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Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

How to Find a Travel Companion: Safe Options and Some to Avoid

February 20, 2023 by Janice Waugh

Finding a travel companion can make travel better but it can also make it worse.

There was a lively debate about finding a travel partner on the Solo Travel Society on Facebook.

• The majority of people considered this service counter to solo travel. Karen wrote: “I don't want to connect with anyone, love being solo. “
• Some thought that there was definitely a place for it. Danielle wrote: “when it comes to hiking or camping remotely while solo, that's a little nerve wracking and I'd love to meet up with people who are in the same mindset. “
• Some liked the idea as a means of getting around the single supplement. Mary wrote: “I like the idea of being connected to someone sometimes to avoid that “single-occupancy tax. “

Let's be clear: despite being a solo traveler, I have traveled with companions many times and had good success. It can enhance the travel experience as you discover a new destination through your own cultural lens and that of your new travel companion as well.

Yet, whatever your reason for seeking a travel companion, I suggest you proceed with caution and use the methods below. They are safe and will help increase your chances of making a successful match.

Table of Contents

How to Find a Travel Companion: Methods I Can Recommend

There are safe ways to find a travel partner for a day, a week, or more. These methods give you the freedom of being solo and connecting to interesting people when you want.

1. Get a warm introduction from a friend.

One of the best ways to find a travel companion is through a friend or family member. Being concerned for your safety, they will only suggest that you travel with people they trust. Hopefully, you will be geographically close enough to meet each other a few times before setting out so that you can determine for yourself whether they are a person with whom you'd like to spend a lot of time.

2. How to meet the right travel companion along the way.

This has happened to me most often in hostels, but it doesn't really matter where you meet them. The point is that you meet a travel buddy as you travel, not before. You get to meet them in person and spend a few days together sharing meals or day tours before committing to anything longer. Spend the days in the public sphere and return to your own safe accommodation every night. Eventually, you can decide whether this is the right person for you to travel with.

3. Let your tour/cruise company connect you with a travel partner.

If your goal is to avoid the single supplement on a tour or cruise, ask the travel company to partner you with another solo traveler. Most companies will and, if they can't, they'll give you your own room for no additional charge. See our Deals  page for tours and cruises with no or low single supplements.

4. Use Meetup.com to find locals who want similar experiences

Meetup.com is a fabulous resource for solo travelers to meet people of similar interests. These are most often locals, not people to travel with. But, locals! How great is that? I used Meetup.com and found people to hike with in Hong Kong.

5. Book a greeter and have a local share their city with you. 

International Greeters  connects you with locals who volunteer to show off their city. I've used this service in Paris, New York, Kyoto, and Chicago. It's a great way to meet and have fun with someone new. I've gone cycling, shared lunch, and shopped with greeters.

6. Women Welcome Women World Wide

This is an international community of 2,400 people in over 80 countries. They are mostly women over 60 who want to travel more often and meet locals, so they host one another for a tea or a stay as they travel. Read  Women Welcoming Women: A Gateway to International Friendships .

7. Take a day tour or a class to find a travel companion.

If social is what you're looking for, schedule in time for social activities. Day tours and group lessons give you a social experience. Perhaps you'll meet someone with whom you'd like to spend more time. Read How to Travel Alone Without Being Lonely: 10 Tips & 6 Short Stories .

3 Safety Rules for Traveling with Someone New

Traveling with someone you do not know really well requires a few safety tips, especially if you're traveling independently:

• Stay in public. When you are with someone new, stay in the public sphere for at least a few days. You need a bit of time to get to know them before renting a car together or sharing a hotel room. Eventually, determine whether this is a person with whom you truly feel safe.
• Be proactive . Choose who you want to spend time with. Make your own decisions rather than responding to invitations from others who might have agendas of their own.
• Don't be rushed into a decision. If you are considering traveling with someone, don't be rushed into the decision. If the idea comes up but they say that you must decide by a time that is less than comfortable for you, decline the opportunity.

Also, read our primary post on solo travel safety .

Apps/Sites for Travel Companions: My Concerns

There are a number of apps and websites that will help you find a travel partner. I have concerns about them for the following reasons.

• Compatibility . Just because you're going to the same destination does not mean that you're compatible with someone. You may not discover until you're into the trip that you don't share the same interests or ways of exploring, never mind the rhythm of your travels. This can make for a miserable trip.
• Catfishing . A catfish is someone online who pretends to be someone they're not. Without a real life connection, there is no way to know who is real and who isn't on social media. This could put you in a vulnerable situation where the person you thought was going to be your travel buddy is actually expecting to hook up, is not who they pretended to be, or worse.
• Misunderstandings . The potential for a serious misunderstanding is another reason I don't promote the idea of finding a travel partner on an app. Your new travel partner may not have had any intention of deceiving you and may not mean to cause you any harm, yet they may have different hopes for the trip than you do.
• Telling the world you're solo . By participating on an independent matching site and sharing your itinerary you are telling the world that you are traveling solo and where. While I don't hide the fact that I'm solo while I travel, for safety reasons, I don't broadcast it either.
• Sites/apps can get too much personal information . In an effort to increase member safety, some sites go through a variety of verification steps, including gathering government ID information. This raises identity safety concerns.

Because I can't promote the sites that help you find a travel partner (I don't have experience with them), I'm not giving you a list. However, if you are still interested, you will find a list on Google. If you do so, I hope you'll be cautious with a new travel partner and read the Solo Travel Safety section of the site before leaving.

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Publisher Janice: info @ solotravelerworld.com

Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

Sales Simon: simon @ solotravelerworld.com

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12 Apps and Sites to Find a Travel Partner

Traveling is always a magical experience, even if you’re going solo. But in case you’d love to arrange an exciting trip with a new friend, this post is for you. I’ll introduce you to the coolest apps and sites to find a travel partner.

You’ll notice how simple it is to browse the web for folks with travel preferences that match yours, as well as fine-tune the results according to age, gender, and other filters if you want.

Let’s do this!

Table of Contents

Top apps to find a travel partner

1. travello.

Available on iOS and Android

Travello tops our list because it’s hands down the most thorough app of its kind, in addition to one of the largest travel communities on Earth.

Despite not being designed specifically as a travel partner search tool, the issue-oriented groups you can take part in are perfect for that. You can interact with fellow solo travelers, photographers, hikers,… or any other interests you may think of.

Chances are you’ll get to meet new friends in your hometown too, as there are millions of users around the globe.

What’s more, Travello offers 30,000+ tours and activities all over the planet that you can book for a discount by collecting points on the app.

The app also features a built-in GPS functionality that locates sweet deals, events, and free Wi-Fi wherever you are. 

2. Facebook

Facebook isn’t as popular with the younger crowd as it used to be a couple of years back, yet Meta’s flagship social media platform remains unrivaled when it comes to one precious tool: groups.

You probably know the drill. You just have to tap on the Groups icon on Facebook’s homepage and search for keywords or phrases related to your need. In this case, “travel buddies”, “travel partners”, or “travel friends” are the best combinations.

Then, simply join the groups that match your interests and either post your travel plans or scroll down to see what’s up.

A few of the highlights here include I Need a Travel Buddy , with 33,000+ members, and Travel Buddies , with 26,000+.

Women Who Travel , a private group with over 155,000 members, might turn out to be a lot of help to female travelers.

Meetup isn’t exclusively travel-oriented, but it is definitely an amazing place to find a travel partner. 

The platform’s basic premise is to hook you up with people who share similar interests with you, based on the events that the 61 million users organize in 9,000 cities. Meetup’s impressive size is by far one of its greatest assets. 

Like Facebook, the app also offers the possibility of creating and joining groups so you can interact with folks who enjoy the same stuff as you, be it cooking, visiting museums, or cycling.

Though that doesn’t necessarily amount to finding a travel buddy, you’ll be able to meet new friends and hopefully make plans to see the world together.

Plus, you can always attend an event in the city you’re traveling to and meet up a local to show you around.

Gaffl is a reliable resource that connects you to potential friends, which means you never again have to travel all by yourself if you don’t want to.

The first thing you have to do is pick a destination. The app will then show you people near you who have similar travel plans so you can use the chat tool to get to know them better and arrange the details. Alternatively, you can post your itinerary and let other members join in.

 One of Gaffl’s advantages is the fact that you can see which users have a verified account and choose to interact only with trustworthy profiles.

5. Travel Buddy

Whether it’s Japan , Peru , or Italy , Travel Buddy is your go-to guide to explore the must-sees, find the best deals on everything you may need while abroad, and meet new friends on-site. 

Built as a community of travelers that connects over a million locals and visitors around the world, the app also allows users to list services like walking tours and accommodation options in such a way that you’ll hardly need any other travel app.

This is an innovative system to find a travel partner, as you’ll bond with authentic globetrotters and passionate locals. 

6. Tourlina

Women face far larger safety risks than men when traveling by themselves, especially in remote areas or in countries where traditional values are still upheld by the majority of people. Traveling with a male partner, in turn, can end up being just as complicated.

That’s what Tourlina aims to address: letting women make travel plans with other female travelers. It works like a regular dating app, where you swipe left or right on potential matches after setting the outline of your plans (i.e. dates and destination) and your partner preferences, including age range.

The best thing about the app is that only verified users with a Facebook profile are admitted, which makes it extremely reliable. On the other hand, Tourlina is an expanding platform, which means you’ll often struggle to match with someone depending on your travel plans.

7. CouchSurfing

When CouchSurfing was launched in 2004, it was a truly groundbreaking initiative because it was the first-ever website to connect travelers and folks who would host them for free.

While that remains its core business, with its 12 million users, CouchSurfing is also a wonderful forum where you can meet new friends to travel the world with you.

One of the best ways to do that is by taking part in the weekly events members organize in 200,000 cities across the planet. 

In 2020, in order to bear the financial burden brought about by the pandemic, CouchSurfing introduced a membership fee for users registering from a bunch of countries, among which Brazil, Canada, China, Japan, the UK, as well as several EU nations.

Yet that takes nothing away from the app’s status as the no. 1 platform connecting travelers and hosts on a global scale.

8. Workaway

Like Couchsurfing, Workaway is a different sort of app in that it’s not aimed as much at matching you with a travel partner , but rather with a travel host . This is a fantastic alternative for those of you who want to travel on a budget.

Basically, you’ll be given accommodation and food in exchange for pre-agreed services you’ll be performing for your host according to your skills. You can tend their garden, do some house sitting, or teach their kids your native language, for example. Even better, you’ll be paid an actual wage in case your host needs help with business matters. 

The app was launched approximately 20 years ago and is extremely effective, so the fact that it charges a  $49 annual membership isn’t really absurd. Both hosts and volunteers are reviewed by other users, meaning you can trust Workaway to help you take a totally safe trip. 

Best sites to find a travel partner

9. tripgiraffe.

TripGiraffe is one of the most comprehensive websites on our list, as it does its best not to leave room for ambiguities. 

Upon registering, you’ll get to specify your budget, your target destinations, your preferred accommodation type, the languages you speak, and more. You can even let people know how you want to split expenses.

It works as a full-on social network for travelers where you can message users that seem to match your profile. TripGiraffe can do the hooking up for you as well if you want, connecting you to fellow travelers in 100+ countries.

On top of that, you can join an existing trip if finding the ideal travel buddy sounds like too much work. In other news, TripGiraffe maintains a blog with precious travel tips to help you prepare as you should when it’s time to hit the road.

10. JoinMyTrip

JoinMyTrip’s app is only available for Android users, which is why I’m listing it as a website instead.

Upon selecting among 8,000 destinations all over the planet, the platform will introduce you to members who want to discover that exact place too.

As its name suggests, JoinMyTrip also allows you to… well, join other people’s existing trips or create your own itinerary as a tripleader so other users will come along.

You can preset the dates and group size and estimate the total budget per tripmate, then wait for one or a few of the 160,000 members to hop on the boat. 

One of the things that set JoinMyTrip apart from other similar solutions is its excellent customer service. The team advertises itineraries on Instagram daily and is always ready to answer your questions.

11. Women Welcome Women WorldWide

Women Welcome Women WorldWide’s promise is similar to Tourlina’s, as its name suggests. Women who don’t feel safe traveling alone or simply don’t want to do it can interact with other users to organize a trip together.

While the website is UK-based, women from all over the globe can register. You’ll be expected, however, to pay a $50 admission fee to help cover Women Welcome Women WorldWide’s maintenance costs. 

Besides finding a partner to travel with, you can use the website to connect with a local in your next destination so she can show you around and keep you company as you explore her hometown. 

WWWW currently has 1500 members in 40+ nations on all continents; it’s a relatively small but expanding community.

12. YourTravelMates

On YourTravelMates, travel is more of an excuse than the end goal. Founded about 30 years ago as TripTogether, the platform is present in over 40 nations and has as many as a million members worldwide.

Yet the focus here is more on finding a life partner rather than a travel buddy. The website’s purpose is to foster romance on a global scale. Still, tons of users are seeking friendship and companionship instead, just like most of the other entries on our list.

When looking for other users, you can narrow the results down according to gender, age, arrival dates, and destination.

You can then exchange e-letters or video chat with them until you eventually decide to meet up. Though YourTravelMates charges for these services, membership is 100% free.

Final thoughts

As exciting and enlightening as traveling on your own can be, finding a travel partner can be a great way to ensure your trip will be safer, more affordable, and often more fun.

Through top-notch apps like Gaffl and Travello and websites like JoinMyTrip and TripTogether, you can connect with millions of globetrotters from across the planet and find a travel partner to see the world with you.

2 thoughts on “12 Apps and Sites to Find a Travel Partner”

I highly recommend these two couchsurfing communities to find female travel buddies:

Host a Sister – Facebook group where women around the world can find accommodations and travel buddies. Travel Ladies – mobile app connecting women who want to travel with other women

I highly recommend these two women-only communities to find female travel buddies:

Host A Sister: Facebook group Travel Ladies: mobile app

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The Top 7 Websites to Find a Travel Buddy

If you're heading off on a travelling adventure soon and don't want to go alone, check out these seven websites that can help you find a travel buddy.

Traveling solo can be fun at times, but there are times when you want a travel partner. It's pretty common for family or friends to ditch you at the last moment and ruin your big trip. You don't have to give up on your plans because of that, though.

Luckily, there are websites out there that connect you with travel buddies, so you can have company on your trip. These websites will embellish your journey and make the holiday memorable.

So, let's take a look at seven of the best websites for finding a travel buddy.

GAFFL helps you find a dependable travel partner. It's easy to use, and you get a lot of options to choose from while selecting your partner.

The first step is to search and select your destination . The second step is to find the people who also want to travel to the same place.

You'll find a list of different routes and the locals and people near you who also want to visit that destination. All you have to do is choose the preferred options to carve out a plan for your trip.

You can start talking to the potential travel buddies in the chat to try to know them better. You can initiate the chat by clicking the connect button. This website also shows if their accounts are verified.

If you like the person, you can meet up with them and plan the trip together. Finding a partner is effortless on this website.

2. Flip the Trip

Flip the Trip offers a wide range of services. It lets you find either a local or a nearby partner with whom you can travel with ease. You need to search for the place you want to visit, then select the exact location where you are planning to travel.

The website shows a list of local people. Locals can be excellent guides as they can introduce you to local places and know the best places to get native food. You can also select somebody who lives near you. In this way, both of you can travel together right from the start.

People can ask random questions related to their travel on the website in the Feed section. Other people who have been to those places can answer them.

3. Trip in Touch

Trip in Touch not only finds you a travel buddy, but is also well known for its travel blogs. You can read travel blogs on the website and find great traveling partners.

This site doesn't just provide you with a partner for adventurous traveling–it also helps you find partners for dates and concerts. You can connect with people all over the globe on Trip in Touch.

RELATED: Travel Apps That'll Help You Save Money

The website only connects you with trustworthy people. It also lets you join its massive Facebook community, where people can communicate with each other.

You can share your traveling experience on the blog so that other people get tips from it. Trip in Touch is a content-rich travel website worth checking out.

4. TripGiraffe

TripGiraffe is a straightforward travel website. It helps you save time and money so that you can travel in peace. You can either create a trip or join an existing one.

The first step is to share your details and the destination of your trip. You can also add the date and time of travel.

Secondly, you can specify which type of partner you want for your journey. You can also select the gender of your partner. The site then connects you with a partner to travel with, in up to 100 countries or so.

Moreover, there is an option to select whether you want to split the expenses with your partner or not. You can also predefine your budget.

This is one of the most polished websites on this list. It specifies everything one needs to know and tries not to leave any ambiguities behind. TripGiraffe also has several travel blogs that are pretty helpful for a traveler.

5. Women Welcome Women WorldWide

This website is a space for women travelers to travel with other women. It is a website made by women for women. However, it's worth noting that the website is based in the UK, but anyone can join.

