Should You Opt for a Travel Companion?
Traveling solo is on the rise. Just a little over ten-percent of all travelers are going on their adventure without a partner (one-third of them will be between the ages of 18-34*). Why? Usually because they are unable to find someone to commit to the trip; but for many others, it is a conscious choice.
Extended travel, however, can be a very isolating experience if you are alone. While there may be times you enjoy this solitude, other times you may like the company of a travel companion. There are several advantages to traveling with another person.
- Safety - it can be a real advantage in a public area to be able to ask your companion to watch your luggage while you use the facilities, stand in a line, etc. If you like to venture out for night life, "safety in numbers" can ring true.
- Price - there can be price advantages to traveling with others. For instance, traveling as two or more persons entitles you to reductions in Eurail fares. Moreover, two in a hotel room is definitely cheaper than one.
- Companionship - being able to discuss your day with another person or laugh over a glass of wine can increase the level of enjoyment of your trip.
Keep in mind, however, that there can also be disadvantages to companion travel. Most of these stem from choosing the wrong companion or not having sufficient communication with your companion up front. Here is a checklist of issues to think about and discuss with potential travel companions.
- Are your itineraries compatible? Given both of your desired travel destinations does it make sense to join forces for all or part of your trip?
- Do you have compatible life habits? Do you each smoke/not smoke? Like to stay out late? Like to spend the day sight seeing or reading a book in your room?
- Are your budgets compatible? If one of you wants to rough it out in a hostel while the other wants to experience 4 star hotels you will have problems.
- How much independence do you each prefer? You may want to do your own thing in the day and just touch base for breakfast or you may want to share all of your experiences. Talk it out up front!
The most important thing to keep in mind is that
up front communication will be the key to searching for and choosing a great
travel companion.