad without your partner’s permission.
The exception to this rule is when you have a child arrangement order from the court. Having the right paperwork at the airport will go a long way in helping travel headache-free. Otherwise, airlines may stop you from checking in without the correct documentation.
2. Book Your Seats Early
If you want everyone to sit together once you board your flight, it is extremely important to book your seats early enough. Do not leave it to flight attendants to arrange it so that you all get to sit together because this is not only inconvenient for them but for other passengers as well. Therefore, you want to take care of this early enough to avoid such issues. Note that some airlines may charge you extra for seat allocation, but it is worth it for your peace of mind.
3. Whenever Possible, Handle Everything Online
The check-in counter at the airport can be a nightmare for single parents. If you want to avoid it as much as possible, you can do so by checking in online. Depending on your airline, you may be able to check in up to 24 hours before your flight. This will allow you to show up at the airport a little later than passengers who are checking in at the counter.
4 Dress Your Kids in Visible Clothing
When you are traveling alone with your kids, you need to pack highly visible clothes that will make them stand out as much as possible. This will allow you to tell where your kids are at a glance. You can also invest in fluorescent hats that they can wear when you are out and about.
5. Bring Lots of Entertainment
For some reason, kids turn into little balls of energy when you travel with them as a single parent. They will wear you down pretty quickly if you let them. To keep your sanity, provide them with as much entertainment as possible. Things like coloring books, games, puzzles, phones, tablets, and music players can be absolute life savers. Get each child a small bag filled with snacks as well to keep them distracted.
Final Thoughts
When traveling with your little ones, it is OK to take it easy and have a little fun yourself, too. With the tips and tricks outlined above, you might just be able to enjoy yourself this holiday season. Remember to be prepared with things like snacks, entertainment, medication, and so on that your kids may need for the journey and after you arrive at your destination. While it may be tough to do this as a single parent, it is not impossible and you’ve got this! Good luck!
