A Guide to Planning Your First “Momcation”
We're all about family adventures and raising kids with a passion for travel. But we know that sometimes, you need to get away on your own to rest and recharge. Make this the year you pay attention to your own needs, beginning with a "momcation" to help you regain your peace of mind. Whether this is a solo weekend in the city, or a trip with friends to wine country, here are four tips to making the most of your time away!
Commit!
Sound odd? Well, it’s not. There will always be reasons to stay home: ‘Johnny has his music concert that week, I can’t possibly go away’ – but think carefully if these are essential mom tasks or whether you’re just using them as an excuse. Surely Johnny will love showing off his music skills to his grandparents? Isn’t there a concert next term too? Commit to the trip by paying a deposit for your accommodation or booking a flight, and you’ll be one step closer to packing your bags.
Don't Overbook Yourself
Although it’s tempting, think twice before trying to cram every bucket list activity onto your trip's itinerary. It can be tempting to visit every must-see spot and try every recommendation in the guidebook. Remember that the purpose of a momcation is to relax, refresh, and leave yourself plenty of space in your schedule. The last thing you want is to be stressed out because your masseuse is running late and you're not going to make it to the show on time.
Identify a couple of activities you want to prioritize and keep the rest of your itinerary open. Not only does this make planning less stressful, but it allows you to be open to new possibilities and to pay attention to what you need in the moment.
Get out of your routine
Book a location that is different from your day to day life. That may sound like an obvious suggestion but what I mean here is to go to a place where you can get out and see and do different things than you would at home. Different stores, different restaurants, different scenery will help you unplug your “mom brain”. You may choose to head to New York City if your normal travel itinerary includes the beach with your kids.
Let it Go!
While you are away, there are going to be things that happen that you will have no control over. The little people in your house may be late to things. Clothing will definitely not match. If your house is like mine, brushing hair will be optional and teeth unlikely, and one pizza order will feed the family for about half a week. Nothing green will cross anyone’s lips, unless it is of the suspiciously-lurking-in-the-back-of-the-fridge variety, at which point they will panic and call you asking if they are going to die.
You will let this go.
You will not only let this go, you will close your eyes, release it, and never – ever – mention it or worry about it. It. Doesn’t. Matter.
If you’re ready to chat about your momcation, book your complimentary Custom Vacation Planning Session now by using my online scheduler to find a time that’s convenient for you!
Follow us on Instagram for the latest travel news and inspiration!
