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Welcome to Epic Travel Plans!

Epic Travel Plans

Destinations that will leave you Breathless. Plans to make it happen

30 Best Trips with Friends! FUN Weekend and International Places to Go

But before you decide on a destination, be sure to keep the personalities and preferences of your friends top of mind. Some friends are awesome to lay on a beach with, but not so great for trekking through the jungle or road tripping through Europe.

My top tip: Embrace the personalities and preferences of who you’re traveling with, and let it guide your destination.

After getting trip ideas below, check out my travel planning guide to help you make it epic.

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15 FUN Places to go with friends on the weekend

I highly recommend OFTEN taking fun trips with friends near where you live. Short and sweet trips are a great way to “test the waters” of traveling with friends without putting too much stress on a relationship. Especially if your travel styles are quite different.

Here are awesome places to go with friends on the weekend, including ideas across the US and Canada.

1. HOUSEBOATING near you

My very first BIG trip with friends was a houseboating weekend in beautiful British Columbia. It was perfect! 

We soaked in the hot tub and slid down the waterslide when we got too hot. Ate way too much ice cream. Met some cuties. And we even crashed. Yup, we did. There’s nothing like a little drama to pull you together! (Make sure you get insurance, ‘cause those boats are harder to steer than they look!)

Find the nearest pretty lake country near you, book a car and make it happen. It’s like camping but with a waterslide.

2. Fun LOS ANGELES weekend getaway for girls

A girls trip to LA is pretty classic. Strut your stuff like Pretty Woman on Rodeo Drive. Hit up the star-prone restaurants. And time it with the Oscars to experience the red carpet. It’s possibly THE most epic place to travel with friends on the weekend.

Or, if you’re not into the Hollywood mayhem, stay on beautiful Santa Monica Beach. Cycle The Strand bike path along the waterfront. Ride the ferris wheel on the pier. And people-watch while enjoying incredible beachfront restaurants.

Where to stay with friends in Los Angeles:

• Casa Del Mar resort and spa (Santa Monica): Right on Santa Monica Beach, with an outdoor pool, restaurants and live music on Sundays. Every room has a hydrotherapy spa tub and floor-to-ceiling windows, some with an ocean view.
• Beverly Wilshire (Beverly Hills): As close as you can get to Rodeo Drive, overlooking Rodeo Drive and the Via Rodeo fountain and steps. An epic place for a trip with friends to explore Rodeo Drive’s boutique shops and cafes.
• SIXTY Beverly Hills (Beverly Hills): Five blocks from Rodeo Drive along Wilshire Blvd, with a pretty rooftop pool and bar.

3. FLORIDA KEYS road trips with friends

A road trip from Miami to the tip of the Florida Keys is the perfect mix of beach and culture. It’s only about 3.5 hours, with plenty of time to stop along the way.

If you’re not from Miami, spend a day exploring its museums, Bayside Marketplace at the waterfront, or cultural neighborhoods like Little Havana.

Then, rent a car and head out to Key West. Along the way, stop to play with dolphins, feel the sand between your toes, and eat and drink with a view. Want more adventure? Where better to go skydiving with the girls than in Key West?!

Find all you need to plan your Florida Keys road trip with friends .

4. NEW ORLEANS weekend getaway with friends

Visiting the plantations in Louisiana would certainly make for a memorable travel experience with friends in the USA. Stay in a former plantation mansion, the elegant Nottoway Plantation that dates back to the 1850s. It’s the south’s largest antebellum mansion, located right on the Mississippi River. It features antiques and fireplaces in the rooms. Plus, an outdoor pool, hot tub, onsite dining and self-guided tours.

Plantations to visit near New Orleans, Louisiana:

• Oak Alley Plantation : Known for the stunning Oak-lined path entrance to this sugarcane plantation. Features tours of the “big house” (with a pretty wrap-around upper balcony), slave cabins, expansive garden and exhibits.
• Whitney Plantation : Famous for its ground-breaking slavery museum, with restored buildings and educational guided tours.
• Destrehan Plantation : Established in 1787, this sugar plantation was the site of one of the three trials following the 1811 Slave Revolt. Features interpretive tours, exhibits and pretty grounds.

5. Fun trips with friends to NEW YORK CITY

New York City can be anything you and your friends want it to be. 

Times Square and Fifth Avenue are perfect for high-end shopping, flashing lights and nightlife. Its museums, Broadway theater and The Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts are epic for the culturalists. Foodies will love exploring Manhattan, Queens and Brooklyn. And for those who love relaxation, Central Park, Staten Island and Brooklyn waterfront promise amazing views. I’d argue that NYC is one of the BEST places to travel with friends.

On my trip with friends to NYC, we stayed in a boutique hotel in the Upper West Side . Within a block, we had a small pastry shop, grocery store and plenty of cute cafes. We could easily walk to Central Park and Riverside Park (perfect for a You’ve Got Mail walking tour). And since we were surrounded by residential streets, I got to meet so many dogs out for their walk! Plus, easy subway access to everything else.

Find your perfect place to stay in Manhattan , Brooklyn , Staten Island , Queens and the Bronx (a 3-part series).

6. SEATTLE jazz weekend trips with friends

I love Seattle, Washington. Its Pike Place Market and waterfront restaurants. Plenty of jazz clubs. And lots of excellent shopping and coffee shops, too. Seattle has beautiful waterfront parks, artsy museums, Space Needle views, and boat tours to stay busy. Time it with a concert, too!

When I visited Seattle with one of my best friends, we LOVED the comfortable beds and pillows at the Staypineapple Maxwell Hotel . You simply cannot get a better sleep! It’s colorful vibe is super fun, too, and it has an indoor pool and bikes you can use. Price includes wifi.

Now, as much as I love the Staypineapple beds, you can’t get a better location than The Edgewater . It’s right at Pier 67, with fabulous views of Elliot Bay and the Olympic Mountains. Elegant rooms have fireplaces, cozy furnishings and spa bathroom. The property features an onsite restaurant, gift shop and coffee bar. Price includes wifi and downtown shuttle.

7. Fun LAS VEGAS weekend trips with friends

I’ll admit that Las Vegas is pretty low on my list of places to visit, but I understand the appeal – especially with friends. Awesome shows. Epic shopping. Sights you just won’t see anywhere else.

If you want to embrace the chaos, Las Vegas Strip is the place to stay. If you want to come up to breathe, consider a place like Tahiti Village Resort & Spa near the airport and outlet mall.

You’ll also find some incredible house rentals on VRBO , both near The Strip or near the mountains.

8. Epic CANYON road trips with friends

A great add-on to a friends Vegas trip, especially for the outdoorsy adventurers at heart, is a 2-day canyon road trip . Hike the amazing canyons of Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Grand Canyon North Rim and Antelope slot canyon.

You have some incredible options for places to stay, too. Under Canvas near Lake Powell has lovely tents with a cozy wood-burning stove and private balcony with canyon views. Or book the luxury Amangiri spa resort, tucked right into the rocks. It has an onsite restaurant, bar, concierge, sauna and spa. And the rooms look AMAZING.

9. AMUSEMENT PARK hopping trips with friends

Are you guys dare-devils? How fun would it be to go amusement park hopping together?!

Top on my list are Coney Island in New York City and Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park, California. In Canada, Montreal’s Six Flags is lots of fun.

To visit a bunch on one trip, take a road trip through California or Pennsylvania. Yup, Pennsylvania! Check out this USA Today article for 17 awesome parks.

10. BEACH resort weekend getaway with friends

You can have an amazing beach resort getaway with friends even without leaving the continental USA. One of my favorite spots is about half an hour from downtown Jacksonville, Florida, at the lovely Ponte Vedra Beach seaside community. It’s also known as San Pablo Island, and is a great mixture of relaxing beaches and bustling Jacksonville nearby.

A wonderful place for a beach weekend getaway with friends is Ponte Vedra Inn and Club . Its beach and gardens are beautiful, with warm and comfortable rooms. Enjoy four heated pools, bikes, seven restaurants and lounges, and plenty of onsite shops and boutiques. Despite all of its amenities, it feels like a charming boutique inn.

Our equivalent for relaxation in Canada is Prince Edward Island. It’s super low-key and perfect for friends who just want to chill.

Dalvay by the Sea Hotel is classic and luxurious, located on the north shore. It’s inside a national park and has an onsite restaurant, bar, tennis courts and bike rentals. Or stay in one of many lovely historic inns in Charlottetown. I highly recommend the charming Fairholm National Historic Inn .

11. Fun ARTSY places to go with friends

Here are two very different types of artsy places to go with friends.

First, East Hampton Art Bed and Breakfast on Long Island. This sprawling property is perfect for art lovers and those looking for a refreshing getaway. Relax in the outdoor pool and jacuzzi while admiring the meditation garden, waterfalls, and lotus pond.

And second, head to Memphis to meet the king! If your friends are big music buffs, you’ll enjoy exploring the Memphis Rock ‘n Soul Museum, Gibson Guitar Factory, and Orpheum Theatre. And of course, the iconic Beale Street’s shops and restaurants. 

Stay at the Peabody Memphis with an onsite dining room, spa, indoor pool and luxurious bathrobes. And don’t miss Peabody’s “March of the ducks” tradition!

12. LAKEFRONT retreat weekend trips with friends

Head to Upstate New York for a weekend trip with friends at the lake. 

Inns of Aurora is a community of five lakefront properties. They’re beautiful and cozy, with wine tastings, yoga and painting classes. Plus, a private beach, lakeside firepits, paddling and bikes. Organic, fair-trade coffee and fresh scones in the morning. Farm-to-table restaurant during the day. Book a room with a fireplace and lake views.

13. Fun weekend trips with friends in TEXAS

There are plenty of beautiful resorts in Texas perfect for weekend trips with friends. One of my favorites is the JL Bar Ranch Resort and Spa in lovely Texas Hill Country. This estate is grand, with a full-service spa, outdoor pool and two restaurants. Plus, pretty gardens to explore, complete with a fountain. Rooms offer warm decor, with gorgeous dark wood accents, furnished patios, bathrobes and slippers. Price includes wifi.

Another favorite is Commodore Perry Estate in Austin Texas. Its manicured gardens are gorgeous, as is the massive library with floor-to-ceiling bookcases and plush couches. You’ll also spend plenty of time in its elegant tea room, pool, terrace and restaurant. Book a room with a terrace for pretty views. Price includes wifi and shuttle service.

14. WINE AND SPA getaways with friends

Do you girls love sipping wine and relaxing with beautiful views? One of the best places to travel with friends in the USA is Napa Valley, California. Napa Valley is about 1.5 hours northeast of the San Francisco International Airport. You’ll find more than 375 wineries, more than 150 restaurants, and beautiful weather year-round. Napa Valley is nestled among two mountain ranges, with incredible views wherever you look.

For weekend getaways with friends at Canadian wineries, choose from gorgeous views in the Okanagan Valley of British Columbia, Niagara-on-the-Lake in Ontario, and Annapolis Valley in Nova Scotia. All three locations have excellent wines, spas and views.

Where to stay for a wine and spa getaway with the girls:

• Auberge du Soleil Resort (Rutherford, California): This gorgeous resort is the ultimate friends weekend getaway, surrounded by a 33-acre olive grove. Relax in cabanas at the pool. Indulge at the spa and fine dining restaurant.
• Therapy Vineyards (Okanagan, BC): Suites overlook the vineyard and Okanagan Lake, with oversized windows, fireplace, patio and oversized tub. The property also has an outdoor fireplace and hot tub, and serves breakfast.
• Prince of Wales (Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario): This elegant Victorian-style luxury hotel is the perfect base for exploring nearby wineries. Features an onsite spa and indoor pool. Enjoy traditional English tea at the onsite restaurant and local wines in the cozy lounge.

15. CRAFTING retreat with the girls

There’s something about a crafting getaway that screams “treat”! How often do you dedicate time to create together?

You can find accommodations that offer things like cooking classes or join a retreat that focuses on a particular craft, like painting. For me and my friends, we’d just bring our favorite crafting supplies to a cozy cabin retreat with a hot tub and views.

15 BEST Places to travel with friends in Europe and the world

Taking international trips with friends is a sure way to create lasting memories and bonds. But the stress of international travel will put pressure on your friendship. Make sure you choose a destination that complements your relationship and how you enjoy spending time together.

In Europe, my favorite place to look for accommodations is Plum Guide . You’ll find the coolest house rentals ever, all verified and not all ridiculously expensive.

Here are awesome places to travel with friends in the world, including Europe.

16. European CASTLE getaway with friends

Take your international trip with friends around Europe chasing castles! The biggest challenge will be narrowing your castle adventure to a geographical area, like England or France.

Pick the most iconic castle or area you most want to see and plan the rest of your friends vacation from there. Here are three ideas:

• Neuschwanstein Castle (Germany): The most classic fairytale-like castle nestled in the Bavarian Alps. Take in its stunning architecture, lush surroundings, and panoramic views. Other (relatively) nearby castles to visit include the medieval and mountaintop Hohenwerfen Fortress in Austria and 
• Château de Chambord (France): A Renaissance masterpiece with elegant French architecture and vast gardens. It’ll enchant you with its grand halls and intricate details. Other notable French castles to visit include the lovely Château de Chenonceau built atop an old mill and the opulent Palace of Versailles.
• Eilean Donan Castle (Scotland): A remarkably enchanting castle among many in Scotland, with its charming bridge and moss-covered walls near the entrance to the Isle of Skye. My other favorite castles are on the opposite side of Scotland: the grand Sterling Castle and romantic cliffside Dunnottar Castle.

17. International trips with friends to AUSTRIA

Austria is a captivating blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and cultural experiences. Start your trip with friends in Vienna , the capital city. It’s a hub of art, music and architecture, with magnificent palaces, cathedrals and museums. Pick accommodations near City Center so you can walk to St. Stephen’s Cathedral for evening drinks.

Then, travel through the Danube’s Wachau Valley before heading south to Salzburg. Wachau Valley is a beautiful area of vineyards and cute villages along the river valley. I also highly recommend a stop at Stift Melk Abbey .

