Why You Should Take a Babymoon Ideas & How to Holiday on a Budget

Marriage first, babies second. That’s something I know we will have to remind ourselves of often in this next phase of our lives: parenthood. Taking a baby moon is a great way to set the flag post in the sand and kick off parenthood right with some time away with your favourite person. In this post I’ll share some babymoon ideas that you could work into your budget, since this is not the time to rack up any debt.

Why you should take a baby moon?

Marriage is one of the greatest gifts in life. While kids, I’m sure, will be great also, marriage comes first. I can think of no better way to set the foundation for our parenthood journey than to make the time to get away regularly. Starting with a great one-on-one trip before the baby arrives.

What is a baby moon?

A baby moon is similar to that of a honey moon, quality time with your spouse, and in this case before the arrival of your baby.

I know of some couples that do this religiously before every baby. We plan to do this also.

It does not need to be extravagant, unless that is your preference. However, it should emulate a place and time that both you and your spouse will love. Kind of like if you were to go on date, but one that lasts a little more than an afternoon or evening.

Ideas to plan a budget friendly baby moon

Like any holiday, you will need to consider the time, destination, accommodation, food, and activities. I’ll like a few babymoon ideas in each section to help you brainstorm the perfect trip for two!

Time

Start by considering how much time you will have to get away together.

This could be:

• annual vacation time from work
• a weekend away
• a long weekend where a public holiday falls on a Friday or Monday
• unpaid vacation

Keep in mind any other time you may be taking off from work once the baby arrives and plan accordingly. Remember to also factor in unpaid work time if that applies to you, and consider that missed income in your overall holiday budget.

Destination

Once you know how much time you can afford to take away from your daily lives, pick a destination. Before you search for the “best babymoon destination ideas“, consider your time and if it will be practical for you to drive, fly, train, boat, etc. Although, travelling together could also be another way to spend quality time with your spouse. Whether it be on a plane, boat, or in the car.

Consider also what is your allotted budget for this babymoon. It may not be wise to jet set to a warm location in the Caribbean and return with a backpack of debt to carry into parenthood.

If travelling by plane is outside your budget, consider these babymoon ideas:

• tour your own town and city
• explore the backcountry nearby
• find a good hiking trail in your area
• scout out nearby towns
• go camping (or even wild camping if you’re feeling adventurous)
• cross to a nearby island on a ferry
• take a train ride
• adventure on a bus trip

The baby moon does not need to be extravagant, just an adventure you and your spouse can cherish. Any time away from your regular day-to-day will do.

Accommodation

Accommodation on a baby moon or holiday can be the greatest cost these days. Consider some thrifty ways to lodge if you need accommodation on a dime:

• go camping (or even wild camping if you’re feeling adventurous)
• rent a large vehicle and sleep in the car: flip down the backseat into the trunk, bring a thin mattress, pillows and blankets
• book a longer stay for cheaper: most AirBnB vacation homes have a discounted prices if you stay for longer than a week or month, which could be in your favour if you are planning a longer trip
• consider a house swap

Find more budget friendly holiday babymoon ideas on the well known finance expert, Mr. Dave Ramsey’s website.

Food

Your next item to plan is food. Thankfully, this can be an area where you can save the most money if you work smart. While it may be nice to dine out now and then as a celebratory time, you could keep your holiday on a budget by:

• rummage your pantry and bring food along on your trip
• buy a portable fridge that can plug into your car
• buying food from the grocery store and cooking yourself
• pack hearty lunches for day trips
• stock up on snacks that you can buy in bulk for cheaper
• bring canned food to turn into gourmet dishes (get some ideas at this link)

Babymoon ideas for activities

Finally, the fun stuff! While it is not necessary to plan activities for you baby moon, it may be enjoyable for you to engage in some activities together. This can include:

• visiting a provincial park
• picnic in a spot with nice scenery
• relaxing at a beach or lake
• touring coffee shops in a given area (although bear in mind the caffeine intake for pregnant ladies)
• thrifting through local thrift stores
• exploring local tourist attractions
• touring the local art gallery or artist studios
• taking a course with local expert (forager, tour guide, artist, etc.)

Happy baby moon and congratulations friend!