Exploring new places and meeting new people on your own can be truly exciting. But these activities become more enjoyable when you are with your friends. You have someone to talk to as you drive a new downtown. You get to compare notes when you taste new cuisines. And you have the chance to make new memories that will last forever. Going on road trips and adventures is surely one of the things in your bucket list. But some trips with friends do not go as planned. That happens when the expectations are not aligned with each other, and no one is willing to give way.
If you are planning to travel or go on a road trip with your friends, understand that there’s a risk that you will get mad at each other along the way. But that is not an absolute rule. The goal here is to travel and experience fun together without brewing some petty issues. Thankfully, there are some ways you can do that.
Assign tasks
The very first thing that you need to do is to agree that each of you will have assignment. Because this is a road trip, logistics is of the utmost importance. You may decide who among you will rent a good car in Manila, scout for restaurants along the way, plan the stopovers, and list down the interesting places to visit. Dividing the work makes sure that no person will solely be responsible for the entire trip—normally, the person who initiates everything ends up being stressed.
See if you have the same budget
Even if you are traveling locally, acknowledge the fact that money is a big deal. You should agree on the same budget, as each of you surely has a financial goal to achieve. One may be willing to spend a lot, while the other may choose to scrimp on food and accommodations. Agreeing on a set budget will surely reduce the chances of conflict.
Do you have the same interests?
Before you hit the road, you and your friends must have a straightforward itinerary based on your interests. Be vocal with your suggestions, but be open to others’ recommendations. That will allow you and your friends to come up with a viable itinerary. Make sure that everyone has recommendations and will allow each other to partake in their top activities.
Learn the art of compromise
Conflict, no matter how small it is, may happen. And you do not want it to get worse. Remember that you are traveling to have some fun. To avoid conflict, you might want to learn the art of compromise. This means listening to a person’s concern and making an objective way to neutralize their mood.
Traveling with friends can be two things: you get to make new exciting memories with them, or you inadvertently break your ties with them. Of course, you will always desire for the former. After all, that is your goal: to strengthen your bond while exploring new places together. If you want to keep your trips conflict-free, you need to examine your own behavior and be honest with your concerns. Communication will always be important.