Roam the streets and hills surrounding the lovely city of Salzburg , the birthplace of Mozart and setting for the Sound of Music. It’s a charming old town with cobblestone streets, lovely gardens, and the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress looming above.

18. ENGLAND road trips with friends

Take a road trip with friends through the English countryside. There are SO many romantic castles, parks and gardens. Quaint villages in the Cotswolds. Rugged rolling hills in the Lake District. And haunting mysteries of Rosslyn Chapel. Experience England’s beauty on a drive from London to Edinburgh .

If you’d prefer a relaxing group tour rather than driving yourself, check out excellent tours of England from Trafalgar . Include a tour of Scotland and Ireland, too.

Find amazing places to stay on PlumGuide.com .

19. EUROPEAN CRUISE vacation with friends 

A European cruise vacation with friends would be AMAZING. You have all the benefits of world-class service, entertainment and food. Plus the gorgeous cities, islands and rugged coastline of the Mediterranean Sea. Elegant spires off the Baltic Sea. Incredible history and the Cliffs of Dover off the North Sea. And then the more intimate cruise experience of exploring the Rhine or Danube.

Choosing your perfect European cruise option will be the toughest part. River cruises are quite unique, and an incredible way to experience Europe together.

20. Road trips through ITALY with friends

I’ve been to Italy only once and long to go back. There is SO much to see in Italy and it would be absolutely amazing to experience it with my best girl friends. Given the variety of sights to see, I recommend either getting a train pass for the time you’re there or renting a car.

On a road trip through Italy, start and stop in the vibrant city of Rome. Rome is a must-visit for historical landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Trevi Fountain. Stroll its charmings streets while indulging in pastas and gelato.

Then head up to Venice, a unique floating city built on canals. On your return to Rome, stop in Florence to see the famous Statue of David and beautiful churches. Then calm things down with a few days exploring the stunning Cinque Terre coastline and Tuscany wineries.

If you have more time, continue south of Rome to explore the historic ruins of Pompeii. It’s just south of Naples, another gorgeous coastal city. Sorrento and the Amalfi coast promise more spectacular views and memories for an epic trip with friends.

Find amazing home rentals on PlumGuide.com and hotels on Booking.com .

21. Explore ICELAND on a trip with friends

Iceland is a magical land of fire and ice, with waterfalls, the Blue Lagoon and ice caves. It’s an amazing trip with friends who love exploring nature’s wonders … and don’t mind a remote experience. There are no Starbucks in Iceland! But you will find other delicious coffee.

Visit the famous Golden Circle, which includes the breathtaking Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir geothermal area, and the Þingvellir National Park. Take in the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and nearby Diamond Beach. Hike through the mesmerizing landscapes of Landmannalaugar or the volcanic region of Mývatn. Discover rugged fjords and black sand beaches, and then soak in the soothing Blue Lagoon geothermal spa.

If you want to explore Iceland’s famous ice caves or chase the Northern Lights, you must come in winter. Plan your friend’s trip between mid-November and mid-March.

22. Fun CARIBBEAN CRUISE trips with friends

A cruise is as easy as they come for trips with friends. Choose a destination, timing, and go!

A super easy cruise vacation for friends would be the Bahamas or Caribbean. Hop from beautiful island to beautiful island, all while enjoying luxury amenities, entertainment, and dining onboard.

A cruise is also a fantastic solution to taking trips with friends who have different interests. So long as you can agree on a cruise destination, you can go your separate ways in the afternoon and come back together at dinner.

Explore cruises on CruiseDirect.com .

23. INDIA adventure places to travel with friends

India is rich in cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and unforgettable experiences for friends traveling together. Explore the bustling streets of Delhi and vibrant markets of Jaipur. Visit the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra. And take a spiritual journey in Varanasi.

But to see the best of India on your trip with friends, you need to leave the popular northern cities. Travel south to the popular Kovalam Beach and witness the breathtaking landscapes of Kerala’s backwaters.

Find incredible treehouses for your next best adventure with friends! Check out these treehouses on Booking.com , including in India, Chile, Costa Rica and more.

24. International trips with friends to THAILAND

Are you and your friends intrigued by Asian culture and finding the perfect secluded beach (like in The Beach movie)? Then I’m guessing Thailand is on your radar for international places to visit with friends. 

My main tip for visiting Thailand is to get out of Bangkok as quickly as possible. It’s busy, smoggy and not especially friendly. Instead, head north to Chiang Mai to experience the floating markets . Climb an ancient temple and brush up against an elephant. Then indulge at a beach resort at Phuket or the Phi Phi islands . Bask on white sand beach, surrounded by gorgeous limestone peaks and perfect turquoise waters.

Interested in a guided group tour? I highly recommend Intrepid small group tours for an incredibly rich, “local” experience. They have tours into Northern and Southern Thailand, including food and beach tours!

You may also like 5 Charities in SE Asia Tourists Should Visit .

25. Epic CAMBODIA trips with friends

Ancient temples, jungle and Tomb Raider. And an incredibly resilient people that carry an awful history of genocide. Cambodia is a place that will touch your soul and guarantees a friends trip you’ll never forget.

You’ll want to visit both the capital of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, home to the famous temples. In Phnom Penh, visit markets, temples and gardens. But hold onto your food, because those monkeys are gutsy! And my opinion is that tourists should pay their respects at the genocide sites . How else can we begin to appreciate what their people have been through?

In Siem Reap, explore the gorgeous temple ruins of Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple and Ta Prohm. A local guide can also take you to lesser-known temples you can climb with a jungle view all to yourself. Be sure to have a drink at The Red Piano and ask for a Tomb Raider drink. Cheers!

When I was in Siem Reap, my sister challenged me to do more than visit, so I will challenge you. Read about my experience of donating blood in Cambodia . (Yes, it was safe.)

26. JAPANESE MONASTERY places to travel with friends

I’ve only had a taste of visiting Japan on a layover in Tokyo on our way to Vietnam, but they completely charmed me with their hospitality! Japan is now on my bucket list, and specifically the zen experience of staying in Japanese monasteries.

Two iconic Japanese monastery communities to visit on a trip with friends include Kōya-san (Mount Kōya) and Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). Mount Kōya is in a mountainous region about 7 hours southwest of Tokyo. It’s home to over a hundred temples including the famous Kongōbu-ji. Stay in shukubo (temple lodgings) with traditional Japanese-style rooms, vegetarian meals, and the opportunity to participate in morning meditations.

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) is right in Kyoto. It’s known for its stunning golden exterior, and creates a breathtaking view as it reflects off the surrounding pond. Explore its exquisite gardens and the historic tea house inside the complex.

27. Fun AUSTRALIA beach road trips with friends

Australia is known for powdery white-sand beaches. So, rent a car and go beach-hopping on a road trip with friends!

Fly into Sydney and start your trip with friends at the iconic Bondi Beach . It’s known for its vibrant atmosphere, excellent surf and coastal walks. Take in the lively beach culture as you sample the many beachside cafes.

Then, head south for about 3 hours to Hyams Beach in Jervis Bay. It holds a Guinness World Record for having the whitest sand. Swim and snorkel at these beautiful clear waters and enjoy the laid-back coastal vibe.

Along the way, stop at the coastal Royal National Park and inland Heathcote National Park . They offer rugged hiking and other adventures that balance nicely with beach-bumming!

28. International trips with friends to BRAZIL

Have you heard of Iguazu Falls? Iguazu Falls is the world’s LARGEST waterfall, made up of a massive 270 separate falls! Check it out for yourself in the best virtual tours of waterfalls around the world . Iguazu Falls is right on the Brazil and Argentina border. 

Along with Iguazu Falls, experience Brazil’s beaches, rainforest and Rio de Janeiro. Make the epic climb up to Christ the Redeemer for epic views.

If you’re interested in a guided tour, check out Trafalgar’s tours in South America . This would be an easy way to explore the best sights on a trip with friends.

29. COSTA RICA best places to travel with friends

I SO want to experience the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve in Costa Rica. And stay in treehouse resorts. It sounds incredible.

Costa Rica is a tropical paradise known for its incredible biodiversity and natural wonders. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve offers breathtaking views, misty forests, and the chance to see rare wildlife. The nearby Arenal Volcano National Park provides thrilling hikes and hot springs for relaxing afterwards. 

For a beach experience, head to Manuel Antonio National Park. Manuel Antonio National Park is renowned for stunning beaches and lots of wildlife, perfect for relaxing and snorkeling. It’s on the Pacific Ocean and accessible by road.

With its lush rainforests, stunning coastlines, and eco-friendly practices, Costa Rica offers a memorable and sustainable travel experience for friends.

30. Fun MEXICO beach trips with friends

There’s a reason why North Americans flock to beautiful Mexico! Mexico has some of the world’s finest beaches, best preserved Mayan ruins and fascinating, colorful cultures. But with all the options, where should you travel with friends? I suggest two. 

First, Cancun is an obvious choice. It’s a world-class destination with something for everyone. Exquisite beaches, first-class hotels, a more authentic downtown area, Mayan ruins and fantastic weather year-round. For an incredible trip with Mom to Cancun, stay at the adults-only all-inclusive Le Blanc Spa Resort . 

A second, quieter choice is Playa Maroma. About 30 miles from Riviera Maya, Playa Maroma has arguably the best beaches in the world. Plus rainforests and snorkeling right off the beach. A beautiful all-inclusive resort to check out is Catalonia Playa Maroma .

You may also like:

• How to travel with friends: Trip planning
• How to find better accommodations
• Trips with Mom and Trips with Dad

Featured photo: Priscilla Du Preez from Unsplash.

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How to travel with friends – without falling out

Sep 3, 2019 • 6 min read

Travelling together offers friends the chance to enjoy quality time awash with in-jokes, proper catch-ups and unforgettable experiences. Sound like bliss? It can be. But beware: even the best of friendships can be tested on the road.

Whether you’re about to embark on your first adventure with your mates in tow or are looking to improve on past experiences, here are writer Emma Sparks' 10 tips for having a harmonious trip with friends.

Beginners: start on the right foot

1. choose the right people to go with.

Pick any old pal with a passport at your peril. Just because you share a love of Nicolas Cage movies and Chinese food doesn’t mean you’re compatible travel buddies. Think twice before travelling with someone you only ever see in one context; your coffee-and-cake companion, yoga chum or work bestie might be a dream to hang out with at home, but a nightmare when it comes to exploring somewhere new. Opt for someone you’re confident you could tolerate for three days straight and you should have a reasonably hiccup-free trip – but there are no guarantees.

You might also like this:  All abroad: how to plan a group trip

2. Set expectations

Is this trip about winding down and going with the flow, or ticking off a list of sights the length of your arm? Will it be action-packed and outdoorsy, or heavy on the hangovers? It’s easy to make assumptions about your friends’ vision for a trip based on their usual behaviour, but travel can bring with it a different set of priorities and reveal a totally different side of people. Night owl travelling with early birds or vice versa? Proceed with caution – or agree to adjust your body clocks accordingly. Verbalise your needs: a simple conversation about what each of you wants to get out of the holiday – and what you don’t want to do – should do the trick.

3. Discuss your budget

You probably have an idea of how flash or frugal your friends are, but it’s worth chatting about what you intend to spend on food and activities before you go. In situ, manage money sensitively – some people are happy to split the bill every time, while others will find subsidising your dessert addiction stressful. Keep a tally in a group budgeting app like Splitwise if you like, but don’t sweat the small stuff – no-one likes a penny-pincher.

You might also like this:  What I learned from backpacking in my 20s and 30s

4. Prepare for close quarters

If you’re sharing accommodation, prepare to learn a lot more about your mates. Sleeping habits, bathroom routines and kitchen cleanliness (or lack thereof) can all cause friction between friends. Years of sharing rooms with incessant snorers, shower hoggers and the occasional gleeful farter have taught me that the best way to overcome small irritations is to make light of them – no doubt you have your own shortcomings too – and always pack earplugs...

‘When we travel as a three, Emily always gets a room to herself as she’s the loudest snorer. Emma puts up with my mild snores and I ignore the fact she leaves hair in the plughole’ – Mary, Emma’s travel buddy on many long weekends in Europe .

Intermediate: avoid common pitfalls

5. hanger and fatigue.

The needs of travelling adults often mirror those of a two year old’s. If someone’s acting moody, chances are they’re hungry or overtired. Punctuate sightseeing with plenty of pit stops and snacks, or work siestas into your holiday routine to keep the peace.

‘I like my sleep and I’m prone to energy dips if I don’t eat at regular intervals. Before a long hike through the Latvian wilderness, Emma made sure to buy some carb-heavy snacks and sugary sweets, which saved the day’  – Helen, Emma’s travel buddy in Australia , Latvia and Estonia .

6. Too much time together

Find yourself lingering in the loo, or volunteering to pop to the shops for the milk and a few precious minutes by yourself? Don’t feel bad about taking some time away from each other. Introverts in particular often need plenty of alone time to avoid burnout – but splitting up for a few hours here and there can refresh and revive everyone. 

7. Lack of flexibility

Travelling with friends is a masterclass in the art of the compromise. When Friend A is laser-focused on finding a tabbacheria for their strictly-on-holiday smokes, Friend B wants nothing more than an Aperol spritz and a sit down, and you want to get to the top local landmark before it closes, something has to give. If it isn’t essential to you, let it go – but don’t let dominant or demanding personalities get their way every time. If you’re lucky, everyone’s wants and needs can be met with some tactical shuffling of schedules. 

‘Emma has dragged us up church spires and medieval towers in Florence , Porto , Seville and more – we expect it now, just as she expects to skip a few sights so we can sample local tipples in the sun’ – Emily, Emma’s travel buddy on many long weekends in Europe.

