Tips & Hacks
Aug 18, 2025

Stress-Free Travel Tips for Solo Parents

Traveling solo with kids? Discover practical tips, packing hacks, and safety strategies for single parents. Make your solo family trips smoother, safer, and more rewarding.

Stress-Free Travel Tips for Solo Parents

TL;DR Version:

  • Pack Smart and Practice Carrying Everything – Stick to essentials, choose a travel-friendly stroller, and do a test run by carrying everything at once before your trip.
  • Prioritize Safety – Share your itinerary, use location-sharing, and have a backup plan like a wristband with your contact info in case of separation.
  • Accept Help When Offered – Take advantage of babysitting services, friendly fellow travelers, and kind strangers who are happy to lend a hand.
  • Set Realistic Expectations – You may not get much downtime, but small wins like a smooth airport experience or a great playground make all the difference.
  • Embrace the Bonding Time – Solo travel gives you undistracted one-on-one time with your child, creating special moments you’ll cherish forever.

Sometimes I think traveling with my husband and two kids is challenging, but then I remember that there are the fearless that do it solo all of the time! I’ve done it without him twice now, and I can tell you from experience that it is tough. There’s no built-in backup, no one to trade off duties with, and every responsibility falls on you. But here’s the good news: solo parent travel is not only possible, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. With the right mindset and a few strategic (hard-earned) tips, you can make traveling alone with your little one an adventure to remember.

Mom & baby solo traveling to the Caribbean.

Tip #1: Pack Efficiently

You’ll be carrying everything yourself, so pack efficiently. Stick to the essentials: a well-stocked diaper bag (if needed), versatile clothing, easy snacks, and a few entertainment options for your child. If you’re bringing a stroller, consider a lightweight, travel-friendly option that won’t be a hassle to maneuver. I sometimes opt for a heavier duty one, like the Guava Family Roam, so that I can use the bottom storage, as well.

Frankly, I practice carrying everything beforehand. No joke, pick everything up (at the same time) and see how it works before you’re heading to the airport. 

Tip #2: Make Safety a Priority

Traveling alone with a child means being extra aware of your surroundings, especially if you’re a woman. I like to share my itinerary with a trusted friend or family member and set up location-sharing on my phone. With my toddler, I also work on basic safety rules. A simple wristband with your contact info can be a great backup in case you get separated.

Tip #3: Embrace Help When You Need It

You don’t have to do everything yourself. Use hotel babysitting services, ask flight attendants for a helping hand, and don’t be afraid to lean on other parents you meet along the way. Many places have parent-friendly amenities—take advantage of them! Last time I flew alone, a woman next to me offered to hold my baby so I could go to the bathroom alone. She loved spending time with him and I loved peeing alone!

Tip #4: Keep Expectations Realistic

Solo parent travel is different from traveling with a partner or a group. You may not get as much downtime, and there will be moments when you’re exhausted. But focusing on small wins—like finding a great playground, having a smooth airport experience, or enjoying a quiet moment with your child—makes all the difference. 

Tip #5: Enjoy the Bonding Time

One of the biggest perks of traveling solo with your child? The one-on-one time. Without distractions, you get to focus on each other, create new memories, and share adventures that will be just yours. I vividly remember looking into my baby’s eyes on our last trip together to the Dominican Republic and squishing his little baby squish. It was truly special and I’ll cherish it forever!