The site takes into account all the needs a woman can have while traveling. If you specifically want to travel in a girl group, you should try this website. It also gives you local members' contacts who can guide you on your trip.

RELATED: The Best Websites to Help You Travel for Free

You need to join the website to get access to people worldwide. You can then choose the people you would like to contact and get in touch with them. Women above the age of 18 are eligible to join this platform–the membership of the website costs around $50.

6. Workaway

You can join Workaway either as a worker or as a host. A worker helps the community by writing their experiences and helping others in their travel plans.

Workers stay at a host's place in return for sharing their skills. The skills can be gardening, charity work, house sitting, teaching, or practicing a language. The workers who help the host in business activities get paid a minimum wage per hour. You can make new friends this way.

You don't have to pay any money for this stay. All you have to do is provide some valuable services. This website is review-based to make it convenient for you to make your choices.

7. JoinMyTrip

JoinMyTrip allows you to travel to more than 6,000 destinations. You can select your desired location and find the people who also want to travel to the same place.

You can also create a trip on your own. In this way, other people will join your trip. Many passionate travelers enjoy making their trips in this space.

RELATED: Apps Every Solo Traveler Should Have

The price of the trip caters to all the expenses of the journey. This website has excellent customer care service as per the reviews.

You also get to know your trip leader before the actual trip. All the leaders are verified. In this way, the site clears all your security concerns.

Find Your Travel Buddy Using These Websites

All these websites will help you arrange or join an organized trip. You can meet honest and dependable travel buddies on these websites.

Chatting and meeting up with people before going on the trip is usually a good idea. Check out these sites to choose the one that looks most reliable and interesting to you.

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 !

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How to find the perfect travel partners: tips & tricks

Find your perfect travel partners with our guide on choosing companions, planning ahead, and ensuring a safe, unforgettable journey together.

Worldpackers Worldpackers

Mar 04, 2024

Finding the perfect travel partner can significantly enhance your journey, offering companionship and shared experiences that create lasting memories. Before you embark on your journey, it is important to carefully consider and plan who will be the best travel partner for you . In this article, we will delve into tips for selecting the best travel partners who complement your personality and interests.

As we explore various ways of finding travel companions online through social media platforms and dedicated websites, you'll learn how to build a strong partnership with fellow solo travelers. We will also discuss crucial aspects such as planning ahead for smooth coordination between both parties during the trip.

Lastly, safety considerations and precautions are paramount when traveling with someone new; therefore, we will provide valuable insights on ensuring a secure experience while discovering exciting destinations together. So embark on this informative journey with us as we guide you towards creating unforgettable memories with like-minded travel partners.

3 Tips for choosing the best travel partners

Traveling with a compatible partner can make your journey more enjoyable and memorable. To ensure a successful journey, it is essential to discuss and agree on travel goals, preferences, and expectations . This involves communicating openly about your interests, budgets, and travel styles.

1. Define your travel goals

To begin with, discuss what you want to achieve during your trip. Are you looking for adventure or relaxation? Do you prefer cultural experiences or exploring nature?

By understanding each other's goals, you can create an itinerary that caters to both of your interests.

2. Determine your budgets

Budget is often a significant factor when traveling. Discuss the sum of money each individual is willing to allocate for lodgings, nourishment, transport and activities.

Establishing a budget range will help avoid conflicts later on in the planning process.

Keep reading:  A beginner's guide on how to plan your travel budget .

3. Discuss travel styles

Everyone has their own unique way of traveling - some may enjoy luxury hotels while others are content with hostels and backpacking style of travel ; some might prefer guided tours whereas others like going off-the-beaten-path independently.

Discuss these preferences upfront so there are no surprises once on the road together.

How to find travel partners online

Uncovering the optimal travel buddy can alter your voyage for the better. With so many people sharing their wanderlust on social media, it's easier than ever to connect with like-minded travelers who share your interests and goals. 

In this section, we'll explore some popular platforms and online communities where you can find potential travel companions:

Worldpackers

Worldpackers is a platform that connects travelers with volunteer opportunities around the globe .

As a member of Worldpackers, you'll have access to an extensive network of fellow adventurers who are also looking for meaningful experiences while traveling. You might just find someone who shares your passion for making a positive impact on the world .

Read some experiences of fellow travelers using Worldpackers: " My experience teaching English in Argentina for 2 months " and " How I had the best volunteering experience in Ecuador "

Travel Buddies

If you're specifically searching for someone to join you on your next adventure, Travel Buddies could be an excellent resource.

This website allows users to create profiles detailing their upcoming trips and preferred travel styles, making it easy for potential partners to see if they'd be compatible companions.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing, known primarily as a homestay network connecting travelers with locals offering free accommodation, also features groups dedicated to finding travel partners.

Join one of these groups or post about your plans in relevant city-specific forums - there's always someone eager to explore new places together.

A resource for backpackers and gap year travelers , offering forums where users can find travel partners or get advice on their journeys.

Tips for using online platforms:

• Create detailed profiles: Be honest about yourself and what kind of trip you're planning. Constructing comprehensive profiles that accurately reflect who you are and the type of trip you're seeking can help to attract people with similar interests and travel styles.
• Communicate openly: When reaching out to potential partners, be clear about your expectations and preferences. Ask questions to get a better understanding of their personality and traveling habits.
• Look for verified users: Many platforms offer verification systems that can provide an added layer of security when connecting with strangers online. Look for profiles with positive reviews or badges indicating they've been vetted by the platform's team.

Take the time to find a compatible travel companion, as this can lead to an enriching experience. Don't forget to stay open-minded - sometimes, the best travel companions are those who challenge us in new ways.

Connecting with other travelers through Worldpackers 

As mentioned, Worldpackers is a platform that allows you to volunteer in more than 140 countries. As a volunteer , you will collaborate for a few hours a day on different local projects receiveng accommodation in return for your help.

This is an excellent opportunity to meet people on the road and find travel partners, as in most cases there are other volunteers from around the world, as well as local hosts who will make you understand more about the local culture.

The best thing about this is that fellow volunteers will have similar interests to yours, making it easier to build a relationship. For example, if you are interested in volunteering in eco villages , NGOs , non-profit schools , holistic centers , or even hostels , you will meet people who are in tune with your values. 

It will be much more natural to have a travel partner with whom you shared several stories during your volunteering and spent some time living together.

Learn more about how Worldpackers works:  How to volunteer abroad using Worldpackers  and  Traveling with Worldpackers: your top questions answered .

Building a strong travel partnership

A successful travel partnership requires clear communication, collaboration, and compromise during the planning phase.

Also, setting expectations is crucial for a strong travel partnership. When planning to travel with someone, discuss preferences, interests, and potential challenges. These are some tips that might help you while traveling with a partner:

Open communication

The foundation of any successful partnership is honesty. Be upfront about expectations and encourage your partner to do the same. Discuss budget, accommodations, activities, and personal habits.

This helps both parties make informed decisions throughout the journey.

Collaborative planning

Involve all partners in the planning process to ensure everyone's needs are met. Share ideas and be open-minded towards suggestions.

Collaborate on deciding which destinations to visit, accommodations to book, and activities to participate in. This ensures both parties have input into the journey's details. Compromise is key - find common ground on shared interests.

Establish expectations

Be upfront about what each person wants from the trip so that everyone's needs are met.

Resolving conflicts amicably

Conflicts can arise while traveling together. Address them constructively. Listen and empathize with your partner's perspective, and find mutually beneficial solutions.

Maintaining a positive travel dynamic

A positive travel dynamic is essential for enjoying the journey. Be flexible, support each other, and celebrate shared experiences. Show appreciation, respect personal space, stay open-minded, and prioritize self-care.

Safety considerations and precautions

Traveling with a partner can be exciting and rewarding, but safety should always be a top priority. Here are some essential steps to take when choosing a travel partner:

Conduct basic background checks

Before deciding on a travel companion, it is prudent to conduct basic background checks for any criminal records or other warning signs that may be present.

Verify that no criminal records or other warning signs are present which could potentially endanger the journey. You can use Instant Checkmate , BeenVerified , or similar services to perform these checks.

Share emergency contact information

Exchange emergency contact information with your travel partner before leaving home. This includes phone numbers for family members or friends who can help in times of need, as well as details about any medical conditions either of you may have.

Create a shared document with important details

Some essential information that should be on your shared document, includes:

• Name and contact information for each traveler's emergency contacts.
• A list of medications taken by each person (if applicable).
• Allergies or dietary restrictions (if applicable).
• Contact information for the nearest embassy/consulate in the countries you'll visit (for international trips).

Practice personal safety measures together

To ensure both travelers' safety throughout the trip, discuss personal safety measures beforehand and practice them together. Some useful tips include:

• Always share your location with each other using a GPS tracking app like Life360.
• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.
• Keep valuable items hidden and secure while traveling (e.g., use money belts or hidden pockets).
• Stay aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts if something feels off.

Discuss any worries or difficulties that come up while travelling together to make sure your journey is enjoyable and safe. Remember to communicate openly about any concerns or issues that arise during the trip so you can address them promptly and maintain a positive travel dynamic.

Choosing the right travel partner is crucial for a successful trip, so use online resources like Worldpackers , travel forums and s ocial media groups to find someone who shares your interests and goals.

Building a strong relationship with your travel partner is key, so communicate openly and plan ahead to avoid any conflicts or surprises.

Don't forget about safety - share your itinerary with family and friends, stay in well-lit areas at night, and trust your instincts if something seems off.

With these tips, you'll be ready for an unforgettable adventure with your new travel buddy!

If you like these tips, follow Worldpackers social media to keep up with the news: we are on Instagram  and  Tiktok !

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Home » Budget Travel » How to Find a Travel Buddy: Travelling with a Friend 101

How to Find a Travel Buddy: Travelling with a Friend 101

There’s a certain romanticism in the life of an intrepid solo traveller—solitary and stoic—braving venturing unto new frontiers. But do you want to know the truth?

Some of my warmest, happiest, and most sincere memories from the road are of experiences shared travelling with a friend.

Now, that’s not necessarily to say a friend  from home.  No, rather, a travel buddy that I met on the road. People that, astonishingly quickly, became treasured friends and companions.

Because that’s the underlying magic of finding a travel buddy: it’s a shared experience, and that makes it more real. Suddenly, there’s someone to tell that story with—someone to reminisce with. At the one-year reunion, the two-year reunion, or, hell, maybe (if you’re lucky enough), then when you’re old and grey and still complaining about the price of cigarettes together.

And that’s exactly why I want to teach you how to find a travel buddy! Because remembering and sharing those stories together… that’s more special than the travels themself.

We’ll be covering the basics today, i.e. how to make a friend (in case you missed that 101). But also the peripherals: how to find a travel buddy online AND offline, the (more practical) benefits of travelling with friends, and even the stampeding elephant in the room that is the variable of gender.

Why Travel with a Stranger?

How to find a travel buddy online, how to find a travel buddy offline, the ins-and-outs of travelling with a buddy.

Ok, so ‘stranger’ is a bit rough. Sure, when you first meet a travel buddy they’ll be a stranger, but that’s the beauty of travel relationships: they get real deep real fast.

Imagine a friend that you see every day of your life, be it for 3 days or 3 months. Every decision is shared, resources are shared, stories—new and old—are shared. Rapidly, this person becomes a staple and constant in your life.

It sounds almost like a… real relationship , right?

But it is, essentially, albeit platonically (most of the time).

If the idea that you won’t find a travel partner is holding you back from travelling, that’s daft. There are incredible places to travel alone in the world.

Short of disappearing into the frozen expanses of the Alaskan tundra, you will never be alone. Often, alone time can almost be like black gold for a traveller.

The world is a big place, and no matter how hard you try, you’re never really alone.

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The Benefits of Travelling with a Friend

Outside of all the esoteric mumbo-jumbo about meeting people to travel with and forming lifelong kinships of an almost spiritual substance, there are heaps of logistical reasons to travel with someone!

• Saving money – Duh— budget backpacking 101 ! Someone to split costs with means spending less money overall.
• Taking nicer rooms – Kind of an offshoot of the last point but think about all the private room options that will open up if you’re sharing. You can take swanky Airbnbs at a steal or share grimy single rooms (with one person on the floor) for a pittance!
• Sharing resources – “Hey, dude, got any mozzie spray?”
• Someone to watch your back – Safety in numbers, naturally, but not just that. You’ve got someone to watch your stuff when you wander off for a piss or to talk to on the long train rides. It’s the little things.
• They might not finish their meal – Cha-ching!
• Photo-ops – You’re gonna be featured in way more Insta-basic-beach-poser shots with someone around to take them.

Travelling with a Friend from Home

Personally, I’m not a fan of the ‘bring a friend’ method. You know how sometimes friends choose to live together and then they discover they’re shit housemates and it gets petty and causes schisms within the whole friendship group? (No, you’re a projection!)

I know the dream is to have your mates from home tag along for the adventure, but a dream can quickly turn to a lucid nightmare. Once you’re travelling—solo or with a travel buddy—you’ll discover the glory of freedom. Both the freedom of the road and freedom from home.

Travel is a chance to be free of the perceptions of who you are held by the people closest to you. It’s a chance to grow, develop, and learn about yourself, with yourself, in brand new and unprecedented scenarios. Bringing a friend from home along to that experience is like sneaking a flask into an AA meeting.

I wouldn’t say doggedly avoid travelling with a friend from home. I would, however, suggest to experience travel in its fullest before you bring that home-friend.

A home-friend, or, yes, a partner, is—to be blunt—a ball-and-chain. A travelling friend is someone you meet on the road. You have no unspoken contract to uphold; if it goes south, then so do you (while they go north).

A friend you travel with , however, has all sorts of potential to get messy, and it’s not a good first-time introduction into the backpack-o-sphere. It’s a commitment and one that works counter-intuitively to the freedom of travel.

It can be a real restriction.

Will here again!

While planning an entire backpacking trip with a friend (or friends) can lead to surefire disaster, a short stint through the crazies of Asia or clubs of Europe is a blast!

When it comes to getting my friends to come out and travel with me for a bit, I am absolutely a convincing bastard! What I like to do on longer trips is to make a Facebook group, add my favourite homies, and then post my—extremely rough—itinerary and any general directional updates. That way, people can work out where I’m heading and decide if they’d like to swing by for an interlude.

I tend to much prefer to go my own way during the adventures, but seeing the peeps from back home is always such a heartwarming experience, especially in the reaches of some far-flung land. It may just take some persistence to convince them. 😉

Travel Alone or with Someone: Shoulda Put a Ring on It

While travelling with a friend may be the dream, solo travel is the real journey. If you find a travel buddy, you’re not solo travelling, and that, simply by nature, is restricting.

As a solo traveller, you’re living on a whim. Anywhere you go is entirely in your hands. And experiences come a lot more frequently as a result of your solitude.

• Hitchhiking alone is easier.
• Meeting locals is easier.
• Having someone host you is easier.

That’s not to say that this stuff doesn’t happen when travelling with someone. Only, it’s more restrictive.

A pair of exotic foreigners is a lot more daunting to approach than a single dazed soul. And you haven’t got to hash out decisions with someone either before you do something crazy in the spur of the moment. You do you.

However, you do lose a lot too. Travel isn’t about being alone: it’s about all the people you meet. It’s about all the things that they teach you, and all the things that you learn together. Meeting a travel buddy and earning a travel companion is a natural extension of that.

What I’m trying to say is that sometimes you just wanna smoke a joint by yourself. I get that—we all do. But, at the end of the day…

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It’s the 21st-century. Of course, we’re doing this digitally! Isn’t the main reason to travel to be looking at your phone more?

Ok, so finding a travel buddy online may not be my favourite flavour, but it does work. There are no shortage of travel companion sites and ‘find a travel buddy’ apps fit for the purpose of hooking you up with some loose cannon through cyberspace.

The most obvious is social media and this does work:

• Facebook – Is the no brainer. Check general backpacking groups, backpacking groups for the country you’re in, groups for specific hobbies (hiking, climbing, etc.), or even ride offering/asking groups in the famous road trip countries (Australia/New Zealand/etc.).
• Instagram – Yeah, Insta does have its purposes ; try posting a photo or story showcasing where you’re at now. Chances are someone you met on the road before will hit you up.
• Twitter – I’m not even going to pretend to be an expert on Twitter, but if you’re already an avid tweeter of twits, then I’m sure you know how to utilise it. I have heard success stories!

Your socials are already covering a lot of ground given that so many people—and travellers—are active users. But your also looking at a huge gene pool of many splendid examples of the lowest common denominator. There are no referrals, no rating system, and no barrier of entry.

They definitely have their uses, but there are plenty of much more nuanced travel friend apps and sites to find people to travel with.

