Traveling alone has become extremely popular in recent years. And for good reason: traveling alone tests your independence, forces you out of your comfort zone, and gives you time and space to reflect. It’s good for the soul and I firmly believe everyone should do it at least once. While there are many benefits to exploring alone, it really doesn’t compare to traveling with friends.
Here’s the thing: not only is it safer to travel with a pack, but it’s also ten times more fun to experience new places, cultures, and food with other people. This is especially beneficial as we age and friends begin to drift apart or grow apart. Nothing strengthens long-distance friendships like exploring a new state or sailing a new country together, overcoming language barriers, and more. This is not a one-sided deal. In addition to being good for your relationship, having your best friend by your side can make traveling more enjoyable. You can split costs, collaborate on collective itinerary ideas, and have someone to complain to if your flight is delayed.
In partnership with the BIC® Soleil Shine® campaign Make Your Own Sun, here are all the reasons you should travel with friends. Because what better way to create your own happiness than to plan a girls’ trip with all the best friends who make you the happiest?
Even the planning process was fun
Maybe you're the Type-A friend of the group and show up with a plush itinerary binder. Maybe as long as you can go sightseeing, you'll be upset about anything. Either way, phone calls, group emails and sheer anticipation are half the fun of traveling with friends.
You really, really, really understand each other.
Even if you were roommates in college, nothing brings you closer than sharing a cramped dorm room. You'll learn everything about your bestie, from what she loves and hates, to what she will and will never eat, to how she really feels about everything. This is the truest test of friendship and you will develop a unique bond that is unique to you.
There's always someone taking a picture of you
Selfies are cool, sure, but there's no way to take a cool selfie of yourself while jumping. Enter your besties. (And, of course, ask a visitor to come in and take a photo of you and your besties.)
You walk away with a million inside jokes.
Crazy tour guide? Check. Those ugly matching hats at the souvenir stalls? Only acceptable if you wear them together. Are you pronouncing "Gaudi" completely wrong? Worth it haha. No one is going to get it when you get home and that's totally fine.
You did something you might not have considered
You might really like museums, but your friend discovers this hole-in-the-wall restaurant (which is always the best, by the way). So do both! You may end up discovering unexpected gems.
More affordable
These small incidental expenses can add up quickly. With one or two travel partners, you can cut down on transportation and accommodation. Think of it as a built-in budget! If you have a larger group, you may be able to spend the money on a nicer home.
Travel delays are easier to tolerate
So you missed your connecting flight. (Don’t worry: This happens to even the most seasoned travelers.) On the bright side, you won’t be sitting alone in the terminal. Everything is better when you're with your best friends - even the airport.
No toothpaste? no problem!
Forgot something? Chances are, your friend already has it. You can even assign who should bring what, so you're not carrying multiple bottles of contact lens solution or dry shampoo on your trip - you know, the necessities.
This article is sponsored by BIC® Soleil Shine® .
Images: (2) Pexels ; (1) Ben Duchak/ Unsplash ; (1) Alexis Brown/ Unsplash ; (1) Daniel Alvarez Sanchez Diaz/ Unsplash ; ( 1) Chris Brignola/ Unsplash ; (3) Fotoria
