Taking a trip with friends can be one of the best travel experiences. It strengthens bonds, creates lifelong memories, and lets you share adventures with some of your favorite people.
But taking a big international trip abroad can also test just about anyone’s friendship.
I have experienced how travel can impact friendships in the best way, and I want the same for you. Keep reading for strategies to ensure your next friend trip is an epic experience that cements your friendship for life!
Do you listen to podcasts? You can also check out Episode 142 on the Happy Women Travel More Podcast.
Friends Trip Tip #1: Understand Your Group’s Travel Styles
Before you even start planning, have an honest conversation about everyone’s travel preferences. Is someone a morning person who wants to hit the hiking trails at sunrise? Does another person prefer to sleep in and enjoy leisurely breakfasts? Are there museum enthusiasts in the group, or is everyone more about adventurous activities outdoors?
These differences are common but can lead to tension if not addressed upfront. Here are some great questions to begin the conversation:
- How fast/slow of a pace are you wanting for this trip?
- When do you want to wake up each morning?
- What is the #1 must-do activity for you on this trip?
- Would you rather decide what we are doing before we go or when we arrive?
- How much spontaneity or downtime do you want for this trip?
- How do you feel about tour guides vs. going around on our own? Are you open to driving or using public transportation?
- Are there any parts of this trip that feel uncomfortable or unsafe? What would make you feel better about this?
- Which is more important to you with the lodging: luxury, budget-friendly, being close to nature, or something unique and cultural?
Having a conversation in advance and agreeing on a general pace for the trip as well as priorities can make a big difference. Consider planning and booking those must-have activities and accommodations in advance, and then building in time for relaxation or exploration while on the trip. Regardless of what you decide, setting expectations early and getting clear on what everyone wants can save you from mid-trip disagreements.
For a deeper dive into travel styles, you can check out my breakdown of the 4 travel style components here!
Friends Trip Tip #2: Divide and Conquer the Planning
If you’re the one who’s suggested a specific trip or destination, chances are you’re going to be the one everyone counts on to plan the trip. But planning can be overwhelming if you have to shoulder all the responsibility. Instead, make this part of your conversation as well. You might assign roles based on each person’s strengths and interests.
For example:
- The Foodie can research restaurants and make reservations.
- The Adventurer can find and book excursions or outdoor activities.
- The Organizer can handle logistics like accommodations and transportation.
This not only prevents resentment but also makes everyone feel involved and invested in the trip.
If you’re the one spearheading the trip, it’s easy to procrastinate or let the vacation planning to-do list get away from you. If you want some virtual hand-holding to help you chip away at the plans, sign up for my FREE challenge below!
PLAN YOUR NEXT VACATION in two months
Friends Trip Tip #3. Set Boundaries and Communicate
Even the best of friends can have misunderstandings on a trip. That’s why clear communication is key.
Before you book anything, agree on things like budgets, shared expenses, and how decisions will be made during the trip.
Here are some additional questions you might ask once you begin solidifying plans:
- Will there be any days that we split up and do different activities, or is the plan to stay together the entire time?
- Are we planning to eat breakfast together every morning, or have a meet-up time after breakfast?
- Who is going to be in charge of keeping track of expenses on the go that need to be shared amongst the group?
Setting boundaries and expectations ensures everyone feels respected and heard, not to mention avoids bubbling resentment while you’re on the trip.
Friends Trip Tip #4: Consider Hiring a Neutral Vacation Planner
An important distinction to make about a friends trip is that it’s a multi-household trip. It’s just different than you planning a trip for your husband and kids, where you as a family unit don’t have to consider sharing expenses and already have a feel for how you function together (since you live together).
A neutral third-party vacation planner can help make the compromises happen in the itinerary so every voice is heard and keep the shared costs fair and organized.
Especially if the planning is feeling overwhelming, remember: you know a gal who can help! I’ve planned many, many friends trips and some clients have said the trip wouldn’t have happened without my support. Working with me to plan your friends trip will take the pressure of being the consultant, researcher, organizer, and “travel therapist” off of you.
You can check out my suite of vacation planning services below.
