Additional Coverage:
- When we go on family vacations, one of us arrives 3 days early without our kid. It’s the secret to our happy marriage. (businessinsider.com)
Pre-Trip Trip: How One Family Keeps Wanderlust Alive
Traveling as a couple with a baby presents unique challenges. Just ask Walker Loetscher, who, along with his wife, has found a creative way to balance family travel with their love for solo exploration.
Their solution? One parent arrives at the destination a few days ahead of the rest of the family.
This advance trip isn’t just about relaxing; it’s a strategic reconnaissance mission. The early bird scopes out the best routes, restaurants, and activities, effectively becoming a personalized travel agent for the family.
Loetscher recalls his recent trip to Lisbon, where he navigated the metro system, identified tourist traps, secured soccer tickets, and even mastered the art of riding the city’s iconic Tram 28 (pro tip: board at the termini!). By the time his family arrived, he had a detailed itinerary, complete with dinner reservations and optimized sightseeing plans.
But the benefits don’t stop there. This system also streamlines packing.
During his Lisbon trip, Loetscher quickly realized that navigating the hilly city with a stroller would be impractical. A quick call home saved his wife the hassle of bringing unnecessary baby gear.
This pre-trip intel also allows them to pack the right clothing and footwear based on the actual weather and terrain.
Beyond logistics, this travel hack allows the couple to reconnect with their pre-parenthood travel style. With their daughter’s needs understandably taking priority during family trips, solo exploration time allows them to recapture the spontaneity they cherished – wandering aimlessly through new neighborhoods, discovering hidden gems, and experiencing the thrill of the unexpected.
It’s a way to nurture their individual curiosity and independence while still prioritizing family time. For Loetscher and his wife, this pre-trip ritual is more than just smart planning; it’s a way to keep the spirit of discovery alive in their busy lives.