Selecting the perfect travel companion is a rather complicated task. If you happen to be riding solo in the love department, your best friend is the most obvious choice; however, before you commit to a one-month getaway, it may help to hone out whom you’re most compatible with when it comes to travel. Remember, an extended trip requires a certain level of commitment, as you’ll be exposed to the good, but also the ugly side of your traveling companion. Be warned. This can ultimately dictate whether or not you stay friends.
How Not To Kill Your Travel Companion:
1. THE GOOD, THE BAD, THE UGLY
Let’s face it. Everyone has some…interesting quirks. However, since you see most of your friends for short periods of time (and in tolerable dosages), it’s not always easy to pinpoint each others’ trigger points. When selecting your travel companion, it will help to ask yourself a few questions, ex: Does your bestie enjoy fine dining? Does he or she handle spontaneity well? How does this person handle stress? Then think of your own quirks and whether or not they are tolerable. Maybe it’s you.
2. DISCUSS THE TRIP IN ADVANCE
Once you’ve selected a worthy traveling companion, avoid problems during the trip by discussing all the important details in advance. For example, talk about the kind of activities you’d both like to participate in or the anticipated, overall budget. Also split the responsibilities you may encounter before or during your travels. If your friend is booking the flights, help with the accommodations. In addition, double check with each other to ensure that everything is in order, and that all the essentials are packed and ready to go. It’ll help you both avoid little stresses, like a misplaced or lost passport.
3. ACTUALLY BE A FRIEND
Traveling with your best friend is a great way to further solidify your friendship. However, every relationship requires compromise and a certain level of understanding. Be honest with each other in order to be respectful of each other’s boundaries. For example, if your travel companion is uncomfortable with participating in a climbing excursion, be mindful of his or her preference. It’s easy to compromise when you both can openly discuss what is okay, and what’s off limits. Also know when to apologize – even if you’re pride protests adamantly.
4. SPEND SOME TIME WITH YOURSELF
Spending a lot of time with anyone is very difficult, so it is okay to want some alone time. Take a walk if necessary to get some fresh air. It is not an obligation to be attached at the hip during every moment of your vacation.
5. REMEMBER THAT BFF’s ARE FOREVER
Regardless of the situation you find yourself in, remember that your travel companion is with you for a reason. After all, you could’ve selected anyone to go with you on your trip.
Exploring the world is great when you have a travel companion (or a few). Here’s why:
