Ready for a Getaway? Here’s How Parents Can Travel Affordably and Without All the Stress
Rekindling Romance
According to Kindred Bravely, sex after giving birth causes anxiety for some women. It’s common for women to worry that it won’t be the same as before, that they’re too tired, or that it may be painful. These are all incredibly normal concerns. The number one way to reduce this stress is to be open with each other and communicate these worries so you can work through them together. Oftentimes, being away from your little one (and catching up on some sleep) can help alleviate these issues as well.
Ditching the Guilt
Couples who travel without their kids often feel guilty, but the Economical Excursionists explain that there are many reasons why you should leave the guilt behind. Besides the importance of maintaining a connection with your partner, this can also be a positive experience for little ones. If they’re staying with grandparents or other family members, this is valuable bonding time. And when leaving the kids with family members, saving money on a sitter is an added bonus.
Lowering Stress When You’re Still Worried
Knowing you’re making the right decision is one thing, but banishing all worry is another. Even when you’re worried about leaving little ones at home, you can lower that stress with careful planning. If you’re breastfeeding, it helps to plan well in advance so you can store plenty of milk. Some parents also feel less stressed if they leave what the Points Guy calls a “baby instruction manual.” Keep in mind that your caregiver won’t do things exactly the way you do, but the simple act of leaving these tips will make you feel better.
The Family Vacation
As much as every couple needs their own vacation, your family will be missing out if you don’t also take trips together. To make a family trip less stressful, think along the same lines as stockpiling that breast milk: plan well in advance. Planning ahead lowers your stress, and it also saves money on everything from plane tickets to stashing away activities that keep kids happy.
The other major takeaway parents need to know about family travel is that you can lower stress by anticipating what to expect. Some parents are afraid to travel with an infant, but this is actually the easiest and most affordable age for family travel. Just be sure to pack all the necessities, and take advice from parents who have done it successfully. If you’re traveling with bigger kids, plan activities deliberately so that no one gets overtired.
Whatever age your kids are, traveling as a parent isn’t always a breeze. It is always worth it, though! Travel is one of the most rewarding experiences in life, and it shouldn’t be put on hold just because you have kids.
Image via Pixabay
Leslie Campos