8. Overenthusiasm

The weeks and months ahead of a trip can be saturated with hope and high expectations, excited text messages and squeals of anticipation. So much so that by the time you board the plane, you’re already exhausted. Then, in the face of adversity – a disappointing Airbnb, bad weather or mosquito invasions – one friend may appoint themselves as a hype man, ignoring glaring issues and refusing to let anyone whinge. While positivity is a lifesaver on group trips, you can still keep it real. It’s OK if things aren’t perfect, so don’t put pressure on yourself or each other to have the best time ever – go with the flow and it will happen naturally.

Advanced: be your best self

9. forgive (and apologise) quickly.

An intense dose of togetherness coupled with new, sometimes challenging experiences means minor niggles are almost inevitable. Left to fester, resentment and pettiness can thrive. Unresolved tension is a sure-fire way to spoil a trip, so be honest about the way you’re feeling. If anyone gets snappy, forgive and forget immediately – and always apologise if you’re the grump of the group.

You might also like this:   How travel helps me cope with grief

10. Be considerate and self aware

When it comes to maintaining a good group dynamic, basic courtesies go a long way – and taking extra care of each other (without fussing) will give you the warm and fuzzies. Make sure you’ve got the fundamentals covered, such as doing your fair share of washing up and collecting the morning croissants, then go the extra mile by keeping tabs on hydration levels and sunscreen top ups, or volunteering to drive.

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Find Travel Buddies

Real & verified travelers, reviews from our tripmates.

• How do I find a travel buddy at JoinMyTrip? You can find a travel buddy by joining trips hosted by passionate travel buddies, whom we call TripLeaders. The trips are carefully handpicked and curated, offering you the best experience you can't find anywhere else. The TripLeaders will be in charge of these trips, from designing the itinerary to leading the way. Furthermore, TripLeaders will accept travelers, whom we call TripMates, on their trips and travel together. So, by joining our trips, you can connect with other amazing travelers from all over the world.
• How does JoinMyTrip verify Travel Buddies? Nothing is more important than your safety when traveling with us! Every TripLeader and every TripMate who wants to join one of our trips has to verify their identity with us. Provide us with your ID or passport and phone number to verify you.
• The more, the merrier. Gain lots of amazing moments as you share them with your travel buddy, a.k.a. TripMates.
• Save money by sharing costs with your travel friends.
• You do not need to spend a lot of time creating an itinerary as it is provided by our TripLeaders.
• As you know, there is safety in numbers. Traveling together with your travel buddies can ensure you this!
• You get to know every travel buddy who will be traveling with you before you go on a trip. You can see the profile of your TripLeader and TripMates beforehand. Besides that, your TripLeader will create a group so you can get closer to your travel buddies.
• How safe is it to find a travel buddy at JoinMyTrip? Your Safety is our top priority. We verify every travel buddy on the platform. A TripLeader has to verify their phone number and identity with us by uploading an ID or passport. We also keep in touch with our TripLeaders before, during, and after the trip. Most importantly, our community protects you. If there is a problem, we will definitely intervene remotely. If you still have any doubts, please get in touch with us !

Our Favorite ‘Friends’ Travel Episodes, Ahead of the Show’s 25th Anniversary

By Louis Cheslaw

It's hard to believe it's been 25 years since runaway bride Rachel Green left Barry at the altar and ran into Central Perk in her wedding dress in the very first episode of Friends . With the impending anniversary of the pilot's premiere on Sunday, we decided to take a trip down memory lane. Sure, Friends episodes are best known for their New York setting—and for giving a generation of viewers unrealistic expectations of how much space they could afford in a West Village rental—but it's easy to forget that, on occasion, the cast traveled too.

While it can't exactly be said that Friends taught a generation of Americans to go see the world, its episodes at least gave its millions of international viewers a primer on how (not) to travel. After all, Ross in "The One With Rachel's Dream" (season nine, episode 19) may be the most authoritative voice we have about how much is too much to take from a hotel bathroom: “You have to find the line between stealing and taking what the hotel owes you."

We've rounded up some of the more memorable journeys the gang took, from the time Monica's hair couldn't handle the tropical heat in Barbados to Joey discovering the best abbey he'd ever seen in London . Of course, Friends contained many more travel-adjacent storylines than what the below. The final episode revolved entirely around Ross chasing Rachel from JFK to Newark airport—and who can forget Chandler's jaunt to Yemen to escape Janice or David's back and forth to Minsk? But for now, fire up Netflix and enjoy the show's most iconic travel episodes.

On location at Caesars Palace.

Las Vegas: "The One in Vegas"

The two-part episode that closed out season five is filled with moments frequent travelers will recognize—from mid-flight boredom to complicated hotel check-ins—and some experiences that fliers under 30 definitely won't, like calling the airline to book your ticket. Once the friends unpacked, the episodes made full use of Sin City , with scenes in Caesars Palace and Ross and Rachel's drunk wedding, which likely inspired a generation of viewers to make impulsive decisions long before The Hangover ever hit the big screen. Season five, episodes 23 and 24.

Before Google Drive, one mistake could wipe an entire dinosaur speech.

Barbados: "The One in Barbados"

"Dino-week"—a.k.a. Ross's paleontology conference—brought the friends to Barbados for the weekend at the end of season nine. Unfortunately, a fictional tropical depression forced the entire cast to stay within the confines of the conference center (or who are we kidding, a Los Angeles studio lot) and featured star cameos from Paul Rudd, Hank Azaria, Aisha Tyler, and, of course, Monica's humidity hair. Season nine, episode 23.

British royal Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, (right) starred in the London episode.

London: "The One With Ross's Wedding"

Joey may have screamed "London baby!" 71 times in the episode, but it's Ross's "Rachel" at the altar that's the unforgettable line from this one. The show traveled to London in 1998, partially in response to the show's booming popularity across the pond. The cast were hounded by fans as they shot scenes at Westminster Abbey (which Joey calls his "favorite abbey"—sorry Downton ), Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace. Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, and Sir Richard Branson both made cameos. Season four, episodes 23 and 24.

By Hannah Towey

By Olivia Morelli

By Steph Koyfman

By Kaila Yu

Rule #1 for locking your keys in the car? Don't do that.

Upstate New York: "The One Without The Ski Trip"

In season three, the cast was foiled in their plans to get to Rachel's ski cabin upstate. But it wasn't a total wash: millions of viewers gained an insight into what not to do on a road trip , from locking car keys inside the car to forgetting to bring back-up toilet paper for the un-monitored rest-stops. Maybe call AAA, instead of Ross, next time. Season three, episode 17.

Always wear sunscreen.

Montauk: "The One At The Beach"

To close out the third season, the gang took a trip to Montauk along with Ross's new girlfriend, Bonnie, who Rachel convinces in a fit of jealousy to shave her head. Rather than staying at Gurney's , the group rented a house that inexplicably had sand instead of a floor, and taught a global audience that the best way to calm a jellyfish sting is to... you know. Season three, episode 25.

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How to Travel with Friends—Without Becoming Enemies

Practice the art of shuttle diplomacy. Don’t bicker over breakfast. Include a wildcard. Drop the intermittent fasting. And do not, for heaven’s sake, Splitwise the small stuff.

For his upcoming 40th birthday, Prior, whose previous jobs included assistant to Alice Waters at Chez Panisse and stints as a writer and editor, is planning a trip for about 25 of his closest friends to Andalusia.

“There are people coming who are 25 and 80 and everything in between,” he says. “There will be food people, fashion people, people I went to school with,” including the illustrator Luke Edward Hall and the designer J.J. Martin. “It’s a mixed bag.”

The group trip has a fabulous and complicated history. Think of Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé in Marrakech having languid afternoons with John Paul Getty Jr. and Talitha Getty. Or, during the Jazz Age, Mark Cross heir Gerald Murphy and his wife Sara having Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald come to their villa on the French Riviera, along with Picasso, Rudolph Valentino, and Gertrude Stein. (Just how did they deal with the constant outbursts from Zelda, who, if legend is correct, stumbled around in a sleeping pill daze and did a lot of impromptu skinny-dipping?) More recently, Tilda Swinton and Haider Ackermann have been inducing bouts of FOMO with their group trips, which have included Ryan McGinley, Vik Muniz, and Waris Ahluwalia in the Maldives.

When done correctly—aperitivos for hours with a good view, dancing to Robyn in an unnamed Paris club in the Second Arrondissement, reminiscing about college in a cedar sauna—traveling with a group of friends is a seamless mix of fun and relaxation and exotic locales.

But like most things that look easy, the group trip has complex inner workings. It involves issues no one likes to talk about even on a good day, like money and whether you truly want to spend a week in Aspen with your friend’s new boyfriend who works in finance and plays pickleball. In other words, there is a fine art to traveling in groups—enough that it gives new meaning to the phrase shuttle diplomacy.

Diplomacy, yes. But the first rule of group travel is: This is not a democracy . “There is always one ringleader, typically the most type A character. They rally their group,” says Dayyan Armstrong, who founded Sailing Collective Travel Co. , a New York–based company that will plan about 60 private yacht charters this year. Armstrong compares his meetings with trip organizers choosing destinations to therapy sessions. “You have to think about where you are in your life. Are you coming off a superstressful work time and want to be blissed out with tropical waters and nothing but mellow? Then you should go to French Polynesia, or Sardinia, or Antigua. Or are you looking for activity and action and want a lot of movement? Then you should consider the Gulf of Naples, the Croatian coast, or the British Virgin Islands.”

He adds, “It’s often fun to go with friends who aren’t your best friends.” Old friendships can mean a lot of history, but intimacy can breed conflict. After all, the whole point of going on vacation with friends is to avoid the kind of breakfast table drama that can blow up a family vacation . “There can be so much gossip and showing off with groups of friends,” says George Scott, who owns the Andalusian guesthouse Trasierra with his sister Gioconda and organizes group horseback rides (Christy Turlington, Poppy Delevingne, and Nacho Figueras’s wife Delfina Blaquier were one recent squad) with stays in old farmhouses.

Just how much everyone is willing to spend on a villa on Hydra or Majorca for a week is perhaps the thorniest issue. “One of the things that can make a group vacation weird or tense is money, because people have different capabilities and levels of comfort around it,” says Ezra Woods, who co-owns the L.A.-based showroom Pretend By Appointment. He goes on a lot of group trips, and they include everyone from actors to meditation teachers to interior designers, and he has found a few successful formulas: “ Everyone splits accommodation equally , and then it’s nice if friends take turns hosting meals or activities.” (His inspiration for that was The Real Housewives .) “This way someone can host a dinner out for 10 people one night or pick up the tickets to an archaeological site or massages at the villa for everyone. Maybe another friend who has more resources could rent a boat for the day.”

But cut it off at one or two items on the itinerary a day. This isn’t a sightseeing bus tour or a class trip . “It’s grating when you feel obligated to participate in everything. If someone is over­scheduling, set expectations from the outset. Say, ‘I’m so excited, but I sense that I’m not going to be interested in doing every group activity,” says Christopher Golden, a yoga teacher in New York who plans retreats (Provence! St. Lucia! Oaxaca!) and goes on his fair share of trips with friends. “If I’m in Cape Cod with a crew, and everyone wants to go to the beach but I don’t, it’s nice to say no, and suddenly I have this huge house to myself. That’s when I really feel like I’m on vacation.”

Private space is important , whether that means having a room to yourself or not staying together at all. Traveling as a group, for adults, does not have to be a slumber party. Golden went to Paris with friends one spring, and part of what made it successful was that five people stayed at a mix of hotels and rented apartments. Some would make a pilgrimage to Dries Van Noten together, others to the Pompidou, but there was no pressure to do any of it. Every night they came together for long dinners that started with seafood towers and steak frites and ended with cheese courses and pavlovas, and they talked about their days. A room of one’s own can also avert disaster: everyone getting sick of one particular person, whether the reason is the person is high-strung or won’t stop talking or is a chronic complainer.

“Once I was on a retreat and everyone was sitting down for dinner, and I could tell there was one person they were all trying not to sit next to,” Golden says.

Which brings up another vital though often unspoken rule: It’s wise to have a shared level of hedonism . “Some people like to work out every day on vacation, and others don’t at all,” Woods says. Some travelers love nothing more than picking up a pack of cigarettes at the tabac for the full European experience. Some want to maintain their Paltrow–esque intermittent fasting regime no matter what. Some want to close out the local disco and use a rented house for the afterparty. Some would rather die than part with their phones for an hour (or, gasp, lose service altogether). There are no correct answers. To travel well together, you don’t need cohesion, but you do need to be able to coexist happily .

In the end the perfect group to vacation together is like the perfect blend of dinner party guests. It’s about chemistry, but also some wildcards and surprises. When Prior plans any trip, he thinks about it like a narrative with a beginning, middle, and end. His birthday will be no different: It starts with dinner at a long table at Trasierra, which he has rented out, then horseback rides and shopping for flamenco dresses (for women and men who want to play along) in the middle, and it culminates at Seville’s Féria on the last night.

Even though he has put a lot of thought into the guests, the setting, the itinerary, it still doesn’t mean Prior doesn’t have host anxiety. “It’s quite ironic, because I’ve never done a party for myself. I’ll have to get back to you about how it goes. It’s probably the one trip I’m more nervous about than anything else.”

Dear T&C

Traveling in a group is a minefield of etiquette questions. We’re here to help.

If I rent a villa or house with friends, who should get the best room?

Anyone who has ever watched The Real Housewives knows that one way of doing it is to manically run around assessing the bedrooms and then claw the eyes out of anyone who gets between you and the suite with the marble steam shower. Among civilized people, the following rules apply: First dibs goes to anyone paying for the entire trip (or a large portion thereof). If the cost is split equally, the person who found the house or did the most planning gets preference. The exception is if there aren’t enough rooms and two single people have to share; then they get to choose. Just remember that a small room is a better fate than spending a week with people who hate you.

If I invite people to go abroad to celebrate my birthday, am I expected to pay for their travel?

If you want 30 people to accompany you to Morocco for your 50th and have the means and inclination to foot the bill, go for it (and invite us). But in most cases it’s kosher to invite people to come to your destination event and ask them to pay their own way. There are two caveats:

1. Under no circumstances can you be offended if they decline.

2. You should host at least one central event—a dinner, a party, a snorkeling expedition on a fabulous yacht—for your guests during the trip. And, of course, no birthday presents.

