It’s summertime and you’re ready to adventure with friends. Whether it’s a road trip to a new city or international backpacking, there are a few things to consider before you take off. Grab lunch or drink together to talk through these topics so you can plan a stress-free summer getaway with your BFFs.

Priorities

Determine individual priorities for the trip. If you’re going to visit other friends in a city, are you both cool with just lounging and catching up? If you’re going to the beach, are you going to be happy with straight relaxing or do you need some excursions too? You’ll be happier once you determine what the goal of the trip is and what you must do to feel like the trip met your expectations.

Are you planners or free spirits?

It’s important to identify whether you need to make itineraries for each day or would rather wake up and go with the flow. Find compromise in planning a few must-do things to do each day and then leave a few hours in between for roaming.

Outlook on food

Everyone has to eat, but not everyone looks at food the same way while traveling. Some people would rather eat breakfast at their hotel to save time. Others are anxious to eat at the city’s famous restaurants for every meal because they feel they can learn the culture that way. Find the combination that will work best for your trip and travel group.

Communicate budget

Talk with your travel partner(s) about where you are going to spend money and where you feel comfortable saving. Would you rather stay in a hostel so you can go all out on excursions? Is there a certain dollar amount the whole trip should not exceed? Determine where you don’t mind dishing out a few extra dollars and what you’re okay skimping on to make the most of the budget.

Sleep in or set your alarms?

You want to start each day of your on the right side of the bed, so don’t get frustrated when your travel partner wants to get up at the crack of dawn to get exploring if you haven’t discussed that you want to sleep in! You’ll make the most of your trip by figuring out whether your night owls, early birds or simply just need a full eight hours of sleep.

My favorite saying is, “It’s only awkward if you make it awkward!” Be honest with yourself and your travel partner to be sure the trip meets both of your expectations. You’ll avoid frustrations by being honest about what you need to feel like you’re getting the most out of your trip.

Love food. Love self. Love life.
Gabriela

Photography by Leah Trib Productions | Styled by Simply Audree Kate

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