As mums, we often juggle a million tasks at once, from packing school lunches to managing the household, all while trying to maintain some semblance of personal sanity.
It’s no wonder that the idea of taking a solo holiday might seem like a distant dream.
However, Catherine Lofthouse, a 44-year-old mother of three from Leicestershire, is challenging that notion by embracing solo travel and she believes it’s made her a better parent.
Catherine, who describes herself as a “tight mum,” recently embarked on trips to Lille, France, and Stratford-upon-Avon, spending a modest £230 in total.
Leaving her three sons — Alex (12), William (10), and Robin (5) in the capable hands of their father, she seized the opportunity to recharge and went on a trip for the first time.
But she wishes she had done so sooner.
Her philosophy is straightforward: taking time for oneself isn’t just beneficial; it’s essential.
“I haven’t got a lot of time for mum guilt over this sort of thing,”
Catherine shared. “As long as my children are happy and safe while I’m away, there’s no need to feel this way.”
“I’m definitely going to do it more often and for longer periods now that I’ve done it…..I think going away solo actually makes me a better parent.
“Instead of me dragging them around to do the stuff I’m interested in, they get to stay at home and I don’t have to hear any whining and whinging…I would definitely recommend parents going away without their children if it’s doable.
“It’s great to do your own thing without them in tow sometimes.”
This perspective is particularly relevant considering recent research from Trainline, which revealed that 1 in 2 mums feel ashamed to travel without their kids, even though 57% expressed a desire to do so.
Catherine’s experience serves as a reminder that prioritizing self-care can have positive ripple effects on family life.
For those contemplating a solo getaway, here are some practical tips to make the experience both enjoyable and affordable:
- Start Small: If the idea of a long trip feels daunting, begin with a short overnight stay in a nearby city. This allows you to test the waters and ease into solo travel.
- Plan Ahead: Research destinations, accommodations, and activities in advance to make the most of your time away and to find the best deals.
- Communicate with Your Family: Ensure that your children understand the purpose of your trip and reassure them about their care arrangements during your absence.
- Set a Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend and look for cost-effective options that align with your financial plans.
- Embrace the Experience: Use this time to engage in activities that you enjoy and that rejuvenate you, whether it’s exploring a new city, indulging in a spa day, or simply reading a book uninterrupted.
Remember, taking time for yourself isn’t an act of neglect—it’s an investment in your well-being, which in turn benefits your family. As Catherine aptly puts it,
“You’ve got to put yourself first sometimes.”
So, fellow mums, perhaps it’s time to consider penciling in that much-deserved solo adventure.
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