As the summer season continues, why not take the travel plans you have with your friends out of the group chat and make it come to life?
Have you gone on an adventure this summer already? If not, then we highly recommend it for you and your best gal pals. Traveling with friends can be one of the most exciting and memorable experiences of your life. From exploring new cultures to trying out exotic foods, there’s nothing quite like experiencing the world with your besties by your side.
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However, traveling out of the country with friends can also come with its fair share of challenges. That’s why we’ve put together this list of five tips on that will keep you from keeping the little quarrels at bay.
Set clear expectations
Before you even book your tickets, make sure to have a conversation with your friends about what you want to get out of the trip. Are you looking for a relaxing vacation on the beach or a non-stop adventure exploring the city? Knowing each other’s expectations and goals can prevent any misunderstandings or conflicts down the line.
Pack strategically
As tempting as it might be to pack your entire wardrobe for a trip abroad, remember that you’ll have to lug all that luggage around with you. Keep in mind that most airlines have weight limits for checked and carry-on bags, so make sure to pack strategically. And if your friends are notorious over-packers, don’t be afraid to call them out on it! Nicely, of course.
Be open to trying new things
One of the best parts of traveling is trying out new things, whether it’s trying exotic foods or participating in cultural traditions. Make sure to encourage your friends to step outside of their comfort zones and try new things with you. Who knows—you might discover something you never would have tried before.
Give each other space
Let’s be honest—spending the whole day 24/7 with your friends for an extended period of time can get draining. It’s important to give each other space when needed, whether it’s taking a solo day trip or just taking a break by the hotel poolside. And if you’re the friend who needs some alone time, make sure to communicate that to your group so they don’t take it personally.
Embrace the unexpected
No matter how much you plan, unexpected things will always happen when traveling. Whether it’s a delayed flight or a missed train, try to embrace the unexpected and go with the flow. And when things do go wrong, remember that you’re all in it together and you’ll have a great story to tell when you get back home.
