Matador Original Series

it's smarter to travel in group

12 Reasons It's Better to Travel in a Group

‘Group travel’ has become a byword for the lazy, frightened, and inexperienced traveler. It conjures the stereotype of a ‘packaged’ experience — a commodity — letting tourists off the hook from the ‘burden’ of independent travel.

For a long time I was an independent travel snob. A lone wolf, a headstrong, know-it-all, adventure-and-backstreet addict, who could think of nothing worse than arriving in a small village in Peru in a shiny white tour bus and being ushered like livestock through a local market.

But a recent group tour in the Peruvian Amazon caused me to ponder: Might travel experiences be better shared among a small group of like-minded individuals? Here are 12 reasons why the answer is yes.

1. You’ll gain valuable local knowledge.

Two people making food

Laughing up a storm on a group food tour. Siem Reap Province, Cambodia.

In my 14 years of traveling, I have never regretted hiring a guide at a heritage site or for a nature trek. The expertise of a good local guide is priceless. From pinpointing off-road diners, music venues, reading spots, gardens, and beaches, to having stories to complement each location, experienced group leaders have evolved tourism from ‘ticking off’ sightseeing boxes to a more interactive cultural experience.

After four years of working in Cambodia as an anthropologist, I had bypassed hiring a guide at local sites, thinking I was enough of an ‘expert’ on the region. It wasn’t until my family came to visit that I hired a local tour company. I was astonished at the magnitude of in-depth historical information I learnt about Khmer culture, family life, and customs from a local’s perspective.

2. You can save money.

Paying up front for group travel can be daunting but may actually save you some coin in the long run. In 2006, my little brother and I decided to deviate from our ‘milk run’ route through Malaysia — Kuala Lumpur to the Perhentian Islands — and make a pit-stop in the Cameron Highlands. We were thrifty students in those days; traveling independently meant we could cut corners and keep our budget in check. But after a few too many karaoke-beers in KL’s Chinatown, Chris and I stumbled into the office of a tour company.

I was adamant this was not the path for us, convinced we were about to get swindled. Chris told me to hear the salesperson out. After punching in various calculations, I swallowed my pride and admitted that we would save 30% by traveling with a group. The package included transfers, meals, accommodations, and activities, sold collectively at a reduced cost. Group travel harnesses the power of buying in bulk, and spreads the cost of guides, ground transportation, and other items across the whole group, giving you more experience per dollar.

3. You can relax.

Independent travel can be a worrisome job. Whenever you venture off the beaten track to countries where visas are complicated and access difficult — especially when you have limited time — organized group travel can be the most sensible route to follow. Navigating red tape on your own can be exhausting, especially when you don’t know the language or customs.

On the Southeast Asian leg of a one-year sabbatical, my partner and I joined an educational group tour exploring indigenous communities in Northern Laos. The company negotiated our visas and transfers at the Thai/Laos border. We received VIP treatment, skipped lines, and sailed through immigration. The hassle of organizing transport and negotiating on transfer rates was eradicated, allowing us to actually enjoy the place.

4. You’ll maximize your precious time off.

People riding camels

Camel trek through the deserts of Northern Rajasthan, India.

Vacation time is a commodity. Packing in Rajasthan, Delhi, the Taj Mahal, coastal Goa; partaking in local holidays; and dealing with transport and seasonal weather on a quick trip to India would be hard to coordinate without a guide organizing it. Although I have traveled extensively in this region, I seem to craft these logistically impossible itineraries that work in opposition to my limited travel time.

During my last trip I popped into the local tourism office in Delhi to get a free pen and gather some advice on transport. I was welcomed with a chorus of laughter. “You want to do what and go where? Do you know how big our country is, lady?” I pulled my shoulders back, handed the tourism official my map scrawled with my red-penned route, and asked him to “please make it possible.” He dismissed me and waved me in the direction of an international group tour company office. And thank goodness he did.

Along with the coordination of transport and accommodation, the group organizer also injected my itinerary with an adventure package through Rajasthan and Nepal. My time in the region was so limited that without this aid I would have never reached Nepal, trekked to Annapurna, camped in the Indian sand dunes, or tracked Bengal tigers.

5. You can maintain a sense of balance.

When time is tight and you’re attempting to check off a long list of activities, having a sound itinerary is vital. Tour groups have the ability to balance engagement in activities and down time to a tee. Though most tours will cram in as many experiences as possible, they still retain a degree of flexibility for those who need extra R&R and those who want some solo time.

After my big move to New York this year, a good friend came for a visit. The trip was last minute and there was little to no time to research. Evenings together in Brooklyn became stressed, with Caroline concerned she’d missed sights that day. Rather than a relaxing holiday, she was bombarded with self-imposed pressure and had no equilibrium.