My spouse and I are traveling with friends this summer, but for our sanity we need carve-out time away from the group. How can we do this without offending the others?

Lay the groundwork in advance. If you wake up one morning and awkwardly spring it on the group that you two are setting out alone, your friends may assume you’re irritated with them. Instead, during the planning stage, let them know that you’d like some private time to hike up a particular volcano on day three, and that you’ll meet them for dinner that evening.

I traveled with a group of friends and we all had a wonderful time, but now they want to make it an annual affair. Must these people now be my travel companions until I die?

This is tricky, especially if you do want to travel with this group ever again—just not as frequently as they’d like. The best strategy is to be so busy—with work, life, and, most saliently, more travel—that you can convincingly tell everyone that you can’t possibly fit another trip in the calendar before 2026, but you’d absolutely love to meet them in Positano then.

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10 Best Sites To Find Travel Friends

• February 10, 2022
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Traveling the world is something that many of us want to do at some point in our lives.

We all want to get away from the daily grind, but the thought of traveling solo can be daunting for some.

That’s why it’s great to have travel friends who love to explore new places as much as you do!

But if your friends aren’t up for an adventure, you might find yourself with no one to go on vacation with.

Don’t worry!

This isn’t the end of the world, and there are plenty of ways to find travel friends who want to check out a new city, country, or continent.

Today we’ll look at some tips for finding friends who you can share your love for traveling.

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Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, I will make a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Table of Contents

Why do you Need Travel Friends?

Having friends who love to go on adventures is a huge benefit.

First of all, it’s easier to feel comfortable exploring a new city or country with someone you know and trust at your side.

Another great benefit of having travel friends is that you’re able to split costs.

You don’t have to worry too much about paying for transportation or your accommodations because you can split the costs with your friends, saving yourself some money.

Having a buddy also makes it easier to explore a new place.

For example, if you’re in Rome and want to go on a day trip to the nearby city of Pompeii, having at least one friend who wants to come makes it easier for you to find transportation and pay for entrance fees.

And don’t forget about fun!

Traveling is more fun when you have someone to share your experiences with.

Disadvantages of Having Travel Buddies

There are plenty of benefits to having travel friends, but there are also some challenges you might face.

The biggest challenge is not getting along with your travel companion.

It’s important to choose your friends carefully and make sure you and your potential travel pals share similar interests in terms of exploring new places and activities in general.

Another challenge is that you might run into problems finding people who want to go on an adventure at the same time as you.

It’s easy enough to find friends who are free during the month of September.

But it might be harder to find someone who can afford to travel in December when the holidays are approaching.

Of course, it’s also beneficial to have time alone when you’re traveling.  

That way you can enjoy your surroundings without having to worry about what your friends are doing or saying.

10 Best Sites to find Travel Friends

Now that you know why it’s so beneficial to have travel friends, let’s look at some of the best websites you can use to find people who are interested in joining your next adventure.

Below are 10 sites where you can find reliable and like-minded travel buddies for your next trip:

Meetup is one of the best ways to find a travel partner.

You can find meetups based on your interests, whether you like exploring new cultures or visiting local breweries.  

Not only does Meetup make it easy to meet like-minded people who share your interest in traveling.

But you’ll also be able to meet people in your city who love to go on adventures.

To check out what Meetups are happening in your area, click here .

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a website that connects travelers and locals.

You’ll find hosts all over the world eager to welcome you into their home and show you around their city or country.

Another great thing about Couchsurfing is that not only will you get to meet your potential travel buddies, but once you’re in their city, you can ask for tips on the best places to go.

Click here to check out Couchsurfing and create a profile.

Airbnb is another website where hosts are eager to welcome travelers into their homes or apartment.

Since there are hosts all over the world on this site, you’ll have a lot of potential destinations.

And you can make friends with your hosts and even see if they would show you around the area.

Another great option on the app is Airbnb Experiences.

Airbnb offers a variety of activities you can sign up for, from surfing lessons to cooking classes.

This is another great way to explore a new place by making travel friends and doing something fun together.

To find your new travel buddies on Airbnb, click here .

Girls Love Travel

Girls Love Travel is a Facebook group that was created to help female travelers connect with each other.

It has over 1 million members from all around the world, making it one of the easiest ways to find a new travel partner.

If you are looking for travel friends, this is one of the best and safest places to find them.

And the founder also hosts new travel destination getaways that you can join.

Click here to join the Girls Love Travel community!

Workaway is another great website to find a travel partner but also earn some money when exploring a new place.

It’s a site where you can find different work opportunities with hosts all over the world.

They even have a dedicated section on their site where you can find a travel buddy to join you on your journey.

To find a travel buddy and new destinations on Workaway, click here .

Reddit is a great discussion forum where you can find topics that might interest you.

You can join different subreddits and find travel buddies through them.

One message board where you can post queries to find the perfect partner for travel is the Travel Partners subreddit.

Here you can find people who share your interests and are looking for travel friends.

International Greeter Association

If you want to visit a new city all by yourself but would love some local guidance, there is no better way than to join the International Greeter Association.

They have volunteer locals who greet visitors and give them insider information on the best places to go in their area.

So whether you are interested in exploring New York or Melbourne, you’ll find a local that will welcome you.

Click here to join the International Greeter Association.

Intrepid has been leading small group adventure tours for over 30 years.

They have a dedicated section on their website where you can apply to join a tour with them and other travelers.

If you want to explore a new destination with an experienced leader, this is one of the best ways to do it.

Click here to search for Intrepid Group tours across the world.

Go GAFFL is a website that was created to connect people who want to travel together.

You can find your ideal travel partner by specifying what type of traveler you are and where you want to go.

This way, you’ll know within seconds whether or not there’s someone out there who shares the same interests as you.

Click here to find the perfect travel buddy on Go GAFFL.

Fairy Trail Dating

If you’ve always dreamed of meeting your other half while traveling, Fairy Trail Dating is the website for you.

It’s a site where solo travelers can find their perfect travel companion.

With over 30,000 members worldwide, you’ll have no problem finding your ideal travel buddies.

Click here to join Fairy Trail Dating now!

So there you have it, the 10 best websites where you can meet travel a partner who can join you on your next trip.

Other Ways to find Travel Friends Online

There are tons of other ways to make new friends and experience a destination from a local’s perspective.

Here are just a few of them:

Ask friends and family to recommend a good travel buddy.

One of the easiest ways to find new travel buddies is by asking the people who know you best.

If you have friends or family that love to travel, just ask for their advice and recommendations on where they’ve found the best travel companions.

Or if they know someone who would be interested in joining you, chances are that they’ll be able to connect you both.

Join Facebook groups.

There are tons of Facebook groups dedicated to people who share your interests.

Whether it’s cooking or traveling, there is sure to be a group for you.

Just search for a topic that interests you on Facebook and join a group of like-minded people.

You can then post a query about your travel plans and see if anyone can join you on your adventure.

But make sure not to share any personal information until you get to know people better.

Go on an organized tour.

If you are not the type of person to travel alone, there are plenty of tour operators where you can join with other travelers.

This way, you’ll always have companions on your journey and there won’t be any risk of getting lost along the way.

Tips for Finding the Best Travel Friends

Now that you know where to look for the best travel buddies, here are some of the basics you should consider when trying to find companions for your next adventure.

Make sure you’re compatible.

Just because someone is your travel friend, that doesn’t mean you should trust them blindly.

Make sure they share the same interests as you and if possible, find out how well you work together before heading out on a long trip.

Trust your gut instinct.

If something seems off or weird, it probably isn’t the best idea to stick around with that person.

Make sure they are genuine and you won’t have any problems on your trip together.

Be clear about what you want.

Don’t go into a traveling friendship with unrealistic expectations.

So make sure to set guidelines on how often you’re willing to travel together and agree on what the expectations are.

Share responsibilities.

It’s always a good idea to share the cost of your trip so that everything is fair and there won’t be any issues later down the road.

So before embarking on your adventure, make sure you agree on how much you’ll be spending and on what.

Because it is better to be safe than sorry, so make sure there are no financial misunderstandings that may arise later on.

Be flexible and have fun!

Even if you don’t click with someone as a travel friend, make sure you still enjoy your time together.

Don’t take everything too seriously and keep an open mind when traveling with other people.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to find travel buddies that will share the same interests as you with little to no problems along the way.

Now that you know where and how to look for travel partners, it’s time to get out there and explore!

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re traveling alone or in a group, there are plenty of people out there who can make your trip even better.  

All you have to do is find them!

Even if you consider yourself an introvert and having friends while traveling isn’t that important to you, it’s still nice to share an adventure with someone who understands the ins and outs of the country you’re visiting.

Because there’s always something to learn from other people, whether it’s where to eat or what not to do.

So go out there and make your next adventure even better by finding travel friends who can join you on your journey!

And try one or more of the websites listed above.

Who knows, you might make a new friend for life!

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How to Find Friends to Travel with

Last Updated: March 16, 2020 References

This article was co-authored by wikiHow Staff . Our trained team of editors and researchers validate articles for accuracy and comprehensiveness. wikiHow's Content Management Team carefully monitors the work from our editorial staff to ensure that each article is backed by trusted research and meets our high quality standards. There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 3,613 times.

If going solo isn’t your thing, meeting travel buddies is a great way to enjoy a shared adventure. Social networks and online platforms are the easiest ways to find friends before your trip. Once you’re there, meeting people can be as easy as taking public tours or just going out alone and striking up a conversation. Look for certain traits in a travel buddy so you know you’ll both have a great time exploring a new place together.

Finding Travel Buddies Online

• Be sure to include the dates of your trip, the destination, and some info about what you’d like to see and do.
• Encourage friends to tag other people who might be interested in the comments section.
• You can also search for existing travel groups on Facebook to see if anyone is up for an adventure.

• If you’re going someplace close to where an extended family member lives, you might consider planning a day to go see them or, if it’s not a hassle for them, extending an invitation for them to join you.

• GAFFL connects you with potential travel buddies who share a similar itinerary with similar costs and experiences.
• TripTogether allows you to find travel buddies based on your itinerary and meet locals at your destination.
• Trip Giraffe is a website and app that lets you search for travel buddies by gender, age, destination, and dates and filter the results by interests.
• TravelSisters is a female-only platform that connects you to other female travelers who share the same interests.

• It's free to book a greeter—they're excited to show off the hidden gems of the city!
• You'll need to book a greeter at least 14 days in advance.

• You can also search for meetup groups to find people to go out to dinner or drinks with. For instance, if you're vegan but don't know the plant-based spots in Montreal, join a vegan dining group based in Montreal.

• If you discover you have lots of shared friends with some of the people going, don’t be afraid to reach out to them.

• Be sure to read the host’s description on the listing to see if they’re the type of person you’d like to spend time with on your trip.

Meeting People at Your Destination

• Don't be shy about greeting others on the tour.
• Asking someone to take a photo of you or offering to take their photo is a great opener.
• It’s easier to meet more people on a tour that involves some type of physical movement because you aren’t limited to talking to the few people sitting around you.

• Ask others about what activities they plan on doing, if they know about any local events, or just make small talk. This is a great way to make lifelong friends while on a trip!
• Some hostels have event calendars posted about movie nights, pub crawls, and site tours too!

• To find free walking tours, go to freetoursbyfoot.com.

• Dance, photography, cooking, and language classes will also give you a more intimate experience with a city's unique culture.
• If you're staying at a hotel or hostel, ask someone at the front desk where you should look for classes or if they know of any classes.

• You might also consider booking your trip with a travel organization that offers volunteer trips (most also incorporate leisure days).
• If you have special expertise in particular fields (like nursing, teaching, cooking, or engineering) tailor your search to those topics.

• Be cautious and wise about who you approach or who approaches you in particular areas or at particular times of the day. For instance, if a seemingly inebriated man approaches you in a seedy area of town and offers to squire you about, think twice before continuing the conversation.

Ensuring a Good Match

• It's okay for you to not share all the same interests. For example, if they don't want to go on a walking tour with you, let them know it's cool for them to do their own thing and you can meet up later.

• Do you get stressed out if you miss a train or do you laugh and enjoy the wait?
• Do you like to plan out your days or do you prefer to walk around and see what happens?
• If we meet a local, are you cool with joining up with them or would you rather keep to yourself?
• Do you like to stay out late or do you prefer to wake up with the sunrise?

• Start by comparing the details of your trip that are not able to be changed easily, such as arrival and departure dates and times, check-in and check-out times, and any activities that you had to book in advance for.

• It's ideal to split everything evenly or work out your finances before the trip.

• Be open and honest and practice active listening when talking through disagreements.

Expert Q&A

• Be considerate of your travel buddy’s routines and express that they respect yours. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Do an equal amount of legwork when it comes to finding the cost and schedules for certain activities; don’t monopolize the program or rely on your travel buddy to do all the planning. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Be clear about your personal boundaries with a travel buddy to avoid uncomfortable conversations. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://spotahome.com/blog/how-to-find-a-travel-buddy/
• ↑ http://bigtravelnut.com/finding-travel-buddies-online/
• ↑ https://globalgreeternetwork.info/home/
• ↑ https://travelhappy.info/travel-tips/how-to-find-travel-friends-online/
• ↑ https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/16/travel/how-to-make-friends-while-traveling-solo.html
• ↑ https://independenttravelhelp.com/2014/08/9-benefits-staying-hostels/
• ↑ https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/solo-travel/meet-people-when-solo
• ↑ https://www.gooverseas.com/blog/make-friends-volunteering-abroad
• ↑ https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/278691
• ↑ https://exploringyourmind.com/traits-of-a-good-travel-buddy/
• ↑ https://www.thisbigwildworld.com/travel-companion-qualities-to-avoid/

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Find A Travel Buddy, Share Costs & Travel Together

How GAFFL Works

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What GAFFL Users Are Saying

"It’s really nice to have a platform like GAFFL with lots of travelers wanting to do the same as you, a real beautiful cultural exchange. You can meet people so easily and in a trustful way. We were four girls, from French, German and American backgrounds, without knowing each other from before. We spent an amazing week together, 2000km driving, camping on the way. We saw kangaroos, koalas, penguins and pelicans"

“I have found GAFFL to be an amazing tool for finding similar minded travel partners to embark on an adventure. Through GAFFL, I had organized a trip to Mexico City last month and Quazi joined the trip from Victoria, BC. We spent 14 days of straight exploring, hiking, eating and drinking. Quite an amazing experience - all thanks to GAFFL!”

