traveling abroad with kids but no husband: what’s really needed?

Last summer, I decided to take the kids on a trip overseas—just the three of us, no husband in tow. We were all excited, but as I started booking flights and looking up entry requirements, I kept running into conflicting advice about paperwork. Some websites said I needed a letter from my husband giving his permission, others didn’t mention it at all. I even read that in some countries, border agents might not let you in without a notarized letter from the other parent. I’m all for being prepared, but honestly, it feels a bit over the top. I mean, I’m their mom! We do everything together. But I’ve heard stories about families being stopped at the airport or held up at customs because they didn’t have the right documents. It’s nerve-wracking to think a missing piece of paper could ruin the whole trip. Has anyone actually been asked for this letter when traveling without their spouse? Did you get it notarized, or was a simple note enough? And what about other requirements—did you run into any surprises at the airport or with immigration? It seems like every country has its own rules, and I don’t want to get caught off guard. I’d love to hear real experiences, especially from anyone who’s traveled with kids but without their partner. It’s stressful enough planning a trip with children—why does it have to be so complicated? #familytravel #momlife #travelquestions #Travel