Erica’s World

Summer is coming and it’s time to think about where to vacation with your children. If you are a single parent, you may think a vacation is out of your budget. This is far from the truth. Sure you may not be able to afford a trip to Disney World but how many of us can? The truth is that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to have a good time. Your kids will have fun because they will have you all to themselves!

Time to Pull Out Your Tent

As simple as it sounds, camping is a fun and inexpensive vacation option. The cost to stay in a state park is often less than many hotels. Pitch a tent and have fun! Go on a nature hike and swim in the lake. If you are brave, don’t forget the fishing poles and bait. Your kids will be thrilled with their first big catch of the day. Bring along your camera and take pictures of bugs, leaves, and anything quirky that catches your eye. Your children will get a kick out of reminiscing over the photos once back home.

At night, build a bon fire and roast marshmallows. Smores will be the Pièce de résistance of fun-filled day spent in the sun. Don’t forget to sing a round or two of those campfire songs you remember from your childhood. Sure they are hokey but your kids love them just like you did when you were a kid. Spend time under the stars and see who is the first to find the Big Dipper. I guarantee your kids will fall fast asleep once they are tucked into their sleeping bags and their heads hit their pillows.

What to Remember When Camping

Bring lots of sun block. Apply regularly, especially when going in and out of water

Don’t forget bug spray. Time spent in nature, depending on your location and temperature, means lots of mosquitos.

Bring a well-stocked first aid kit. Load up on lots of Band-Aids and Neosporin.

Pack extra batteries of different sizes for your camera, flashlight, and other equipment

Rain ponchos and extra clothes in case of a rain shower

Warmer clothes and extra blankets since it will be colder at night

A good stash of water bottled water

Vacation Sites For Single Parents

http://www.independenttraveler.com/resources/article.cfm?AID=555&category=21

http://www.singleparenttravel.net/

http://travelwithkids.about.com/cs/familytraveltips/a/singleparentvac.htm