After some recent reflection, we discussed the potential benefits of using the services of tour companies during short trips. She observed, “At least (on a group tour) you can go to sleep at night, knowing that you’re not missing out, that the next day will be as exciting and fulfilling as the one before.”

6. You’ll share first-time experiences with someone else.

A person at Angkor

Partner in crime, James, exploring Angkor Wat.

Seeing a wonder of the world, tasting something new, reaching a goal, and watching a new culture unfold by yourself can — to be blunt — suck. I have traveled extensively through Cambodia alone. The first time I visited Angkor Wat, I went solo. I spent a lovely but lonely day, stopping strangers to ask them to take a classic ‘me and a temple’ photo.

I couldn’t help this nagging feeling that I was missing out. I returned to Angkor Wat four years later with my partner and basked in his smile and excitement as we cycled up to the first temple. Beaming in awe of this man-made wonder, he remarked, “Take a load of that, girl!” This memory makes me smile. Sharing a special moment with others is what travel is all about.

7. You can find a travel family.

When your crew is unable to travel with you, organized group travel presents a solution. My family have all been fortunate enough to travel extensively. When my mother recently asked my father if he would like to take a trip to Morocco, he replied with a dismissive grunt: “I am too tired dear.” A lone traveler for the first time at the age of 55, Mum packed her lens and journal and joined a food tour for a week.

Gorging on mutton tagine and dancing through the spice markets of Marrakech, she had a ball. We were all so proud of her. She took a leap of faith and ventured outside her comfort zone. She didn’t let fear or dislike of solo travel deter her from ticking an item off her bucket list; instead, she did so in the company of individuals with interests similar to her own.

8. You’ll practice patience.

Traveling with a group can be a selfless practice; you must share your space, deviate from your personal tempo, and move in synchronicity with others. Rather than seeing this an annoyance, it can be celebrated as a challenge.

A year ago I joined a group of detox-ers at a yoga retreat in Bali . Every morning we would rise before the sun and stroll down the cliffs to the water. I often changed my pace in order to enjoy varied conversation and to keep a few stragglers company. I realized that slowing down actually meant I listened more attentively and took in more of the surroundings. Practicing patience through group activities was a rewarding exercise for me.

9. You just might find love.

Water view in Bali

A cherished view in Bali.

“Do you like to travel?”

This was one of the first questions I used to ask potential suitors. It became a deal breaker if the response was no. My love for seeing the world and experiencing new cultures is part of my soul. I find that my energy levels and spirit soar when I’m out on the road, a realm where socially acceptable laws of attraction go out the window, granting you freedom to truly shine and be yourself.

Coupled with attributes common to those choosing group travel — such as a desire for exposure to differing cultures and a drive for adventure — it seems a no-brainer that this form of travel could spark romance.

10. You can more easily access challenging destinations.

There are certainly some destinations where it comes highly recommended you take a little help from experts. Trekking up Kilimanjaro or venturing to Everest Base Camp with all the logistics in hiring a Sherpa / porter team would be near impossible without the backup of an experienced trekking organisation.

In 2004, a group of us Scots embarked on a trek to Kilimanjaro in memory of Hazel Scott Aiton, a family member who had passed away in an accident six months prior. The journey, supported by the Scottish public, recruited a team of her mates, friends of the family, and the clan. A pick’n’mix of backgrounds, fitness levels, climbing ability, and travel experience, our team was a comical sight! As amateur climbers, we hired support from professional guides. In challenging terrain, there is no shame in employing the services of a tour company — in fact, it’s just common sense.

11. You’ll meet different kinds of people.

People at Kilimanjaro

The family clan ready to take on Kilimanjaro!

People who travel in groups are bound to connect with others who they would never have given the time to at home. Characters we meet and learn about as we venture outside our familiar home environment can significantly enhance understanding, tolerance, and humanity, both nationally and globally.

I was recently fortunate to be invited on a press trip to the Amazon Jungle in Peru. One of the most rewarding parts of this experience was meeting and enjoying conversation with such a wonderful range of people, all with differing backgrounds, cultures, and travel experiences. Making human connections with people of other cultures and beliefs helps to build mutual respect and good faith. Personally, I consider this the main value of travel and a major component for building more peaceful communities.

12. You can make friends for life.

it's smarter to travel in group

Discover Matador

Adventure travel, train travel, national parks, beaches and islands, ski and snow.

