After my marriage ended, I naively assumed it would be simple to enjoy holidays as a single parent. I quickly discovered they were either ridiculously expensive, seemed tailored only for “traditional” families, or were so cheap that I returned home more exhausted than when I left.
My first attempt was camping with friends, which went fine until I had to pack up the tent. After four hours struggling with it in the heat, I decided I hated camping. Next, we tried an adventure holiday for single-parent families. The abseiling and caving were fantastic, but sleeping in a bunk bed wrecked my back. We then opted for a budget all-inclusive trip to Tenerife, but the crowds of nuclear families were overwhelming, and poolside chats with other women fizzled out because I didn’t have a husband for their husbands to talk to. A trip to Mallorca with a friend and her kids was wonderful, but the cost was staggering.
Then, last autumn, a friend asked if we’d house-sit her dogs in Devon while she attended a wedding. For one peaceful weekend, we walked on the beach and curled up by the fire in the evenings. That led to house-sitting for her friend in Dorset, which also went smoothly. Encouraged, I paid a £99 annual fee to join a house-sitting website where, in exchange for looking after people’s pets, you stay in their homes for free. Within days, I’d arranged a 10-day house-sit in Sussex, caring for a Labrador named Buzz while his owners were away.
It was our first time sitting for strangers, but any nerves vanished the moment we arrived at the beautiful four-bedroom house and met gentle Buzz, who adored belly rubs. Our daily walks gave us the chance to explore stunning natural spots, and back at home, we relaxed in the garden, discussing our favorite characters from the BBC sitcom “Ghosts.” There were no pricey tourist traps to drag through—instead, we browsed bookshops, treated ourselves to manicures, and went kayaking. I felt lighter and happier than I had in years, and my bond with my daughter Polly grew stronger every day. I’m not ashamed to admit I cried with joy; things felt possible again.
House-sitting isn’t for everyone. Some people prefer holidays with no responsibilities beyond choosing their next cocktail, aren’t fond of pets, or feel uneasy about sleeping in a stranger’s bed, emptying their dishwasher, and taking out their trash. But for me, the gentle rhythm of everyday life, minus work and with new places to discover, is ideal. It keeps me from slipping into complete idleness, which leaves me restless and oddly empty. Financially, house-sitting is a lifesaver for a single parent—a 10-day stay in a similar house in the same area would cost around £2,500 on Airbnb.
As for staying in a stranger’s home, I found it enriching. Although house-sitting is a transaction, it’s also an act of trust between strangers and animals, bringing out the best in me—my patient, loving, and thoughtful side, full of gratitude for the people and places we encounter. I’ve already booked another four-day stay, looking after a whippet in leafy Surrey, and next year, I’d like to try house-sitting abroad. Thanks to a little creative thinking, we can explore the world from the comfort of home—it just happens to be someone else’s.
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about trading holiday stress for the joy of petsitting designed to be clear concise and helpful
General Beginner Questions
1 What does trading holiday stress for petsitting mean
It means choosing to spend your holidays caring for someone elses pets in their home instead of dealing with the pressure and expense of hosting celebrations or traveling as a single parent
2 Why would a single parent choose to petsit during the holidays
It offers a peaceful lowstress alternative You get a change of scenery the comforting company of animals and often earn extra money all without the typical family or financial pressures
3 Isnt it lonely to be away from family on a holiday
It can be but the focus shifts The companionship of the pets plus the ability to video call loved ones often creates a new more relaxed kind of holiday celebration that many find recharging
4 How do I even find petsitting jobs for the holidays
Start by letting friends family and coworkers know youre available You can also sign up on trusted platforms like Rover or TrustedHousesitters where homeowners specifically look for holiday sitters
Benefits Advantages
5 What are the main benefits of holiday petsitting
The top benefits are earning extra cash enjoying a quiet and peaceful break experiencing a new neighborhood and getting all the emotional benefits of animal companionship without longterm pet ownership costs
6 How does this help with financial stress
You save money by not hosting large meals buying expensive gifts or traveling Plus holiday petsitting rates are often higher so you can actually earn income during a time that is usually costly
7 Can my kids come with me while I petsit
This depends entirely on the homeowners rules Its a crucial question to ask upfront Many are open to it especially if your children are calm and respectful around animals making it a fun staycation for the whole family
Practicalities Common Problems
8 What if the pet has an emergency while Im sitting
Before accepting the job ensure the owner provides vet contact information and clear instructions Reputable petsitting platforms also offer 247 vet support for a small fee