Best Travel Buddy Apps and Sites

• GAFFL – On the reverse end of social media’s low threshold to sign up is GAFFL with its 4-step verification process—yikes! There’s a site with a yummy UX and an accompanying travel buddy app, plus you get some extra bonus features for planning the trip itinerary and securely splitting the costs even prior to the trip.
• Travel Buddies – Well the name certainly fits! It’s kinda like a social media platform with the explicit purpose of advertising your upcoming trips and seeing other peoples’. It’s pretty straightforward to contact people and overall a pretty clearcut travel buddy site.
• Meetup – It’s not actually a site for finding a travel companion but rather a site for group meetups and events—hiking, pub drinks, Taco Tuesdays, LGBTQ Taco Tuesdays. You may never meet a travel buddy through meetup, but you’ll definitely meet some friends!
• Tinder – I know, I know. But, using Tinder while travelling does have its uses.
• Backpackr – Just a straight app without a website. You can browse people’s profiles (so, yeah, it’s a bit dating-ish) and a ‘Common Room’ for asking questions, getting tips, and screaming into the void.
• 5W: Women Welcome Women Worldwide – I wanted to throw a ladies-only choice in, and this one is more like a worldwide network than just an app for meeting travellers. 5W is a non-profit that’s been around since 1984. You’ll have to complete an application process first to ensure you meet the prerequisites (i.e. having a vagina), but once you do, you’ll be given the keys to the kingdom: the members list with plenty of opportunities for attending gatherings or organising one-on-one meetings.

Then there are Traveller forums. They’re a dime a dozen for both seeking tips and finding travel buddies. If you’re not a massive fan of apps, these are the major players you should look at:

• Tripadvisor forums – People ask a lot of questions over there too.
• Reddit –  There are endless subreddits divided by different destinations, communities, and hobbies. Check out the Travel Partners and Solo Travel boards particularly.

Couchsurfing – A Broke Backpacker’s Secret Weapon

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While the above apps certainly serve the cause, there’s only one platform that I believe takes the true crowning jewel of being the best app to find a travel buddy—Couchsurfing! I have Couchsurfed in all manner of weird and wonderful locales—Iran, Venezuela, and Jordan just to name a few—and I have always found the Couchsurfing community to be absolute gems.

As well as being a fantastic platform for finding free accommodation and meeting locals, Couchsurfing is also a great site and app for making travel friends. I have found numerous people through Couchsurfing’s groups who I have travelled with, and I’ve won some truly treasured friendships as a result.

The best group to look in is either the ‘Backpacker’ group or the ‘Travel Buddies’ group as well as checking out the specific group for whichever country or region you are travelling and Couchsurfing in. Often, people will post in country or city groups asking if other CSers are around for drinks, an adventure, or to see if anybody else is trying to find a travel mate. It’s also definitely worth heading to any local Couchsurfing meetups in your area too!

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Look, I’m old fashioned. I don’t like Tinder. I prefer paying in cash, and I do enjoy popping the odd Werther’s Original. Finding someone to travel with offline is my jam.

You’re going to meet travel companions organically as you travel alone (assuming you’re lovable with a winning smile). It’ll be in any number of differing formats too. They could be a:

• Solo human with an equally unquenchable thirst for the world’s most adventurous places .
• Pair of humans who are either previous friends or also travel buddies.
• Group of any size and connecting factor (though a group of all solo travellers is always madness of the finest calibre).
• Romantic pair of humans. This actually happens more often then you might think and is more-often-than-not excellent fun! Bonus points to the travelling couples who argue in their native tongue for the sake of politeness.

There are probably other formats than this, but that’s the basics. And again, it will happen organically , even if you’re not lovable with a winning smile. (Unless, of course, you’re a total prick, but then you have bigger issues).

Meet Other Travellers (But Never Settle for Second-Best)

Do let it be organic. You’re a solo traveller! Be the badass motherfucking homeless-hero thou most certainly art.

Go and solo travel. Brave new ventures, be lonely sometimes, and make many, many new friends. When the right companion to travel with comes along, you’ll know it. Forcing this issue is just like forcing relationships – it doesn’t work out very well!

Usually, finding a travel buddy (or buddies) is a matter of something shared; it is a core value of The Broke Backpacker Manifesto . A shared desire for the same off-beat adventure. Or it could be a shared matter of convenience— we were both going to the same place, but then we stayed together.

Often, for me, it’s just a shared love for the same simplicities in life: living cheap, travelling without money , eating local, smoking the finest dankeries, and, sometimes, sleeping under the stars. The dirtbag life.

My point is, don’t settle for mediocrity! You’re way too good for that. Wait until you meet travel buddies that truly deserve you.

Just do you, soak up the journey, and let the opportunity come to you. Ultimately, it’s gotta flow.

Places to Find a Travel Buddy Offline

If you’re steering clear of the apps and socials in your travels (or are just terrible at using them), then there are still some classic meeting points to find a travel mate:

• Hostels – Staying in backpacker hostels is the tried-and-true classical method to meet travellers and find someone to travel with. But remember to pick hostels that match your vibe.
• Work Exchange Programs – Absolutely! Things like Workaway, WWOOF, Worldpackers, HelpX, etc… these types of travel jobs are tops places for meeting travellers. Particularly solo and long-term travellers.
• Public Transport – If you’re carving a typical backpacking route for any given place—say the Banana Pancake Trail in Southeast Asia —then you’ll always encounter travellers en route between the major destinations.
• On the Plane – You can find a travel buddy before you even leave the airport! Scout the plane and passengers (at the baggage claim is also a smart spot) for any smelly backpacker vagrant types, and ask them if they’d like to share a taxi to the nearest backpacker hub of whatever city you’ve landed in. A general rule: the cheaper the flight , the more likely you’ll walk into some fellow broke backpackers!
• Declaring a Grand Adventure – It’s happened to me no short number of times. You declare with great intention (no bluffing allowed) about some grand adventure you’re planning—say, hitchhiking across India or finding some legendary hidden mountain village. If the chances of death are still low enough, people are always gonna want to tag along.

Often, if the flow is right, someone that you met as a short-term travel buddy (say, on the bus) can end up being someone you travel with for a while. Sometimes, it can be a long while.

Seriously, work exchange programs are a brilliant method to meet other travellers. Given that the people you meet—not even counting the local friends that you’ll make—are more than likely going to be dedicated to the slow travel life (and to exploring a country away from the tourist bubbles), forming substantial friendships is just a matter of being in the right place at the right time.

It also helps to know your way around the voluntourism sector, and how to choose worthwhile programs (ideally, with a steady influx of travellers). Worldpackers and Workaway —two esteemed platforms for volunteering abroad—are good places to look too.

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

Nobody said it was easy. No one ever said it would be this hard.

Yes, indeed, the man known as ‘Coldplay’ was correct. While sometimes it flows effortlessly, sometimes it is hard.

They’re not a true friend until you’ve seen them at their worst. They’re not a true friend until you’ve considered throwing them out of a 6-storey window.

If you’re going to choose to travel with a stranger, you’ve got to be prepared for some strangeness. Sometimes it gets tense. Sometimes it gets uneasy.

Finding a travel partner is only half the journey.

Oh Boy, We’re Discussing Genders

Yay for minefields! I really wanted to avoid this topic because finding a travel buddy should never be about the potential to get inside another traveller’s Thailand Elephant Pants. However, we can’t honestly pretend that gender isn’t an influencing factor and so… it’s into the abyss we go!

Yes, finding travel companions for singles, as a single, is definitely a thing. Finding love and sex while backpacking is a potential natural conclusion of this. Fairly often, it ends poorly once the honeymoon bubble of travelling together wears off; but it does work out too… sometimes.

BUT, it’s more important to shift your thinking away from that and to more consider the variable of gender , i.e. how gender affects travel.

I remember travelling with a friend—female and very much treasured—in Sri Lanka. She cracked the shits at me one night after dinner because I failed to see the host was ignoring her and taking executive decisions on the meal order from me: the man. Truthfully, I was completely oblivious; I was just pumped for dinner.

However, having a female travel companion does help create insight. Many parts of the world are substantially more difficult for a girl to travel in solo or otherwise (though certainly not impossible)…

The Arab World is tricky. South Asia is not the best either? South America is… mmm .

Being a female looking for a male travel partner in these parts of the world—while not a necessity—is smart. It does mitigate the intensity. With a couple of fake wedding rings thrown in, you’ll be coastin’.

If you do end up travelling with someone of the preferred gender and orientation you most enjoy diddling, again, you guys do you. Just remember the variable.

Dudes, stay aware of your female travel companions. Just stand a bit tighter in the surge of a crowded bazaar, or keep an eye on her drinks during a psy-banger in Goa. Remember that her experience will always be different.

As for the Mademoiselles travelling with a guy friend, just keep communicating: be chill, girl-bros. If you’re gonna crack the shits, do so gently. Sometimes, we’re just not paying attention.

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How to Travel with a Friend: On Fights

Yeah, arguments do happen on the road. Travel with a friend long enough, and, eventually, it’ll happen.

The first time I had an argument with a travel buddy, it got ferocious. Imagine two colourfully dressed hippies shoeless on the side of a New Zealand road screaming and cussing each other out—one in broad Australian, one in angry Japanese. That wasn’t our last argument either.

The next time I hitched long distance with someone, I warned him:

“Alright, dude. At some point, we’re gonna fight. We need to decide now, what we’ll do then.”

He thought I was joking.

“Oh, yeah, well how about we roll a joint on it.”

Several days later while being held semi-captive in a buttfuck-nowhere Indian village, we had our first fight, and that’s exactly what we did.

Assume it’ll happen, make the necessary plans in your head, and communicate well. When you find a travel companion, you’re gonna see that person every day. Often, for every meal.

Travelling relationships can be every bit as intense as romantic ones. The only difference is you don’t get the catharsis of a make-up bang afterwards.

How to Travel with Someone – Tips and Pointers

• Talk – And communicate; if you’re having an off-day—a case of the traveller blues—mention it. Talking is important, especially if it’s about something that affects the team.
• Share – If you’re both giving and taking fairly, you’ll end up a stronger team for it. Pool your resources!
• Don’t be an accountant –  For big sums of money, sure, but keeping track of the little things is going to wear very thin. Often, it’s easier just to go 1:1 on buying each other chai, meals, bus fares, and whatever else.
• Take Space – When you feel you need it, and sometimes when you don’t too. Timeout is rarely the wrong choice.
• Compromise – You ain’t solo travelling anymore which means sometimes you’ll need to make concessions! Somedays, you’re just not going want to do the same thing.

And remember that word— team.  Because that’s what you are. You’re a team working together towards a shared goal.

You gotta function as a unit.

Travel Alone or with Someone, but Get Insurance!

I once had a friend spot his travel buddy several grand when she got herself into a medical mess in Nepal (which is yet to be returned, to the best of my knowledge). Now, granted, he’s self-sacrificing to a fault, however, it’s a picture-perfect example of exactly why you should have travel insurance.

Because it ain’t you who’ll be cleaning up your mess.

All kinds of things can happen when you travel, and they do happen. Be sure to consider some quality travel insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

And Now You Know How to Find a Travel Buddy!

And how to travel with them. It’s kinda cool, right?

Ding-dong—I’m a solo traveler!

For me, one of the greatest thrills of backpacking is to rock up somewhere completely new and meet a whole new crowd of people, travellers and locals alike. I have done a huge amount of solo, partnered, and group travel, and I highly recommend you have a crack at all of them.

Moreso, I can’t stress enough that if the fear of being alone is holding you back from travelling, it shouldn’t. One of the main reasons some would-be vagabonds never leave home is because they’re worried they won’t meet anyone and will be lonely. One of the lessons you’ll learn travelling is that that’s simply never going to happen.

The backpacker community is awesome; everybody is extremely friendly and, in general, people just want to meet-and-greet (the same as you). It’s really quite easy to find people to travel with. And the times that you are, you’ll still be having a damn good time!

It’s something someone said to me a long time ago: some things you can only learn in a relationship, and some things you can only learn on your own. I think the same is true of travel.

Travelling solo is only one part of travel as is travelling with a friend , buddy, stranger, partner, or even in a group. Don’t find a travel buddy because you’re scared. Be scared and be awesome, because the two aren’t mutually exclusive.

Travel in all ways, experience it in all forms, and when you do find travel buddies, experience that too. Because many of those shared stories—and those shared photos—will be the ones that inspire your kids to travel.

1+1=3… which is to say that a unit is greater than the sum of its parts. A team, a friendship, and travel buddies—when it’s right—are stronger together than they are apart. And the end results?

They’re worth all the stupid fights.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Ziggy Samuels

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17 Comments

Too cool of a website. Thumbed the NA Continent, tried in SE Asia {didnt know what thumbing was} and met fine people. There are great people wherever one goes and ones that will go out of their way to help another. Canada is super, picturesque as is the Alcan, North of 60 {Phillip smith mts}. Stayed mostly northern areas. The south has a different atmosphere but good folks. Want to try Hitching Trains. Valuable info to share with others re the site

This helps. I need a travel companion if nothing else someone to talk to but, I would like to find someone that can do some of the driving. Money is not my problem it’s time. I once said we have 3 things. MONEY, SEX, TIME. SOMEONE INTERESTED IN TRAVELING THE USA STARTING IN MARCH OR APRIL CONTACT ME. [email protected] .

I’ve been trying to FIND Someone Anyone!! to go with me from: TX. To and Through: OK./MO./KS. with NO LUCK!!! LOCAL TRAVEL(S) NOT FOREIGN TRAVELS!! Because I LIVE LOCALLY In The USA DUH,……For TWO YEARS Now,…..SO NOT GETTING ANYWHERE OR ANYPLACE, With DIALING The: CHARTER BUSES, The RIDE SHARES, And Even Other HIKING AND BIKING BUDDIES, Especially LONG Distance, Because I Don’t Drive A Car As A Grown Up ok??? VERY FRUSTRATING!!!! What HAPPENED To Just Getting A SIMPLE RIDE Safely Of Course (That Word SAFE AGAIN Grrrr!!!) (SAFE THIS AND SAFE THAT, Or: Safe That And Safe This, For TWO FREAKING YEARS NOW!!!) (SHUT UP ABOUT SAFE!!!) (And Oh Yeah Also: WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER BULLCRAP For TWO FREAKING YEARS!!! ENOUGH ALREADY!!!) Basically AND Generally??? I N E E D A R I D E From A D R I V E R Or D R I V E R S And/Or A Bike AND Hike Group A LONG A DISTANCE Soon For The REST Of This fall And winter DUH!!! And SOMEONE AND SOMEBODY WHO KNOWS THE AREA And/Or AREAS WE ARE GOING THROUGH Soon!!!!! I JUST WISH!!!!!! I’LL EVEN LEAD THE GROUP OR A GROUP, IF NEED BE, THOUGH I’VE NEVER ACTUALLY HAVE LED A GROUP OF OTHER PEDESTRIANS EVER!!! UHG!!! GETTING MORE AND MORE FRUSTRATED DAILY HERE IN GREENVILLE, TX./Texas AND SOON I’M JUST GOING To Go FIND SOME ABANDONED CAR, AND HOTWIRE IT EVEN IF IT’S A NEW WORLD ORDER AI SCARY BOT CAR!!! TIRED OF WAITING FOR A FEW YEARS TO RETURN There WHEREVER!! And A FRUSTRATED TRAVELER(S), BECOMES A HOSTILE CRANKY TRAVELER(S)!!!

Sad to not see more comments since Covid… It’s like a message in a bottle thrown into the sea. I’m French, 35 yo, fit, gentleman, I don’t smoke, marketing manager teleworking, looking for a travel buddy, a woman, I’m not vaccinated, I already moved to different places with my car in France but I also plan to travel in EU, I usually stay a month or more in the same place. I like to explore around, to try the local food, organic mostly, monuments, history, nature… The week I stay around the place to work and do multimedia art, music, etc. on my laptop… I don’t need someone but when I see that most places I rent are for 2 minimum, well… It’s a shame not to share this experience, right?

TravBuddy & Thorntree shut down their service.

GAFFL is a similar site which matches up travelers with similar travel plans and ensures the safety of travelers through their well-built verification process. Currently, it has users from over 170 countries.

This can be a great addition to this list.

Hi my name is LUIS I live in Houston to and I’m ready for new adventures

Teacher: Looking for travel buddy know knows how to budget. Currently in Mexico and looking to head to Asia. Any takers? My goal is to travel with Will one day!

Yes i too would like to travel to Asia! You still down for it?