"I accidentally scrolled across GAFFL and I'm so pleased I did. I met Amaia and immediately decided to road-trip together. We're spending 10 days together and it's great because we have so much in common. Couldn't have done it without GAFFL helping us find one another! It has honestly made NZ so much cheaper to explore as I get to split the costs with someone too​"

Were you looking forward to a trip with your friends, only to find out that they had backed out last minute? Wondering how to find a travel companion online? Even if your family and friends' schedules don't match yours, your vacation doesn't have to be ruined because of it. GAFFL can help you to find the perfect travel companion for your next adventure.

The best way to find a travel buddy on GAFFL is to search for your desired destination and browse through thousands of user-generated trips created by solo travelers around the world.

A good travel companion is someone who has a similar itinerary to you. It's also someone you think you'll get along with.

Every user on GAFFL has a profile where they list their interests. If you and your potential trip mate share some common interests, it’ll make your trip go a lot smoother.

It's also important to have a similar budget in mind. If your travel companion wants to do more activities and eat at expensive restaurants but you can’t afford it, it can lead to an unpleasant trip for the both of you.

When browsing trips on GAFFL, make sure to read through the trip details to learn more about the trip and determine if the activities are something you want to do and can afford.

If you like a trip on GAFFL, simply click 'Connect,' and you'll be able to chat with your travel buddy right away. If you have your own travel plans, you can start your own trip and others can request to connect with you!

Finding the right travel companion online can be difficult for solo travelers. GAFFL, on the other hand, makes it very simple. Use our world-class real-time messaging system to get to know your potential travel partner. Chat with them to see if they'd be a good travel companion for you, and then plan together, meet up with your travel buddy, and start exploring together.

GAFFL is the best website/app for solo travelers looking for travel companions online because we prioritize our travelers' trust and safety. Our multi-step verification process includes social media, phone number, and a valid government ID, so you can be confident in your potential travel companion. With adventurers from over 190 countries, you can connect, chat, and find the perfect travel buddy to meet up with on GAFFL.

I think GAFFL plays a role by allowing solo travelers to find travel buddies when needed. Though solo travel is a great way to travel, there are some experiences that are better enjoyed with more people (some don’t even allow for solo).

Friends and families are not always available to travel with, and sometimes the interests do not align for travel. Or sometimes you just want to socialize while still being solo most of the time. I think GAFFL helps solve these problems.

I think this is a fabulous idea because the things that can get expensive while solo traveling can usually also be easily split between people. If you aren’t a hostel fan, it would be awesome to have people to split hotels and Airbnb with.

If car rental is the cheapest way to get around a destination, it would be ideal to have others to split the costs with. But most importantly it always makes the experience that much more memorable when you have new friends to share it with.

Solo travel is great. But there are some times that I do not recommend someone travel solo and where I personally try my hardest not to travel solo. Some examples of this relate to safety, like hiking a trail that doesn’t have many people walking it each day, or being in certain destinations where I’ve heard from others that it’s difficult as a solo female.

Other examples relate to expenses, like taking a road trip and renting a car. Situations like these are where I think something like GAFFL is a great idea. With GAFFL, you can find a group to go on that hike with or split that car rental with!

We truly believe that the best memories and experiences are the ones that are shared with others. It doesn’t matter if you’ve known someone for an hour or your whole life, when you do something badass together it’s sure to be a time you won’t forget.

Making connections and becoming friends with people all over the world is such a powerful tool to have when traveling. One day maybe you’ll visit your new friend in their homeland. Some of the best trips happen when you have a friend playing tour guide in their country.

GAFFL is a really cool opportunity to enrich your travels with like-minded people who will push you to get out of your comfort zone. No matter what type of personality you have, making new friends on the road is easier than ever.

One of the things that hold people back is that they don’t have a partner or a best friend to travel with and they feel scared and uncertain to travel alone, especially long-term. GAFFL helps with that!

Another thing that holds people back is the perceived cost of travel. While travel doesn’t have to be expensive, it’s always more affordable when you can share the cost of accommodation and groceries with someone else. Again, GAFFL provides a solution for that!

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50 Best Quotes About Traveling With Friends to Help Sum Up Your Epic Adventures

Short, funny and sweet sayings, messages and caption ideas all about your journey together.

It’s no secret that traveling can open your eyes to new experiences, cultures, and perspectives. What can make those memorable journeys even better? A companion, of course! Traveling with friends can enhance trips in unimaginable ways. For starters, they can be your personal photographer when selfies won’t suffice. That’s what friends are for, right?

Exploring the world together can create enlightening experiences that you will look back on for years to come. But, before you embark on your next adventure, we’ve rounded up some of the best traveling with friends quotes to get you excited for the trips that you have yet to take.

From short and sweet to deep and meaningful, these quotes will boost your anticipation for your future travels. If you’ve taken trips together in the past, these travel quotes can help you reflect and reminisce. Text them in your special group chat or post as captions on Instagram . Regardless of how you share them, these quotes and messages are sure to resonate with your travel buddies.

No matter if you’re going with one friend or a group of your closest buds, traveling with friends presents an opportunity to strengthen bonds while having fun. So, pack your bags and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime.

• “ Sharing adventures means enjoying them 100% more .” – Anonymous
• “ There are no strangers in this world, only friends I haven’t met yet. ” – William Butler Yeats
• “Friends make everything better, vacations included! ” — Anonymous
• “ A friend may be waiting behind a stranger’s face .” – Maya Angelou
• “ Traveling with a friend is like stepping into a storybook adventure together.” – Unknown
• “It’s not the destination, it’s the journey” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
• “Travel far, travel wide, but always travel with a friend by your side. ” – Unknown
• “ Just as the stars shine brighter in the night sky, so do friendships glow stronger amidst the wonders of the world discovered together .” – Unknown
• “ As the road stretches out before us, I’m grateful for the company of my best friend, knowing that no matter where we end up, the journey together is what truly matters. ” – Unknown
• “ No matter where our journey takes us, friendship will always be our guiding light. ” —Anonymous
• “ I can speak to my soul only when the two of us are off exploring deserts or cities or mountains or roads. ” – Paulo Coelho
• “Good company on a journey makes the way seem shorter.” — Izaak Walton
• “A good friend listens to your adventures. A best friend makes them with you.” — Unknown
• “A journey is best measured in friends rather than miles.” — Tim Cahill
• “No adventure is complete without you by my side.” — Unknown
• “Friends that travel together, stay together.” — Unknown
• “It doesn’t matter where you’re going — it’s who you go with that makes it fun!” — Unknown
• “As soon as I saw you, I knew a grand adventure was about to happen.” — Winnie The Pooh.
• “Life was meant for great adventures and close friends. — Unknown
• “You can pack for every occasion, but a good friend will always be the best thing you could bring!” — Unknown
• "We all have that one friend who is either on a road-trip or planning a road-trip or thinking about a road-trip or talking to people who are on road-trip or posting quotes about road-trip." — Crestless Wave
• “It’s the friends we meet along the way that help us appreciate the journey.” — Unknown
• “You never know where life will take you, but it will always be better with friends.” —Unknown
• “We are all travelers in the wilderness of the world, and the best we can find in our travels is an honest friend.” — Robert Louis Stevenson
• “The tans will fade but the memories will last forever.” — Unknown
• “Wherever it is you may be, it is your friends who make your world.” — Chris Bradford
• ​​“When traveling life’s journey, it’s good to have a friend’s hand to hold on to.” — Unknown
• “If you want to go fast go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” — African Proverb
• “A good trip is an even better one with your bestie.” — Unknown
• “The more I traveled the more I realized that fear makes strangers of people who should be friends” —Shirley MacLaine
• “Embarking on new adventures is a million times better with close pals.” — Unknown
• “Life was meant for great adventures and close friends.” —Unknown
• “I have found out that there ain’t no surer way to find out whether you like people or hate them than to travel with them.” —Mark Twain
• “Adventure awaits — all you need is your best buddy to make it a reality.” — Unknown

• “Life is a beach, enjoy the waves.” — Unknown
• “Frozen drinks are better with friends.” — Unknown
• “With friends by your side, every journey becomes an opportunity to discover the beauty of the world and the depths of your bond.” — Unknown
• “If you go looking for a friend, you’re going to find they’re very scarce. If you go out to be a friend, you’ll find them everywhere.” — Zig Ziglar
• “On the road, strangers become friends, sharing stories and laughter, creating bonds that last beyond the journey.” — Unknown
• “ The best way to travel is to always pack light with the exception of a friend . ” —Anonymous
• " If you want to have fun, bring a friend.” — Unknown
• “ Nothing makes the journey more enjoyable than a friend who can make you laugh.” — Unknown
• “ I soon realized that no journey carries one far unless, as it extends into the world around us, it goes an equal distance into the world within .” —Lillian Smith
• “ In the tapestry of life, friends are the threads that weave together our most cherished travel stories .” – Unknown
• “ May your travels be filled with the magic of friendship, the wonder of new experiences, and the warmth of shared memories that last a lifetime .” —Unknown
• " T raveling the world is great, but nothing tops going around the world with a friend ." —Unknown
• “ The beach and my besties are all I need to have a good time." —Unknown
• "Travel memories we make alone may fade, but those made with friends will last a lifetime." — Unknown
• “Away is a place where it’s not about the money you spend. It’s about the moments you share.” —Unknown
• “Just grab a friend and take a ride, together upon the open road.” —The Goofy Movie
• Life is about doing things that don’t suck with people who don’t suck.” —Unknown
• “I would like to travel the world with you twice. Once, to see the world. Twice, to see the way you see the world.” —Unknown
• “Everyone needs this friend that calls and says, “Get dressed, we’re going on an adventure.” —Unknown
• “Getting to know new people and gaining new friends is one of life’s greatest pleasures. So, conquer your fears and get out there.” —Tony Clark
• “Traveling with friends is always better.” —Unknown
• “No road is long with good company.” —Turkish proverb
• "Each friend represents a world in us, a world possibly not born until they arrive, and it is only by this meeting that a new world is born." —Anais Nin
• "In life, it’s not where you go – it’s who you travel with.” — Charles M. Schulz
• “Exploring new places is always sweeter with your favorite people.” — Unknown
• “Getting lost with you is a risk I’m always willing to take.”— Unknown
• “As with any journey, whom you travel with is more important than the destination.” —Unknown
• “At the end of the day, your feet should be dirty, your hair messy and your eyes sparkling.” —Shanti
• “May your adventures bring you closer together, even as they take you far away from home.” — Trenton Lee Stewart
• “I get a friend to travel with me… I need somebody to bring me back to who I am. It’s hard to be alone.” —Leonardo DiCaprio
• “Travel should make friendships stronger and memories sweeter.” —Unknown
• “Never go on trips with anyone you do not love.” —Ernest Hemingway
• “Sometimes all you need is a great friend and a tank of gas.” — Thelma & Louise
• “One of the great things about travel is that you find out how many good, kind people there are.” —Edith Wharton
• “We are travelers on a cosmic journey, stardust, swirling and dancing in the eddies and whirlpools of infinity. Life is eternal. We have stopped for a moment to encounter each other, to meet, to love, to share. This is a precious moment. It is a little parenthesis in eternity.” — Paul Coelho
• “Sometimes all you need is a great friend and thirst for adventure.” —Unknown
• “Nothing makes a good trip more memorable than experiencing it with your best friends.” —Unknown
• “Traveling with a pal can be the foundation for a lifelong friendship.” —Unknown
• “Good times and crazy friends make the best memories.” —Unknown
• “The best things in life are the people we love, the places we’ve been, and the memories we’ve made along the way.” —Unknown
• “Don’t be dismayed at good-byes. A farewell is necessary before you can meet again. And meeting again, after moments or lifetimes, is certain for those who are friends.”— Richard Bach

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-o9j0dn:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-o9j0dn:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} 100+ Quotes For Any Occasion

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25 of the best travel quotes with friends

By: Author Sylvia

Posted on Last updated: May 11, 2022

Are you looking for the best travel quotes with friends? You came to the right place. 

For me, traveling is not laying on the beach sipping cocktails. Although that can sometimes be lots of fun and relaxing too.

For me traveling is all about seeking new adventures and making travel memories. And these adventures become even more fun when you can share them with a good friend.

That’s why I wanted to share this list with 25 of the best travel quotes with friends.

So they can inspire you to travel more and share adventures and memories with a good friend.

Let’s be honest.

A journey becomes even more beautiful when you can share it. 

There is a really good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

1.“Life was meant for great adventures and close friends.”

We start this list with one of my favorite travel with friends quotes because lets be honest, what do you need more in life than a good friend and a great adventure?

Our adventures brought us already to all 7 continents. One of the most memorable adventures we experienced was our cruise to Antarctica.   This is a continent that cannot be compared with anything else. 

But we also have great memories of our travels to Japan , Korea , and Borneo. 

Recently we discovered the Azores . At this moment we haven’t yet planned our next trip which is quite strange for us.

A complete guide to the Azores islands.

Where is your next adventure taking you? 

2. “A journey is best measured in friends, rather than miles.”  – Tim Cahill

Although we’re not keen on organized tours or any other form of mass tourism, except the occasional cruise to spoil ourselves, we are no hermits. 

We love to socialize and we always have a great time when we meet locals or other travelers during our trips.

With social networks like Facebook, it’s easier than ever to stay in touch after your trip.

The locals were very sociable in the Azores but in bigger cities, it is often not as easy to make a connection. 

That’s why we love websites like HiHiGuide where you arrange private tours with locals in major cities around the world.

