April 28, 2025, 11:00 am | Read time: 4 minutes

One person wants to party and sleep in late, while the other wants to get up early and experience some culture: Vacations can put many friendships to the test.

1. Vacation with Friends Who Have Similar Interests

Especially when traveling in pairs, it’s important to be compatible. This doesn’t mean you should only travel with your closest friends, but similar preferences are certainly beneficial. Someone who likes to get up early and explore nature shouldn’t necessarily travel with someone who wants to party all night and can’t open their eyes before 3 p.m. — even if you get along great in everyday life. And if interests aren’t compatible, there’s only one solution: Be relaxed and open to compromises, and it will work out with people who think a bit differently.

2. Plan a Vacation with Friends Together!

It’s important to agree on the general vacation program. Clarify what expectations you have. Of course, you can still be spontaneous, but a rough plan provides orientation and ensures that everyone’s vacation wishes are fulfilled.

3. Clarify the Travel Budget Beforehand!

One person might prefer cheap street food and a beer at the pub, while another wants to dine at an upscale restaurant and enjoy a cocktail at a chic rooftop bar — often enough, vacations lead to arguments among friends when everyone has different ideas about maximum spending. Therefore, discuss in advance what you want (or can) afford and what your comfort expectations are. It might be wise to set an approximate budget for hotels, sightseeing, restaurants, and bars beforehand — then everyone knows what’s possible and what’s not.

4. Decide in Advance How to Settle Shared Bills

One person is short on cash and ordered something small at the restaurant to pay less, while another prefers to split the bill evenly every night. Decide before the trip how to divide costs and who will cover which bill. Or everyone can contribute to a shared travel fund before the vacation, from which expenses are paid each night. Whatever the arrangement, any agreement is better than none and prevents arguments.

5. Communicate with Each Other!

You’re ready at the hotel room door, and your best friend is just getting in the shower, even though you planned to leave in two minutes? And this is the fourth time in a row? Talk to each other! Instead of bottling up anger and frustration, address the issue directly and calmly: Explain what you expect in such situations and that it doesn’t feel good to be ready and waiting. Not addressing issues risks building up anger, leading to a big argument later. Communication and understanding are key to a harmonious trip together.

6. Allow Yourself Some Space when You Vacation with Friends!

Especially when traveling together for an extended period, you’ll need some time for yourself — and so will your travel partners. Plan specific days where everyone can do what they want. You don’t have to do everything together. A good vacation also includes spending some time alone.

7. Be Aware of Group Dynamics

There are different dynamics that can affect a travel group. For example, if you’re traveling with a couple, be aware that they might need some time alone. And if you’re in a committed relationship but traveling alone with a single friend, be aware that your travel partner might be looking for a vacation fling or more. In a larger group, the majority might often decide on something you’re less interested in. Consider beforehand what the group dynamics might entail.

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8. Stay Relaxed!

Ultimately, the main goal of traveling together is to have a great time. And on vacation, it’s important to avoid minor conflicts and not always insist on being right. Take things easy. This allows for the moments you’ll cherish for a lifetime.