The little-known holiday hack that helps you feel like a better parent

Here’s your sign to book your next family getaway!

By Dr Gina Cleo

Let’s be real – parenting is tough. Mums and dads everywhere consistently report that they feel as though they’re never doing quite enough.

Whether it’s the barrage of picture-perfect parents that pop up on social media or just good old-fashioned mum guilt, it’s sometimes hard to know that we’re doing a great job.

But what if I told you that one simple trick could make you feel like a better parent?

According to new research commissioned by Carnival Cruise Line, more than half of Aussie parents (51%) say that booking a holiday several months in advance makes them feel like a better parent. 

It’s no secret that travel has many benefits for our mental health – giving us a chance to disconnect from the stresses of life and reconnect with our families and loved ones. What’s incredible is the idea that it’s not just the trip itself, but rather the act of booking it in advance that does extra wonders for improving general wellbeing and overall happiness.

From a physiological perspective, it makes perfect sense that the anticipation of a future holiday has emotional and psychological benefits. It’s what I like to call the ‘pre-holiday glow’ and, while it’s the parents who get the extra boost from making the holiday booking, the whole family can feel this glow.

Anticipation of an upcoming holiday triggers the release of dopamine, which gives us feelings of pleasure, satisfaction, and motivation. Advanced planning also helps to reduce our stress hormone, cortisol.

Amazingly, the research also shows that two-thirds of Aussies (66%) actually have more fun on their trip when they book it in advance. So, it’s a win for the whole family from the moment you book.

Top tips for feeling like ‘Parent of the Year’ by booking your holiday in advance

1. Take the hard work out of it

As a wellness expert, my best advice to parents who want to take full advantage of this hack is to choose a holiday option that makes planning as simple as possible.

Bundled offerings are becoming more popular with 48% of Australians being more inclined to book holidays with all-inclusive elements. For example, a cruise with Carnival from Sydney or Brisbane offers tons of activities for all ages – catering to kids, grandparents, and everyone in between (I mean you, mum and dad) – while also including food, accommodation, and travel between destinations in the ticket price. One decision, one booking, and a hundred other things off your to-do list.

2. The more the merrier

Booking a family trip will bring months’ worth of smiles to you and your kids… but why not invite the extended family along? Grandparents, aunts and uncles are usually happy to be included, and – just between you and me – they can act as bonus babysitters, so you get the most out of the holiday too. 

3. Timing is everything

Booking a holiday about six months in advance is the optimal time to get the most out of a future trip. This time frame between booking and the holiday itself allows for a healthy level of anticipation. It also eliminates planning-related stress so we can focus on all the positives and let our excitement build!

4. Give the gift of a holiday (even to yourself)

For a double hit of dopamine, I love the idea of booking a family holiday as a gift. That way, you get those feel-good brain chemicals when you book, and then again when you reveal your special gift to your loved ones on Christmas Day.

Plus, you get to enjoy months’ worth of anticipation and bonding as a family while you look forward to your special trip together.

Adding these tips to your parenting handbook will help you create memories for years to come and give you the confidence boost we all need every once in a while. After all, nothing beats the joy of seeing those big smiles on your kids’ faces.