The Complete Guide to Group Travel

By Stephanie Wu

Group Travel

The paella was a breaking point. I was in the middle of the most complicated group trip I’d ever planned—13 people, flying in from six different cities, all gathering in a seven-bedroom villa in Andalucia . We were there, ostensibly, on a joint 30th-birthday trip, a group vacation we’d been planning for years . As high school classmates, some of us had known each other for decades, and the group had grown to include significant others and even a not-yet-announced pregnancy.

It would have been an ambitious trip no matter how many people were attending. We had chosen Spain as a middle ground between North America and East Asia, where my friends and I had scattered after college graduation. We were basing ourselves in Ronda, but rented several cars and planned day trips to see the bigger cities—Seville, Granada, Cordoba. But, inevitably, the dreamy idea of bringing us together for a milestone trip took on a life of its own: destination suggestions ranged from Croatia to Marrakech , and a total of 26 people were invited at some point. And I was wrangling it all— finding a villa , planning activities, making restaurant reservations, confirming the rental cars , and generally making sure it all went smoothly. Thankfully, I had some help: a villa specialist , plus a subset of friends I could count on for strong opinions and quick decisions. I took on this role naturally—and my friends were great about checking in to see if I needed any organizational help whatsoever. But generally, it was up to me to shape the flow of the trip while accommodating every travel personality, from super-planner to totally blasé.

Like every group vacation I’ve ever been on, our Spain trip had its ups and downs. On the first night, my head spinning while trying to keep track of a group text chain that had lost all sense of reason, I found myself struggling to keep my eyes open. Even though I was seeing my friends for the first time in a while, enjoying a home-cooked, multi-course meal as we shared exciting news (A new job! An international move! That pregnancy!), all I wanted to do was lie down after a very long travel day of planes, trains, and cars. On day two, I came downstairs to a breakfast spread of eggs, cheese, meats, and bread (there’s nothing like traveling with someone who likes to wake up early and prepare breakfast), and proceeded to try and block out the morning noise—questions about what to wear, what to bring, where the chargers were—way too much before I'd had my morning caffeine.

I hung back a bit that day during the group tour, scanning the crowd to make sure all my friends were having fun. Did they like the tour guide we had booked? Were they tired and jet lagged? Was the lunch reservation at an appropriate time? That night at dinner, a random spot we found within walking distance of our villa, I was happy to let someone else take the lead in ordering for the group, since the menu was only printed in Spanish. And then, the next night, we were so excited when our paella was delivered. It was in a massive pan the size of my wingspan, and took two people to carry. The saffron-infused aroma was coming through the aluminum sheets, and we were all crowded around the stove, awaiting the big reveal—until we uncovered the aluminum and realized they hadn’t seen my note about dietary restrictions, and my friends with shellfish sensitivities would be eating leftovers instead.

At its best, travel has a way of making every daily anxiety feel absolutely insignificant. And at its worst, even the tiniest mishaps, like the wrong ingredients in the paella, feel like the end of the world. This is even more the case on group trips, when you’re dealing with people of different ages, needs, and activity levels, or traveling with a group of friends of friends, where you’re close with some and not quite as comfortable with others. When you’re trying to accommodate everyone’s travel wishes, but somehow end up pleasing nobody. And of course, that moment when you realize you’re going to need a vacation to recover from this vacation.

That’s not to say that I didn’t have a great time in Spain. When I look back, I think about the one night we picked to be our joint birthday dinner. We were all gathered around restaurant table, 13 of us trying to blow the candles out together, each dissolving into giggles at different times. And of the one day we smartly split up into smaller groups—one group exploring the town, the other hanging by the pool—and then gathered together at night to share the highlights of our day. And how our long car rides led to long conversations, which was a way for me to really get to know my friend’s significant other—something that would have been nearly impossible otherwise, as they live in Toronto and we only see them a few times a year.

It always takes a few days for me to settle into vacation mode, but this time around, I had the added stress of worrying about everything that could go wrong, when a group of people who became friends at 18 meet again to travel together a dozen years later. I needed those moments of joy, of spontaneous laughter, of lounging around in silence, to be reminded of why we were all together in the first place—and why a few years earlier, we had known that we needed to prioritize setting aside time in our schedules to find a week that worked for all of us.

I think about how, during the vacation, we fantasized about what the next reunion would look like. Would we alternate continents? Would we take a cruise? Would we bring partners and kids along for our 40th birthday trip? At one point, someone brought up making it an annual trip —but the panicked look on my face might have nipped that suggestion in the bud immediately.

