Ah, a rest day away from your adult responsibilities—you know you have daydreamed about it at least once this week. The only problem is that it feels quite impossible when your tasks stare you right in this face the moment you wake up.
But take it from us: do not let the busyness deter you from actually planning that vacation you have been dreaming about. Yes, we mean a vacation with just you and your partner.
You may feel some guilt in leaving behind your kids to go on a getaway, but these kinds of trips are beneficial to have once in a while. Still, you need to plan well to have peace of mind during your trip.
Pre-vacation Preps for Your Household
Your first vacation after having kids is exciting, but it is also nerve-wracking. Now that you are a parent, it is natural to also worry about the well-being of your children when you are away. Follow these three tips to eliminate the doubts in your mind.
-
Start planning way ahead
You are not just planning a vacation itinerary. You are also planning childcare in the time that you are away. This is why you cannot afford to cram a couple-only vacation.
First, book your flights and hotels early so you can lock in the dates of your vacation and organize everything around them. This can even give you access to discounts and limited-time deals that could make your trip more affordable.
You must also anticipate the needs of your kids while you are away. For example, if you employ a babysitter or seek help from a family member to take care of them, then stock up on things your kids will need.
Stock up on school supplies and personal care items that your kids regularly use. Also, check on your children’s toys and make sure to leave educational ones, such as interactive books and toy construction kits that combine learning and playtime.
-
Plan and prepare meals before leaving
You have to prepare your children’s things before leaving, and along with this, ensure that someone attends to their meals. One way to do this is by cooking bigger portions of meals in the days before you leave. This way, you have plenty of food left that you can freeze and have your designated caretaker reheat during mealtimes.
If not, you can also entrust your babysitter or family member to cook meals for your kids but inform them of any dietary restrictions first. Write them down on a piece of paper and stick them on the fridge so that no one forgets. Leave money for takeouts, too, so that they do not always have to cook for the kids.
-
Discuss the arrangements with your kids
Next, it has to be crystal clear to your kids that you will be away for a number of days. It is best to sit them down and explain what changes will occur while you are on vacation.
Tell them where they are staying (in case they stay at another family member’s home), who they are staying with, how long you will be away, and how they can contact you. Give them guidelines on good conduct, too, to ensure they stay on their best behavior.
Also, don’t forget to assure them that you are only a text or call away since this will be the first time you will be apart for a while.
Vacationing Wisely
Now that you are on vacation, it is time to have fun. Let go of everything that is on your plate for a while and enjoy the company of your partner. But keep these in mind to have a memorable experience.
-
Stick to your budget
We know, we said it was time to enjoy then go reminding you about budgeting. But vacations should be no excuse to go beyond your means. Remember that you still have bills to pay and kids to take care of after this.
We have two simple tips for enjoying your getaway while staying within budget: give yourself a spending limit daily, and only use cash or debit as much as possible.
-
Maximize your time away with your partner
Lastly, and most importantly, make the most of this much-needed break. It is not often that you and your partner get this time to yourselves now that you have kids.
Experience new things that you both will love. Do all the romantic activities you want to do. This is your time, so savor it.