Hi Guy !!! I am an asian guy,living in the Netherlands now.I will be travelling to Viet Nam ( from 12th/Jan/2019 till 28/febr/2018. I wanna look for a travelbuddy to join me .You dont need to travel as long as i do if you cant.You dont need to travel with me all the time either,if you dont want it.You can catch me up during imy holiday in Viet Nam.Travelling with me together wont be only a great fun, but it will also be a great advantage for you,because i have known the beaufitul cities and countrysides in Viet nam,i do know where we can get cheap accomodation ,, cheap and delicious local food..and wonderful highlights in Viet nam too.Ofcourse you can afford in travelling with me with your low budget . I can speak Vietnamese ,English and Dutch.Any guys are interested in being on vacation with me together in Viet Nam.Be welcome to contact me : [email protected] Greeting. Khale

Hi I’m isaac 28 yr old currently homeless having lost both my parents rest of family have turn there back on me looking for a buddy to travel with I’ve haven’t got much but a good Hart and great company.

I am nearing 60 , but my heart is still of 25 . Passionate about Travel ( Nature) , Sports Music . I have traveled 59 countries so far , partially due to my official requirement and remaining pleasure- trip . I have now enough free time to explore the World with some like minded travelers at economical way . South America , Australia-New Zealand, Japan , Scandinavian Countries are in my bucket list. I am of very flexible and adjusting nature . I am now looking for a like minded travel buddy. Anyone interested ? [email protected]

I would like to add https://travelmate.world to your list as well 🙂 It’s more than just a platform to meet travel buddies. You can also write a free travel blog and ask others for help.

Nice one! It is really nice to watch people going back to good old fashioned hobby – travelling. I love those new travel platforms and apps, allowing people to find ideal companion from a different country so quickly and easily. I do not have many experiences with a “travel buddy” system, but many times I heared about https://tripgiraffe.com/

Another good article for finding travel partners.. Also, Babak I really liked your network you’ve created too! I started my own travel network a while back for finding like-minded travel partners also – http://www.travelchum.net

Great roundup. I’d add another free resource: https://www.tripolette.com/ I started Tripolette to help you find other travelers with similar plans and share trips together. The benefit of this over other forums is the powerful search and discovery, and social aspect. Give me a shout if you like it!

I’ve taken a lot from this post. Firstly – awesome idea about making the facebook group for your itinerary, I always struggle so much remembering who to tell.

BUT, mostly I’ve decided that if you’re ever short of cash, you should contact Colegate and offer to promote them while you travel. They sponsor you to smile next to a famous landmark and boom, you’re rolling in dollar. While giving 60% to your manager in commission for coming up with such a great idea of course.

Oh, I’ll be your Colegate manager by the way.

This looks crazy fun. This is one of the best things in travelling with family and friends. You get to do all things that can give you the fun that you need.

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Mexico Carribean coast

Looking for a companion to Mexico Caribbean coast

Looking for: Any

Type of journey: Backpacking, Beach, Other

Split costs: No

Budget: $1000 - $1500

Vietnam Strolls

the more the merrier

Looking for: Mixed group

Type of journey: City break

Malaysia + sri lanka

Not planned yet - Start in Sri lanka, then fly to malaysia.

Type of journey: Backpacking, Beach

Budget: $500 - $1000

A week trip to Cappadocia. Including hot air balloons,…

Looking for: Female

Type of journey: Other

Split costs: Yes

Adventure through the Beauty of Egypt

Visiting Two or Three Egyptian Cities on the Way of the Red…

Type of journey: Backpacking, City break, Beach

Budget: $150 - $500

Meet travel friends from all around the world

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Clara Hermansson 23

United States

Netherlands

Purva Hirdey 23

Warisara Jinmatchim 27

eva foulon 22

Switzerland

Katharina 30

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Create a trip and wait for someone to join up or find an existing one that you like the most.

Trip Around Asia!

13. 3. 2019 - 24. 5. 2019 (73 days trip)

by Sophia Jenkins

Vietnam, Cambodia, Turkey, Thailand

Looking for: Male

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Let travelers know about your plans by inviting them to your trip. You can always wait for someone to join up.

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Most travelers go to these destinations. Browse trips and travelers and find your travel buddy today.

Going to Thailand

Going to India

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What makes TripGiraffe the best place to find a travel companion online?

Travelers us!

"Easy to make friends"

Whenever I travelled in the US or abroad I always found someone who joined me on my adventures.

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TripGiraffe might be the only website for finding a travel buddy where you don't get spammed by fake travelers just to get money from you.

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Trips created by travelers on TripGiraffe are usually very detailed, so it is easy to find a travel companion with a similar travel style.

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12 Sites That Will Help You Find A Travel Buddy

Meeting new people is one of the best parts of traveling.

Hopefully, you found some cool solo travel groups in our blog post, 10 Different Types of Solo Travel Groups . But there are also times when you might want to find a travel buddy, one other person to travel with, on your own trip.

Here are 11 sites that will help you find a travel buddy:

Search a destination, find travel partners, get connected, and trip together! It’s as easy as that. You can rest easy knowing that GAFFL uses a strict verification process so you can feel safe about your travel partner. Start your search here !

2. Utilize Social Media Groups

There are many Facebook groups and pages that you can follow and join to meet people with similar interests as you. Search for things like “travel” or “travel buddy” and you will find groups like Female Travel Buddies, Travel Buddies, and Travel Friends Finder that you can join.

I have been a part of a Facebook group called Women Who Travel , and it has been very helpful to me. Not only do these women post when they need travel companions, but they post tips for each other too. Other sites like Reddit utilize forums and feeds to connect people. All worth a look!

Check out Women Who Travel’s podcast  too!

3. Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a service that allows you to connect to a worldwide community of travelers. It is a great place to somewhere to stay or to share your home with travelers.

As with any online interaction, you need to make sure you do your due diligence. Using trusted sources for finding couches to key to couch surfing safely .

This website is super cool because it’s simpler than the rest. On Meetup , you can search for events in the area or wherever you will be, and see who is attending. You can even contact those people through Meetup too!

Working with Meetup will be a little different than other sites when looking for a travel companion. You might not meet your travel companion until you go to an event or two. It is more of a free-flowing way to meet people in the area you are in.

5. TripGiraffe

TripGiraffe is really easy to use. It offers the options of finding a travel buddy, exploring all travelers on the site, and looking for meetups. You can search for trips coming up soon as well as create your own.

Each mini-profile is straightforward listing the exact places you will be going, the dates you will be traveling, your gender and age, as well as the type of trip and budget.

Check out some of the profiles before you build your own – you might just want to hop on someone else’s trip!

6.  Trip in Touch

How about a new site called Trip in Touch . “Same place. Same time. Same interests. Trip in Touch – find your next Travel Buddy!”

The app is on its way, for now, you can subscribe and join their Facebook groups to connect with other travelers.

7. Intrepid Travel

If you’ve got the urge to travel but no one to do it with you can stop worrying because Intrepid has got you covered. Join one of their small group tours and find ready-made friends who are itching to explore just like you are.

8. Flexible Guided Travel

If you book daily tours in each place you stay, you are sure to make friends that might be on the same schedule as you! Give it a chance.

In New Zealand, you can pay for guided but flexible travel with the Kiwi Experience . The Kiwi Experience is a bus that travels around New Zealand making stops and bringing you from Point A to Point B. But it’s your choice how often you want to stay on the bus or on the journey! Completely flexible!

This would be a great way to meet people while you’re in the country and possibly grab a travel companion while you’re there.

9.  Travello

Travello is an app designed to make travel social. Known for where travelers connect, Travello asks you what you are interested in and then helps you to connect with other travelers nearby.

This is an excellent way to meet a travel buddy, whether you’re at home before the trip takes place or on the actual trip!

If you meet someone at home with similar interests and who loves to travel, chances are it could be a good match! This also eliminates traveling far to meet up before the trip.

10. Tourlina

Tourlina is specifically for females looking for female travel buddies. Another option to browse other trips, create your own, and speak with other females about their trips too!

The app promises a trusted and secure network of individuals.

11. Join My Trip

Choose the destination, the group size, and the experience that is right for you and Join My Trip will find the trip mates.

Whether you are looking for a simple weekend getaway or the trip of a lifetime, this is a great way to find new friends, share costs, and make memories that will last forever.

12. DePassport

DePassport can be the premier destination for you to find adventure buddies and a perfect travel companion. And for a surprise, this app lets you find not just a partner, but someone whom you will truly vibe with. The platform uses an AI-powered matching algorithm to connect you with people who match your values, and interests. 

You can connect with people from around the world, and plan your travels easily.

44 Responses

You need to add http://www.gogaffl.com to this list!

Thanks for the tip!

Very good information regarding travel

Thanks so much, Prakash!

Hi Erica, Absolutely awesome article. Btw, you are missing two big ones. CouchSurfing and GAFFL. I have always used CS before and recently used GAFFL in Australia. It was awesome. It connects people based on trips. You can start a trip or join trips. I think you can mention them in your list too.

Will do, thanks Ed!

I love Wandure app! They have amazing experiences created by awesome locals.

We love it too Lina!

Finding a perfect travel buddy is always difficult. But, having a travel buddy can make the trip more enjoyable and less lonely. It helps to have someone to split the expenses with, so you can save up for your next trip. A travel partner also minimizes risks associated with traveling alone. GAFFL (www.gogaffl.com) can be a great addition to this list. It matches up travelers with similar travel plans and ensures the safety of travelers through their well-built verification process.

Thanks for the tip, Abrar!

Are you a solo traveller? I am an Indian n Canadian citizen retired 60+ age group in n good shape to travel. Can you suggest some dependable solo travel groups. Pls email your response to [email protected] thanks

Hi Peter, check out Eldertreks, Adventures Abroad, Road Scholar, Walking the World!

Yes! I love it

Thanks Sarah!

Ms.Erika Szumel, Really Thank you for the information. Can you please rank them according to your knowledge and experience? is it possible to know which are all providing paid and which are all free in 2020?

Hi Siva, thanks for reading! Most of these are free or offer free basic memberships. Click on the links to get an idea of which fits best!

Thanks for sharing this info..

Really nice post. Thanks for sharing with us..

Thanks for reading, Suvajit!

Great Blog.It is very useful.Thanks….

Thanks for this lovely info.

Thanks for reading, Pradyut!

Great post!! Thank you very much for sharing.

Glad you enjoyed it, Ujjal!

Hi, maybe you should add https://backpackingtribe.com/ to this list. It’s a platform where you can find not just a buddy, but an entire group to backpack together with! It’s amazing!

Thanks for the tip, Wijnand!

Hey Erika, You should think about adding Share Bus to this list – if you’re travelling in Aus! Its a shared rental of a minibus, trailer and camping equipment. They find the travel mates (other backpackers) for you. It’s totally flexible and self guided – you just join on the trip/date you want to do (i.e. Perth to Broome) and you can make your own adventure.

Hey Jade, thanks for the tip!

This is such a great list! It’s got everything except https://www.fairytrail.app , a dating app for people with a passion for adventure and can work anywhere (one can look for friendships too). You should check it out and review it 😉

The most interesting list is here to find a travel buddy. Travelling with someone is fun. And these days finding a perfect travel partner is tough task, but your list has made it bit easy.

Great post! thank you so much for sharing

Thanks, Shawn!

Great content. You can also add https://cogofly.com to this list. It is a travel social networking site that helps travellers connect with other travellers around the world. As well as with its advanced search filter, anyone can find the perfect travel buddy match.

Thanks for the tip, Sameena!

You need to add http://www.joinmytrip.com to this list for sure!

Thanks for the tip, Prasanna!

great post … full of knowledge ,i am inviting you to India if you think so it will be a great pleasure for me to hosting you

Are there any sites for older people? Most of these sound like they are for younger folks. Thanks for any referrals.

Check out Walking The World, Eldertreks, Adventures Abroad, Intrepid!

Hello, I am 61 yr old female looking to travel solo but would like to join a group to travel to St Martin in the spring 2023. Do you have any recommendations.

Hi Valerie, check out some of the sites listed above! We know there are specific age groups that you can book with.

I think you have missed http://www.connectingtraveller.com as well.

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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.

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!

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.

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!

How to Find a Good Travel Partner (& How to Be One)

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Many people ask me why I enjoy traveling solo, and I have a lot of responses, including that it’s not easy to find a good travel partner. No matter how close of friends you are with someone, it can be difficult to travel together.

This is especially true on an international trip where you don’t speak the local language.

Being a good travel partner isn’t always about compromising, especially if doing so will frustrate you or cause you not to have a good time. It’s about being as considerate of yourself as the person you’re traveling with and ensuring everyone gets most of what they want.

This post includes my thoughts on what makes a good travel companion.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links at no extra cost to you. Please read the  full disclosure  for more information.

1. Reach Agreement Before the Trip

What kind of trip do you expect to go on? Is this going to be a five-star splurge or a bare-bones budget vacation? Are you seeking a relaxing getaway or a jam-packed exploration of a location? City or country?

What is the budget you’re able to spend, and do you both agree? One way to have disagreement and frustration very quickly is if you don’t agree on the kind of vacation you are going on.

Being a good travel partner starts at the beginning of the planning stages. I recommend discussing this when planning the trip to ensure you are on the same page. Then, continue the discussion with the decisions that need to be made.

This dialogue continues until the end of the trip as well. There are a lot of decisions you make while you’re traveling, and it’s important to come to an agreement that you are both ok with.

Areas of Potential Friction

Even amongst the best of friends, you can have very different views about your vacation and your expectations during it. When you start planning your trip, keep these things in mind and discuss any issues throughout.

• Total budget : It’s important to determine an approximate budget before you travel to ensure you’re on the same page about accommodation and activities.
• Priorities : Is cost the driving factor in your decisions or experience? Do you want to be active, see certain things, and connect with people? Knowing your own priorities and those of your travel partner is key to agreeing.
• Where to stay/accommodation : discuss your ideal place to stay before you book, along with your budget. Do you want a hotel or an apartment? Separate bedrooms? What amenities are important?
• Activities : What are the things you most want to do on this trip? Do you enjoy being active, like hiking or biking, or are you more interested in sitting in cafes and watching the world go by?
• Early or late start : Are you more of a morning person or a night owl? Do you take forever to get ready in the morning, or are you in for a quick shower, then you want to dash out the door?
• Downtime : Do you like to go for 12-hour stretches or take breaks during the day, either when you’re out and about or going back to the room to rest?
• Alone time : Are you used to being with someone 24/7, or do you need some “me time.” What does that look like to you: reading a book in quiet, separate rooms, solo time?
• Dining/types of cuisine : Besides the budget, what type of restaurants do you enjoy eating in? Take out, sit down, street vendors? Do you want to dress up or go casual? Local and ethnic or American-style food (or that of your country).

What to Do When You Disagree

You don’t want to get up before 8 a.m., and your travel partner wants to be up and out by then. Or you have simple needs and want to stay at budget accommodation in a safe area, but your travel buddy has loftier expectations.

Take the time to talk through these things and work towards a compromise you can both be happy with.

When I went to Italy, I had a day when I was feeling exhausted. My friend wanted to go to a market, but I was not up for all of the hustle and bustle.

Instead of trying to talk her out of it or her trying to talk me into it, I encouraged her to go and enjoy herself while I took a nap. I was nice and rested when she returned, eager to get back out there to see more.

Alternatively, we could have agreed to go to the market on a different day and do something more chill instead.

Don’t be afraid to do your own thing for a while if something is significant to you. Or if there’s something your friend wants to do that you don’t, maybe you can offer to do something he wants to do for him to come with you for what’s important to you.

Compromise and being considerate of each other are what it’s all about.

2. Share Responsibility and Effort

A lot of work goes into planning a trip, before the trip and during. Vacations are fun, but a lot of work goes into making it that way unless you go on a guided trip where everything is planned for you.

There is research to do before you go, bookings to be made, and decisions to be made before and during the trip. It’s a good idea to expect to share those responsibilities to have a good time on the trip.

Several people I have traveled with assumed that since I travel so much, I love to do all the work. The truth is that I enjoy going on great trips, and I’m willing to do the work needed to achieve the result I want.

So, if you’re not offering to help with the research, then offer to do something else.

Some Examples

For example, on a recent trip I took with a friend to Alaska, I did most of the research before the trip. She did all of the driving.

I was over the moon as I hadn’t driven on the snow and ice for many years and was a little concerned, especially at night (I am NOT a night owl). She took that worry from me, so we both felt it was a great share of work.

Alternatively, I went on a trip to Costa Rica with a friend, which was the opposite experience. I planned everything before the trip and even heard her tell someone that she let me because I love doing it (she never asked if that was the case).

Then, I had to make every decision during the trip. This included when to go places, where to eat, and research restaurants. I tried to go for a walk to get some “me” time, and she insisted on going.

Needless to say, it was a very frustrating trip and not a fun experience for me at all.