On Location: Shot All Over Italy, Netflix's 'Ripley' Takes Us to Capri, Atrani, and More

Emily Zemler

53 Best Gifts for Women Who Love to Travel

Lauren Dana Ellman

How Bodø Has Become Norway's New Culture Capital

Group travel requires a herculean amount of coordination and compromise. But there’s something about having a group of people in the same place at the same time that can give every trip that once-in-a-lifetime feeling—an adrenaline rush that I only get when I’m traveling. I got to see a new side of my friends, who I haven’t lived in the same city as since I was 18—how some woke up early to check in at the office, how others were unflappable through hours of traffic and confusing driving directions, and how the parents-to-be soaked up the last few months before they became a family of three. That’s the magic of a group trip—you get to see your travel companions out of their daily element, in their vacation selves. And, if you can manage to stay calm throughout the planning process, the truth is, that’s often our best selves.

Why we built this guide

Group trips don’t all have to be stressful before they get good. If you’re reading this, it’s likely because you’ve been tasked to be the planner, at least in some part, for an upcoming trip. Here at Condé Nast Traveler , we embrace group travel in all forms, from big family vacations to a core group of friends that always travels together to traveling alone in a larger group. And we put this package together to help you take care of the big things—from where to stay and how to save money with points and miles —to the little ones, like how one app can change the group travel game.

We’re also letting you in on our best-kept secret, for when it’s time to throw your hands up and let the travel gods take over: Book a cruise . It’s what I did for my recent bachelorette party, where we paid just over $300 per person for 3 nights in the Caribbean, unlimited food and drinks, and endless entertainment. Okay, there was still a little planning, but it was limited to where we’d eat lunch on port day and whether we had brought enough sunscreen for our kayaking trip. As the de facto planner, I never had to think about signing a bill , or making sure everybody was entertained. I simply soaked it all in as my friends congregated in various combinations and got to know each other in vacation mode. It was the best gift I could have given myself—second to this guide, of course.

Four golden rules for every group trip

If you’re dealing with noncommittal guests, make everyone pay a deposit.

Don’t overschedule: plan the days as loosely as possible.

Come together for at least one meal a day.

Yes, everyone must download Splitwise.

How to plan a multi-generation family trip

6 Rules for Planning a Surprise Vacation

Everything you need to know to surprise your loved ones with a vacation, from a creative reveal to an itinerary that works.

Why I Actually Really Love My Massive Family Vacations

One good tip: You don't have to be together every. single. second.

18 Summers: The Ultimate Guide to Not Wasting a Single Vacation With Your Kids

How to make every year count.

The Complete Guide to Family Travel

Vacation ideas, flying tips, gear we're obsessed with, and true stories from very honest parents.

My Partner and I Never Have Sex on Trips Anymore

It's possible to prioritize intimacy even when you're traveling with a group.

How to plan a trip with friends

9 Spring Break Destinations for Grown-Ups

Why should college kids have all the fun?

My Travel Companion Has Anxiety. How Can I Help?

Tips to make the trip comfortable for everyone.

We’re All Overlooking the Easiest Group Trip Ever: The Cruise

A stress-free way to visit multiple destinations, eat great food, and even—gasp—find time to relax? Sign us up.

In Defense of Taking the Same Group Trip Over and Over Again

Sometimes the perfect trip is the one you’ve already taken.

This Home-Share Network Is Designed Specifically for Women

Golightly wants women to feel safer in home-shares.

Tips for traveling in a large group

For Black Travelers, Group Trips Provide a Way to Connect

A rising number of Black group trips are fulfilling needs that the rest of the industry ignores. 

This App Solved My Biggest Problem With Group Travel

Splitwise makes all my group trips go smoothly.

Everything You Need to Plan Crowd-Pleasing Meals for Your Group Trip

You're going to need to take a break from eating out at some point.

Where to Look When You Need a Group Trip Space That's Not an Airbnb or a Hotel

Find the answer to all your group work trips and bachelorette party dilemmas.

How to Save Money on a Group Trip Using Credit Card Points and Miles

It takes a bit of planning, but the savings are worth it.

How to Plan a Successful Group Trip: Travelogue Podcast

Without breaking the bank, breaking off friendships, or wasting vacation days.

Confessions of a Group Tour Guide

Taking groups of Americans through Italy was a true education in human nature.

How to Go on Vacation With Your Coworkers

Curious what it's like to hit the beach with your colleagues?

Where to stay with a group

12 Beautiful Lake Houses You Can Rent on Airbnb

From extra-long docks to A-frames, these stellar lake houses are good for every season.

A Dreamy Desert Retreat Near Arizona's Saguaro National Park

A Southwestern-inspired five-room home in the middle of the desert.

13 Best Airbnbs With Private Pools You'll Never Want to Leave

From Cabo to Cape Town, we'd rent these Airbnbs just for the pools.

