Leave the Guilt Behind: Plan Your Next Couples Trip

Getaway
© Scopio via canva.com

Last fall, my husband and I went on a two-day getaway together.

It was our first extended time away from our youngest child and the longest we’d been apart from our twins in two years.

In the week leading up to our trip, we found ourselves having multiple conversations about canceling it altogether. The thought of being away was daunting, and calling us nervous would be an understatement.

However, after we had returned from our trip, we realized the importance of planning these short getaways.

Here are some ways to make the most of your time.

Getaway Tips

Start Small and Plan Ahead

We knew jumping into a long trip would be overwhelming, so we started with a two-day getaway. It made things feel so much more manageable.

Planning ahead was key. I made sure the kids’ routines were covered, double-checked our childcare plans, and talked through everything with my husband until we both felt comfortable.

It helped to have everything squared away before we left, so we could actually relax once we got there.

Communicate Your Needs and Expectations

Before we left, my husband and I had a conversation about what we wanted out of the trip. For us, it was mostly about slowing down and reconnecting without distractions — no kids, no work, just us.

It sounds simple, but being intentional about our time made all the difference.

We ended up having some of the best conversations we’ve had in ages and really enjoyed the time together.

Prioritize Connection Over Perfection

At first, I wanted to plan every detail (I am a planner at heart), but I quickly realized that trying to create the “perfect” getaway was missing the point.

The best parts of the trip were the unplanned moments: lingering over breakfast, going for a walk with no particular destination, laughing over great conversations.

Letting go of the pressure to make everything perfect was honestly a relief.

Leave the Guilt Behind

I’ll admit, I felt guilty right up until we left and even after. I kept running through all the “what-ifs” in my head.

But once we were on the road, I started to relax.

And by the time we got back, I realized just how much I needed that break, not just as a mom, but as a wife.

Investing in our marriage felt good. And coming home refreshed made me a better mom, too.

Reflect and Plan for the Future

On our drive home, we talked about how nice it was to just be us again. We agreed that we need to do this more often, even if it’s just a night away or a date night closer to home.

Making these getaways a priority feels less like a luxury and more like something our relationship truly needs.

Taking time away together can be hard especially with young kids and busy schedules. But it’s so worth it. We came back feeling more connected and ready to tackle the chaos of life together.

If you’ve been putting off a getaway, this is your sign to make it happen.

Looking for getaway inspiration? Check out Best Getaways Near Fargo to Find a Scenic View!
Previous articleExplore with Kids: Shadow Wood Splash Pad & Park
Next articleExplore with Kids: Buffalo River State Park
Ashlee Cournia
Ashlee lives in Horace with her husband, Jay, and their four kids—twins Hannah and Leo, plus Olivia and Kyle. Raised on a farm in south central North Dakota, she grew up with plenty of chores, lots of fresh air, and a deep appreciation for hard work, family, and faith. She’s been teaching English since 2014, most recently at Kindred High School, later added adjunct professor at the University of Mary to her resume, and somehow still squeezes in part-time work at Scheels (coffee required). When she’s not lesson planning or grading papers, Ashlee loves baking up something sweet, decorating her home, or packing everyone into the car for their next family adventure. Summers off with her kids are her absolute favorite, and she’ll never say no to a shopping trip or an excuse to enjoy just one more cup of coffee.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.