Being a parent is one of the most challenging roles one can have, but add being a single parent to the mix and the size of the task multiplies. In India, an estimated 4.5 per cent of all households are run by single mothers, which translates to a whopping 13 million households headed by a sole matriarch, according to a 2019-2020 “Progress of the World’s Women” report by the United Nations. Juggling work commitments with childcare and school often leaves no room for a break. Despite the hurdles, taking time away from routinised life is a gift for both parent and child. Travelling is a way to break free from the stresses of daily life and look at the world with wonder, curiosity and gratitude. It also bonds the parent and children more strongly than before.
Here are some tips and tricks if you’re a single mother looking to plan a trip with your child(ren) in India.
Before you embark on your holiday, let a trusted person know where you are going so that they can check in on you. During your trip, keep loved ones updated about where you are by sharing your location via GPS. Being safe also extends to the accommodation you choose. Ensure you pre-book homestays or hotels with good reviews on websites like Trustpilot and Tripadvisor. To alleviate anxiety and unpleasant surprises, pre-book rental cars, train tickets and tours or experiences you wish to have with your child, as booking early gives you better availability and pricing.
It is hard not to want to bring everything your child may need with you on a trip. But, most of the time, hotels and restaurants would have everything you need, including strollers, high chairs, and cots for babies and toddlers. You can also hire a car seat for a rental car.
Regarding packing, bring important items like diapers, tissue boxes, bottles, comfort pillows, blankets, bedding, toys, pacifiers, burp cloths and a separate necessity bag packed with everything you'll need while travelling. Make sure you have supplies like milk, food items and medicines handy. Keep some ready-to-eat items like biscuits, healthy snacks and chips, too.
It's a good idea to prevent your child from getting bored by planning several activities. However, in most places, there are tons of fun things to do locally and these are usually only available once you get to the location. The solution here is to find the right balance between planning a large portion of your trip and leaving some free time to either recharge your batteries or do another fun activity. Choose a destination with low-cost or free attractions like national parks, beaches, museums, playgrounds, etc.
The ideal timing makes for the most successful trips. If you’re planning a road trip, time your driving while your child rests soundly in the vehicle. In case they are not good car sleepers, plan to leave as soon as they wake up or immediately after a nap. In either case, before you leave, ensure that your child has a full stomach (and a clean diaper if they are a baby).
Carry your child’s favourite toys to keep them engaged. This will allow you to utilise that time doing work of your own, or just resting. It is also important to keep toddlers entertained by singing their favourite rhymes and songs or playing a game. Save their favourite songs to a playlist and put them on whenever they are cranky.
With a little bit of proper planning, your vacation will be one to remember. However, do not hesitate to ask for help. Mothers are human too, so share the load of handling kids with reliable travel companions, including asking strangers to take a photo of you with your kids.