The Coolest Treehouse Airbnbs You Can Rent Around the World

For your next Swiss Family Robinson–inspired vacation.

Best Airbnbs for Massive Family Reunions

Whether you're the Hawaii, Disney World, or Grand Canyon type.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

  • Skip to main content
  • Keyboard shortcuts for audio player

Life Kit

  • Dear Life Kit
  • Life Skills

7 tips to help you keep the peace when traveling with a group

Friends stand on an observation deck on Senja Island, Norway. When traveling as a group, align your expectations ahead of time.

Going away together — as a couple or in a group — sounds exciting, but the cocktail of travel's inherent stresses and a group's personality differences can sometimes combust. There are ways, however, to have a good time and deepen your connections. We mined conflict coaches, therapists and group tour guides for their top tips on navigating the social dynamics of traveling together.

1. Align your expectations ahead of time.

Agree on the why of the trip, and then go from there. "Have a fun conversation over a meal about what you want this trip to be," says Priya Parker , a conflict counselor and the author of The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters .

Ask yourselves, why are we going on this trip? To relax or to work? To learn about history, to reunite a family, to conquer a physical challenge? Talk about the goal and intentions.

Call it what you want — pre-trip counseling, setting up a social contract, level setting — this is all about anticipating potential issues in advance. "One of the core elements of conflict resolution is you imagine future problematic scenarios, and you ask people about them ahead of time," says Parker.

Beyond The Grind: Find Meaning In Travel — Abroad Or In Your Backyard

Beyond The Grind: Find Meaning In Travel — Abroad Or In Your Backyard

One often-overlooked issue is how the group will make decisions.

"You can decide based on consensus," Parker says. " 'We'll go with however the most tired person is feeling.' Or, 'We'll go with whoever is willing to foot the bill for everybody else.' You can be playful around these decisions." Having a template decided in advance can stave off issues while traveling.

2. Set boundaries for how you'll spend your time.

If you're an introvert, plan to carve out your me time, so the trip doesn't become overwhelming and miserable.

"I always do this," says psychotherapist and self-described introvert Lisa Kays . "I look at, like, how much group time? Where do I get my alone time? Figure out [in advance] what are the things I'd want to do alone, and if I am traveling with somebody, letting them know that. It's not personal at all. This is something I'd be doing even if I was hanging out with my favorite celebrity."

It can be easy to get caught up in people pleasing and being polite, says Kays, but if you're not getting what you need, things can start to deteriorate. You'll be a better travel companion if you're rested and recharged.

3. Have a mix of scheduled days and unscheduled days.

Some travelers like to plan every moment; others are more spontaneous and want to see where the mood takes them. Having a mix helps balance out a trip. "If you're going on a five-day trip, saying look, we're gonna have two days of downtime, or two days where it's unscheduled, but then let the planners do their thing!" Kays says.

4. Don't forget your grown-up lovey.

"I think that we can underestimate sometimes the stress that goes on when we're traveling," says Kays. "Even if you're having a great time, it is a bit of an assault on your body and your mind."

Bring something from your home routine to help you stay sane on the road — anything from a song you like to hear to a few yoga poses you always do in the morning.

Planning a trip? Here's how to pack like a pro

Planning A Trip? Pack And Plan Like A Pro

Ask yourself, "What's my transitional object that I could take with me, to make myself feel better," Kays says. "And how can you bring it with you so that you don't lose touch with your at-home self."

5. Confront any social issues that arise head-on, with honesty.

Don't avoid conflict in order to be polite, and don't let "unhealthy peace" fester.

"Unhealthy peace is peace that's not really peace," says Parker. "It's where ... if a stranger was looking at you, the stranger would think, 'oh, everything's fine here. They seem to be enjoying themselves. Everybody's kind and polite, and this looks like a really great group.' But underneath, everybody's simmering and seething."

Defuse tension by talking out any social issues honestly.

Want to make all your arguments win-win? Stop fighting and start brainstorming

Want to make all your arguments win-win? Stop fighting and start brainstorming

"The deepest element of conflict resolution is an invitation to make the implicit explicit," Parker says. When there's unhealthy peace, usually everyone in the group can recognize it's there. So be unafraid to bring it up. Maybe by cracking a joke, or just asking to do a check-in to see how everyone's feeling.

"I know that groups recover better and can deal when somebody says, like, guys, is something weird?" says Kays. "Usually everybody's like, 'Oh, thank God, somebody said it.' "

6. Couples drama doesn't get to dominate the group dynamic.

We all love love, and people fall in love while traveling. People get into cliques, too. If pairs or triads break out, maintain an inclusive group with a rule: Your romantic drama doesn't get to dominate the dynamic.

