A small transport guide for single moms travelling with a child or a teen

Travelling with a child by plane : transport tips

The starting point is to choose an adequate seat. Opt for aisle seats for easy access to the toilets, or near the windows to distract the youngest. If you need more space, some rows are more suitable (for evacuations, class changes…).
Then, you need to find ways to occupy your child/teen: Prepare an activity bag with books, quiet games, and headphones for electronic devices. Personally, I bet everything on movies to watch either on the plane for medium/long-haul flights or on movies downloaded to my phone or books to read for short-haul flights (I remind you that I travel with a teenager).
On the other hand, depending on the airline you use and your flight times, some offer meals/snacks and others don’t. So, be prepared.
Finally, if you know your child is sensitive on planes, stock up on vomit bags. You can also give them motion sickness medication before boarding the plane. Also, plan for some food or drink that will help them recover if they have vomited.

Board a train calmly with your children

Here again, start by choosing a place that pleases everyone. The best is to book face-to-face seats with a table for more comfort and play space.
Moreover, if you can settle not too far from the toilets, it’s better for the youngest children. Then, if you know your children are calm and you also prefer calm, choose a classic wagon, not necessarily a family area which is always noisier.
Then, as on the plane, plan activities to occupy your child(ren). Favor quiet activities (reading, film, cards, drawing, …) that will not disturb nearby travelers. A must on a train, watching the landscapes as the train passes. But depending on the age of your child, it can be short.
Finally, at lunch or snack time, you can go to the bar car. Inquire when you board the train. And if you prefer, buy something to eat and drink during the journey from the shops at the station.

Sail towards new horizons by boat

Whether for a short ferry crossing or a longer cruise, the boat offers a unique experience:
For ferries, choose seats near the windows to enjoy the view. But not too far from amenities to respond to any delicate situation (hunger or illness).
On cruises, opt for a cabin adapted to your needs (and your budget too). Don’t forget to bring water-resistant card games for quieter moments.
If you’re taking a boat tour to discover the city, find a place that suits your child (if they need to go to the toilet, if they prefer to be outside, if they want to go upstairs for a panoramic view…).
The advantage of the boat is the space to move. Take advantage of it to explore the ship with your child.

Practical tip

Plan for seasickness medication, even if you think you don’t need it. Conditions can change quickly. Also bring warm clothes for the outer decks, which are often windy.

The holiday road is yours by carn bo other transport

The car offers great flexibility, but requires good organization. Start by checking that the car seats are adapted to the age of your children and correctly installed. To occupy your children, bet on variety:

• Prepare music playlists, audiobooks, or podcasts adapted to their age.
• Classic games like “I spy” or “Guess what I’m thinking” remain effective and create moments of complicity.
• In advance, plan your itinerary with regular breaks, ideally every two hours. It’s an opportunity to stretch your legs, use the toilets, and have a snack.
• Plan for a cooler with snacks and water.

Pedal to discover your destination (better transport than walking)

Here, we chose the bike to visit each destination where we set down our bags. Whatever the weather, the bike is a good way to discover the city without constraints. Because yes, walking and walking can become tedious for the little ones. While cycling is fun.
More and more cities offer bike paths to discover the surroundings safely. Speaking of safety, any good bike rental will give you a helmet for your child if they are under 13. Depending on the destinations, adults will also be invited to wear a helmet.Then, depending on the age and autonomy of your child on a bike, choose a tandem or a bike with a “baby” carrier or separate bikes.

Small advice for cycling on holiday

• Ask the renter for a repair kit if the bikes are not equipped with anti-puncture tires.
• If you see that the weather is threatening, plan for appropriate clothing.
• Conversely, if the weather is very hot, choose your time to pedal (never after noon for example and always with a water bottle).
• In any circumstance, plan for breaks to rest and enjoy the scenery.
• Respect the road code even on bike paths (stop at lights, stop at stop signs, be vigilant at intersections, no cycling on sidewalks…).

Finally, don’t forget the first aid kit and check your car before departure (tires, levels, etc.).

You will have understood, whatever the chosen mode of transport, remember that the journey is an integral part of the adventure. So be patient (especially if your plane is several hours late ^^). Remember that it’s an opportunity to create unique memories with your children, to discuss, laugh, and share new experiences.

So yes, traveling alone with children requires organization and can sometimes be stressful. But with a little preparation and a good dose of flexibility, each journey can become an enriching mini-adventure.

Big advice: don’t hesitate to involve your children in planning the trip. I could say that it will make them more responsible. But I believe above all that as they know how long it will take and the steps to follow… they will be a bit more patient.

So even if the journey can be boring, remember that with a little preparation, a good dose of patience, and a few tantrums later, you will have arrived safely to enjoy well-deserved holidays.