As a parent getting away from the kids for a small getaway can seem almost impossible especially if you’re on a tight budget. Let’s make the impossible, possible by sharing ways on How to Plan A Kid-Free Getaway on a Budget.
When you become a parent, it can be possible to think that you’ve therefore relinquished any hope of going away as a couple ever again.
However, short getaways are not only possible but also great for keeping your relationship healthy. With a fair bit of planning and a bit of organization for while you’re away, you can create the perfect getaway for you and your partner minus the kids.
How to Plan A Kid-Free Getaway on a Budget
Start With a Budget
Okay, seriously, yes I am starting with that you need to have a budget in mind.
After all, you are trying to get away from the kids for a few days without adding to your debt or putting a damper in other future vacations with the kids.
With that being said, you need to have a reasonable budget in mind.
It doesn’t matter if it’s $200 or $2,000, you need to know where you stand money wise so you can get idea of where to go.
Things to add into your travel budget include:
- Hotel Stay
- Travel Accommodations (Flight, Car Rental, etc.)
- Food
- Attractions/Events to visit while on vacation
- Babysitter Money
- Money to leave behind for your kids to eat and have fun
- Cushion for Unforseen Expenses
Of course, some of these costs may not apply to you so if they don’t just skip them and move on.
Find A Reliable Babysitter
A reliable babysitter should be one of two things: a nanny who you’ve used for a long period and is free to take your children, or a trustworthy relative who has the time and capability for caring for your kids.
Ensuring your child is cared for by a family friend or relative can be incredibly useful as it’s someone they’re familiar with, and who can accommodate your children into their own family routine.
Plus, it gives you peace of mind leaving your children behind (something that took me years to feel comfortable with doing).
While you’re away, it’s advised that you call or video chat with your kids to stay in touch and get regular updated. Asking their babysitter to send photos and videos of what they’re up to also reassures both parties that you’re still ever-present, even while on vacation.
Or, if you have an in-home security system, you can use it to monitor your kids and things going on in and around your home.
Plan Your Itinerary in Advance
I realize it’s not always ideal to plan getaways in advance and sometimes getaways planned at the spur of the moment can be exciting.
However, making sure that your trip is planned in advance means that once you’re there, you won’t be frantically booking restaurants, hunting down museums or researching spa days.
For example, if you’re planning on staying in-state or exploring somewhere new, then finding somewhere that specializes in where to go and where to stay will help get your time away planned. For those looking for a US adventure, you can easily find suitable accommodation by searching for Atlanta getaways for couples. Finding the right accommodation and location will make it all the more easier to enjoy your getaway.
The most important aspect of booking in advance is so you also won’t be paying more for the same activities and vacation spot.
Many flights and hotels offer discounts for booking in advance, I just suggest getting traveler’s insurance in case you need to change or cancel plans last-minute, you can get your money back.
When In Doubt, Keep it Local
If you are really on a time crunch or tight budget, leaving your state or country may be out of the question. However, traveling without the kids doesn’t need to be.
Instead, keep it local. How many places in your state have you actually visited?
I know my husband and I always talk about visiting new local restaurants, attractions and places one day. There are so many places you can visit that are close to your home and require very little travel time and money.
Reward the Kids When You Get Back
It’s inevitable that guilt will be a factor when traveling away for your kids for a week or two. Fellow parents who have gone on a child-free vacation have advised that you collect a healthy supply of souvenirs as a reward for when you get back.
On top of this, it’s suggested that you leave a few days of vacation time free to spend with your kids when you get back, just to ensure a healthy balance.
While it’s not always possible to prevent guilt from setting in while you go on vacation with your partner, it’s helpful to know that many parents escape for vacation by themselves.
Not only is it helpful for your peace of mind, but also an opportunity to re-connect with your other half.