traveling without kids: tips for making it possible

As I’ve mentioned a time or two (or twelve), my husband and I are going on a cruise at the end of this month. I am currently neck-deep in last-minute preparations before we leave. Any parent will tell you that preparing to go on a trip is a lot of work and this one is no exception. Leaving four children for a week–no matter who will be watching them–is a lot to prep for. I realize this is first world problems and I’m very thankful for the opportunity. But that doesn’t mean that traveling without kids is necessarily an easy task! Here are some tips in case you want to try traveling without kids abut aren’t sure how to make it happen.

tips for traveling without kids

start preparing early

Nothing can ruin the excitement of a great vacation more than being stressed out beforehand. I like to start preparing as early as is feasible. Start laying aside the clothing you want to pack, cleaning up the house, and preparing your kids for you to be gone. Make lists of things that need to be done as you think of them. Also important, don’t leave any miscellaneous tasks (such as printing up tickets, etc.) until the last second. Try to plan things out so that you can be well-rested going into your trip. This is especially important if you’re going to be stuck flying a red eye.

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work out a schedule

Whether you have one kid or six you probably have some type of schedule that helps things run smoothly at home. After all, most kids have extra activities and you are their manager and chauffeur. I always like to type up a schedule for whomever will be watching our kids. This printed schedule lays out a rough daily routine, plus any little extra notes that will be helpful. From favorite television shows to easy meals that the kids will like. Sometimes I also try to set up playdates for the older kids to make it easier on the babysitter. This written schedule is also a good place to jot down important phone numbers so it’s all in one place. Make sure you leave enough time to go over the schedule with the individual watching your kids!

stock up on essentials

Before leaving for a trip I always want to be sure and leave my house well-stocked. First of all, it makes life easier for the person watching my children so they don’t have to drag everyone to the store. It also helps makes things easier on my kids if they have the familiarity and comfort of their favorite foods and items. Don’t forget about things like vitamins and medication too. If the babysitter will be driving your car be sure that the gas tank is full, and think about leaving some gas money home too. And don’t forget about paper goods, like toilet paper and diapers!

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clean things up

Personally, I hate leaving the house a mess when we leave for a trip. Nothing brings on the post-trip blues faster than walking into a messy house. That means I have to not only unpack, but also clean up. Blah. Since most people won’t leave a space messier than they find it, it’s a pretty safe bet that if you leave your house clean, you’ll come home to it clean. Don’t forget to make sure the laundry hampers are empty and clothes are put away as well!

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a “traveling without kids” last minute checklist

I am always a fan of checklists and especially so before a big trip. My checklist before leaving the kids includes everything from packing to cleaning to typing up a current schedule for the kids. I also have a note on the home screen of my phone with items I can’t pack until last minute, like my phone charger. Once you’ve said goodbye to your little sweethearts you really don’t want to upset them by coming back to the house five times for things you’ve forgotten.

Have you and your spouse gone on a trip without the kids? How did you help them get ready?

Find more travel tips for couples and families on my Pinterest page!