3. Talk About Splitting Costs

Talk about how you plan to split costs during your trip before you leave. Do you plan to alternate meals or split the bills? Will you get the rental car, and the other get meals?

Or will one person pay for everything, and the other will pay after the trip? However you do it, make sure you agree and both feel comfortable.

4. Have Patience

Traveling can be stressful, particularly internationally, when you don’t speak the local language. Patience certainly is not one of my virtues, but when traveling, you have to dig deep to find it where you don’t know you have it.

I remember on my first trip to Asia, after a painfully long and sleepless flight, we arrived at a ridiculously crowded airport. I don’t recall what set my friend off, but it was about figuring out where we had to go.

He had a bit of a meltdown at the airport. That was ok—I was on it. I suggested he sit down and watch our bags, and I’d head out to figure things out.

It could have escalated to an argument since we were exhausted and cranky, but it didn’t. Don’t worry; I paid him back later in the trip with my meltdown.

He was equally patient with me and cared while I cooled off. Travel is all about teamwork when you travel with others.

5. Consideration and Compromise

No matter how close of friends you may be with your travel companion, you will have differences of opinion on things during the trip. How you handle it is essential to make for a great time on vacation.

Do you want to see something your friend doesn’t? Or does your travel partner want to stay in, but you want to go out? Take turns with the decision-making; remember, it’s ok to do things independently.

6. Communication Before & During the Trip

It is crucial that you express your needs and wants during a trip. Of course, this is important at any time in any relationship. When you are traveling with a person, it’s essential.

Say what you want or what you need, and listen when the other person does the same. Although you may be friends, hanging out together and living together, even for a week or two, is very different.

Ask questions instead of assuming. Is your friend in a bad mood or angry with you? Ask the question so you can handle it so it doesn’t fester on the trip. I didn’t heed this advice once, and it strained a friendship.

I got angry and didn’t want to start a fight, so I didn’t talk to my travel partner for a couple of days on the trip. Talk about uncomfortable and awkward! It’s a shame, too, as we had a good time before then.

How to Find a Good Travel Partner

Finding a travel buddy can be challenging, and finding a good one is even more challenging. Before you consider joining a person on a trip, it’s essential to consider your wants and expectations.

Talk about them with your potential travel partner to see if you align. When you get frustrated, as you invariably may at some point in the trip, step back and consider if you are a good travel partner.

Think about how you can open a dialogue to work through the issue so you can continue to have fun.

You Might Also Like

• How I Plan My Trip to Travel Internationally
• 11 of the Best Tips for Travel: What I Wish I Knew Earlier
• 10 of the Best Reasons for Traveling

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Sam is a travel-obsessed animal lover on a quest to create a life of travel with her dog. She loves learning new things, snuggling a dog, architecture, hiking, and bold red wine. Join her in creating a life to dream about!

So you’ve traveled with your cousin a few times…how is he as a travel partner? I am thinking he is one of the easiest people to travel with. ????

I’ll let you know the next time we travel together! 😉

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6 sites to help you find a travel buddy for your next trip

While traveling solo has its benefits, it's nice to have someone with whom to explore a new place. The following apps and platforms help you find the perfect travel buddy — just make sure to ask these 20 important questions before hitting the road, or risk being struck with an awful travel companion .

1. Penroads .  Penroads is a free service that connects travelers before they hit the road. Once you sign up, you'll create a profile, including details about your trip for other travelers to browse. The platform allows you to search by destination, helping you to quickly narrow down pertinent matches.

2. Reddit.  There's a good chance you already use Reddit to find interesting stories; however, Reddit's  Travel Partners message board allows travelers to post trips and ask others to join. If you're traveling alone, the  SoloTravel subreddit is a good place to find potential travel partners and seek advice.

3. HereToMeet.com .  Just launched in March, HereToMeet.com is a social networking site for travelers. After inputting your travel destination, dates and interests, the platform matches like-minded travelers with similar itineraries, also providing event ideas via EventBrite . Before meeting in person, users can exchange messages and media and live chat through website. Because the website is so new,  you may not find a ton of users yet, however, it's worth keeping an eye on, especially with an app set to launch at the end of summer.

4. HelloTel App .  The HelloTel app (iOS & Android, free) is a social network with over 150,000 users connecting travelers at the same hotel or nearby. There's a lot of functionality — the ability to add photos, comments, ask for local recommendations, plan meetups and post questions in your social feed — and it's a good choice for solo travelers who sometimes want to interact with others.

5. Tour groups for solo travelers.  To guarantee you won't be alone on a trip you booked solo, join a tour group. While all will ensure interaction, companies like Solos , Exodus (which has a specified Solo Travellers Holidays ) and Singles in Paradise (geared toward single travelers) ensure you won't be stuck in group of couples and friend cliques.

6. Wingman .  I mentioned Wingman, an app that helps you "meet people at the airport, on your flight, and at your destination" in my article on networking in the sky with a bit of sarcasm; however, the site seems to have changed its wording around. While at first it billed itself, more or less, as the Tinder of the skies, it now seems that not just "attractive people" will find this app useful. I guess we'll see once the app officially launch this summer.

With myriad new travel apps and platforms being launched each week — not to mention a growing traveler desire to connect with others around the world — these are far from your only options. A few others to check out: Globetrooper , TripTogether and Tripstir , launching this month.

Jessica Festa is the founder on the solo and offbeat travel blog, Jessie on a Journey , and the online responsible tourism and culture magazine, Epicure & Culture . She's constantly searching for local experiences beyond the guidebook. You can follow her travels on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram .

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What should you do first while looking for a travel buddy?

Many people who desire to travel around the world and see breathtaking places don’t have a suitable travel companion. And not everyone can make an announcement “travel buddy wanted” via social networks.

Most likely your perfect travel buddy and even destiny are not among your old internet friends. And this is the main reason to start looking for a travel buddy on the special project. At first pick and post your best photos, decide where you want to go and what do you plan to visit, write all hobbies, interests and plans in your personal profile and start an exciting race of making new friends all around our planet.

There are several secrets that help while choosing a travel buddy

Pay attention to people’s plans and habits. For example, if a person writes in a profile that he prefers energetic lifestyle with tons of activities and you enjoy calm and quite sightseeing – probably you won’t make a good match even if other interests are similar. If you two are early birds – that’s great, if not it could do you wrong. Imagine the situation when your buddy is a night owl and doesn’t give you a chance to rest.

So try to write a list of what you prefer while traveling. Do you like organized or spontaneous trips? Riding a car or hiking miles? Dining at home or tasting foreign cuisine? And you can also mention on what side of the bed you sleep. Make a funny note - travel buddy with left bedside preference wanted. Fortunately, your perfect travel buddy will appreciate this tiny joke. And don’t forget that sense of humor is one of the most important things in any relationship.

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As a huge traveler myself, I found this app helpful and engaging. Talking to a few people on there was really an eye opening experience.

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About tourlina - find a travel companion

TOURLINA IS SAFE AND RELIABLE Our team checks each and every new user. Only verified users can chat with others. Tourlina rates quality over quantity if it comes to a travel buddy !

TOURLINA IS FOR WOMEN ONLY Our market research shows that women like to travel and prefer a female travel partner as having a male companion.

TOURLINA MAKES YOU WANT TO TRAVEL You will never travel alone.

ARE YOU IN?

HOW THE TOURLINA APP WORKS: • Enter a trip by country and time • Discover matching travel companions with mutual interests, destination and travel time • Select a travel companion simply by easily swiping left or right • Chat and plan your trip together once you and your travel companions are matching • Find locals and other travelers in your area … chat and meet with them!

WHY YOU SHOULD ALSO USE TOURLINA FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP?

Female users of Tourlina can connect before or while they travel. Tourlina connects women based on their future travel plans. Of course, they can connect as well with other female travelers while they travel, e.g. for one evening in Bangkok or for a part of their trip. Women find more meaningful and long lasting connections with other women and make lifelong friendships as Tourlina connections are based on shared interest in travel and socialising.

MEET FEMALE TRAVELERS – MEETUP WITH LOCALS Find interesting female travelers to travel together! TOURLINA manually verifies each new user if this user is a woman and not a man or fake. This means that Tourlina is able to provide you with a much safer international female travel buddy experience. Be confident when you choose a female travel buddy or look to connect with someone for your trip, because our Tourlistas are manually verified users and are really who they say they are.

MEET LOCALS WHO ARE INTERESTED IN MEETUPS AND ARE INTERESTED IN TRAVELLING Travel with women who are familiar with the city from the inside, because they live there! These women will show you the most interesting places of their city and the best beaches around. Local woman will meetup with you and guide you to the best locations in town.

FIND YOUR FEMALE TRAVEL BUDDY – MEET FEMALE TRAVELLERS WORDLWIDE AND TRAVEL TOGETHER! Wherever you are going as a female traveler, you’ll be able to easily find a female travel buddy or a friendly local female traveler at your current location to go out, eat, explore beaches or nature, or just hang out with terrific people and a great new travel buddy – register now and meet travellers (women-only!). Join now and meetup with other female travellers/ backpackers or find a solo traveler/ backpackers for your next trip.

TOURLINA is the first women-only travel app with verified female travelers (e.g. backpackers, luxury travelers) from all over the world. Each day hundrets of new users join Tourlina and become a Tourlista. Tourlina is a great travel app for solo travelers or for women who just would like to meetup with other solo travelers or meet-up with locals who are interested in travelling. Meetup with thousends of solo female travelers from around the world – from countries like: Germany, Europe, USA, Canada, Australia, India, Asia (Thailand, Singapore,…), New Zealand, South America (e.g. Peru, Chile, Argentina,…), Central America (e.g. Mexiko, Guatemala, Honduras,…). Find and meet-up with other girls and have a great time!

TOURLINA – Secure Travel App For Women – Solo Travel App For Girls – Meet Travelers – Meet Backpackers – Travel Meetup App For Solo Travelers – Meet Travellers – Online Meet-up – Find And Meet Fellow Travellers

Find a travel buddy / find a travel companion/ find a local girl from more than 160 countries all over the world:

Currently, you can find locals and female travellers from the following countries: Argentina, solo travel app Australia, Austria Urlaubspartner, Belgium holiday, Brazil, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Canada, Chile chat, Colombia au pair, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominican Republic chats, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece travel buddy, Honduras online sites, Hungary, Iceland solo travel, India travel app, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel tralvel sites, Italy meet up travelers, Japan, Kenya travel partner, Laos backpacking, Latvia au pair, Lithuania Backacker Meet-up, Luxembourg Travel Community,  Travel Forum, Malta Travel Meetup, looking for Mexico, Travel Community, Montenegro, Myanmar travel buddies, Nepal backpacker meet up, Netherlands buddies app, New Zealand solo travel meet-up, Nicaragua Forum, Norway vacation mate, Panama chat, find locals in Paraguay, Peru travel meetup, Philippines backpacking partner, Poland au-pair, find locals Portugal, South Korea holiday mate, Moldova blog, Romania, Russia, Saint Lucia, looking for Saint Vincent and the Grenadines vacation mate, find travelers app, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain Reisepartner Forum, Sri Lanka meet travellers, alone in Sudan, Swaziland meet solo travellers, Sweden, Switzerland Reisepartnersuche, Tajikistan, Thailand find fellow travelers, alone in Trinidad and Tobago, How to find solo travelers in Tunisia, Turkey meet backpackers, Ukraine forum, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Tanzania, United States of America USA solo travel app, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Venezuela, Vietnam find travelers. 

The Tourlina travel app connects girls who like to travel. Tourlina is the first women-only app, which brings together female travelers who have the same interests and who like traveling or just meetup with like minded girls who love to travel or with local girls around your current location. Tourlina also allows Tourlistas to connect with potential travel buddies from their current location and/ or from their home town.

Join now! Download the Tourlina app and start chatting with like minded female travellers from all over the world – in a secure and trusted network for women-only!

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Meet other travelers! Tourlina is a fun travel app to meet others travelling. Do you want it to be easier to meet other backpackers? Tourlina is a backpacker social networking app for any destination. Connect with women looking for backpackers with common interests. Whether you’re travelling solo or in a group, Tourlina is a great way to meet nearby travelers as well as locals! Tourlina app makes it very easy to meet up with other solo female travelers, e.g. adventurer travelers, backpacking travelers, business travelers or solo female travelers who prefer a luxury accommodation. If you’d rather meet up with other female backpackers or travel mates on the road then this travel app is exactly what you´re looking for. Organised activities are also a fantastic way to meet other travelers in every country using a travel app (to find a travel companion, a travel buddy or awesome female travel buddies or even find a local). Buddies, the Tourlina female travel app is for all those solo backpackers and solo travelers who want to go out with other solo travelers, but do not have buddies or a local women to go with. Join Tourlina and get your female travel buddies and explore the world! Tourlina is a secure social network for women who love to travel. Find a travel buddy for your next trip with similar travel plans and similar interests or just meetup with a local woman. Don´t forget to take a latest version of the Lonely Planet on your trip! Tourlina is a available in three languages: English, Deutsch and Español!!! Finde einen Reisepartner! Encontrar un compañero de viaje! Find a travel buddy! Finde weltweit einen Reisepartner! Finde eine Reisepartnerin!

Find and connect with locals and female travelers who live or travel to the many countries. 

The most popular destinations at Tourlina are:

Australia, Thailand (Asia), New Zealand, USA, Canada, Indonesia (Asia), Malaysia (Asia), India, Germany, Italy, Spain, Greece, South America, Colombia, Chile, Peru, Vietnam.

Finding the right travel partner or the right woman to accompany you on your trip is easy with the Tourlina app – create a trip and enter your travel preferences and Tourlina will show you all suitable travel partners. Chat with potential travel partners for your trip and see who is currently in your area and organize a meeting. Tourlina is the world’s first travel partner exchange just for women who are looking for a travel partner in a secure network. Whether you want to backpack, travel by car, rent a camper van or work and travel Australia, you can find a suitable vacation companion worldwide in the Tourlina app – for your entire trip or an evening in Singapore or Spain or India or Bali and so on. Tourlina is safe and reputable! We check all new profiles! With Tourlina, you are sure to find the right vacation partner for your trip to Asia, USA, Europe, etc..

Some work & travel examples  which Tourlistas had in the past: Working as a snorkeling instructor in Thailand, working as ground crew in Kuala Lumpur, Teaching English in Singapore, Working as an Au Pair in America (Work & Travel), working in Backpackers Hostel in Argentina, voluntary teaching in Vietnam, bar maid in Bogota (work & travel job), watersports instructor in Costa Rica, kitchen assistant in Ecuador, bar woman in Buenos Aires (work and travel job), childrens club in Greece, work& travel as housekeeping in Italy, teaching English in Madrid, children’s rep in Barcelona, work & travel as fruit picking in Australia, bar manager in New York (work and travel), barge hostess in Berlin, work & travel as strawberry picking in France, conservation research assistant in Greece.

The Tourlina travel app is like a membership app only for GIRLS who want to find a travel buddy or travel partner or just want to meetup with locals and other travellers nearby . Sign-up to the Tourlina travel app and connect with thousends of like-minded girls around the world. The Tourlina team verfies all girls manually, therefore Tourlina is safe and it is really easy to connect and meetup with like minded girls. Sign up and start exploring the world and find interesting female travel buddies to meet with and travel with all over the the world. Never be lonely while you travel and even find like minded girls in your home town or at other cities.