"You can certainly encourage some norms and behaviors and expectations around how it gets dealt with in the group because it can be annoying," Kays says.

If drama does arise, Kays suggests asking the people involved to discuss it with a friend who isn't on the trip over the phone so that gossip doesn't impact the group dynamics.

7. Be friends enough to forgive.

"Generally conflict tends to get more awkward the longer it goes on," says Kays. So try to address conflict when it arises. "It's a brave thing to do. It's a hard thing to do," she says.

Then you can focus on making the kind of memories you'll look back on fondly.

  • Life Kit: Life Skills
  • Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

travel tips

Traveling With a Group? Here’s How to Plan and Stay Friends

Tips, tricks and tools to help in planning your next group getaway, allowing for everyone to focus on the fun, not the logistics.

it's smarter to travel in group

By Lauren Sloss

From bachelor parties to family reunions, group trips are opportunities to explore the world with the people you love. They also have the potential to be planning messes, with scheduling, decision-making and sorting-out finances coming together in a seemingly endless and possibly disappointing snarl. But they don’t have to be. We’ve rounded up tips, tricks and tools to help plan your next group getaway, hopefully allowing everyone to focus on the fun, not the logistics.

Understand your group dynamic

The first step in planning a successful trip: Ensure the travelers will get along well together. “Is it a group of friends, or is it a couple of families traveling together? Is it a multigenerational trip with a big age range?” said Kate Doty, managing director of premier access at the adventure travel company, Geographic Expeditions ( GeoEx ). “These factors all come into play with activity level, comfort zones and rooming.”

Understanding individual roles within the group is big, too. “There will be someone in the group who will be the natural leader,” Ms. Doty said. “Be candid about this! Find opportunities to talk through these topics with humor and lightness.”

Group dynamics can play a big role in determining where to stay. Families might prefer the ease and facilities of a hotel or resort. Big groups of friends might opt to search through home rental sites like VRBO and Airbnb . Ali Killam, Airbnb’s consumer trends expert, recommends creating a shared wish list and inviting group members to add listings and vote on favorites.

“Determine what’s most important to the group when it comes to accommodations — a pool, a big kitchen, proximity to town, the beach — and filter the search accordingly,” she said.

Shared apps are vital

Once you’ve decided on the group, figure out when everyone is available. Doodle allows users to create a poll online of possible travel dates and then vote on preferred options. Tried and true Google Sheets is a decent way to organize options for destinations, housing and more in a spreadsheet and track when and how people will be traveling.

Katrina Kagan, the partnerships and marketing associate at the weekly newsletter Girls’ Night In is the designated planner in her group of friends, who try to take group trips at least once a year. She created a trip planning spreadsheet that gathers travel details, expenses, meals and more for the purpose; her colleagues were so impressed that they shared it with the newsletter’s 150,000 subscribers.

“If you’re a planner, like I am, this spreadsheet is a way to get organized enough that you can feel personally at ease during your trip. Why not take half an hour beforehand to get organized?” she said. “If you’re not a natural planner and are looking to step into that role, this can be a starting point.”

Beyond the spreadsheet, TripIt is an itinerary-building app that allows you to collect details for flights, hotels, car rentals and more into a master itinerary — the app’s Inner Circle feature allows you to share your itinerary with other members of your group.

Other ways to communicate, beyond unwieldy email chains: set up a private Facebook or WhatsApp group to send messages both while planning and when traveling. Google Docs make for a shared repository of events and suggestions and other vital information. And, if you plan on Instagramming your travels, a fun group hashtag is a nice way to keep track of the memories.

Figure out finances

Tracking expenses is doable via spreadsheet, but still requires a fair amount of work to properly divvy up shares and figure out who owes what. Splittr and Splitwise are popular mobile free apps for tracking, prorating and ultimately balancing expenses, available offline and in multiple currencies.

“I was traveling a lot with friends, and I was the one who did the spreadsheet after the trip. I thought, ‘This should be easier!’” said the Splittr founder and developer, Raphael Wichmann.

Splitwise was originally created with roommates in mind, but translates to the travel space — it also integrates directly with the payment app Venmo, allowing you to make payments and receive money directly.

“We’re looking to helps reduce stress and awkwardness when it comes to finances,” said Jon Bittner, the Splitwise chief executive. Mr. Bittner suggests creating a group as soon as the first big expense, like a house or hotel rooms, has been booked, and continue adding expenses as you go.

Looking to treat your friends or family to free rides during your trip? Uber Events allows you to set up a code to cover transportation for your crew, with options to customize the time window, location and pickup radius (we particularly like this option for weddings and family reunions).

