Tips For Effectively Traveling in Groups

Photo Credit: Flickr - conbon33

Nowadays there seems to be no shortage of blogs, articles or shows about solo travel. With the world becoming a more accessible place for travelers, many people, notably women, are now opting to start adventures off on their own, instead of groups. Because of this new found fount of information for solo travelers, the topic of group travel has somehow slipped through the cracks lately. Here are my best tips for traveling in groups.

1. Pick a good group number

It’s important to find what number of people works best for you when traveling. For me, I travel best with only one or two other people. Any more than that and I start to feel pressure and stress about maintaining a good balance. What works best for you? Do you travel better in large groups or small groups? If you enjoy being around large groups, why not plan a tour or organized trip? If you are traveling independently, group numbers are important when it comes to booking hotel rooms. Many countries have hotels with 2 beds or 4 beds, but with 3 it can get tricky. Be sure to look into that before planning a trip.

2. Have an honesty policy

Maintaining a positive group dynamic while traveling can be very challenging, especially on long trips. That’s why being open and honest about any issue is very important. Don’t hold it in until it boils up and explodes, causing more problems. If something little is bothering you, or if you want to do something, speak up. It’s vital to be vocal when traveling in groups.

3. Take breaks from each other

When you are traveling with people, more likely than not you will be around each other 24/7. On transport, sleeping, eating, sightseeing, you have to make sure you get along with the people you are traveling with in advance, otherwise, it can all go to pot. It’s also important to take breaks from each other. Maybe one night someone wants to stay in - don’t pressure them to come out if they need a break. Take solo breaks when you are sightseeing and set a time to meet back up later. A little break here and there can make all the difference when traveling with people.

4. Make a plan but also be flexible

It’s no secret, it’s much more difficult to wing it when you are traveling with several people. I’m not saying you need to have a specific detailed plan for every day on the road, but if your group can set aside an idea of what to do on each day, it makes things so much easier. When everyone has a voice and opinion, a lot of time can be wasted on the road when it comes to deciding what to do. Sorting out that in advance can help avoid a lot of conflict during precious travel time. That being said, it’s also important to remain flexible and open-minded on the road. Things don’t always go according to plan and everyone should be prepared for that.

Do you have any additional tips from your group travels? 

Note: Available plans and coverages may have changed since this blog was published.