You are an au pair girl  and stay in a foreign country working for, and living as part of, a host family. You take as an au pairs the family’s responsibility for childcare as well as housework. Have fun and meetup with other au pair girls nearby. Find au pair girls in America (USA), Australia, Germany, Switzerland, Ireland, Netherlands, UK (United Kingdom) and many other countries. Meetup with au pair girls  and exchange about your experience or just do some

• Tourlina helps female travelers to find a female travel buddy  and locals
• With the Tourina app, you can connect and chat with other international female travelers  and you can connect and chat with women who live nearby your home location or at any other location around the world – even before you go to this location
• Tourlina is an international community of female travelers . You can find travelling girls and solo female travelers
• With the Tourlina solo travel app , you can connect with girls who are looking for a travel mate, travel buddy or a travel companion
• Tourlina is the first women-only travel app where female travelers can find international female travel companions, travel mates and travel buddies
• Tourlina allows women to connect and chat in a large and international female travel community and meet travelers  from all over the world. It is an easy and successful way to find solo female travelers  within a large travelling girls community
• Well known companies like New York Times, El Tiempo, Hostelworld, Kayak, Washington Post, Huffington Post, National Geographic and many others recommend Tourlina app for solo female travelers from all over the world
• You should choose a destination where the risk for a woman traveling alone is low. Such countries actually include all countries in Europe as well as many countries in Asia, such as Thailand, Vietnam, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Japan and Indonesia (Bali). You should not necessarily travel to India alone as a woman. Muslim countries are also rather difficult for women traveling alone and should be visited by women who already have a lot of experience with traveling alone.
• Plan your vacation carefully and make sure that you always travel during the day and arrive at your next accommodation before dark.
• Share your travel plan with friends and family
• Don’t try to see as much as possible in a short space of time, but take your time traveling and stay in one place for longer.
• Find a travel partner: Use apps like Tourlina and meet locals and other travelers.
• Try to master the important terms and phrases in the language of the country before your trip
• Use social media and solo travel meetings as well as travel apps to find friends, such as the Tourlina app
• Stay overnight in a hostel. You’ll always meet like-minded people there and quickly make new contacts
• Book tours and activities on site to go on an excursion together with others
• Go to cafés and restaurants. Especially in Asia, you will quickly make new contacts over a meal
• Meet new friends, for example if you book a yoga retreat
• Try out a work & travel experience
• You decide what you want to do and when. That’s just great and fun!
• You become braver and braver!
• You have more intense experiences and see more on vacation!
• You get to know yourself better and better!
• You become more and more self-confident!
• A solo trip makes you more relaxed!
• As a solo traveler, you’ll make friends more quickly and meet new people more easily!
• Despite traveling solo, you will find that you are only alone when you really want to be. Otherwise, you’ll be meeting other people all the time!
• Classifieds travel partner wanted
• Travel partner wanted free of charge
• Search for travel partner free of charge
• Vacation partner wanted serious
• Female travel companion wanted
• Travel partner over 20, 30, 40 or over 50 wanted

Her Asian Adventures

Travel Guides & Inspiration. Luxury on a Budget

+15 Key Questions to Ask Your Potential Travel Partner Before Traveling Together

Not ready to travel solo? Discover how to find your perfect travel partner with this ultimate travel compatibility quiz!

Traveling is undeniably fantastic, and it becomes an unforgettable experience when you have the right travel partner by your side. 

Be it a friend, a romantic partner, or a family member, the choice of your travel partner can either make or break the trip .

It’s a big decision that deserves careful consideration. 

Don’t be fooled by the length of your relationship – we all have those friends we love but might not want as roommates or travel companions, and that’s absolutely okay.

Feeling a bit uncertain? No worries! I’m here to walk you through four easy steps to choose the perfect travel partner for your upcoming adventure.

Excited? Great! Let’s dive in and figure out if you and your friend should travel together after all!

How to Choose the Perfect Travel Partner

1. know your travel preferences, 2. consider your destination and type of trip, 3. imagine your perfect travel partner , 4. have an honest conversation with your potential travel partner, ultimate travel compatibility quiz: find your perfect travel partner, here are 50 essential questions to ask your potential travel partner, how to tell someone you don’t want to travel with them, how to tell someone you want to travel alone , conclusion: finding the perfect travel partner.

Your search for the ideal travel companion begins with a bit of self-reflection.

Be brutally honest with yourself – what do you really want from this trip, and how flexible are you feeling?

While it’s easy to chat about others , you need to take a moment to ponder your own strengths and weaknesses.

And hey, if compromise isn’t your thing, maybe it’s finall y time to take that solo trip. Trust me, it’s guaranteed to be a fantastic experience!

Now, think about the destination and the type of holiday you have in mind.

Personally, I’ve realized that my travel style varies significantly depending on where I’m headed.

 If it’s a bustling city like Shanghai or Hanoi, I tend to create a detailed itinerary, stay in a cute Airbnb, and wake up early to explore the city.

But if I’m traveling to a remote island in the Philippines or a party island in Thailand, I’d likely stay in a hostel to meet fellow backpackers, eat cheap local food, and do nothing else that soak up the sun on the beach. 

Read More: 10 Irresistible Reasons To Visit Sri Lanka in 2024.

Now, close your eyes and imagine your ideal travel buddy.  What qualities are non-negotiable for you?

Do you want someone who’s up for anything, super organized, or just incredibly laid-back? 

 If a specific person comes to mind, think about how your personalities and travel styles match up .

If you’re a go-getter eager to explore every attraction while they’re more into chilling by the hotel pool, it might be a sign that traveling together isn’t the best idea. 

Let’s be real, everyone’s idea of a dream trip is as varied as the destinations on our travel bucket lists.

You need to have an open and honest conversation about your expectations, interests, values, and any concerns with your potential travel companion.

 Lay it all out before the trip so you can find a compromise that works for both you and your travel partner.

Trust me, you don’t want to find out in the middle of the trip that your friend only wants to eat in international food chains while you’re a declared foodie, or that she’s all about partying every night while you prefer to relax at your accommodation. 

Getting on the same page early on can iron out any bumps in the road and make your journey way more fun! 

To make sure your trip is everything you and your travel buddy dream of, I´ve come up with the ultimate travel compatibility quiz. 

These 50 thought-provoking questions will help you get to know your potential travel partner on a much deeper level. 

They might be a bit awkward and challenging , but there´s no judgment here – just individual tastes and preferences.

You just need to know what you’re signing up for right from the start.  Let’s dive straight into the quiz!

Trip Budget and Expenses

• What’s your estimated budget for the trip?
• Where do you prefer to splurge vs save ? (e.g., accommodation, transportation, food, tours… )
• How flexible are you with the budget?
• Thoughts on handling shared expenses and using apps like Splitwise?
• Are you comfortable with a 50-50 split on all travel expenses or do you prefer separate finances?  
• How do you handle unexpected expenses or last-minute cancellations?
• Who will make upfront payments for bookings, and how and when will we reimburse them?

Read Next: 15 Essential Tips for Using Credit Cards and Cash While Traveling Asia.

Travel Expectations and Goals

• What are your travel expectations for this trip? (e.g., relaxing at the beach, exploring tourist attractions, self-care, trying new foods…)
• Any specific goals or achievements you hope to accomplish?
• Are you open to exploring hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations?

Travel Itineraries and Must-see Attractions

• Are there any must-see attractions or landmarks on your travel bucket list?
• What type of travel experiences do you enjoy the most? (e.g., museums, historical sites, shopping…)
• Are there specific activities you’re not comfortable with? (e.g., fear of heights, social anxiety)
• Are there any specific cultural events or festivals you would like to attend

Alcohol and Nightlife 

• How do you feel about substances like smoking, drinking, or other recreational substances?
• How often do you want to go out ?
• If one wants to go out and the other doesn’t, is it okay to go alone or with others?
• How important is alcohol, cocktails, or nightlife to your overall travel experience?

Staying Connected While Traveling

• How do you handle communication with family and friends back home?
• Are you comfortable with using local SIM cards or international data plans?
• Do you prefer to disconnect from technology or stay connected during the trip?

Related Post: Everything You Need To Know About Getting a Local SIM card While Traveling

Making Friends While Traveling

• Do you prefer doing everything together, or are you okay splitting up and doing things separately?
• Do you need a minimum amount of solo time each day?
• How much do you value making new friends and socializing during the trip?
• Is it okay to invite people back to our shared accommodation?
• Is it okay to invite others to join the trip or do certain activities?

Trip Planning and Travel Preferences

• Are you comfortable with making decisions together or do you prefer one person to take the lead?
• Are you the type to make a complete and carefully-plotted travel itinerary beforehand, and will you be upset if it isn’t followed to a tee?
• Alternatively, are you spontaneous and okay with someone else planning the itinerary?
• Do you prefer a relaxed pace with ample free time or a more packed schedule to see and do as much as possible?

Read Next: 25 Essential Travel Apps To Help You Plan Your Next Southeast Asia Trip

Accommodation Preferences and Travel Styles

• What type of accommodations do you prefer (e.g., hotel, resorts, airbnb…)
• Are you open to sharing a room or do you prefer separate accommodations?
• Do you have any sleep habits I should know about?
• Do you prefer to keep things tidy or are you more relaxed about it?
• How do you feel about driving, public transit, walking, bicycles, boats, night buses?
• How long can you comfortably walk for an extended period?

Travel Food and Dining Preferences 

• Are you a picky eater, or do you love trying new local dishes ?
• How often do you anticipate eating out during the trip?
• What´s your favorite type of restaurant ? (e.g., street food, international chains, Michelin-starred restaurants…)
• Do you have any allergies or dietary restrictions ?

Contingency Plans and Travel Emergencies

• Do you have any medical conditions I need to know about?
• How can I best support you in case of a medical emergency?
• Who should I contact in case of an emergency?
• Do you have travel insurance or any other form of coverage?

Travel Packing and Organization

• Are you a minimalist packer or a chronic overpacker?
• Are you open to sharing essential items or do you prefer separate supplies?
• What are your must-have travel essentials ?

Read More: How To Prevent Lost Luggage – 12 Expert Tips for Your Next Trip

Travel Photography and Documentation

• Do you enjoy capturing memories through photos?
• What are your preferences for photo-taking and documentation ?
• Are you open to taking photos for each other and posing for pictures?
• How do you feel about sharing photos and memories on social media?

Sustainable Tourism and Travel Values

• What are your values regarding sustainable travel?
• How do you handle cultural differences and customs while traveling?
• What are your expectations regarding ethical tourism practices ?
• How do you handle potential cultural misunderstandings or conflicts?

Conflict Resolution and Travel Communication

• How do you handle conflicts or disagreements while traveling?
• How do you feel about travel mishaps or unforeseen challenges?
• Are you open to compromise and finding middle ground?
• Are there any concerns or expectations you have about traveling together that we should address?

Having the talk about not wanting to travel with someone can feel a bit awkward , but it’s super important to handle it with honesty and kindness . Here’s how I’d put it:

First and foremost, tell them as soon as possible . Don’t wait until everything is set in stone and unchangeable.

Give your former travel partner the heads-up they deserve so they can adjust their plans – it’s only fair.

When you’re breaking the news, focus on the positives . Highlight the advantages of traveling alone or the travel activities you’re super excited about. And if you need a hand, check out Rose from “ Wheregoesrose ” for 10 fantastic reasons to travel solo

Make it about your travel preferences, not any perceived shortcomings on their part. You need to be able to express your needs without assigning blame. 

Talk to people how you’d like to be spoken to . If someone prefers solo travel, how would you want them to tell you?

And hey, show them some love! Remind them how much you value your friendship. 

Maybe suggest catching up before or after your solo trip, or, even better, plan a future adventure that aligns better with both your interests.

In the actual conversation, I might say something like , “You know, I’ve been thinking a lot about our travel plans to [insert location], and it struck me that my main focus is diving headfirst into [insert activity]. I reckon I’d thrive either traveling solo or finding someone who shares the same interests. What do you think?”

Just remember, honesty, kindness, and understanding can do wonders in keeping the friendship intact while letting both of you enjoy your unique interests.

So, that’s my ultimate guide for picking your ideal travel partner!

Remember, there’s no right or wrong here —you just need to gather all the info before your trip.

Your goal is to come up with a plan that works for everyone , or if necessary, think about finding another travel buddy.

It’s not about finding a copy of yourself , but someone who complements your strengths, shares your values, and adds excitement to your adventures.

Take your time with the process; it’s definitely worth it! Happy travels!

P.S. Have I missed any important travel questions? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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7 Ultimate Ways to Travel with Your Partner for the First Time

After years of traveling solo, I finally got a chance to travel with my beau. And here's a warning, there are some adjustments that you need to make when you travel with your partner for the first time, especially when you get so used to being a solo traveler !

So far, I've spent a month and a half traveling with my partner in total. It's not a full-time travel, since my boyfriend works 9-to-5 , but we managed to be together for a month in Southeast Asia without killing each other and a short trip around Turkey (also known as Turkiye) recently seems to make us long for our next journey to travel together as a couple.

In this post, I'm going to share some ways to travel with your partner, based on what works for me and my beau. So, here are some tips for traveling as couple travelers for the first time!

Table of Content

How to Travel with Your Partner for the First Time

Traveling with your partner can be a make-or-break in your relationship, because I believe traveling will eventually reveal your true color as an individual that you may find either the red flags or the reason for you to lean on to them when things go wrong.

For me, traveling is the only way for me to even be with my boyfriend in the first place since we've been in a long-distance relationship for almost one year now. Just like probably every couple who started planning to travel together, we were both nervous that we were going to end up killing each other on the trip. Thankfully, it didn't happen so here are some things that I think work when it comes to traveling together as a couple!

1. Be transparent about your traveling style

Before planning a trip together, be clear about your traveling style and preference so that you can anticipate what could possibly become a problem when you travel together. It will probably be easier if you occasionally travel before, so you get the hunch on what you like and what you don't when you explore a new place on your own or with a partner.

In my case, I know I'm not one for a fixed itinerary. I like to travel slowly and explore to see what I really want to see about the place. I'm quite price-sensitive when it comes to accommodation , so I tend to focus more on affordability and comfort. The same goes for meals, as my Southeast Asian gene isn't really fussy about hygiene that I could almost eat anything without having a problem when I travel.

My boyfriend is pretty much the opposite in a way, as he'd rather list all the places he wants to see each day, although he's quite flexible on whether we can visit everything on the list that day. He prefers comfort because he thinks that's the point of being on holiday, on top of that he's also a picky eater so while he's up to trying new food, his stomach might not respond to it the same way as I do.

When you know what's the deal with your partner, you tend to be more prepared on D-day and it will also help you find the common ground on what you want to do or where you want to go.

Communication is the key, so talk it out and see how you can manage all these differences in your traveling style. Trust me on this, the communication during the travel planning will definitely trigger your instinct whether your first trip as a couple will be a success!

2. Be prepared to compromise

So you know how compromise is the key to any kind of relationship. Well, so is it when you plan to travel together with your partner.

Love needs some kind of sacrifice, and that's the truth. And if it's to compromise and adjust your thing to theirs, then so be it. In my case, I tend to be more careful about picking the place to eat when we travel, though in the end, my boyfriend ended up getting diarrhea anyway when he got home. Which I find weird, because he was just fine when we were together and as soon as he got home, he literally had to get some additional sick days for almost two weeks.

Since I told my boyfriend that I'm price-sensitive when it comes to choosing accommodation, he compromises to pay the bigger cut for accommodation so we can afford the place that he prefers as long as we stay on a budget.

Just like any relationship in general, in order to make it work, you need to work as a team to cater to each other's needs. Be ready to compromise, because if there's anything I've learned from traveling with my beau in the past few months, some people are just worth compromising for.

3. Respect each other's space

My partner and I are introverts, so having our own space is important for us respectively, and we try to respect each other's space despite being together for the whole trip. On our first trip together, we booked an apartment with two separate bedrooms just to make sure that we had our own space whenever needed. Not to mention that I occasionally still have to work in between our travel.

Some hotel rooms that we stayed in also come with twin beds, although we mostly booked rooms with a double bed. I mean, come on… What's the point of traveling together as a couple if you can't have the intimacy you deserve after a long day of traveling, right? 😛

When we traveled, we never really argued about anything. Maybe once or twice when we were in a really bad mood. But it was never too long. More often than not, it was also because we still got our own space to cool down despite being together 24/7 on our trip.

4. Split responsibilities and make them accessible to everyone so you can hold each other accountable

Relationship is all about teamwork, and planning a trip together as a couple is no different. Split the responsibilities, and hold each other accountable so that instead of micromanaging every move, you can give each other feedback on how to make the trip easier and more fun for everyone.

As we have to plan our trip online since we're in a long-distance relationship to begin with, we take advantage of the vast technology there is to plan a trip for us.

We usually create a Google Sheet and make it accessible for both of us. We always make three sheets on the Google Sheet and label them accordingly: Marya (me), Sam (my boyfriend), and Us.

My responsibility is to usually list the accommodation where we're going to stay as well as the pros and cons for each accommodation, while my boyfriend's responsibility is to usually do some research on where to go or what to do in our destination.

We'll give each other heads up when we update the sheet, so when we have a video date, we will brainstorm the best way to visualize our trip before adding the list in the sheet that's labeled “Us.” We usually fill the latter when we both agree about things so we have all the information needed for our trip there, before finally making the final draft of our itinerary for each day of our trip together as a couple.

In terms of money, we also use the TravelSpend app to track our expenses so it will be easier for us to settle our “travelimony”, basically the money we owe each other after our travel. LOL. As we both use Wise , we can also transfer money easily for all the transactions needed for our travel.

I think it's a great way to make sure that each one of us has a say on things before we decide anything, and I think that it's also fundamental to contribute to making sure that the first time you travel with your partner will be a success!

5. Make time to socialize with other people

If there's anything I've learned about having some secret, toxic relationships in the past, it is that you can never know the true person behind your partner until you're going out publicly as a couple in front of other people, sometimes strangers.

