10 Budget-Friendly Summer Travel Ideas for Solo Moms

You hear that?👂🏽 Summer is calling! And chile, you deserve more than just a weekend on the couch with Bluey playing in the background and Goldfish crumbs in your bra. Although, those kinds of weekends do come in clutch sometimes. I can’t lie. Lol!

Yes, you’re a solo mom. Yes, your coins might be stretched. But that doesn’t mean travel is off the table.

You can take a break without breaking the bank. Whether you’re rolling solo for a little “me time” or bringing the tiny humans along for the ride, I’ve got ten budget-friendly ideas to get you out the house and your ‘Broke Bestie Summer’ started!

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1. Plan a Local Staycation

Are y’all still out there scared to fly? I don’t blame you! But don’t let that stop your fun. Book a night or two at a cute boutique hotel or Airbnb in your own city. Order room service, take a long bubble bath without anyone knocking, and pretend you’re in Paris.

Bonus: if you can get a babysitter and spend one of the nights solo.

2. Go Glamping

Sleeping under the stars amongst nature sounds super cool until it’s time to assemble the tent. Glamping is definitely the new buzz word for your outdoor summer adventures. It’s camping with a more glamorous aesthetic—and function.

Look for glamping spots on sites like Hipcamp or Getaway. You’ll get fresh air, s’mores, and quiet time without needing a degree in tent assembly. Many locations are family-friendly but you can also find some adult friendly spots as well if you’re trying to spend it with your summer boo😉.

3. Hit Up a Nearby Beach Town

This is always the summertime go-to for me. Find a drive-able beach town with a free boardwalk, low-cost hotels, and free ocean views. Let the kids dig holes while you dig into that book you’ve been “about to start” since February. Just leave those podcasts alone sis!

4. Check Out State Parks

State parks are a solo mom’s best-kept secret. Entry fees are cheap, and there’s so much to do—hiking, kayaking, picnicking. Pack sandwiches, juice boxes, and a Bluetooth speaker, and make a whole day of it. Just don’t forget your bug spray, chile.

5. Book a Last-Minute Deal on a Cruise

Believe it or not, cruises can be super affordable if you book last minute. Some even let kids sail free! And y’all know me and my little one are avid cruisers! Just be sure to set a budget before boarding because those onboard add-ons will sneak up on you if you’re not careful.

6. Find a Free Festival

Summer is prime time for outdoor festivals—music, food, culture, you name it. I mean, honestly, what’s summer without them? Check out what’s happening in your area or a nearby city. Be sure you pack all your essentials—snacks, lawn chairs, blanket, etc.

Bonus: go either before high noon or later in the evening if possible to beat the heat.

7. Explore a City by Transit

This is one I’ve done myself and a time was had! Pick a city with a good public transportation system and spend the weekend exploring. Hop on a bus or subway, hit up museums with free entry days, walk through local farmer’s markets, and be a bright eyed tourist for the day or weekend. This is a great solo travel idea.

8. Go Grandma-Adjacent

If you have family out of town (especially your parents), plan a trip where you visit them—then sneak in some solo mom time while the babies get all that grandparent and family love they haven’t had in a while. You get a break and free childcare. BOOM!

9. Do a Road Trip with a Twist

So I won’t lie, I saw this idea on Google and thought that it was GENIUS and have added it to my summer travel list! Pick a theme—Black-owned eateries, quirky roadside attractions, or historic landmarks—and build a day trip or overnight around it. Let your GPS take you on an adventure that your kiddos will absolutely be talking about all summer.

10. Chase Waterfalls (Literally)

Do a little Googling and find waterfalls or natural swimming holes near you. Pack a cooler, grab your water shoes, and get ready for the kind of fun that costs way less than a waterpark. Don’t forget to take some fire pics for the gram. Cause if you don’t post it, did it even really happen?? Lol!

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Final Thoughts:

I know you want to provide the best experiences for your little ones (and yourself). And I hope this list has given you hope that even on a solo mom income, it can still happen.

Travel doesn’t have to be expensive to be memorable. The luxury hotels and passport stamps are cool. But once it’s all said and done, it’s the memories that’ll last.

Love, light, & budget,

Tiera Nicole