Such tours are really great to learn more about the city, the culture of the country and the habits of the people.

3. “I have found out that there ain’t no surer way to find out whether you like people or hate them than to travel with them.” – Mark Twain

This is so true.

While traveling together you learn to know someone’s flaws.

Spending 24 hours with someone can be quite challenging at times but it will also create memories that last for a lifetime. 

4. “There is a whole world out there. Pack your backpack, your best friend, and go.”

Although we don’t travel with a backpack anymore I definitely agree with this travel quote. 

Impulsive decisions are not always good but they can create really memorable vacations.

I still remember how we changed plans last-minute on a friend’s trip.  Initially, we wanted to stay close to home but because the weather was so bad we packed some clothes, jumped in the car and drove for several hours until we found some sun. 

We didn’t know where we were going but we had the best time.

The world is so big and there are so many places to discover that we’re always looking forward to our next trip. 

It seems like our bucket list is only getting longer…

5. “A good friend listens to your adventures. Your best friend makes them with you.”

This is one of my favorite best friend quotes. Nothing is better for friendship than making shared memories. 

It doesn’t necessarily need to be a long vacation.  You can just take your best friend on a city trip.  It will create a lifelong bond and years later you will still exchange great memories of your adventures together.

Which is the last adventure that you experienced and with whom?

6. “Friends that travel together, stay together.”

I do not fully agree with this traveling with this enjoying with friends quote. 

If you do not have the same idea about a vacation, it can sometimes be very disappointing to go on a trip with a friend.

Even to such an extent that this can put pressure on your friendship afterward.

So when you plan to go on a trip with friends, make good arrangements in advance about what you expect from the trip.

Good agreements make good friends and it will avoid that you or your friend will be disappointed and the dream journey turns into a nightmare.

7. “Sharing adventures means enjoying them 100% more.”

Everything is more fun in life if you can share it.

This is even psychologically proven. You’re more emotionally touched by the things you experience when a friend is going through the same experience.

All humans love to share their experiences. 

Ideally, with a friend who is traveling with you but it also explains why we love to share so many pictures of our trips on Instagram and Facebook.

8. “Sometimes all you need is a great friend and thirst for adventure.”

We certainly have thirst for adventure…

Kris and I dream about seeing polar bears in the wild, we have plans for an epic road trip through Australia and New Zealand, we still haven’t seen the northern lights and although we already spend a night in the desert we wonder how it would be to sleep under a starry sky instead of a tent …

Read also: 56 travel together quotes from friends and loved ones.

I can go on for hours. 

What adventures are still on your bucket list and more importantly with whom do you want to experience them? 

 9. “There is an unspoken bond you create with the friends you travel with.” – Kristen Sarah

When traveling together you make collective memories that are definitely creating a special bond.

I already had some amazing vacations with friends and I can for sure testify that traveling with friends is much more fun than traveling solo. 

I tend to enjoy the places I visit and the things I do much more when I can share them with my friends.

Just think about some amazing experiences you had in the past.  There’s a big chance that this was a moment that some of your closest companions were at your side.

Being 24/7 with each other can be challenging at times but it will also bring you closer together.

10. “You can pack for every occasion, but a good friend will always be the best thing you could bring!” 

This is a perfect friendship travel quote to write on a small card and give to your best friend as a sign of your friendship.

11. “True friends never apart maybe in distance never in heart.” – Helen Keller

I have a few friends that I don’t see that often, but when we see each other we always have the best time and it feels like we saw each other just last week.

12. “If you want to go fast go alone. If you want to go far go together.”

This is supposed to be an African proverb but it’s not sure in what context it was originally used. 

Today it is often used in a business context referring to successful companies that are the result of true teamwork.

It does apply to travel as well. 

I don’t mind traveling solo if it’s just for a few days and my itinerary is jam-packed for each and every minute. 

I’m however reluctant to leave on a long trip without any friends. 

I think loneliness would start to creep in really fast.

13. “When traveling life’s journey, it’s good to have a friend’s hand to hold on to.” 

Life is not always perfect, inevitable you will encounter some bumps in the roads.

It’s good to have a friend by your side. 

Not only for the setbacks but also during the good times. 

True friends share your successes and are also there when things don’t go so well.

Good friends are priceless and must be cherished.

14. “Only the people you don’t know well enough seem normal. Every person you know well enough is odd, weird, and different. This is called friendship!”

I just laughed when I read this quote and at the same time asked myself whether my best friends would think so too.

Maybe I should ask them or maybe I rather don’t know. 😀

The question is whether they would dare to answer this honestly but I think that true friends should be able, to tell the truth and tell each other just how crazy they think you’re. 😀

15. “There are no strangers in this world, only friends I haven’t met yet.”

This is a great attitude that I absolutely agree with and try to apply daily. 

If you approach strangers in this way and you set negative prejudices aside you will often be positively surprised. 

The most inspirational travel proverbs.

16. “We are all travelers in the wilderness of the world & the best we can find in our travels is an honest friend.” –  Robert Louis Stevenson

This is so true.  The world is such an intriguing and complex environment.  When we are young we have our parents to guide us but then there comes a point when we’re on our own.

Even though everybody wants to be independent there’re always moments when you need to rely on somebody else.  Sometimes we are just looking for some good advice, at other times we need some help.

This is especially true when you’re abroad in a country you don’t know with a language you don’t speak. 

We traveled independently through China and we must agree that we underestimated how challenging this would be.  We often were completely helpless.  There were no English-speaking ticket offices in the train stations and to our surprise we didn’t meet that many people who spoke English during our trip.  

But those people who spoke English really did anything they possibly could to help us.  They never took advantage of us, they never asked anything in return. 

They just seemed happy to help us.

They acted as an honest friend and that’s something I will never forget about our trip.

17. “The more I traveled, the more I realized fear makes strangers of people who should be friends.” – Shirley MacLaine

If there’s one thing that I learned from my trips it is that most people are helpful and will be happy to help if they can.  This is how we are born. 

Unfortunately, some people make abuse of this and we become cautious.  When a stranger asks us for help we sometimes tend to make something of it. It’s a pity that our helpful attitude is challenged by the abuse of a few.

If we could set our fear aside we would be able to make more friends.

18. “Good company in a journey makes the way seem shorter.” –  Izaak Walton

As they say, time flies when you are having fun. 

19. “Life is about doing things that don’t suck with people who don’t suck.”

Wouldn’t it be fun if all days were like this?

This is a little too good to be true but the proverb is absolutely true.  We should make the best of each and every other day.  

That means that we should spend our time on things that make us happy and that we should surround ourselves with people that make us better.

Or like they say in another proverb: “Life is too short to be anything but happy!”.

20. “Everyone needs this friend that calls and says, “Get dressed, we’re going on an adventure.”

Sometimes you just need that little push.

Although I’m always looking forward to a new adventure I notice how I sometimes postpone the booking. 

And the more I postpone it the bigger the resistance becomes to finally take the step.

That’s why I’m so happy with my friends who are always ready to join me on my next adventures.  

Afterward, I always wonder why I was so reluctant at first because it always turned out to be so much fun.  And it is of course always so much more fun with your friends around.

How about you? Do you prefer to stay at home or are you the person that calls and says get dressed we”re going on an adventure? 

21. “Travel is better with friends.”

This is certainly true, or at least 99% of the cases.  I personally only had great experiences during the trips with my friends and so does my husband.

But everybody knows some horror stories about friendships or relationships being destroyed during holidays. 

Don’t let this scare you.  As long as you make good arrangements in advance you will have the best time of your life.

Do you know such a horror story? 

22. “As with any journey, whom you travel with is more important than the destination.”

The experience is indeed largely made by the person with whom you share it. 

The destination can be extremely beautiful but the experience can be completely ruined if you’re there in bad company.

And this proverb also has a second meaning. 

Traveling is not only about checking things off the bucket list. 

It’s also about enjoying the moments and sharing them with those you love.

23. “Perhaps travel cannot prevent bigotry, but by demonstrating that all people cry, laugh, eat, worry, and die, it can introduce the idea that if we try and understand each other, we may even become friends.” – Maya Angelou

This traveling with friends quote reminds me of a lot of a story we experienced when we were traveling through Vietnam a few years ago. 

We were hiking and accompanied by a local tribe that didn’t speak English.

Suddenly one of our fellow hikers slipped out in the mud and she desperately tried not to fall. It was really funny to see how she alternately was gliding forward and backward. 

Read also:  Amazing destinations to visit in Europe in winter. 

Once she had regained her balance everybody started laughing including the ladies of the local tribe. 

This really shows how all people are the same and even when we come from completely different backgrounds, and we don’t speak the same language, we still have more in common than we think.

This event even broke the ice. 

Before this happened we had no contact with the local tribe but when we continued onward we were helping each other to cross the muddy parts and we tried to do some basic conversation.

24. “You and me, we are more than friends. We are like a small travel gang!”

This is one of the most beautiful travel with friends captions that I found and it is absolutely true. 

Once you’ve gone on a vacation with a friend and you have that special bond you really form a small travel gang. 

Who’s in your travel gang?

25. “I get a friend to travel with me… I need somebody to bring me back to who I am. It’s hard to be alone.” –  Leonardo DiCaprio

I completely understand Leonardo. 

Humans are social beings and while some need more social contact than others we all love to be among other people. 

Spending time with friends will help relax those with stressful lives.

I had a great time putting together this list with travel memories quotes.  It reminded me again that every once in a while I need to spend time with my friends, preferably in an exotic vacation spot.  

I also decided that I will use one of these quotes every once in a while to show them how much I appreciate our friendship.

I hope that these quotes will help you to do the same. 

Looking for more inspiring travel quotes, check out these vacation travel quotes. 

If you like this article, pin it.

10 tips for making friends while traveling

Beside all the adventures and memories, meeting new people and making friends from around the world is what makes traveling so much fun. Travelers, backpackers, and globetrotters all know what it means to be in a place where you don’t know anyone, so in general, everyone’s really friendly, and striking up a conversation is easy.

However, there are two types of people in the world: Those who can make friends simply by breathing, and others who need a bit more of a push out of the comfort zone. To make the whole friendship process a little easier, it’s important to be open and curious while doing something fun that interests you. Preferably, in one of these ten places:

1. Take language classes

If you’re going to stay in a given country for more than two weeks, why not really immerse yourself by taking a language course? You’ll be able to pick up some great phrases to help you on a day-to-day basis, so traveling will become even more fun. Plus, study buddies often turn into travel buddies, which could mean that you basically hit the jackpot.

2. Or join any other classes

Maybe you’re so in love with the rabbit dishes you keep eating in Malta , you decide that it’s time to learn how to cook them yourself, and you join a Maltese cooking class. Or you want to learn how to make a proper origami swan in Tokyo – and of course, there’s a class for that as well. Whatever class you choose, you will be able to make friends with fellow students and travelers – it’s like in school, just somehow more fun because you’re abroad.

3. Live with locals

Now, you can’t just show up at someone’s doorstep and demand that they let you in, feed, and befriend you. But there are loads of opportunities to immerse in the culture by living the local lifestyle – be it couchsurfing or Airbnb. Living in an actual apartment or house is a great way to get to know a city through meeting people, neighbors, and locals.

4. Volunteer

Why not do something good for both your soul and the community by volunteering? This will not only help you improve the world while giving back to the place you’re staying in, it will also allow you to immerse in the culture and connect with people who care about a greater cause. (And let’s not forget that it’s an amazing way to follow or find your passion.)

5. Eat and drink

Everyone has to eat and drink, and by picking the same restaurant or café, you already have something in common. Simply look around for someone else who is eating alone. This can be risky as the person might actually want to eat alone, but you can just approach them and say, “Hey! I noticed you were eating alone and so was I so I was wondering if I could join you?” You can only win – you step out of your comfort zone and might have a very pleasant conversation.

6. Book a day tour or join activities

A lot of hotels, schools, or cities offer free (or inexpensive) sightseeing tours, excursions, or activities. This will help you explore your new home away from home and gives you insider knowledge you can’t find in a book. Usually, you do these tours and activities in groups, so you’re surrounded by people whom you can talk to and take selfies with. Who knows, maybe you end up checking out that restaurant you walked by earlier, or you continue exploring together.

7. Stay at a hostel

Plenty of backpackers and solo travelers stay at hostels because they tend to be cheaper than hotels. Because of that, you will come across a lot of open-minded people and welcoming situations, like a dining-hall-style breakfast or group activities that make it easy to mingle with others. Plus, everyone usually has great travel tips, so it’s definitely worth striking up a conversation, no matter where you are staying.

8. Reach out to your network

If you have friends (or friends of friends) who recently went to South Africa, message them to see if they have any advice. Who knows, they might not only send you a list of things to do and places to see, but they might even get you in touch with their local friends and you can meet up for coffee or a sightseeing tour.

9. Become a regular

If you’re staying in a given city for a while and you keep going to the same café or restaurant, the staff will eventually recognize you. This is a great opportunity to engage in small talk or get recommendations for things to do and see. Wait staff is used to chit chat, introducing people, or helping customers, so there’s a good chance that you might even do or see some of the things together.

10. Find a social group

Pretty much everyone who visits a new city or even moves there has some challenges to meet new people or find their way around. That’s why a lot of organizations, like Meetup and Internations, have popped up to help: Weekly and monthly get-togethers help people expand their social circle and get their friendship on.

Discover the world and study a language abroad

How bringing my friend on an Intrepid trip brought us closer together 

Good friends who make good travel buddies are keepers. Here’s the truth about what to expect when you take a group trip with your bestie.

I’ll admit it. I’m the annoying travel friend. That person who is always talking about my last trip, my next trip and trying to get everyone I know to come along on an adventure. Ever since my first Intrepid trip, I’m also the one talking up the benefits of small group trips. I don’t actually need anyone to come with me –that’s the beauty of joining an Intrepid trip. I just want the people I care about to have good times in their lives, and some of the best times I’ve had have been on these tours. 

