Besties ≠ Travel Buddies: 10 Tips Before You Book That Trip

You don’t really know someone until you’ve traveled with them. And let’s be honest, vacations have a way of testing even the strongest friendships. ✈️🌍 Just because you are best buddies at home doesn’t automatically mean you’ll make the perfect travel partners.

Before you lock in those flights or book that dreamy villa, take a moment to make sure your travel companion is someone who will add joy—not stress—to the journey. Here are my 10 tips for choosing the right travel buddy:

1. Match Your Travel Styles

Luxury all-inclusive or budget backpacking? First class or economy? If your travel styles don’t line up, one of you may feel like you’re constantly compromising—and that can lead to tension.

2. Discuss Daily Routines

Are you an early riser who loves sunrise yoga, or a night owl who thinks 10 a.m. is way too early? Your daily rhythms should mesh, or you’ll spend half the trip waiting on each other.

3. Talk About Money

Money is one of the biggest sources of travel conflict. Have an open conversation about how much you’re each willing to spend, how you’ll split expenses, and whether you prefer shared meals or separate bills.

4. Respect Personal Space

Even the best of friends need a little “me time.” Make sure your travel buddy understands that downtime isn’t rejection—it’s just recharging.

5. Agree on Activities

If you’re craving adventure (zip-lining, scuba diving, exploring ruins) but your friend just wants to lounge by the pool, resentment can build. Align on the must-dos and be willing to compromise.

6. Share Responsibilities

Travel planning shouldn’t fall on one person’s shoulders. Decide who’s booking flights, hotels, tours, and who’s navigating once you’re on the ground. Teamwork makes the vacation smoother.

7. Be Flexible

Flights get delayed, weather changes plans, and tours sell out. The perfect travel buddy rolls with the punches instead of letting hiccups ruin the whole trip.

8. Keep Communication Open

If something is bothering you, say it kindly and early. Bottling up frustrations can turn minor issues into major meltdowns. Honest communication keeps the trip on track.

9. Don’t Forget Bathroom Etiquette 🚿

Yes, this one matters! From respecting time limits to doing a courtesy flush or using spray, little habits make a big difference when sharing close quarters.

10. Laughter is Key

Travel is full of surprises—good and bad. If you and your travel buddy can laugh through wrong turns, lost luggage, or “interesting” food experiences, you’ll come home with stories instead of regrets.

✨ The Bottom Line: The right travel companion can turn a good trip into an unforgettable adventure. The wrong one… well, let’s just say you may come back needing a solo vacation to recover. Choose wisely, have those important conversations before you go, and you’ll set yourself up for a stress-free, joy-filled journey.

📝 Travel Buddy Compatibility Test

Before you pack your bags together, take this quick 10-question quiz with your potential travel companion. Answer honestly! If most of your answers align—you’re golden. If not… maybe think twice. 😉

1. Budget Style

• A: I like luxury hotels and nice dinners.

• B: I prefer budget stays and street food.

2. Wake-Up Time

• A: Early bird—up with the sunrise.

• B: Night owl—don’t talk to me before 10 a.m.

3. Must-Do Activities

• A: Adventure and sightseeing nonstop.

• B: Relaxation with lots of downtime.

4. Food Choices

• A: Love trying new restaurants and cuisines.

• B: Prefer sticking to safe, familiar foods.

5. Planning Style

• A: I like everything booked in advance.

• B: I prefer to wing it and go with the flow.

6. Spending Habits

• A: I’m fine splurging on experiences.

• B: I’m careful and count every dollar.

7. Pace of Travel

• A: I like to see and do as much as possible.

• B: I want to take it slow and savor the trip.

8. Nightlife vs. Quiet Nights

• A: I enjoy bars, shows, and late nights out.

• B: I prefer quiet evenings, maybe with a book or Netflix.

9. Flexibility

• A: Delays and changes don’t bother me.

• B: I get stressed when things don’t go as planned.

10. Bathroom Etiquette 🚿

• A: Quick showers, respectful of time/space.

• B: I take long showers and need lots of mirror time.

✅ Scoring

• Mostly A’s together: You’re likely compatible—book the trip!

• Mostly B’s together: Also a good match—just keep it chill.

• A mix of A’s and B’s: Expect compromises. Talk through differences before you go.

• Opposites on most answers: 🚨 Consider separate vacations (or at least separate rooms).

📲 Ready to plan your next trip (with or without your best friend)? Call Caren at It’s Time For A Vacation and let’s create your perfect getaway!