You need to explore and go out alone. ♥
Let’s get one thing straight: every mom deserves a solo adventure once in a while. But I get it — life, responsibilities, and mom guilt can make it feel impossible.
Still, I’ve become passionate about encouraging moms to explore the world whenever they can. Why? Because it’s not just about the trip — it’s about rediscovering yourself.
I don’t think I personally know of any mom who regularly travels solo for leisure or just because she wants to be sane. I understand — it’s hard to be away from home.
Most moms I know are traveling only due to necessity like to visit family, attend a work event, or meet business clients.
The Misconceptions About Moms Traveling Solo
Is there an unspoken rule that once you’re a mom, you’re supposed to stay glued to your home and family 24/7? Maybe not outright, but the subtle judgments are there:
“Who’s going to take care of your kid?”
“Why isn’t your husband going with you?”
“Shouldn’t you spend that money on your child’s future instead?”
These questions often stem from societal expectations that moms sacrifice their individuality for their families.
But here’s the truth: taking a solo trip doesn’t mean you love your family any less. In fact, it can help you recharge, reflect, and come back an even better version of yourself.
My Journey to Embracing Solo Travel
Before I got married, I was the adventurous type — always up for spontaneous road trips, hiking expeditions, or beach getaways.
At 16, I left my hometown to study in a city three hours away, and that sense of independence stuck with me.
Those were some of the best days of my life.
When I started working, my friends would often call me with last-minute plans, and I’d be ready to go in 15 minutes.
Fast forward to now: I have a family.
While I still crave adventure, spontaneity is no longer my reality. Every trip takes planning and coordination. My first out-of-town trip after becoming a mom was when my son was three. My friends and I explored Dumaguete, Dipolog, and Dapitan for a week. I was anxious about leaving my son, but my husband insisted I go. Looking back, I’m so glad I did.
The Role of a Supportive Partner
If there’s one thing my husband and I agree on, it’s that I need to be where I want to be. He’s always supported my travels, understanding that wanderlust had been a part of me long before we got married.
Some people have asked why he allows me to travel solo or with friends. To that, I say: we’re partners, not gatekeepers. We respect each other’s need for individuality.
Granted, my husband isn’t as fond of traveling as I am. He’s a homebody who prefers short trips close to home. But that’s okay. We’ve learned to balance our differences while ensuring both of us get what we need to stay happy and fulfilled.
It’s not just singles who can travel solo. Moms or even dads can, too. In 2016, I traveled with two of my friends for 10 days to Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. Some people were surprised that I’d travel without my husband.
I was surprised too why it’s surprising to them. I’m a grown-up independent woman and I’m sure I can take care of myself. We should all know how to, because truth be told, we’re not going to be around our loved ones all the time.
Perhaps the only thing that tugs my heart whenever I travel for a long time is that I miss my son often (ok fine, my husband too). I always miss them a lot. I miss my son even when he’s just in school and I’m home. But I taught myself to be tough. Children need to be independent and in school by themselves when it’s about time.
When my son was a toddler, I’d stick a map of the Philippines and Asia on our wall. That was how I’d explain to him where I was going. I would show him the map and how far we’d be geographically. I still do it until now but on Google Maps (how techy).
When I booked my trip to Singapore in 2017, I didn’t mind at all whether I’d go alone or not. I was indeed alone for the most part during that trip and I was okay with it. I survived! In fact, I always made it a point to spend time alone since then. My soul badly needs it.
I’m a wife and a mom but I’m also my own person. I don’t want to lose my individuality just because I got married and had a kid.
My husband understands that and we both reinforce the importance of engaging in our hobbies and interests. We are married, but we are still very different people. We are the opposite, but we do our best to agree and respect each other’s wants and needs.
Tips for Moms Considering Solo Travel
If you’ve been dreaming of a solo adventure but aren’t sure where to start, here are a few tips:
Start small: Begin with a day trip or an overnight stay somewhere close to home. You don’t have to plan an international getaway right away.
Plan ahead: Ensure everything at home is taken care of before you leave. Prepare meals, organize schedules, and communicate clearly with your partner or support system.
Let go of guilt: Remember, taking time for yourself doesn’t make you a bad mom. It makes you human.
Involve your kids: If your kids are old enough, show them where you’re going on a map. It helps them understand your trip and builds excitement for your return.
Enjoy: That’s it. Enjoy and seize the moment!
Reclaiming Your Independence
Traveling solo isn’t about escaping responsibilities — it’s about reclaiming your identity. As moms, we pour so much of ourselves into our families that it’s easy to lose sight of who we are outside of those roles.
Taking time to explore the world on your own is a powerful way to reconnect with yourself.
So to all the moms out there: pack your bags, book that ticket, and go. Whether it’s a weekend at the beach, a solo hike in the mountains, or an international adventure, remember that you’re worth it.
The world is waiting, and so is the best version of you.