How Traveling Dads Can Stay Dialed In at Home

Work Travel Doesn’t Have to Weaken Your Family—Here’s How to Stay Connected

Let’s face it: work travel is still a reality for many dads.

Whether it’s hopping on planes, driving long commutes, or managing projects hours away from home, a lot of us are doing our best to balance provision with presence.

Sure, remote work gave us a taste of being around more often. But for many dads, travel is back—and the pull between the job and the family is real.

So how do we make sure time away doesn’t chip away at the foundation we’re building at home?

Here’s how.

1. Talk Big Picture with Your Family

Before your suitcase even hits the trunk, take time to sit with your family and explain why you travel.

Let them in on what you do. Help your kids visualize your world on the road: “Today I meet with the team in Dallas. Tomorrow we’re solving a problem together.” You’ll be surprised how much that context helps them feel connected.

More than that, talk about your family’s priorities.
Does your current rhythm reflect the value you place on your marriage and your kids?

If your work gives you purpose, great—but don’t confuse passion with priority.

Work can be rewarding. But it can’t replace your role as dad.

If the home front is tough right now, resist the temptation to escape into your job.
Instead, lean in harder. That’s where the growth—and healing—happens.

2. Ask the Hard Question: Is This Hurting Them?

Don’t assume things are fine because no one’s complaining.

Instead, check in:

• Does your spouse feel like a solo parent more than a partner?
• Are your kids pulling back, acting out, or just going quiet?

This isn’t about piling guilt—it’s about owning your impact and being honest about whether your current setup is helping or harming your connection.

If the answer stings, it might be time to reconsider your travel routine—or at least make some strategic changes. Your kids will thank you later.

3. Stay in Touch Creatively

Technology is your friend. You know that.

But beyond just texts and FaceTimes, try:

• Sending voice messages or silly selfie videos
• Leaving sticky notes around the house before you go
• Playing an online game together in the evening
• Sharing photos of your meals, hotel room, or airport gate with a fun caption
• Starting a "trip journal" where you jot down daily thoughts to read together when you return

Connection isn’t about geography. It’s about intentionality.

4. When You’re Home, BE Home

This might be the most important principle of all.

You’ve just landed. You’re tired. You’re mentally replaying the trip’s successes and frustrations. But now you’re in your driveway. The door opens.

It’s showtime.

Your kids don’t need the post-trip version of you. They need the focused, tuned-in version.

Imagine how you show up for a client, a boss, or a new connection—present, courteous, fully engaged.
Your kids deserve that. Your spouse deserves that.

Look them in the eyes. Ask real questions. Put your phone away.
Let your presence match your purpose.

It’s Not Just About Travel

Honestly, this applies to more than business trips.

Some of us “travel” emotionally—even when we’re home. We check out.
We get caught up in emails, TV, or our own stress.

But here’s the challenge:

When you’re with your kids, really BE with your kids.

They’ll remember your eyes more than your itinerary.
They’ll feel your attention more than your income.
They’ll be shaped not by your job title—but by your time together.

‍