Getting group deals

Investigating group deals may be a bit time-consuming but the research can save you money.

Amtrak recently launched Share Fares , which earns you greater discounts on tickets the more people you travel with. If booked at least three days in advance, this program can reduce ticket prices up to 35 percent for groups of four.

Brian Kelly, The Points Guy , has made a career out of understanding the intricacies of airline and credit card loyalty programs. On his site, he published a free article, the “ Ultimate Guide to Points, Pooling and Sharing ,” for applying airlines miles and credit card points to group travel.

To begin with, he warns about transferring points and suggests instead on combining them.

“Airlines will generally charge you one cent per point or mile to transfer, which negates the value,” he said. He also suggested savings could be had by taking a “look at your trip in terms of one-ways instead of round-trips, and look at it based on availability.” If flying together is a priority, consider letting members of your group with the most available points purchase individual legs of the trip. This allows for booking through multiple airlines, too.

Some domestic airlines offer perks for groups booking together , including discounted fares and flexible ticketing options (while other apps and services for booking group flights exist, we found they were neither streamlined nor consistently well reviewed).

In doubt? Leave it to the professionals

Mr. Kelly may be a points expert, but he decided to use a travel agent for a recent group trip to Iceland .

“The number of options when planning a trip can be overwhelming,” he said. And when one of his friends left a piece of luggage at the airport, the tour company was able to have it delivered to the group.

Not being responsible, he said, “felt like an actual vacation!”

Others are making similar decisions: A return to travel agents and advisers is on the rise. A recent report from the MMGY Global marketing agency noted a growing number of millennials, especially millennial families, planned to use travel agents for trip planning during 2018 and 2019.

Cece Drummond, the managing director of destinations and experiences of Virtuoso , a global travel adviser network, noted that V.I.P. treatment, better value and free benefits are some perks of using travel agencies.

“They can easily be frustration because there’s too much information available,” she said. “Our advisers can help sort and sift through that.”

52 PLACES AND MUCH, MUCH MORE Follow our 52 Places traveler, Sebastian Modak, on Instagram as he travels the world , and discover more Travel coverage by following us on Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our Travel Dispatch newsletter : Each week you’ll receive tips on traveling smarter, stories on hot destinations and access to photos from all over the world.

A Guide to Making Better Financial Moves

Making sense of your finances can be complicated. the tips below can help..

Credit card debt is rising, and shopping for a card with a lower interest rate can help you save money. Here are some things to know .

Whether you’re looking to make your home more energy-efficient, install solar panels or buy an electric car, this guide can help you save money and fight climate change .

Starting this year, some of the money in 529 college savings accounts can be used for retirement if it’s not needed for education. Here is how it works .

Are you trying to improve your credit profile? You can now choose to have your on-time rent payments reported to the credit bureaus  to enhance your score.

Americans’ credit card debt and late payments are rising, and card interest rates remain high, but many people lack a plan to pay down their debt. Here’s what you can do .

There are few challenges facing students more daunting than paying for college. This guide can help you make sense of it all .

  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to footer

Talk of The Town Travel

Your Vacation Awaits

Find Out Why It’s Smarter To Travel In Small Groups

July 3, 2021 by Roderick Thedorff

it's smarter to travel in group

Even before the pandemic, people were discovering how great it was to travel in small groups. After all small group tour operators take care of everything for you so there isn’t much planning to do other than packing your bags and taking time off of work. On top of that, with everyone being more concerned about their health and well being, not to mention physical distancing, small group travel can help give you more peace of mind. Here are a few reasons why travelling in small groups is the smart way to travel.

Let Them Do The Planning

Your tour company will handle everything for your trip. From transfers, hotels and activities, to customs, currency, and information, you are paying them to take care of it all. On top of that, the pandemic has made things even trickier, but once again, it’s their job to handle all the logistics. This allows you to travel worry-free and enjoy your vacation.

You Are Not Alone

When you chose to travel in a small group, you get a dedicated team helping you every steps of the way. No matter which company you chose to go with, you will find someone who can help you 24/7 with any problem that may pop up. It’s their job to make sure you are well taken care of, and are having the time of your life. Not only that, but travelling with a group is always safer than travelling alone.

Travel In Comfort

When you travel in a small group, you never have to worry about being on a crowded bus or visiting a jam packed tourist attraction. Not only does this make things more comfortable, but these days when physical distancing is important, it’s safer too.

