ALEKSEI POTOV / SHUTTERSTOCK . COM is a fan of all-inclusive resorts with child care amenities for this reason , because everything a family needs and wants is at their fingertips . “ It ’ s a nice , easy way to be confident , to feel comfortable and not get overwhelmed , especially if you ’ re in a foreign country ,” she says .
If that ’ s financially prohibitive , Winters offers this insider tip for stretching hotel value for money : “ With an all-inclusive , they don ’ t care how many adults are in the room ,” she explains . “ I could have two adults , two kids [ or ] one adult , two kids , and it ’ s the same price .” If it ’ s possible , suggest that your client bring a nanny or friend along to provide an extra set of hands .
When it comes to travel times , be sure to factor in kids ’ ages — disrupted sleep schedules can be extra stressful for a single parent . Families with toddlers , for example , might benefit from direct flights on airlines known to be especially family friendly . McKie also suggests that agents offer to book arrival transfers if clients are arriving late or to an unfamiliar destination .
“ We , as single parents , need an additional sense of ease ,” explains Winters . “ Most times , we ’ re outnumbered by children , which can easily make us feel stressed and overwhelmed . A travel advisor should focus on the ages of the children so that their particular needs are met .”
It ’ s also important to remind solo parents what travel documents they ’ ll need for their specific destinations . Winters advises clients to make several copies of passports , IDs and prescriptions , and keep them in multiple locations , including as photos on their phones .
Make yourself available : being a crucial resource during their trip Your job doesn ’ t end when the family boards its flight . Boost your customer relationship game by keeping the lines of communication open during the trip .
Make sure families and older children know how to reach you . WhatsApp is a great , free option for staying in touch and helping your client troubleshoot issues that may arise during the trip .
After the trip is over , staying in touch can help you create longterm customers who may refer you to new solo-parent families . Consider using social media to stay connected : 30 % of people use social media to find travel inspiration , according to DMO software company CrowdRiff , but that number climbs to 60 % and 68 %, respectively , for millennials on Instagram and Facebook . After a successful trip , ask parents and kids ( with their parent ’ s permission ) for testimonials for your website and social channels .
“ I have created a page that is all about me and my children traveling ,” says Winters . “ People comment on my photos , which provides me with a natural opportunity to keep that communication going .”
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