For many single parents, the idea of travelling with their children can seem like a pipe dream. Between work and childcare, there’s often little time or money left over for leisure travel.
When my son Jordan was born, I decided I didn’t want to return to the corporate world. I wanted a business which would allow me to watch him grow and give me the flexibility to travel so I could teach him about the world through real life experiences.
After doing some soul searching, I decided to start my own website design business.
I had no real qualifications in website development and very little experience in running a business. But I was fascinated by technology and determined to give it all I had, so I didn’t have to go back to a 9 to 5 job again.
Initially it was a lot of hard work. I had to learn website design software and how to promote my business. I also had to keep up with online trends and take care of bookkeeping as well as administration.
I made a lot of mistakes along the way, but I was thrilled to have the freedom to work my own hours.
Being a single parent, money was tight, so I looked for other opportunities to earn extra money, while still working on my business.
One opportunity that presented itself was Weekend Notes – a website which provides information about things to do and places to go on the weekend.
As Jordan and I travelled, I built my portfolio and not only was I getting paid for the articles, but I was also getting invited to spend free weekends in hotels and to enjoy experiences and adventures in return for a review.
Over the years we got to see so many wonderful places and meet interesting people. Looking back I am so thankful for all the opportunities we had and if I had to do it again, I would not change a single thing.
If you are keen to explore the world or just to take a holiday with your kids, there are many ways to make travel as a single parent more affordable.
Discounts and Deals
As a single parent, finding discounts and deals on travel can be a great way to save money. There are a number of websites that offer discounts on travel for single parents, including:
Trafalgar Single Parent Holidays
Interpid Travel Solo Parent Trips
These websites offer a range of discounts on hotels, flights, and other travel expenses, making it easier to afford a vacation with your family.
In addition, many airlines and hotels offer special rates for single parents traveling with children.
Your travel agent can also be a great resource for finding great deals.
Go Camping or Rent an RV
Looking for an affordable, fun lodging option for your next vacation? Consider going on a road trip, camping or renting an RV.
Camping is a great way to get back to nature and enjoy the outdoors. And, if you rent an RV, you’ll have all the comforts of home while still being able to explore new places. Plus, both camping and RVing are typically more affordable than staying in a hotel.
So, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly lodging option that’s also fun and adventurous, consider camping or renting an RV for your next vacation.
Check out top road trips from Sydney within 2 hours, within 3 hours, within4hours
Use Flybuys or Frequent Flyer Points
One way to make travel more affordable is to use Flybuys or Frequent Flyer miles. Both of these programs allow you to accumulate points that can be redeemed for travel expenses like airfare, hotels, and car rentals.
And best of all, you can often earn points by doing things that you’re already doing, like shopping at certain stores or using certain credit cards.
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your frequent flyer programs:
- Use them before they expire. Most airline programs have expiration dates for miles, so be sure to use them before they disappear.
- Book early. Airlines typically release their award seats far in advance, so it pays to plan ahead.
- Be flexible with your travel dates. If you’re willing to be flexible with your travel dates, you’ll have a better chance of finding award availability.
- Consider flying economy class. Although it’s not as glamorous as first or business class, flying economy class will usually give you more value for your miles.
- Avoid booking last-minute flights. Not only are last-minute flights more expensive, but they’re also less likely to have award availability.
- Check for mileage bonuses. Many credit cards offer bonuses for spending on airline tickets, so be sure to check for these offers before booking your flight.
- Use miles for other things besides flights. Many airlines allow you to use your miles for hotel stays, car rentals, and even merchandise. So if you can’t find award availability for your desired flight, consider using your miles for something else.
- Use a travel rewards credit card for everyday purchases to earn miles even faster.
- Keep track of your balance and activity online or with a mileage tracking app to make the most of your hard-earned rewards
Family and Friends Homes
If you’re looking for a way to travel on a budget, one option is to stay with friends or family who live in the destination you wish to visit.
This can be a great way to save money on accommodation and travel costs, as well as getting the opportunity to catch up with loved ones.
Another benefit of this arrangement is that you’ll have someone who knows the area well and can show you around, introduce you to their friends, and help you get settled in.
Of course, it’s important to be respectful of your host’s home and belongings, and to be considerate of their time and space. But if both parties are happy with the arrangement, it can be a great way to travel on a budget and explore new places.
If you don’t have any family or friends in the location you wish to visit, why not ask if you can stay in their holiday home.
So next time you’re planning a trip, remember to ask around – you might be surprised at how many people are willing to offer you a place to stay.
House Swap
When you do a house swap, you stay in someone else’s home while they stay in yours. This can be a great way to save on lodging costs, if you’re able to find someone who lives in a destination that you’d like to visit.
It also provides an opportunity to live like a local, rather than staying in a hotel.
If you’re thinking of doing a home exchange, here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Choose the right exchange partner. Look for someone who has a similar home and lifestyle to yours. This will help ensure that both parties are happy with the arrangement.
- Be upfront about your expectations. Discuss your needs and wants with your exchange partner before you commit to anything. This will help avoid any misunderstandings later on.
- Make sure your insurance is up to date. Home exchange organizations typically require participants to have homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. Check with your insurer to make sure you’re covered during the exchange period.
- Exchange key information ahead of time. This should include contact information, alarm codes, and any other information that will be helpful in case of an emergency.
- Leave a welcome note for your guests. Provide them with some basic information about your home and neighborhood, as well as your contact information in case they have any questions or problems during their stay.
- Tidy up before you leave. No one wants to arrive at their holiday destination to find a messy house.
- 7 . Enjoy your trip! A home exchange can be a great way to travel on a budget, but it’s also an opportunity to meet new people and see the world from a different perspective.
If you’re interested in doing a house swap, there are a number of websites that can help you find potential matches.
Check Out:
Travel with Friends
Traveling with friends can be a great way to save money, but there are a few things you should keep in mind in order to make the most of your trip.
- Know your travel companions’ budgets. This will help you to tailor your trip to fit everyone’s needs and avoid any surprises along the way.
- Book accommodations together. Sharing a room or an apartment can help reduce accommodation costs significantly.
- Make use of public transportation. In many destinations, it’s cheaper and easier to get around by bus, train, or even Uber than it is to rent a car.
- Eat like a local. Dining out can add up quickly, so take advantage of local markets and supermarkets to stock up on groceries. Cooking your own meals can help you save a lot of money while still getting to experience the local cuisine. By taking turns in cooking, means everyone gets a break.
- Make use of technology. There are many travel apps and websites that can help you find deals and discounts on everything from flights to hotels to activities.
Rent Out Your Home Through AirBnB or Social Media
If you’re looking for a way to earn some extra money for your holiday travel, why not rent out your home through Airbnb or Social Media?
- Your property will be easier to rent if it is in a in a popular location, especially if it is centrally located and easy to get to. However, if your property is out of the way, you can promote it as a unique home or quiet location.
- Take good photos. Make sure your listing includes high-quality photos that show off your property in its best light.
- Set a competitive price. Be sure to check out similar listings in your area to get an idea of what price point will attract guests.
- Offer amenities that guests will appreciate. Things like Wi-Fi, cable TV, and a fully stocked kitchen can make your listing more appealing.
- Provide a list of things to do and places to see in your area. Also include details of how to get around and list of emergency numbers.
- Provide helpful and responsive customer service. Guests should feel like they can count on you if they have any questions or issues during their stay.
- Keep your calendar up to date. Make sure you only list dates when your property is actually available for rental.
- Follow Airbnb’s guidelines. Be sure to read and follow all of Airbnb’s rules and regulations to avoid any problems with your listing.
- Once a renter has booked your property, provide clear instructions on how to access the property and any other information they may need.
Sell Stuff
Selling stuff from your home can be a great way to declutter and make some extra cash. But where do you start?
Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Start by taking inventory of what you have. Make a list of everything you want to sell, and group similar items together. This will make it easier to price and display your items.
- Decide how you want to sell your items. You can have a yard sale, attend a swap meet, sell online, or consign your items to a local store. Each option has its own benefits and drawbacks, so choose the one that makes the most sense for you and your family.
- Price your items competitively. When setting prices, be sure to take into account the condition of the item, its age, and how much similar items are selling for. You don’t want to price yourself out of the market, but you also don’t want to give away your stuff for pennies on the dollar.
- Take great pictures. If you’re selling online, potential buyers won’t be able to see the item in person before they purchase it. So it’s important to take clear, well-lit photos that accurately represent the item you’re selling.
- Write engaging descriptions. Along with your photos, your item descriptions are one of the most important tools you have for convincing someone to buy something from you. Be sure to highlight any unique features or benefits, and avoid using overly technical language or jargon.
- Be patient. Selling stuff from your home can be time-consuming, so don’t expect to make a quick buck. But if you’re patient and follow these tips, you should be able to declutter your home and pad your wallet at the same time!
Create an Additional Income Stream
As a single parent, it can be tough to find the extra money to pay for things like trips or holidays. One way to make sure you have the funds you need is to create an additional income stream. This could involve picking up a part-time job, selling items you no longer need, or even starting your own business.
If you are looking at earning a bit of extra income on the side, here are some jobs to consider:
Pet Sitter/Dog Walker
As a pet sitter, you would be responsible for feeding, walking, and providing companionship for your clients’ pets while they are away. Pet sitting is a great option for animal lovers who want to care for pets without the long-term commitment of ownership.
It can also be a flexible way to earn money, as you can choose when and how often you work.
To get started, simply create a profile on a pet sitting website or app and start applying for jobs in your area.
Cook/Chef
Cooking is a skill that is always in demand, and there are many different ways to get started.
First, you can start by cooking for your friends and family. This is a great way to get practice and feedback on your dishes.
Once you’ve honed your skills, you can start offering your services to busy families, catering companies, cafes or restaurants.
Alternatively, you could start your own food business, such as a food truck or home-based catering service.
Nanny / Babysitter
Quality nannies and babysitters are in high demand, as more and more families rely on them to provide quality child care. And while it can be a lot of work, it can also be very rewarding. To be a successful nanny or babysitter, you need to be patient, organized, and creative. You also need to be able to think on your feet and successfully manage multiple tasks at once. If you’re up for the challenge, becoming a nanny can be a great way to earn some extra money. Plus, you’ll get the satisfaction of knowing that you’re helping to care for the next generation.
If you are interested in working only a few hours a week, you can offer to collect people’s children from school and look after them until the parents get home.
Personal Trainer
Becoming a personal trainer is a great way to earn some extra money. In addition to working one-on-one with clients, you can also offer group fitness classes or even start your own fitness business.
The first step is to get certified as a personal trainer. There are many online certification programs available, and most take around 6-8 weeks to complete.
Once you’re certified, you’ll need to find a gym or studio where you can rent space to train your clients.
You’ll also need to create a website and social media profile to market your services. Personal training can be a great way to earn money, meet new people, and help others achieve their fitness goals.
House Sitter
House sitters take care of someone’s home while they’re away, and they can charge a daily or weekly rate for their services. To be a successful house sitter, you’ll need to be reliable and have a flexible schedule.
You should also be comfortable taking care of pets, as many homeowners will ask you to watch their animals while they’re away. If you’re interested in becoming a house sitter, there are a few things you can do to get started.
First, you should create a profile on a trusted house sitting website. Make sure to include your contact information and any relevant experience you have. Then, start reaching out to homeowners in your area to see if they’re interested in hiring you. With a little effort, you can soon start earning extra money by house sitting.
Cleaning Service Provider
Cleaners are in high demand, as they perform an essential service in both homes and businesses.
As a cleaner you can often set your own schedule, which makes the job ideal if you have other commitments.
