Are you happily married with two children and always vacation as a family?

If this sounds like your story? Then keep reading.

You’ve probably heard people say, “I used to have a lot of fun when I was single, but now that I’m married and have kids, things have changed.”

For many people, once a relationship deepens or a family grows, self-care quietly takes a back seat. Prioritizing the needs and happiness of others often becomes the default – even if it means sacrificing something that once brought you great joy. Solo travel is often one of the first casualties.

Society doesn’t make it easy. As soon as you mention traveling alone after marriage or after the birth of a child, the raised eyebrows and unwanted comments begin. “How can you enjoy alone?” or “Won’t you feel guilty leaving your kids behind?” These are just some of the critical comments that people endure.

But stop for a moment and think: Are you holding yourself back because of societal expectations or fear about how your family might live without you? If so, now is the time that you need to make some changes.

Suppressing your passion – especially something as fulfilling as solo travel – is not a good thing. Ignoring what you like only affects your mental health and in the long run, it can affect your relationships too.

Why is it important to travel alone?

A girl in an Indian family suddenly asks her parents – Can I go to Goa with my college friends? Or suppose she asks- I am going on a trip to Himachal Pradesh alone. Can you lend me some money? The clichéd response would be – Go wherever you want after marriage. not before!

And then, after a few years, when the girl finally gets married – she has a so-called “permanent traveling companion” for life. So, when is it her time to go alone and explore the world? More than men, women often have to give up their aspirations and hobbies. However, regardless of your relationship status, gender or profession, everyone should travel alone and experts highly recommend it.

Mumbai-based counseling psychologist Absi Sam explains India TodayThat traveling alone allows people to explore their preferences, dislikes, goals and approaches to life. It creates a sense of autonomy and independence which is important for personal development.

“In the Indian context, where social norms often emphasize the collective ‘we’ system, marriage or relationships are often associated with a sense of responsibility. Therefore, a solo trip becomes a form of self-care, helping you nurture your individuality while still having someone else’s companionship,” she adds.

Delhi-based relationship counselor Ruchi Rooh says that in relationships, solo travel helps maintain a sense of self which is often important for healthy dynamics.

“Healthy relationships are built on a concept called differentiation, which simply means that you celebrate who you are as individuals while also coming together as a couple. Through solo travel, people can experience and understand their personality better,” she says.

promote mental health

Solo travel can work wonders for mental health. It breaks the monotony, reduces stress and promotes fresh perspectives. Absi Sam mentions how Indian women, in particular, can feel empowered through solo travels, reclaiming agency in their lives.

“It’s about independence and self-reliance, which gives women a sense of empowerment,” she says.

strengthening trust and position

Traveling alone doesn’t mean you have to distance yourself from your partner; It strengthens faith. “Solo travel challenges partners to respect each other’s need for autonomy while creating security in the relationship,” says Ruh.

Sam says it nurtures “me time”, promoting a healthy emotional space. This mutual understanding of personal limitations strengthens the partnership.

However, not all partners are comfortable with the idea of ​​solo travel. Sam recommends open communication by explaining the purpose of the trip and its benefits.

She suggests, “Some partners may resist because of insecurity or fear of losing control. Address these concerns with empathy and clarity.” This approach helps maintain understanding and trust.

solo travel with kids at home

Having kids doesn’t mean you should give up solo trips. Rooh recommends involving or enlisting the help of family during your absence and starting with smaller, closer visits. Sam believes that solo travel sets an example for children about the importance of self-care. “Parents who take time for themselves return refreshed and better equipped to handle family responsibilities,” she says.

Practical Tips for Balancing Solo and Couple Travel

Balancing solo trips and couples vacations requires thoughtful planning. Rooh and Sam share these tips:

Plan in advance: Alternate solo trips with some holidays.

Discuss Finances: Budget carefully to accommodate both.

Stay Connected: Share updates through pictures or calls.

Communicate clearly: Set expectations about the frequency and purpose of travel.