Why solo trips are essential, even when you have a partner or kids

Happily married with two kids and always vacationing as a family.

Does this sound like your story? Then keep reading.

You’ve probably heard people say, “It was so much fun when I was single, but things have changed now that I’m married and have kids.”

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

Society doesn’t make it any easier. The moment you mention travelling alone post-marriage or post-kids, the raised eyebrows and unsolicited comments begin. “How can you enjoy yourself alone?” or “Won’t you feel guilty leaving your kids behind?” These are just a couple of the judgemental remarks people endure.

But pause for a moment and think: Are you holding yourself back because of societal expectations or fear of how your family might cope without you? If so, it’s time you needed some changes.

Suppressing your passion - especially something as fulfilling as solo travel - does no good. Neglecting what you love only takes a toll on your mental well-being, and in the long run, this can affect your relationships too.

Why is it important to travel solo?

An Indian household typical when a girl just randomly asks her parents – can I visit Goa with my college friends, please? Or let’s say she asks – I am going on a solo trip to Himachal Pradesh. Could you lend me some money? The cliché response would be – shaadi ke baad jahaan jana hai jao, not before!

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

Absy Sam, a counselling psychologist from Mumbai, tells India Today, that travelling solo allows people to explore their preferences, dislikes, goals, and visions for life. It cultivates a sense of autonomy and freedom that is crucial for personal growth.

“In the Indian context, where societal norms often emphasise the collective ‘we’ system, marriage or relationships are frequently associated with a sense of responsibility. A solo trip, therefore, becomes a form of self-care, helping you nurture your individuality while still existing as a partner to someone else,” she adds.

Travelling solo allows people to explore their preferences, dislikes, goals, and visions for life. (Photo: Unsplash)

Ruchi Ruuh, a Delhi-based relationship counsellor, says, that in relationships, solo travelling helps maintain a sense of self that is often crucial for a healthy dynamic.

“Healthy relationships are built on a concept called differentiation, which simply means that you celebrate being individuals while coming together to be a couple. With solo travel, people can experience and understand their personalities better,” she notes.

Boosting mental health

Solo travel can work wonders for mental health. It breaks the monotony, reduces stress, and fosters new perspectives. Absy Sam mentions how Indian women, in particular, can feel empowered through solo trips, reclaiming agency over their lives.

"It’s about independence and self-reliance, giving women a sense of empowerment," she states.

Strengthening trust and space

Taking a solo trip doesn’t mean distancing yourself from your partner; it strengthens trust. "Solo travel challenges partners to respect each other's need for autonomy while creating security in the relationship," says Ruuh.

Sam adds that it nurtures "me time", promoting a healthy emotional space. This mutual understanding of personal boundaries strengthens the partnership.

Solo travel challenges partners to respect each other's need for autonomy while creating security in the relationship. (Photo: Unsplash)

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

"Some partners may resist due to insecurity or fear of losing control. Address these concerns with empathy and clarity," she suggests. This approach helps maintain understanding and trust.

Solo travel with children at home

Having kids doesn’t mean you should give up solo trips. Ruuh recommends involving family or hiring help during your absence and starting with shorter, nearby trips. Sam believes that solo travel sets an example for children about the importance of self-care. "Parents taking time for themselves return refreshed and better equipped to handle family responsibilities," she says.

Practical tips for balancing solo and couple trips

Balancing solo trips and couple vacations requires thoughtful planning. Ruuh and Sam share these tips:

Plan in advance: Alternate solo trips with a couple vacations.

Discuss finances: Budget carefully to accommodate both.

Stay connected: Share updates through pictures or calls.

Communicate clearly: Set expectations about trip frequency and purpose.

Source: India Today