To become a cleaner, you will need to purchase some basic supplies, such as cleaning solutions and equipment. You will also need to develop a cleaning routine that you can follow from job to job.
However, once you get started, you will find that becoming a cleaner is a great way to earn extra money.
Personal Shopper
Personal shoppers provide a valuable service to busy people who don’t have time to shop for themselves.
As a personal shopper, you would be responsible for selecting and purchasing items on behalf of your client. This could include anything from groceries to clothing to gifts.
To be successful in this role, you would need to be organized, efficient, and have an eye for detail. You would also need to be able to build good relationships with your clients, as they would need to trust you with their shopping needs.
If you’re interested in becoming a personal shopper, there are a few things you can do to get started. First, brush up on your customer service skills. Next, start networking with people in your community who might need your services. Finally, create a portfolio that showcases your shopping talents.
Errand Runner
As an errand runner, you would be responsible for tasks like grocery shopping, picking up dry cleaning, and taking care of pet needs. This can be a great way to make some extra money while helping others out.
There are a few things you should keep in mind if you’re thinking about becoming an errand runner. First, you’ll need to be organized and efficient in order to succeed. Second, you’ll need to be comfortable working with a variety of people and personalities. Finally, you’ll need to be able to handle last-minute requests and changes. If you think you have what it takes, becoming an errand runner can be a great way to earn some extra money.
Become a Digital Nomad
Raising a child while working full-time can be a challenge, to say the least. Between school pick-ups, doctor’s appointments, and everything else that comes up, it can be tough to find time to focus on your career.
But what if you could take your work with you wherever you went?
That’s the beauty of being a digital nomad. As a digital nomad, you can work from anywhere in the world – as long as you have an internet connection. So whether you’re in Bali or Berlin, you can always be there for your kids. And since you’re not tied down to one location, you can easily travel and explore new places together.
If you’re thinking about becoming a digital nomad, here are a few things to keep in mind:
First, make sure you have a solid internet connection. After all, that’s how you’ll be able to do your work.
Second, create a schedule that works for both you and your child. You’ll need to block out time for yourself so that you can get your work done.
Finally, know that it’s ok to ask for help. Whether it’s hiring a babysitter or asking friends, family or other digital nomads for support, don’t be afraid to lean on others when you need to.
Being a digital nomad is an amazing way to see the world and build your career – and with a little planning, it can absolutely be done as a single parent.
Some jobs to consider
Social Media Manager
As a social media manager, you would be responsible for creating and managing the online presence of a business or organization. This would involve tasks such as creating and scheduling posts, monitoring and responding to comments and messages, and analyzing data to identify trends. To be successful in this role, you need to have strong written and communication skills, as well as experience with relevant social media platforms. And if you’re lucky enough to land a job with a great employer, you’ll also be able to enjoy a flexible work schedule that allows you to explore all the amazing places that the world has to offer.
Content Writer
As a content writer, you can work with clients from all over the globe and write articles, blog posts, and even books on a variety of topics. And since most content writing can be done remotely, it’s the perfect way to make money as a digital nomad.
There are a few things you’ll need to get started as a content writer.
First, you’ll need to build up a strong portfolio of writing samples so you can show potential clients your skills. You’ll also need to be familiar with different style guides and formats, and be able to research and write on a variety of topics quickly and efficiently. Finally, good time management skills are essential, since you’ll often be working on deadlines.
To find out more about become a writer, check out Freedom with Writing – https://www.freedomwithwriting.com/
Graphic Designer
As a graphic designer, you have a lot of freedom when it comes to earning money. You can work for a company or client, or you can be freelance and work on your own terms.
If you’re looking to be a digital nomad, freelancing is the way to go. With freelancing, you can work from anywhere in the world as long as you have a computer and an internet connection.
You’ll need to create a strong portfolio of your work to attract clients, but once you get started, you can easily earn enough money to support yourself while you travel. Sites like Upwork and Fiverr make it easy to find clients who are looking for help with everything from creating logos to designing website layouts.