Finally, after years of my proselytising, the timing was right. A girlfriend, Carolyn, and I were going to Jordan together.

We had both been dreaming of visiting Petra since seeing it in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade , had “floating in the Dead Sea” on our travel bucket lists and could take the same vacation days. She was also one of my favourite people to travel with but had moved across the country, so we’d not seen each other as much lately as I would like. Explore Jordan was the perfect trip with the perfect pal. 

As exciting as that was (and I can tell you that it was very exciting), a few things made me nervous. 

Would Carolyn enjoy the small group tour experience as much as I? I did feel responsible for hyping it up. Would I get to meet as many interesting people?

This would be my fourth trip with Intrepid, and I had become quite comfortable with throwing myself into the company of strangers from around the world. Having dinner conversations with doctors and photographers and retired archeologists and people who seen Antarctica doesn’t happen in my everyday life. I wanted to make sure I still had that experience even while travelling with a friend. I also worried a bit about time to myself, which is important for me while travelling. 

I didn’t need to worry at all. Here’s what I learned from joining an Intrepid tour with my friend and how it brought us closer to together.  

Our fun started on the first day. The group wouldn’t meet until dinner, so we had a free afternoon in Amman. In the past when I arrived early I would take a nap, jump in the hotel pool or maybe walk around the block to find snacks, but it was cool to have a buddy to safely explore the city with.

I wanted to do a DIY walking tour of street art while Carolyn wanted to meet up for high tea with a colleague who relocated to Amman. So we did both. I got to see two very different parts of this country before the trip even started, and practise one of my essential tips for travelling with friends: say yes to other people’s suggestions. 

The welcome meeting is always so interesting. You don’t know who will be in your group in advance, but you can be sure it’s a fascinating mix of like-minded travellers. I have been one of several solo travellers in a group, and I have also been the only person not travelling with a partner or family member. It always worked out and I’ve never felt like a third wheel. But it’s human nature for duos to cleave off at times, and I’ve noticed people who arrive together tend to sit together, so my friend and I split up on opposite sides of the table, where we’d be less likely to just talk amongst ourselves.

I can’t imagine a single other person who would surprise me when I was wilting by pulling out a pan flute in the middle of the ancient ruins of Jerash and serenading me, accompanied by local musicians.

It was a great way to meet our tripmates right away. We would use this seating tactic often over the next eight days, at restaurants or on the drives in our private van. Which brings me to another fave travelling tip that worked out perfectly on a small group trip: don’t be afraid to split up. 

I’ve found that no matter how much you love your travel companion, everyone has their “moments” when you get tired, or hangry, and might need a break from one another. And even when you’re getting along great 24/7, there are times when you have different sleeping schedules, stamina or interests.

On a group tour there’s always someone else to hang out with, and I took advantage of that on the very first night. After the group dinner Carolyn headed back to our room while I joined a few of my new tripmates for drinks. If we were travelling alone, I would have gone back to my room too. Instead, I had the chance to check out the nightlife on Amman’s famed Rainbow Street, where we found a cool bar decked out in neon lights to enjoy non-alcoholic cocktails and tea and the first of many great conversations. 

No, I’m not going to write only about the ways in which my friend and I split up on our trip. Because the true joy of this tour was the moments we shared together. 

One of the highlights of our Explore Jordan itinerary was two nights’ camping in Wadi Rum. The landscape in this desert is out of this world, and one of the things I was most looking forward to on the trip was sleeping under the stars here. Except on the first night, it rained. Such is nature. And our Bedouin-style tents were very cosy. But on the second night, Carolyn was determined. No matter how cloudy or cold, as long as it wasn’t raining we would take advantage of the open-air sleeping area just outside our tents.

It was cloudy again, I was tired and I know that if she wasn’t there to literally drag my sleeping bag out for me, I would have wimped out. Instead, I had one of the best nights in my life, waking up to clear dark skies and a universe of stars above. We were the only ones from our group out there. We ooohed and aaahed and giggled like kids and I feel so lucky to have shared that moment with someone who will be in my life when I’m old so I can say “remember that time?” and relive it all over again. 

There are so many reasons why being on a group tour with a friend was a great way to travel. We could share different dishes to try more local food. Spread sunscreen or Dead Sea mud on each other’s backs. And we could cheer each other up with stupid jokes when the heat was zapping our energy. Okay, that was mostly her.

I can’t imagine a single other person who would surprise me when I was wilting by pulling out a pan flute in the middle of the ancient ruins of Jerash and serenading me, accompanied by local musicians. It makes me laugh out loud just to think of it now and I imagine it will forever. 

Could we do these things if we were just the two of us? Maybe. But the benefits of an organised tour meant that we didn’t need to waste any time figuring out bus schedules or lining up for tickets or other things that can make you cranky on the road. Instead, we could use that time to truly be together, have deep conversations, enjoy the adventure and make more memories that will last a lifetime.  

I originally signed up for a small group tour when none of my friends had the same wish list, schedule or budget for travel. What I learned this time was that even when friends can join you on a trip, it’s still a great way to see the world. And I’m not sorry that I will now be hassling the rest of my friends to come on the next one. 

Find an adventure to take with your bestie and make memories that last a lifetime.

Feeling inspired?

Liisa Ladouceur

Liisa Ladouceur is a writer from Toronto, Canada who blogs her travels at LiisaWanders.com, where she aims to inspire others to take the trips of their dreams. Her favourite places are wherever the wild things are, and her essential packing list includes curiosity, patience and SPF.

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We're 82-year-old Best Friends Who Traveled Around the World in 80 Days — Here's What It Was Like

Sandy Hazelip and Ellie Hamby first met in their 60s and decided to traverse the world in 80 days in their 80s.

Courtesy of Sandy Hazelip and Ellie Hamby

For Travel + Leisure’s column Traveling As, we’re talking to travelers about what it’s like to explore the world through their unique perspectives. We chatted with Sandy Hazelip and Ellie Hamby , two 82-year-old single great grandmothers, who travel around the globe together with an infectious, positive spirit. Their adventures will be documented in a Penguin Random House book called "Happy Place," out next year.

Sandy Hazelip: I grew up in Fort Worth, Texas, in a very modest family and got married when I was almost 20 years old to a wonderful person. Our son developed diabetes when he was a baby, so I became interested in learning about medicine. When I was 34 years old, I told my husband I wanted to go to college to become a doctor. From day one, he was my cheerleader. I started medical school when I was 39 and opened my practice in 1985. 

Then, my husband died in 1999. But before he became ill, he mentioned we should take our grandchildren on mission trips. Six months after he passed, a young physician told me he was going to be at a medical missions workshop the following weekend in Dallas. I went and met Ellie Hamby and her husband, who were the directors of the Zambia Medical Mission . I started going on the mission and Ellie and I became good friends.

Ellie Hamby: I grew up as a farm girl in Oklahoma and lived in a very small town until I finished high school. I got married and then went off to college. My husband was a professor at Abilene Christian University. We wound up going to Zambia and lived there for six years in the 1980s. When we came back to the university, we were approached about directing a medical mission. 

Neither one of us were medical [professionals], but I’ve been known to organize everything all of my life. We started organizing a medical mission to Zambia in the 1990s. It's one of the world's largest medical missions, and I'm still directing it. We see 2,000 to 3,000 patients a day over six days a week at the clinic. Sandy's been one of the medical doctors, going every other year for the last 20-something years.

About five years after Sandy's husband passed away, my husband passed away in a tennis accident. Sandy called me about a month after. I was still adjusting to his sudden death. She said, 'I'm moving my medical practice to Abilene and I don’t want to leave my home in Eastland, so I need a bed a couple of nights a week. If you would give me a bed, I'll take you out to eat.'

That was 19 years ago. Except when we're on trips, she's generally at my house one or two nights a week. We stayed up late, drank coffee, and started realizing we like to do things alike. Our friendship developed out of two terrible tragedies, but it was a beautiful thing because tragedy hits all of us. That doesn't mean your life is over. We both had phenomenal husbands. We loved them dearly. But we did develop this great friendship. 

Our outlook on life is similar: We're very happy people, we believe in the goodness of humanity, and we're not scared to try new things. 

I had already done quite a bit of traveling, having been to about 115 countries.

About three years after Sandy started staying at my house, we took our first trip together in 2008. We went on the Trans-Siberian Railway — not the tourist train. We went on the second-class people's train all the way. 

Hazelip: Our third trip together was in 2011 — we were in Syria when the war broke out.

Hamby: We were sleeping in a Bedouin tent in Palmyra in the Syrian desert. We had already been all through Syria on public buses — two 72-year-old women with backpacks.

The problem was that there were no tourists in Palmyra and we were headed to Jordan, but we hadn’t paid the hotel and there were no ATMs in the city, nor did they take credit cards. Mohammad at the hotel organized everything for us — his mother cooked us a wonderful meal that night and he arranged for us to go with a driver to Damascus about five hours away.

We got there and the whole plaza was lined with the military holding AK-47s. Our driver went up to them and must have said these two old women need to get cash out of an ATM. They put down their guns. We prayed there would be money — and there was. Then, Mohammad told us to get in a white unmarked car on the side of the road to take us to Jordan — and it did. So, we already had some wild experiences.

Hazelip : We are old enough to remember the movie and book, "Around the World in 80 Days," so two or three years prior to turning 80, I said to Ellie, 'Why don’t we go around the world in 80 days when we’re 80?'

Hamby: My first reaction was, 'What?!' About 30 seconds later, 'Why not?' We told our family and friends. I think most of them felt like it would never happen. It’s a pretty daunting thing, and we didn't realize just how daunting it was until we completed it and got all this recognition.

We used the Oneworld Alliance Round the World fare , which is great. You have to go to six continents and it gives you 16 flight segments. You circumnavigate the world in one direction. That made it handy and saved us money. 

Hazelip: You can make your own itinerary — just follow their rules. When we got to a country and wanted to see more things, we would use our airline miles and fly to those other places. Occasionally, we had to buy a ticket. Our average hotel room for the whole 80 days was $29 a person per night — and that usually included breakfast.

Hamby: Our best bargain was $13.50 at the Royal Pyramids Inn in Cairo. We had to enter through an alley, but when we got to the rooftop, there were the pyramids. And then the lights show at night — we watched it for free.

Hazelip: When other women say they would love to take a trip with us, the first thing I do is look at their hands. If they have well-manicured fingernails, they probably don't want to travel with us.

Hamby: We don't have a travel agent. We book every hotel ourselves; we book our flights, and when we have a problem, we have to solve it because there's no one we can call. And we don't have any men carrying our luggage.

Hazelip: We had originally planned to go on our Around the World trip when we were 80, but COVID shut it down, so we went when we were 81, and our theme was…

Hazelip and Hamby: Around the world in 80 days at 81 and still on the run.

Hamby: We started in Antarctica . It's one of the most awe-inspiring places to set foot on in the world. To stand there and do a 360 around you — what you see is just beyond belief. The immenseness of the Antarctic, the ice mountains, the icebergs, the water, penguins everywhere — it's unbelievable.

Hazelip: Then, we were in the Arctic Circle. We had a driver in Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland. One day he said, 'Would you like to do a husky sleigh ride today?' I thought it was going to be some tiny ride like at the Texas fair, so we said sure.

Hamby: He had a whole pack of huskies. We went for four miles through the forest, turning sharp corners and holding on for dear life. And it was minus four degrees.

Hazelip: We got back and said, 'Wow, that was fun!' Another day, he asked if we wanted to see the reindeer farm. Turns out, it was his family's farm where he grew up, and we got to feed the reindeer. 

Hamby: Sandy and I don't often plan. Things just kind of happen. We really rely on locals to organize things for us. In Bali, for example, we got a driver for $50 for eight hours. When we saw something we wanted to do, we could do it. We saw this sign that said, 'Happy Swing,' so he turned back. They were the most fun swings over rice paddies.

Hazelip: At the end, we said we did not go on a vacation — people get tired when they go on vacation. We went on an adventure and every adventure just ramped us up for the next one. 

Ellie found a saying that I absolutely love: 'The world is a book and he who does not travel only reads one page.'

One of the world wonders we had planned to see on the trip was Machu Picchu , but the political unrest shut it down. Ellie and I are eternal optimists. We were sure by the time we got there, it would be over. Three days before our flight was scheduled to Peru, we had to make the decision to cancel that. 

So, this year, we are now in South America with Machu Picchu being the last place we stop. We are having a wonderful time and our new theme is...

Hazelip and Hamby: We are 82 and we're not through.

Hamby: We're up in La Paz, Bolivia, at more than 12,000 feet. We climbed in the Valley of the Moon the other day and a whole group of Bolivians applauded when we got all the way to the top.

On this trip, we fished for piranhas in the Amazon. I caught three, but Sandy caught the biggest one. We ate it that night in piranha stew, which was pretty good. We also went alligator hunting — and caught two. I went swimming with pink dolphins in the Amazon. We're not afraid to venture out.

Hazelip: We're not afraid to have fun.

Hamby: Also, for your information, between Sandy and I, we have four artificial knees. Those things happen to all of us as we get older, and you’ve got to work hard, do physical therapy, and stay positive.

Hazelip: Ellie's family is accustomed to her wild travels. My family is trying to get used to it. I promise I will send them text messages every day. I let them know we're safe.

Hamby : In our planning, there are some things our kids don't need to know. They didn't need to know we were going piranha fishing, for example. Why would we tell them and have them freak out? They can find out later when they see pictures of the piranha we caught.

We'll keep traveling as long as we can — and we can come up with sayings. We don’t have one for 83 and 84, but for 85, it will be “We’re 85 and still alive.” We hope to be able to travel as long as our health holds out. So far, we're fine, but we know we're getting older and there's going to be a time we can't. We don't let age determine what we want to do. We're fearless travelers, we don't like nightlife, and we're not looking for men. We're just two single women having an adventure.

Hazelip: We have one wonderful adventure after another every single day.

Hamby : The language of South America has been a bit trickier than most, but Sandy and I say there's one universal language, and that's a smile. We use that over and over and over again.

