So, you’ve picked your destination, bought your plane ticket, and packed your suitcase. Surely your vacation will be a success…right? Well, there may be something you haven’t given much thought to: your travel companion. Bringing the right person (or people) with you is just as important as making sure your hotel has good reviews on Expedia. The person that you travel with can make or break your overall experience! That’s why it is so important to learn how to pick the perfect travel companion. If you’re not sure how to do it, here are a few tricks of the trade.
Determine How Many People You’re Travelling With
First thing is first: how many people are going with you? Sometimes, it’s nice to see the world on your own. Other times, you may want to take a large group of people with you. Before you can select the perfect travel companion, you’ll need to figure out how many people are actually going to come along. Remember, the more people that go, the more planning that will need to be done. You’ll need to consider clashing personalities, who will be sharing rooms, and so on.
Consider Common Interests
Now it’s time to think ahead. Envision yourself on your vacation. What will you be doing? Do you see yourself shopping and lounging around by the pool? Walking around museums and taking guided tours? Or what about skydiving or hiking in the mountains? Whatever you want to do on your vacation, you need to bring someone with you that will want to do the same kinds of things. You can both compromise a little, but it’s a good idea to have some common interests. It will ensure that you both have the vacation of your dreams!
Discuss The Trip Budget Before You Book Anything
A successful trip requires more than just some common interests. You’ll also need to have the same budget in mind. You and your travel companion need to be on the same page. If you are picturing a flashy trip with all the works and your travel companion can barely afford a cup of coffee from the local coffee shop, you’re going to have a problem. Be sure to discuss the trip budget – and your expectations – before you book anything. It will save you both from feeling disappointed in the end.
Go on a Test Trip First
It’s okay to have commitment issues, sometimes! If you’re feeling unsure about travelling with a particular friend or family member, do a test run first. It’s a good idea to take a shorter trip for a day or two. This will give you a pretty good idea of their vacation style – and how the two of you would get along during a more extensive trip.
Just because you love your best friend doesn’t mean the two of you should travel together! In order to have a stellar vacation, think before you choose your travel companion. It can save you a massive headache in the future. Plus, you’re more likely to enjoy your trip if you have a compatible travelling partner along for the ride.