If you’re looking for more stability, you could also look into working as an in-house designer for a company or agency. Many companies are now offering remote working arrangements, so you can live and work from anywhere in the world.
Website Designer
With the right skills, you can earn a great income by designing websites for clients from all over the world. And best of all, you can do this work from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. If you’re interested in pursuing this career, here are a few things you should know.
First, it’s important to have a strong portfolio of work to show potential clients. A good portfolio will showcase your skills and highlight the results you’ve been able to achieve for past clients. If you don’t have much experience yet, don’t worry – there are plenty of ways to get started, such as taking on smaller projects or working as part of a team.
Second, keep up with the latest trends in web design. This industry is always changing, so it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest technologies and designs. You can do this by reading design blogs, attending industry events, or taking courses.
Finally, remember that communication is key. When working with clients, it’s important to be clear about your vision for their project and to answer any questions they may have along the way. Good communication will help build trust and ensure that you’re able to deliver the results they’re looking for.
Virtual Assistant
The internet has opened up a whole world of opportunities for those looking to earn money while working from home. One popular option is to become a virtual assistant.
As a virtual assistant, you can provide a wide range of services to clients, from managing their email and calendar to handling customer service or social media tasks.
The best part about being a virtual assistant is that it allows you to be your own boss and work from anywhere in the world.
All you need is a laptop and an internet connection. So if you’re looking for a way to earn money while travelling, becoming a virtual assistant is a great option. Just be sure to do your research and build up a positive reputation in order to land clients.
Event Planner
The good news is that event planners can earn a very decent living by working remotely.
There are a few different ways to go about this.
First, you can work with clients directly to plan their virtual or real live events. This can be done entirely online, and you can often charge a premium for your services since you’ll be working with the client one-on-one.
Another option is to work with event planning companies. These companies typically have a stable of clients that they work with on a regular basis, and they’re always looking for talented event planners to help them out.
You can often find good freelance gigs by searching online job boards or contacting companies directly.
And, of course, you can always start your own event planning business. This will take a bit more work to get off the ground, but it can be a very lucrative way to earn a living as a digital nomad.
Online Teacher
With more people than ever looking to learn online, there is a growing demand for online teachers in subjects like English, math, science, and history.
With online teaching, you can set your own hours and work from anywhere in the world. Plus, you can make a good income by teaching classes or providing one-on-one tutoring.
There are a few things to keep in mind if you’re interested in becoming an online teacher. First, you’ll need to have a strong knowledge of the subject you want to teach.
Second, you’ll need to be comfortable using technology for distance learning.
And third, you’ll need to be able to market yourself as an online teacher. The good news is there are many websites that connect teachers with students from all over the world.
Travel Consultant
Many people are interested in traveling, but don’t have the time or knowledge to plan their own trips.
As a travel consultant, you can help them by doing all the research and legwork involved in planning a trip. You can also use your personal experience to recommend places to stay, things to see, and restaurants to eat at.
To get started as a travel consultant, first research the different types of jobs that are available. Then, create a portfolio of your previous work to show potential clients what you’re capable of.
Finally, reach out to contacts in the industry and start networking.
Life Coach
As a life coach, you help clients achieve their goals and improve their lives. You can work with clients online, which makes it easy to be a digital nomad. Plus, life coaching is a rewarding career that can make a real difference in people’s lives.
If you’re interested in becoming a life coach, there are a few things you need to do.
First, you’ll need to get certified. There are several reputable life coaching certification programs available.
Once you’ve completed your certification program, you’ll be ready to join an existing life coaching company or start marketing yourself and finding your own clients.
You can promote your business through your own website social media, online directories, and word-of-mouth.
You can also give free consultations to potential clients to show them what you can do and how you can help them.
When you’re starting out, it’s important to build up a positive reputation as a life coach. Once you have a few satisfied clients, word will spread and you’ll start to get more business.
To learn about building your own website, check out: Website Design for Coaches & Consultants. The Ultimate Guide
Photographer
Thanks to the rise of stock photography sites, it’s easier than ever to sell your photos online and earn some extra cash. And best of all, you can do it from anywhere in the world. All you need is a good camera and a strong internet connection.
If you’re serious about making money as a photographer, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
First, focus on shooting images that are in demand, such as landscapes, cityscapes, and portraits.
Second, make sure your photos are high quality and well-composed.
Third, take advantage of social media platforms like Instagram to promote your work.
Another option is to offer your services as a freelance photographer. You can create a profile on a platform like Fiverr or Upwork and start bidding on jobs.
Or, you can reach out to companies and businesses in your target destination and offer to take photos for their website or social media accounts.
Become a Social Influencer
A social influencer is someone who uses their platform to promote or endorse products or services. In return, they receive compensation from the brand they are working with. This can take the form of money, free products, or other perks.
Being a social influencer can be a great way to earn money while you travel. It’s a flexible job that can be done from anywhere in the world, as long as you have an internet connection. Plus, it’s a great way to connect with like-minded people and build a following of loyal fans.
If you’re thinking of becoming a social influencer, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
First, you need to have a strong online presence. This means having an engaged group of followers who are interested in what you have to say.
Second, you need to be able to produce high-quality content that will resonate with your audience.
Finally, you need to be able to partner with brands that align with your values and those of your followers.
Start a Travel Blog
Travel blogging can be a great way to see the world while also earning an income. As a travel blogger, you can write about your experiences traveling to different destinations, share photos and videos, and offer tips and advice to other travelers.
You can also partner with brands and companies to promote their products and services. And best of all, you can do all of this from anywhere in the world – as long as you have an internet connection.
So how do you get started?
First, you’ll need to create a blog and build an audience. You can do this by writing interesting and informative content, promoting your blog on social media, and guest blogging on other sites.
Once you’ve built up a following, you can start monetizing your blog through advertising, affiliate marketing, or selling products and services.
Discover 8 Ways to Make Money with your Website or Blog
Sell Other People’s Products and Services
Affiliate marketing is a way for you to earn commission on product and service sales that you generate for different companies.
For example, let’s say you have a blog about travel. You could sign up for an affiliate program with a travel company, and promote their products or services on your blog. If someone reads your blog and clicks on one of your links to the travel company’s website, and then makes a purchase, you would earn a commission on that sale.
Commission rates vary depending on the company and the product or service being sold, but as an affiliate marketer, you can often negotiate higher rates than the standard rate. And since you’re not tied to selling just one product or service, you can diversify your income streams by promoting multiple companies.
The great thing about affiliate marketing is that it’s relatively passive income – meaning you can earn money while you sleep! As long as people are clicking on your links and making purchases, you’ll continue to earn commission.
Learn more about How to Earn Money with Affiliate Marketing
How to Get Started
If you’re interested in becoming a digital nomad, one of the first things you’ll need to do is create your own website, so you can set up your online portfolio and start promoting your services.
Here are some resources you may find helpful.
27 Reasons Your Business Needs a Website
Website Design Checklist – 16 Steps to Designing an Awesome WordPress Website
The Most Important Pages You Need to Include on Your Website
Top 27 Valuable Ways To Boost Your Website’s Credibility
Check out other Website Design and Promotion Tutorials
While traveling as a single parent can seem daunting at first, with careful planning and some helpful advice it can be an incredibly rewarding experience that does not have to break the bank. We hope our ultimate guide to single parent travel has armed you with all the information you need to have a great trip. So what are you waiting for? Get packing!
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Ivana Katz is a Sydney based website designer and travel blogger. Having her own business has given her the freedom to explore the world. She believes travel is the best teacher and her passion for adventure, writing and photography has taken her and her son to some amazing places, including Hawaii, Canada, Fiji, Greece and Czech Republic. Ivana’s favourite thing about travelling is learning, discovering hidden gems and creating memories. She loves nothing more than inspiring other women to chase their dreams and explore the world with their families and friends.