So, while being on a romantic vacation seems like a great way to spice up your relationship, remember that this is not your honeymoon… At least not yet. So, instead of focusing on quality time just the two of you, make time to socialize with other people, be it with your friends or even new people.

When we were in Chiang Rai , we decided to join a Thai cooking class where we could connect with new people so we wouldn't get stuck being with each other as an item. We also managed to get on a double date with my university friend in my hometown, and we had our first Couchsurfing experience together when we met Ali in Canakkale, Turkiye , recently.

I think socializing with other people will also test your relationship in a good way, because you'll know your partner's character more when you don't stay inside your own bubble during your whole travel.

6. Add a lazy day to just stay in and do nothing

After all traveling and socializing, it's important to spare some time to unwind and do nothing even during your trip. Plan a lazy day to stay in, so you can enjoy each other's presence more than just exploring a new place together.

On this day, it will be a free day for both of us so you don't even have to go out if you don't want to. Maybe it's time to dive deep into Netflix and chill on this day, or you can plan a day to make a romantic dinner just the two of you. Cook together if you can, if not you can also take advantage of UberEat or anything alike in your destination.

I genuinely believe that the best kind of quality time is when you can be alone together without any pressure, possibly doing random stuff. Or maybe it's just an introvert in me.

7. Start creating memories together

Last but not least, don't overthink it. Planning is the key, but overthinking the possible result of traveling with your partner for the first time will only stop yourself from starting to create memories and exploring the world together.

Be open to new things that you can do together, because as much as I love traveling solo, I realized there are things I miss out on when I travel solo. For instance, I can get a much better accommodation for a lower price as I split the cost with my partner.

And while my boyfriend isn't exactly someone who could take Instagram-worthy pics, he's actually the one who would go post the pics on his Facebook so my mom could lurk in once in a while about what we do and where we go.

After falling sick while traveling solo and getting my wallet stolen , I know how comforting it is to have someone else beside you when you travel, so I'm glad that I've finally got someone with whom I could share my travel memories together!

FAQ about Traveling with Your Partner

In this section, I'm going to answer a few frequently asked questions about traveling as a couple and traveling with your partner, so you can see how it is from my perspective and whether it's your cup of tea. So, here we go!

Is traveling with your partner a good idea when you're not married?

Traveling with your partner before marriage is frowned upon, especially if you come from a strong religious community. However, I see more benefits than downsides when traveling as couple travelers.

First of all, traveling together can reveal your compatibility as a partner as well as an individual. It exposes you to new things that you need to overcome, together and respectively. It brings out your strength and weakness as a unit, in which you can portray how you could live with them in the future and whether there are some icks that you may need to communicate before taking your relationship into the next step.

I know reading map is my weakness, and I'm glad that my boyfriend, despite being slightly dyslexic, he's actually better at reading maps than I am. While traveling together, we also slowly learned to manage finance together so if we ever get married one day, we'll get used to it in a way.

All and all, I definitely recommend traveling with your boyfriend or girlfriend once in a while because not only will it give you the opportunity to get away from your typical routine in a new destination, it can potentially make your relationship stronger than ever.

How long should you date before traveling together as a couple?

It may vary for everyone, but I would suggest not traveling together too soon as a couple. I mean, some people made it to travel as a couple as soon as they met, but like I said before, traveling with your partner can be a make-or-break for your relationship so it's better to give some time to make sure that you know your partner as an individual.

My first trip with my ex was a bit too soon as I traveled with him when we only knew each other for a month, and it didn't end well.

My boyfriend and I only started the idea of traveling together eventually on the second month since we started talking to each other, and then when he calculated the soonest time he could take a long leave from his work, he said it could only be around five months from then. So we managed to get to know each other during that period, and we kinda expect what will happen when we travel together.

In my case, I'm happy with the result and I think before anything else, having a strong connection with your partner is the one that you need the most before deciding to travel together as a couple.

Who pays for the trip when you travel together as a couple?

Finance is a sensitive topic as a couple, but it's important to talk about it. So the best way to do it is to communicate with your partner about how you settle your travel finance fairly.

Again, it may vary for everyone because some people may be able to fund all the trips for two people, while others may split the costs based on their agreement as a couple. Whichever that is, there is no right or wrong for this question because it all depends on how you communicate with your partner.

It's also another reason why I would encourage couples to travel together. Because you're forced to be transparent about finance and all the sensitive issues that have the tendency to showcase their vulnerability. I mean, it's a bit hard to talk about my finances with other people, but I'm glad I can be honest with my boyfriend.

However you think the best to split the cost, it'll definitely encourage teamwork between the two of you. So, be ready for it and see how you can thrive together as a couple traveling together!

Traveling with your partner is an incredible way to deepen your relationship as a couple to the next level. When you decide to plan a trip with your partner, it means you're ready to let out the thin layer that goes between you when you don't have to deal with each other all the time.

When you travel together, you can share each other's interests while also working on the plan in a way that it can be fun for both of you. It's a great way to bond, and you'll see the true color of your partner in a way that you can see the real them without any filter.

The important thing is to work as a team, while supporting each other so you can thrive together in the whole trip. So, are you ready to hit the road and plan your first trip as a couple traveling together?

Marya The BeauTraveler

I am the founder and main editor at The BeauTraveler. I spent 4 years working in the aviation industry but ironically got to travel more right after quitting the industry in 2015. Born and raised in Indonesia, I started working remotely in 2017, and while I stay at home most of the time, I also regularly spend 2-3 months living a semi-digital nomad life elsewhere every year.

Disclaimer: 

This post may contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link.

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The Trick to a Great Marriage: Vacation Without Your Partner

More married people are booking travel for one.

Spouses have long split up to travel on girls’ getaways or guys’ weekends. Now, travel companies, advisers and travelers say solo vacations have become a booming business for all kinds of trips. More people have even booked big bucket-list adventures like African safaris or cruises to Antarctica on their own, according to Wendy Marley, a travel adviser for AAA Northeast.

The trend is especially pronounced among retired couples. In 2023, people 55 and over traveled without their significant other 46% more than people in that age group did the year before, according to the U.S. Consumer Traveler Report from market-research group Phocuswright.

Most married solo travelers are women, travel companies say. These solo—not single—women say they are motivated to see the world, even if their spouse isn’t interested in the destination. They also enjoy making new friends and the sense of freedom that comes from independent travel.

“You don’t have to schedule anything with another person, and if you want to eat falafel for three meals a day, you can,” says Lisa Tsering, a 62-year-old Bay Area writer and editor.

Tsering traveled alone to France for her 60th birthday and is planning a solo trip to Bali this spring. Her husband also likes traveling, but she says that because he works hard, his idea of a vacation is a relaxing getaway.

“That’s just not my flavor,” she says.

Independent travels have strengthened her relationship, she says. Each partner gets to see the person they love fulfilled and happy.

Ticket for one

Road Scholar, a nonprofit educational travel organization for seniors, says the percentage of married people who book its excursions alone has steadily increased since 2007. In 2022, at least 60% of the organization’s solo travelers were married.

Female travelers who responded to a 2023 Road Scholar survey said that in some cases, their spouse wasn’t interested in travel or wasn’t physically able.

Cindy Graunke, a 71-year-old retiree from Richmond, Va., enjoys presidential history and literature, so she has taken Road Scholar trips without her husband of 51 years. He opts for fishing trips instead.

On trips to Ohio and Florida, she requested a roommate, which not only saved her money, but introduced new friends during the trip, she says.

“Back when I was not retired, all you want to do is veg on vacation. But then after you retire, you want to learn things,” she says.

Tom Hale is founder of Backroads, an active-travel company that offers hiking and biking tours. Backroads recently created a new category for women adventurers that features walking and hiking trips.

Solo men tend to sign up for biking trips, he says: “If we were to do a walking and hiking trip category for men, it would be crickets. It just wouldn’t sell.”

Most married couples still travel together, the Phocuswright survey found. But one partner having a more flexible schedule has contributed to this change, travel advisers say.

What it means to travel solo depends on whom you ask. Some travelers zoom off on cross-country motorcycle trips or backpacking long distances alone. Others join organized tour groups that cater to specific interests.

Liz Mercer travels often in her work as general manager for a Napa Valley winery and isn’t afraid to sit at a restaurant bar, talk to strangers and ask for local recommendations. She figured that if she could travel solo during work trips, she could extend that philosophy to personal trips. This spring, Mercer plans to spend several solo days in Istanbul and Zurich by bookending a work trip.

She also found inspiration from her 19-year-old daughter, who is traveling solo on a gap year between high school and college. Because Istanbul is a bucket-list destination for Mercer and the trip didn’t work with her husband’s schedule, Mercer decided to go solo.

“When else am I going to have this opportunity to do it?” she says. “I’m 47. Let’s travel. Let’s go.”

Consider the finances

Travel companies are expanding offerings for solo travelers. Cruise lines are adding more single-passenger staterooms and tour groups now have more single traveler options.

Solo travelers say they sometimes pay more to have single rooms, but often save overall compared with the cost of two flights and meals. Having one partner stay home to care for pets also helps save on overall costs.

Older couples entertaining the idea of traveling alone should take a broader look at their retirement goals, says Anthony Chambers, chief academic officer at The Family Institute at Northwestern University. This gives partners a chance to consider their fixed income, but also to intentionally listen to each other’s dreams.

If one partner hesitates about the other’s solo travel, Chambers suggests examining that. “If there are some underlying trust issues that a couple has never really sort of addressed fully, all of a sudden one person going to a destination without the other without their partner is going to feel very threatening,” he says.

Laura Blaquiere plans to spend 14 solo weeks in Europe this year visiting 10 different countries. The 40-year-old human resources adviser from Halifax, Nova Scotia, didn’t travel much in her 20s because she and her husband married young and had three children. She used her vacation time to take care of the kids.

After spending the past three years caring for her mother with early-onset dementia, Blaquiere says she has a renewed urgency to enjoy life. Her mother recently died and Blaquiere is on sabbatical from work. With the support of her husband and daughters, ages 13, 11 and 8, she plans to leave in mid-April.

“It’s going to be my ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ type of trip,” she says. “Although, obviously by love, I don’t mean like finding someone. I’ve been saying self-love.”

Sign up for the WSJ Travel newsletter for more tips and insights from the Journal’s travel team.

Write to Allison Pohle at [email protected]

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You Don’t Need to Freak Out About Boeing Planes (but Boeing Sure Does)

By Zeynep Tufekci

Opinion Columnist

“Ah, it’s a Boeing Max,” I exclaimed to my travel companions after we boarded our plane a few weeks ago. I looked to see if we were seated next to a hidden door plug panel like the one that blew out on Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 in January. We weren’t, but joining a trend on social media , we cracked a few jokes at Boeing’s expense: “Maybe they can charge extra, saying it’s potentially an even bigger window seat.”

The F.B.I. recently informed the passengers on that ill-fated Alaska Airlines flight that they might have been crime victims . The agency hasn’t explained why, but Boeing has told the Senate that it cannot find documentation of exactly how the door plug was removed and reinstalled, even though the company acknowledged it is supposed to have kept such records. Facing all this, the company announced last week that it was replacing its chief executive . But the bad news wasn’t over: On Thursday a New York Times investigation reported a disturbing pattern of sloppy safety procedures and dangerous cost cutting. One expert who had spent more than a decade at Boeing told The Times, “The theme is shortcuts everywhere — not doing the job right.”

Is it any wonder that some travelers are trying to avoid Boeing planes? Kayak, the travel booking site, noticed an uptick in the number of people trying to weed them out ; it recently made that search filter more prominent and even added an option to specifically avoid certain models.

Boeing’s problems, great as they are, are just one reason that consumers might be wary of taking flight. United Airlines now also faces scrutiny for a series of safety incidents, although many experts say the issues there do not appear to be systemic. The biggest danger of all may be understaffing in air traffic control and overstuffed runways , which lead to far too many near misses.

Personally, I am not worried about flying, and other than cracking some ill-advised jokes, I have not changed my behavior. That’s why I hadn’t bothered to check whether I’d be flying on a Boeing Max or any type of Boeing plane until after I boarded.

The trajectory of Boeing as a corporation, however, is another matter. It’s going to take a lot more than a shuffle at the top to fix that company’s problems. But the fact that Boeing managed to cut as many corners as it did is testament to the layers and layers of checks, redundancies and training that have been built into the aviation industry. Aviation safety is so robust because we made it so.

Two seemingly contradictory things are both true: U.S. commercial passenger airlines have gone an astonishing 15 years without a single death from a crash. And there is a huge safety crisis in commercial aviation that we urgently need to fix.

Commercial aviation is a complex system involving many dynamics — technology, engineering, corporate culture, regulation, weather, human factors, politics and more.

It’s extremely hard to predict what will emerge from so many different things interacting all at once — an example of the so-called butterfly effect, in which a tiny insect flapping its wings leads to major weather events on the other side of the world. And though testing every part of the system on its own is necessary, it’s insufficient, since it’s the interaction of many moving parts that creates those hard-to-foresee problems. Solving equations won’t be enough to manage it all because such systems defy easy calculations.

We do, however, have methods to manage complex and safety-critical systems, and if done right, they can work very well.

Perhaps the most important measure is redundancy, the layering of precautions. Since even a minor failure could set off a catastrophic chain of events, it’s important to shore up everything. That’s why many plane parts have duplicates or backups and much of planes’ production and maintenance is subject to inspections by multiple people.

Redundancy, however, while great for safety, is expensive.

The first Boeing 737 Max crash occurred in Indonesia in 2018 . Everyone on board was killed. The next was in 2019 in Ethiopia. There were no survivors of that flight, either. After that, the planes — which had been flying globally for more than a year — were grounded by the F.A.A. (About 387 of them had been delivered at that time, and 400 or so more were in production.)

The public later learned Boeing had added a new software system to the planes to help keep them stable. Because the system made the planes behave more like older Boeing models that pilots were already familiar with, the company got permission from the F.A.A. to avoid retraining pilots on the new planes (a cost savings for the airlines that bought them) or even telling pilots about it.

Those two flights proved the danger of that approach. The new system relied on a single sensor, even though the planes were equipped with two. When that sensor failed, pilots lacked the information to diagnose the problem and avoid disaster. Boeing’s actions were a violation of those core tenets of aviation of building in redundancy and understanding how complicated interactions can create problems that no one predicted.

Given the impossibility of testing for every outcome, keeping complex systems safe also depends on another crucial signal: near misses. If something goes wrong but disaster is averted, the correct response should not be a “whew” and back to normal. It should be caution and investigation.

The Times investigation shows how alarmingly different Boeing’s approach was.

The Boeing plane that crashed in Indonesia experienced the exact same problem with the new stabilization system the day before. But on that flight there happened to be a third pilot, riding off duty in the back of the cockpit . When things went haywire, he was able to suggest the correct sequence of actions and saved the day. Had Boeing updated pilots about the system, would the passengers on the airplane’s next flight have landed safely? We’ll never know.

That third pilot — in that case, present purely by luck — was an example of how redundancy can save lives. So is a co-pilot. Planes fly on autopilot all the time and can even land on their own. Still, regulations require a second person in the cockpit for many types of passenger flights not just to handle things in the extremely rare event that the primary pilot gets sick or dies midflight but also to help manage emergencies and equipment failures . It’s the same reason that planes have more engines, more tires and more ways to extend the landing gear than they need for any individual flight, just in case one of those things fails, as has happened many times.

An extra layer of safety helped avert the Alaska Airlines blowout from turning into a catastrophe: Because the incident occurred so soon after takeoff, all the passengers were still required to wear their seatbelts.

Pilots even do walk-arounds of their planes just before takeoff to conduct final visual inspections. Commercial aviation works because of the principle of trust nothing and check everything.

It’s hard to escape the conclusion that those at the company who took all those shortcuts figured the system, with all its redundancies, would save them. But that’s a gamble. Eventually, two or three or four rare mishaps will align.

A Boeing representative told me that the company was taking responsibility and working to improve quality. But we need to see action, not promises.

So why should anyone still fly on Boeing’s planes? Or fly at all? Because the statistics still show that commercial aviation is miraculously safe, far more so than all the alternative ways of traveling.

While I don’t check for who manufactured the planes I fly on, I do keep my seatbelt on even when the captain says I don’t have to. Other than that, I’m as comfortable as possible while flying. I know that on balance, air travel is a well-regulated system staffed by highly trained crews with layers and layers of safety precautions and a dedication to learning from accidents. Let’s keep it that way.

The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips . And here’s our email: [email protected] .

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An earlier version of this article misidentified the agency that informed passengers of Alaska Airlines Flight 1282 that they might have been crime victims. It is the F.B.I., not the Federal Aviation Administration.

