Britain's 1.8m lone-parent families are a growing market, with numbers trebling over the last 30 years. Unfortunately, going it alone on holiday can be fraught with problems. Raisingkids.co.uk's guest travel expert Barbara Murray, has some advice.

Raisingkids member's question
I separated from my wife earlier this year and I'm planning to take my sons on a fortnight's holiday this summer. I can't afford to spend as much money as I would like, and I'm dreading the evenings after my boys have gone to bed. What do other single parents do? I would really appreciate some advice, as I'm new to all this!

Barbara Murray's advice
Money is a big worry for most lone parents, and it's important to take your new financial circumstances into account when planning your holiday. There's no need to feel guilty if you need to make lifestyle changes - a short break, close to home, can be just as much fun as a fortnight in an exotic location. Don't feel bad about not giving your children everything they ask for, and don't fall into the trap of competing with their other parent. It's better to take the affordable option and relax, rather than over-stretch your budget or your working hours!

Look for destinations with inexpensive entertainment. If you end up filling the days with trips to theme parks, McDonald's or amusement arcades, the costs quickly mount up. Although the single adult occupancy supplement is still a major problem, the National Council for One Parent Families (www.oneparentfamilies.org.uk) has produced a free 'Holiday 2003' booklet with dozens of organisations and publications that you can consult for help and advice in finding and arranging an affordable holiday. Call the Lone Parent Helpline on 0800 018 5026 to order.

Coping with luggage, tickets, passports, and fractious children single-handed can be daunting, so many lone parents prefer to drive to their holiday destination. Even small children can carry a backpack with favorite toys, books, and a change of clothing - most of them love the responsibility! Pack your children's things last, so they are the first to be unpacked when you arrive. If you think your children will be anxious about the journey, discuss your travel plans with them beforehand, and give them a chance to talk through any travel-related fears.

If you have a support network of family and friends at home, being alone with your children 24 hours a day can be unexpectedly stressful. This is completely normal so don't worry about it! The more activities available for your children, the more time parents have to chill out. Holidays under canvas in modern luxury tents, or in static mobile homes, offer endless entertainment for children and often have excellent 'kids' clubs' and childcare, which doubtless come as a huge relief to single parents. For winter activities, many ski resorts are geared towards providing great facilities for children of all ages. Budget for some time alone doing whatever you enjoy, and remember it's your holiday too.

If spending the evenings drinking alone isn't your style, you might want to consider going on holiday with friends, especially if their children are of a similar age to yours. Holidaying with grandparents can also provide you with company when you want it and (possibly) willing babysitters when you feel like time out. If it's just you and the kids, choosing somewhere with a central socialising area, such as a bar or pool, gives you more opportunities to meet people. Some lone parents find hostels are particularly friendly, as you can put the children to bed and spend evenings chatting to other guests without being too far away.

Finally, remember that there are some positive aspects to being a lone parent. You have the freedom to decide where, when, and how you enjoy your holiday without recourse to anyone else. So if you've always fancied a beach holiday but your ex-partner insisted on fell-walking in October, now's your chance to do your own thing!