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AAA forecasts nearly 44M travelers for Memorial Day weekend: See best times to travel

Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, which means people will be flooding highways and airports this weekend looking to get away for some rest and relaxation.

The American Automobile Association is projecting nearly 44 million travelers will head 50 miles or more from home over the Memorial Day holiday travel period, which is defined by the organization as the five-day period from Thursday, May 23 to Monday, May 27.

"We haven't seen Memorial Day weekend travel numbers like these in almost 20 years," said Paula Twidale, senior vice president of AAA Travel, in a news release. "We're projecting an additional one million travelers this holiday weekend compared to 2019, which not only means we're exceeding pre-pandemic levels but also signals a very busy summer travel season ahead."

The organization projects over 38 million people will travel by car over Memorial Day weekend, over 3.5 million will travel by air and nearly 2 million will travel by other modes of transportation, including buses, cruises and trains.

The 38 million drivers is the highest number for Memorial Day since AAA began tracking data in 2000 and is up 4% compared to last year. The 3.5 million air travelers is an increase of nearly 5% over last year and, according to AAA, this will be the most crowded Memorial Day weekend at airports since 2005.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

When is Memorial Day?: Here's when the holiday falls and what to know about its history.

Best, worst times to travel for Memorial Day weekend

Drivers leaving Thursday or Friday should hit the road early to avoid mixing with commuters, AAA said, citing data from transportation data and insights provider INRIX. Drivers going back home Sunday or Monday should avoid the afternoon hours when return trips will peak.

“Travel times are expected to be up to 90% longer than normal. Travelers should stay up to date on traffic apps, 511 services, and local news stations to avoid sitting in traffic longer than necessary,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX, in the news release.

Here's a breakdown of the best and worst times to travel by car depending on which day you are traveling:

Thursday, May 23

• Best travel time: Before 11 a.m. and after 7 p.m.
• Worst travel time: Between noon and 6 p.m.

Friday, May 24

• Best travel time: Before 11 a.m. and after 8 p.m.
• Worst travel time: Between noon and 7 p.m.

Saturday, May 25

• Best travel time: Before 1 p.m. and after 6 p.m.
• Worst travel time: Between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.

Sunday, May 26

• Best travel time: Before 1 p.m.
• Worst travel time: Between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Monday, May 27

• Best travel time: After 7 p.m.

Gas prices continue to decrease heading into Memorial Day weekend

According to AAA, the national average for a gallon of gasoline has fallen four cents since last week, to $3.60. The primary reasons are weak domestic demand and oil costs below $80 a barrel, according to the organization.

“Barring some unforeseen event, this pokey drop in pump prices is not likely to change anytime soon,” said Andrew Gross, AAA spokesperson, in a news release. “There are seven states with county gas averages at less than $3 a gallon. This trend will likely accelerate as more gas outlets east of the Rockies drop their prices.”

This Memorial Day weekend, drivers can expect similar gas prices as last year when the national average was about $3.57.

"Pump prices rose this spring but have held somewhat steady in recent weeks," AAA said in the news release, while also noting that prices may creep higher as the summer driving season gets underway.

The wildcard remains the cost of oil, according to the organization, and unlike last year, there are now two wars – in the Middle East and Ukraine – that could roil the oil market.

Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X  @GabeHauari  or email him at [email protected].

I traveled 35 hours and halfway across the world to meet an online friend. I'm so glad I did it.

• I became a full-time writer during COVID-19 and spent hours connecting with other writers online.
• Despite living on different sides of the world, I connected the most with Joe.
• On the spur of the moment, I finally decided to visit him.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, I decided to sell my travel business and become a full-time writer.

It was a massive change for me. I went from working in an office surrounded by colleagues to being home 24/7 and working alone . To overcome loneliness, I joined various writing platforms and discussion groups and met many other writers who felt the same way.

One person I connected with was Joe.

On paper, we were very different. Joe was in his early 30s, lived in El Salvador , and worked several jobs to support his family. I lived in Australia, was in my late 40s, and had just sold a successful business. Despite our different backgrounds, we hit it off and soon became great friends.

We would edit each other's work and assist with idea generation and feedback

Even though English is my first language , while Joe's is Spanish, he seemed to have a far better knowledge of grammar rules and would often correct my mistakes. I felt like I was back in school sometimes. We would chat every day, and over the two years I was in lockdown in Australia, I thought of Joe as my work colleague and a good friend.

As the world opened up at the end of 2021, we didn't communicate as much as we should have because we were busy with family, work, and other things.

Related stories

Our messages dropped from daily to weekly, and soon, we only checked in on each other every other month. Despite this, when I began writing my second book in 2023, I asked Joe to help edit it. Once the book was released, I posted a signed copy to Joe.

Unfortunately, the book was lost somewhere in the United States .

I was tracking the book, but after five months, it had yet to reach El Salvador, and the USPS postal service had lost its location. I joked to Joe that he would only see my book if I hand-delivered it. Joe laughed and agreed.

Then, I made a spur-of-the-moment promise — life is short, so I committed to traveling around the world to give him a copy of my book personally. Joe didn't believe me, but I was determined.

I flew to meet him in person

Four weeks later, I stood tired and jetlagged in the humid Salvadoran weather, anxiously waiting for Joe to arrive at my hotel.

For some reason, I felt nervous, as if I was meeting a blind date. As soon as Joe stepped out of an Uber, he had a massive smile, and we approached each other. Soon, he was giving me a tour of San Salvador as we chatted away like old friends, which we were. He took me to his favorite pupuseria to try the iconic national dish — the pupusa. It felt surreal to be sitting and eating with Joe after all this time.

Over the next few days, we toured El Salvador, and I met his wife and daughter.

Although it took 35 hours to get from Melbourne to San Salvador, I was so glad I made the trip happen. Too often, we meet people online but only ever see them from behind a screen, so it felt great to turn a digital friend into a real-life friend. On the last day before I departed to make the long trek home, Joe made a promise to me. He is writing a fantasy book, and when it is finished, he will hand-deliver it to me in Melbourne.

Watch: Logitech's chief marketing officer tells Insider that creators 'take my brand places that I can't go alone'

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USA TODAY 10Best

Best pet carriers for dogs, cats, and furry friends of all shapes and sizes

May 30, 2024 // By Jean Chen Smith

By Jean Chen Smith May 30, 2024

Between managing a Pilates studio, traveling to workshops, and writing about travel, I do a good amount of trekking across the globe. When I'm on the move, I do my best to bring my pups, Tonka and Paisley, along for company. Statistics show I'm not alone: 78% of Americans travel with their four-legged pals.

Travel can be hard enough with unanticipated delays and detours, so I want to make things go as smoothly as possible when bringing my dogs. That's why finding a reliable pet carrier is essential for seamless journeys. Because I travel at least twice a month, I've tested my fair share of carriers. Some are amazing, while others have been disappointing.

When purchasing a carrier, consider whether you're flying or driving. In-cabin pet carriers need to meet airline requirements, and those requirements vary (especially when flying with a dog ). On a road trip, you'll have more latitude regarding size selections. Above all, you'll want to ensure the comfort and safety of your precious pets.

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These are our favorite pet carrier recommendations for paw parents.

Best pet carrier for flying: The Pet Carrier by Away

The Pet Carrier by Away wins our overall best pick. Known for its tactical hard-sided suitcases, the brand also has a leg up when transporting your furry friend. We love its sleek design with attention to small details, such as its soft, rounded shape, which slides easily underneath most airline seats. Measuring 18.7 inches (long) x 10.8 inches (wide) x 10.75 inches (high), it accommodates pets up to 18 pounds. The carrier meets all Federal Aviation Administration requirements; however, it's still a best practice to research each airline's size and weight limitations.

Additional winning features include its water-resistant lining and comfortable sherpa bedding, which can ease your pet's anxiety while traveling. Several exterior pockets help you stay organized while on the move. We especially appreciate the large, zippered side pocket for safekeeping paperwork and other essentials.

Bonus points for the mesh panels, which allow for ventilation even on hot days. The pet carrier also features a trolley sleeve that easily attaches to luggage.

Best pet carrier for a road trip: Mobile Dog Gear Pet Carrier Plus

Mobile Dog Gear Pet Carrier Plus is our favorite choice for road trips. The company has considered everything you'll need for your four-legged companion when traveling. The pet carrier, which measures 17 x 11 x 11, has its patented feeding system design, which includes two food carriers, two collapsible silicone bowls, and an easy-to-clean placemat.

Made with thick, durable fabric, the pet carrier offers three-sided mesh ventilation for breathability and a waterproof exterior bottom, so you don't have to worry about setting it down on rainy days. The interior padded bottom is a comfy spot for Fido to relax and is removed easily for machine washing.

With two mesh pockets on each side and a third zippered pocket, you'll have ample space for storing treats, paw wipes, and much more. It also has seat belt clips that lock into any car and a collar tether to transport your fur friend safely.

Best pet carrier for small dogs: Olla Petite Pet Carrycot by Lambwolf Collective

The Olla Petite Pet Carrycot by Lambwolf Collective is our favorite for small dogs because of its multifunctional features for a petite companion. The water-resistant carrycot is super portable and versatile. It can be used as a bed, carrier, or sling pouch, making it suitable for travel. Especially designed for pets under 11 pounds, the interior features a soft temperature-regulated cushion, offering comfort for your pooch.

The cushion and cot are machine washable, making them useful and long-lasting. The cot has an adjustable drawstring opening. A safety clip inside the cot can be attached to your dog's collar.

Best pet carrier for big dogs: Away-We-Go Pet Crate by Roverlund

Roverlund's larger Away-We-Go Pet Crate option suits dogs up to 50 pounds. The easy-to-assemble kennel is made of aluminum and fabric and measures 30 x 20 x 22. It features front, top, and side entry points and a pocket with safety fasteners to carry all Fido's travel essentials.

The waterproof bottom prevents leaks and protects from outside water getting in, should you face inclement weather conditions. The interior pad is removable and can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle.

Splurge for the ingenious add-on Ready-to-Roll Pet Carrier Wheel Base , designed to lug your bigger four-legged around easily. The smooth-moving skateboard wheels allow for stress-free navigation. The pet crate and wheelbase are available in small sizes and are suitable for pets under 25 pounds.

Best crossbody pet carrier: Cloud Crossbody Pet Carrier from Pups & Bubs

The Cloud Crossbody Pet Carrier , a bestseller from Pups & Bubs, is great for dog parents who want to carry their pups in a sling, similar to a baby wrap. I'm a huge fan of the cloud crossbody because it's lightweight, stylish, and offers a solid base for your furbaby to rest comfortably. It's perfect for smaller dogs who can't walk long but enjoy having their head out and seeing all the activity. My three-pound shih tzu Paisley loves riding in it while I'm window shopping or running errands.

It also features several zippered pockets to carry water bottles and other essentials. When not used as a dog carrier, you can remove the interior insert to use it as an everyday bag. It easily adjusts to a lounge pod for your pet to rest, whether at home or on vacation. It is most suitable for smaller dogs and has a secure latch and mesh closure to keep your pup safe.

Best soft-sided pet carrier: Wild One Travel Carrier

Wild One Travel Carrier is our choice for the best soft-sided because it's airline-approved, roomy, and cozy for your four-legged friend. Made of a neoprene outer with ventilated mesh walls, it measures 17.5 x 11 x 10 and is suitable for pets under 16 pounds.

We love its ergonomic design — the case opens into a canopy bed so your pet can rest and lounge. The removable shoulder strap allows you to wear it as a crossbody when you need both hands free to navigate. You can even use it as a leash for last-minute emergencies.

Best hard-sided pet carrier: Petmate Pet Porter

Petmate's Pet Porter is your best bet for hard-sided options for transporting your pup. The pet porter is available in multiple sizes , depending on how big or small your pet is. Made of 90% recycled plastic, it features a secure latch so you can feel confident while traveling. Side vents allow for sufficient airflow to keep your best friend comfortable.

One thing to note is that it doesn't come with padding, so you'll want to pick one up to ensure your pet's comfort. The company offers a one-year limited warranty on their crates.

Best pet carrier for cats: Sleepypod Atom

We love Sleepypod Atom for its contemporary design, which makes transporting your pet a cinch. While the Atom is suitable for dogs and cats, we chose it as our best feline carrier because the enclosed compartment provides more privacy. The heavy-duty rip-stop mesh holds up against frisky kitties who like to claw and chew. The interior is spacious and cozy, with ultra plush bedding to support a relaxed voyage.

The Sleepypod Atom fits under most airline seats, can be used as a car seat, and folds flat for storage. It measures 17 x 8.5 x 10.5 and is suitable for pets up to 12 pounds.

Best pet carrier with wheels: Luxury Rider Pet Carrier by Katziela

Luxury Rider Pet Carrier with Removable Wheels and Telescopic Handle , made by Katziela, is the best mobile pet carrier. Owners love the double telescopic handle, which slides out easily and offers effortless motion when in a hurry. Once you remove the wheels, the carrier also acts as a crate for your pet to rest at a hotel, home, or office.

Made for your pet's comfort, the Luxury Rider Pet Carrier offers ventilated mesh on all sides so your pet can breathe easily and see what's happening. The interior case features a fluffy bed, so pets can sit back and enjoy the ride.

Best budget pet carrier: Bruno's Place Travel Carrier

Bruno's Place Travel Carrier with Shoulder Straps is designed for the pet-conscious paw parent and is suitable for dogs and cats that weigh up to 20 pounds. It sits along the front of your body like a baby wrap, allowing you to use your hands while in transit. They can have their head outside of the bag, or they can rest entirely inside. The removable base offers your pet additional comfort while in the carrier.

Ergonomically designed back straps offer an even weight distribution, providing ample support for the lumbar spine. Two side pockets allow you to store items you want to access quickly.

About Jean Chen Smith

Travel writer and animal lover Jean Chen Smith loves exploring with her pups Tonka and Paisley - here are her favorite pet carriers.

Read more about Jean Chen Smith here.

Connect with Jean via: Website | Facebook | Instagram