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Zeynep Tufekci  ( @zeynep ) is a professor of sociology and public affairs at Princeton University, the author of “Twitter and Tear Gas: The Power and Fragility of Networked Protest” and a New York Times Opinion columnist. @ zeynep • Facebook

IHG Hotels Partners with Google to Build AI Trip Planner

Justin Dawes , Skift

April 9th, 2024 at 7:00 AM EDT

IHG Hotels & Resorts sees a future in helping travelers plan their entire trip, not just where to stay.

Justin Dawes

​​IHG Hotels & Resorts is planning to release a trip planning tool powered by artificial intelligence from Google. 

The hotel giant plans to release the tool in the second half of the year as a feature within its One Rewards mobile app, which the company has been upgrading regularly since relaunching it almost two years ago.

The first version of the AI tool will focus on helping users with the “dreaming phase” of travel, according to Josh Weiss, vice president of guest digital products for IHG. 

“We knew that a significant portion of our mobile app users and our web users have their minds made up about where they want to go … but we also know that a substantial portion of people —  perhaps even a growing segment of our customers — are open to inspiration,” Weiss told Skift.

This is the first announcement that Google is making about a hospitality company integrating its generative AI tech, according to Carrie Tharp, vice president of strategic industries for Google Cloud. 

“You should expect a lot more in the travel space, which is why it’s important to get moving,” Tharp said.

And it’s among the first announcements like it by a hotel brand. Many have said they are experimenting with AI in various ways, but that usually hasn’t included trip planning. 

“A lot of the work is on the guest to sort through where they want to go, what are the criteria, and there’s lots of tools that help them do that today, but nothing quite like the experience we used to have decades ago with travel agents,” Tharp said. “And so I think IHG gets to step into the foray of really advancing what digital can do.”

IHG is designing the tool using the Google Cloud platform for building AI software, called Vertex AI . And the AI comes from Google’s proprietary Gemini (formerly Bard) model.

The partnership between the two companies began in 2022 when IHG migrated components of its data to the Google Cloud database. Google has played a big role in helping IHG organize its data and create a foundation that can be used toward new innovations, Weiss said. 

The Long-Term Vision

IHG first wants to ensure the core of the tool is valuable, with as few bugs as possible. And then the company plans to upgrade regularly.  

The vision is that the chatbot will be able to answer general and specific questions based on Google’s swath of information paired with IHG’s data. 

There could also be integrations from third-party travel companies for products like events and attractions bookings. Weiss expects IHG to test several companies to see how their products integrate with the app. 

IHG gave a few examples of prompts the chatbot will be able to answer in the long term:

•  “Give me four late-night dinner options near the InterContinental London Park Lane.” 
• “Does the Kimpton Shinjuku Hotel in Tokyo allow pets?” 
• “What jazz shows are happening near the Holiday Inn Express Manhattan Times Square South the weekend of October 12th?” 

There could also be an opportunity in the future around engaging the customer before and during the stay, not just before booking. 

User feedback will help determine how the tool evolves, whether that’s focused more on hotel information and insights, or more on local events and attractions and entertainment.

“I don’t know the answer to that yet,” Weiss said. “But the great thing is we have the opportunity to take it in multiple directions very quickly based on what these platforms enable us to do.”

A Work in Progress 

The IHG tool will be the latest of many from large and small travel companies since OpenAI released the first generative AI tech in 2022. None of them yet have lived up to the big ideas about the future of travel planning and personalization that experts have been talking about. 

But Tharp said it’s important for travel companies to start experimenting now and adjusting based on feedback. 

“Every experience is not going to be perfect. Having human-in-the-loop feedback and being able to help tune the responses and really suit things to your brand voice is important,” Tharp said. “You don’t want to wait until everything’s perfect and a competitor has a really market-moving-type experience. You want to be out there learning as you go.” 

Weiss added that the tool will be there for those who really want to try it, but it won’t disrupt the experience for those who want to continue searching and booking as they currently do. 

“Some users have great desire to be part of very early developments and are willing to accept lots of glitches in exchange for some advantages and the chance for their feedback to actually help shape the future of the product,” he said. 

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Tags: artificial intelligence , future of lodging , gemini , google , google cloud , google gemini , ihg

Photo credit: Pictured: A King Premium Bay room with a balcony at Hotel Indigo Panama City Marina, which opened in 2023 in Panama City’s historic waterfront district. IHG Hotels & Resorts

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• National Media Release

CBP Releases March 2024 Monthly Update

WASHINGTON — U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) released operational statistics today for March 2024. CBP monthly reporting can be viewed on CBP’s Stats and Summaries webpage .

“CBP - in coordination with our partners across the Federal government as well as foreign partners - continues to take significant actions to disrupt criminal networks amidst unprecedented hemispheric migration activity,” said Troy A. Miller, Senior Official Performing the Duties of the Commissioner. “Encounters at our southern border are lower right now, but we remain prepared for changes, continually managing operations to respond to ever-shifting transnational criminal activities and migration patterns.”

CBP continues to work closely with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to quickly process individuals encountered at the border and remove those who do not establish a legal basis to remain in the United States, delivering strengthened consequences promulgated by the Circumvention of Lawful Pathways rule and its associated measures. From May 12, 2023 to April 3, 2024, DHS has removed or returned over 660,000 individuals, the vast majority of whom crossed the southwest border, including more than 102,000 individual family members. The majority of all individuals encountered at the southwest border over the past three years have been removed, returned, or expelled. Total removals and returns since mid-May exceed removals and returns in every full fiscal year since 2011. 

Below are key operational statistics for CBP’s primary mission areas in March 2024. View all CBP statistics online. 

Ensuring Border Security and Managing Migration 

CBP continues to expeditiously process and remove individuals who do not have a legal basis to remain in the country. We are working together with our domestic and foreign partners to jointly disrupt irregular migration across the region, offering safe, orderly, and lawful pathways for intending migrants and taking action against ruthless smugglers who continue to spread falsehoods and show disregard for the safety and well-being of vulnerable migrants. We are also working alongside U.S. government partners to target transnational criminal organizations and smugglers who take advantage of and profit from migrants and taking new measures to stop individuals from exploiting traditional travel methods for migration.

In March 2024, the U.S. Border Patrol recorded 137,480 encounters between ports of entry along the southwest border.  In March, encounters between ports of entry along the southwest border were 45% lower than in December 2023 and 16% lower than March 2023.

CBP had a total of 189,372 encounters along the southwest border in March 2024, including U.S. Border Patrol encounters between ports of entry, as well as individuals who presented themselves at ports of entry (including those with CBP One™ appointments, detailed further below).

CBP continually analyzes and responds to changes in migration patterns, particularly irregular migration outside of lawful pathways and border crossings. We work with our federal and international partners to combat human smuggling. The fact remains: the United States continues to enforce immigration law, and those without a legal basis to remain will be removed. Migrants attempting to enter without authorization are subject to removal under Title 8 authorities.

The U.S. Border Patrol has undertaken significant efforts in recent years to expand capacity to aid and rescue individuals in distress. To prevent the loss of life, CBP initiated a Missing Migrant Program in 2017 that locates noncitizens reported missing, rescues individuals in distress, and reunifies decedents’ remains with their families in the border region. In March, the U.S. Border Patrol conducted 439 rescues, a 77% increase from January 2024. This brings the FY 2024 total rescues to 2,488 . 

View more migration statistics and rescues statistics .  

CBP One™ App   

The CBP One™ mobile application remains a key component of DHS’s efforts to incentivize noncitizens to use lawful, safe, humane, and orderly pathways and processes. Generally, noncitizens who cross between the ports of entry or who present themselves at a port of entry without making a CBP One™ appointment are subject to the Circumvention of Lawful Pathways rule. This rule presumes asylum ineligibility for those who fail to use lawful processes, with certain exceptions. DHS encourages migrants to utilize lawful processes, rather than having migrants take the dangerous journey to cross unlawfully between the ports of entry, which also carries consequences under Title 8.

The CBP One™ app allows noncitizens throughout central or northern Mexico who lack documents sufficient for admission to the United States to schedule an appointment and remain in place until presenting at a preferred port of entry for their appointment, reducing migrants’ need to crowd into immediate border areas. Use of the CBP One™ app to schedule appointments at ports of entry has increased CBP’s capacity to process migrants more efficiently and orderly while cutting out unscrupulous smugglers who endanger and profit from vulnerable migrants.

In March, CBP processed 44,000 individuals through appointments at ports of entry utilizing advanced information submitted in CBP One™. Since the appointment scheduling function in CBP One™ was introduced in January 2023 through the end of March 2024, more than 547,000 individuals have successfully scheduled appointments to present at ports of entry using CBP One™ instead of risking their lives in the hands of smugglers. The top nationalities who have been processed are Venezuelan, Haitian, and Mexican.

A percentage of daily available appointments are allocated to the earliest registered CBP One™ profiles, so noncitizens who have been trying to obtain appointments for the longest time are prioritized. CBP is continually monitoring and evaluating the application to ensure its functionality and guard against bad actors. 

CHNV Parole Processes

On January 5, 2023, DHS announced processes providing certain Cubans, Haitians, and Nicaraguans, who have a supporter in the United States, undergo and clear robust security vetting, and meet other eligibility criteria, to come to the United States in a safe, orderly, and lawful way. These processes were built on the success of the process for Venezuelans established in October 2022; they are publicly available online, and DHS has been providing regular updates on their use to the public. This is part of the Administration’s strategy to combine expanded lawful pathways with stronger consequences to reduce irregular migration and have kept hundreds of thousands of people from migrating irregularly.

Through the end of March 2024, 404,000 Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans arrived lawfully on commercial flights and were granted parole under these processes. Specifically, 86,000 Cubans, 168,000 Haitians, 77,000 Nicaraguans, 102,000 Venezuelans were vetted and authorized for travel; and 84,000 Cubans, 154,000 Haitians, 69,000 Nicaraguans, and 95,000 Venezuelans arrived lawfully and were granted parole.

Safeguarding Communities by Interdicting Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs

As the largest law enforcement agency in the United States, CBP is uniquely positioned to detect, identify, and seize illicit drugs before they enter our communities. CBP’s combination of interdiction and intelligence capabilities, complemented by its border search authorities, scientific services, non-intrusive inspection equipment, and canine detection teams, places it at the forefront of the U.S. government’s efforts to combat illicit fentanyl and other dangerous drugs.

CBP continues to conduct operations, including Operation Apollo, which target the smuggling of illicit fentanyl and other dangerous drugs. These operations leverage intelligence and investigative information to target drug traffickers’ supply chains and interdict items required in the production of illicit fentanyl, including precursor chemicals, pill presses and parts, movement of finished product, and illicit proceeds.

Nationwide in March, fentanyl seizures increased by 16.1% compared to February and heroin seizures by 19.6% .

To date in FY 2024 through the end of March, CBP has seized 10,026 pounds of fentanyl. CBP has stopped more fentanyl in the last two years than in the previous five years combined, and we continue to optimize our intelligence and field operations to stop these deadly substances from reaching American communities. 

Additional CBP drug seizure statistics can be found on the Drug Seizure Statistics webpage .

Facilitating Lawful Trade and Travel 

 As international travel continues to increase, CBP is leveraging technology to streamline efficiency and increase security at air and land ports of entry. Travelers are encouraged to utilize CBP’s mobile apps to enhance their travel experience, including the Global Entry Mobile Application and Mobile Passport Control , as well as new Global Entry Touchless Portals at nearly all international airports across the United States, which protect passenger privacy and expedite arrival processing by eliminating paper receipts.

Travelers arriving by air into the United States increased 13.9% from March 2023 to March 2024, passenger vehicles processed at ports of entry increased by 2.9% , and pedestrians arriving by land at ports of entry increased 10.8% over the same period.  

CBP works diligently with the trade community and port operators to ensure that merchandise is cleared as efficiently as possible and to strengthen international supply chains and improve border security. In March 2024, CBP processed more than 2.8 million entry summaries valued at more than $275 billion , identifying estimated duties of nearly $6.2 billion to be collected by the U.S. government. In March, trade via the ocean environment accounted for 39.67% of the total import value, followed by air, truck, and rail.

View more travel statistics , and trade statistics . 

Protecting Consumers, Eradicating Forced Labor from Supply Chains, and Promoting Economic Security     

CBP continues to lead U.S. government efforts to eliminate goods from the supply chain made with forced labor from the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China. In March, CBP stopped 749 shipments valued at more than $32 million for further examination based on the suspected use of forced labor.

Intellectual property rights violations continue to put America’s innovation economy at risk. Counterfeit and pirated goods threaten the competitiveness of U.S. businesses, the livelihoods of American workers, and the health and safety of consumers.

Consumers are encouraged to be alert to the dangers of counterfeit goods especially when shopping online as they support criminal activity, hurt American businesses, and often have materials or ingredients that can pose serious health and safety risks. Every year CBP seizes millions of counterfeit products worth billions of dollars had they been genuine. In March, CBP seized 1,633 shipments that contained counterfeit goods valued at more than $384 million . More information about CBP’s intellectual property rights enforcement is available at https://www.cbp.gov/trade .

CBP is on the frontline of textiles and trade agreements enforcement, combating textile imports that are not compliant with U.S. trade laws. Protecting the domestic textile industry and American consumers is vital to U.S. national security, health care, and economic priorities. Toward this end, CBP is intensifying its targeting and enforcement efforts to increase and expedite the prosecution of illegal customs practices. CBP’s efforts include de minimis compliance, forced labor enforcement, cargo compliance, regulatory audits, and public awareness. This month DHS announced an enhanced strategy to combat illicit trade and level the playing field for the American textile industry, which accounts for over 500,000 U.S. jobs and is critical for our national security. The plan details the actions CBP and Homeland Security Investigations will take to hold perpetrators accountable for customs violations, and safeguard the American textile industry.

View more UFLPA enforcement statistics , and intellectual property rights enforcement statistics. 

Defending our Nation’s Agricultural System  

 Through targeting, detection, and interception, CBP agriculture specialists work to prevent threats from entering the United States.  

CBP issued 7,105 emergency action notifications for restricted and prohibited plant and animal products entering the United States in March 2024. CBP conducted 106,410 positive passenger inspections and issued 841 civil penalties and/or violations to the traveling public for failing to declare prohibited agriculture items.   

View more agricultural enforcement statistics . 

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the unified border agency within the Department of Homeland Security charged with the comprehensive management, control, and protection of our nation’s borders, combining customs, immigration, border security, and agricultural protection at and between official ports of entry.

• United Airlines

Earn and spend Skywards Miles on United Airlines flights to over 300 cities across Central and South America, Asia, Australia, Europe and Africa.

United Airlines operates 4,500 daily flights from its domestic hubs in Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Newark/New York, San Francisco and Washington, D.C.

Earn Skywards Miles

Book with United Airlines and enter your Emirates Skywards membership number to earn up to 1.5 Skywards Miles per mile flown. The number of Skywards Miles you’ll earn depends on your class of travel, fare type and distance flown.

Spend Skywards Miles

Spend Skywards Miles on United Airlines flights across their network starting at 8,000 Miles. 

To book a flight using Skywards Miles with United Airlines, click on Spend now (Opens page in the same tab) , choose Book Classic Rewards Flight and select search partner flights only. You will then be able to check the availability of flights and use your Miles at checkout. Alternatively, let us know your trip details on Live Chat (Opens page in the same tab) and one of our consultants will assist you right away

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You can earn Skywards Miles on United Airlines– or United Express–operated flights. Miles cannot be earned on other airlines’ codeshare flights.

Accrual levels for Skywards members traveling on flights marketed and operated by United Airlines

*F, I , X are ineligible

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*S, D, N, Z, P, G, F, A are ineligible

To claim missing Skywards Miles for flights completed within the last six months, provide your flight details using Live Chat .

Spending Miles

Spend Skywards Miles on United Airlines flights across their network starting at 8,000 Miles. Check the table below for the number of Miles you need for a one-way reward flight. You’ll need twice the number of Miles for a return reward flight.

Reward tickets are subject to availability.

Rewards are only valid on United Airlines– or United Express–operated flights with the flight code UA

Skywards Miles needed as stated are for direct flights only. Where no direct service is available, two or more rewards may be required.

Reward flights can be booked for both one‑way and round‑trip travel.

Reward ticket coupons cannot be used out of sequence.

All flights must be confirmed when Skywards Miles are redeemed. Wait-lists are not permitted.

Reward tickets are valid for 12 months from the original date of issue, with a maximum stay of three months.

Reward values are exclusive of taxes, fuel surcharge and other charges. Taxes and other charges must be paid separately.

Children and infants occupying a seat and traveling on reward tickets will need to redeem the same number of Skywards Miles as an adult member. Infant rewards are not permitted.

Other restrictions apply.

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