Episode #39: Traveling Solo with Kids: Real Tips from a Mom Who’s Visited 20+ Countries with Her Children (with Kate Team)
Traveling Solo with Kids with Kate from @adiosteam
In this episode, I sit down with Kate from @adiosteam, a mom of two who regularly travels internationally solo with her daughters. Her girls, ages 8 and 6, have already visited over 20 countries, and Kate shares what it really looks like to travel alone with kids, from the challenges to the rewards.
Kate’s Story
Grew up traveling and continued that passion into adulthood
Originally did not plan on having kids, but chose to continue traveling after becoming a mom
Started traveling with her children out of a desire to not miss out on experiences
Took her first solo international trip with her kids when they were very young
Completed a 28-hour travel day solo with her daughters to Singapore
Why She Travels Solo with Her Kids
Her husband’s work limits how long he can travel
She chooses to go ahead with the kids and have him meet later when possible
Builds confidence and independence with each trip
Allows her to continue traveling instead of waiting for the “perfect time”
Biggest Fears Moms Have (and the Reality)
Fear of being overwhelmed as the only parent
Concern about handling meltdowns or tough moments alone
Worry about judgment from others
Key takeaway:
Kids will still have hard moments, but those moments pass and the experience is still worth it
Letting go of what others think makes travel feel much more manageable
Travel Day Tips and Systems
Pack ahead of time and simplify what you bring
Bring essentials in carry-on (extra clothes, snacks, comfort items)
Use airline child meal options but still pack backup snacks
Use motion sickness tools like Dramamine and prepare kids for long flights
Manage screen time to help kids rest during flights
Managing Long Flights with Kids
Select kids meals in advance
Bring plenty of snacks regardless of meal options
Use sleep aids carefully and test beforehand
Create a sleep routine on the plane by limiting screens
Let kids move and release energy during layovers
Safety Tips for Traveling Solo with Kids
Choose highly rated accommodations in central locations
Trust your instincts and avoid risky situations
Teach kids what to do if they get separated
Use tools like AirTags for peace of mind
Always accompany kids in public spaces like restrooms
Review safety expectations before entering crowded areas
How She Plans Trips
Keeps a loose itinerary with one main activity per day
Focuses on flexibility instead of over-scheduling
Mixes hotels and Airbnbs depending on the destination
Uses Airbnbs for space and affordability on longer stays
Chooses hotels when amenities or location are important
Why Europe Feels Easier with Kids
More family-friendly infrastructure
Priority lines and accommodations for families
Walkable cities and accessible public transportation
More welcoming culture toward children
Favorite Family-Friendly Destinations
Italy for culture and accessibility
Slovenia for outdoor adventure and kid-friendly activities
Austria for scenic experiences and unique stays
Key takeaway:
Most places are family-friendly if kids live there
Biggest Mindset Shift
Travel does not have to stop after having kids
Start small and build confidence over time
Each trip gets easier for both parents and kids
Focus on experiences over perfection
Advice for Moms Wanting to Start
Start with a shorter or domestic trip
Build confidence step by step
Learn from each experience
Accept that things will not go perfectly
Just start, even if you do not feel fully ready
Final Takeaway
Traveling solo with kids may feel overwhelming at first, but it becomes more manageable with experience. The key is to start small, stay flexible, and focus on creating meaningful experiences with your kids.
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