You Get To See The Best

If you make all the plans by yourself, odds are you are going to miss something you don’t want to miss. When you travel as part of a small tour group, your operator will know all the best things to see and do wherever you go. They can help you uncover the hidden gems you might never have even dreamed about and help you get the most out of your trip. They will help you discover the real culture of the region, meet the people you should be meeting, and see the sites you should be seeing. This type of adventure goes beyond anything you will find in a tour book.

Stay Healthy

As we mentioned earlier, we are all thinking about our health and wellbeing these days. By travelling in a small group, you can be confident that you are being well looked over. The tour operators will take ever extra precaution to make sure you are being kept safe. They will also know the rules and regulations of the country you are visiting, and help you make sure you are following them.

You’ll Make New Friends

Whenever you travel you meet new people, some of which may be in your lives forever following the vacation. When you travel in a small group however, you are sure to meet like-minded people quicker and easier. You’ll make shared memories together that will last a lifetime, and on top of that you will have plenty of time to bond.

Facebook

  • Ask A Travel Agent
  • Become A Home Based Agent
  • Travel Entry Requirements
  • Travel & Health Insurance
  • Canada Visitors Insurance
  • Canadian Government Travel Advice

it's smarter to travel in group

5 Reasons Why It's Better to Travel in Groups

June 2, 2016

Group travel has many benefits...

1. You are less likely to be lunch for a dive bombing seagull, a hungry shark, or an anteater. See the video for how being in a group helps you avoid these unfortunate accidents.

2.  Can’t speak the language? At least you’ll be there with someone who can’t speak it either. Or maybe you'll be there with someone who has one of those super cool translation apps that you forgot to download.

3. Company! When you travel by yourself, it's easy to get bored. With a group, there are many options for conversation! We have some ideas for ice breakers: "Why do you love travel?" "Isn't travel great?!" "Who are you voting for?"

Actually, that last one may not be the best idea.

4. Put away that selfie stick! And no, not just because selfie sticks are a leading cause of tourist injuries. Now that you're traveling with someone, you can have them take the picture! 

5. If you get lost...there's someone else to blame. Or at least someone who can read a map, or figure out your phone's GPS. 

Ready to find your next group trip? Start your search below, or check out our Guide to Choosing a Tour Operator :  

How well do you know the world?

Gifts Card

Connect & Share

" 5 Reasons Why It's Better to Travel in Groups "

Popular posts

it's smarter to travel in group

15 Top Bucket List Destinations

it's smarter to travel in group

Best Tours & Trips to Ecuador & Galapagos Islands 2023

it's smarter to travel in group

10 Reasons Estonia Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List

it's smarter to travel in group

Top Tips for Planning a Trip to Machu Picchu

it's smarter to travel in group

Italy vs France: Which Travel Destination is Right For You?

Recent posts

it's smarter to travel in group

Top Travel Trends for 2024

it's smarter to travel in group

The BIG January Sales Are Here!

it's smarter to travel in group

10 Top Travel Destinations For 2024 - Where To Go Next!

it's smarter to travel in group

Steps to Become a Sustainable Superhero

Go Backpacking

Tips for Traveling in a Group: How To Plan a Trip With Friends

By: Author Eliza Jeffrey

Posted on Last updated: March 15, 2022

C'mon be honest, you have planned a trip with your friends around a zillion times in your imagination.

The places you want to explore, the puns you wish to make about being “tourists” in your own city, the bingo nights, the bar crawls—it's all planned and ready to go.

What about when it comes to putting your dream into action?

All those million-dollar ideas suddenly don't seem like enough, and you find yourself stuck on where to begin. 

In this article, I'll share tips for traveling in a group so you can plan a fun experience together.

Summit of Helvellyn in the UK (photo: Matt Heaton)

Table of Contents

Who Is On the List

Choose a destination, be clear about budget, a task for everyone on the group, get travel insurance, apps to the rescue, where's the first aid kit, download and pack your fun, the essentials to keep, tips for planning group travel.

First things first, mate! You need to know who you are planning this trip for. Is it just for the girls? The guys? A group of both?

Once that's clarified, you can start to get a feel for what kind of activities everyone would be interested in and what kind of budget you're working with.

If it's just the ladies, then a day of shopping and spa-ing might be in order. Maybe a golf or poker weekend would suffice if it's just the guys.

But if it's a group trip, you'll need to find some middle ground with which everyone can agree.

Be prepared for this one because it can get heated. You and your friends might have different ideas of what kind of trip you want to take.

Maybe you're more inclined toward a beach holiday in Bali with sunsets and cocktails in hand, while your bestie is looking for a more relaxing getaway in Gatlinburg condos with hot tubs.

Sit down and make a list of places everyone would like to visit. It'll help narrow it down, and eventually, you'll find a destination that will make everyone happy. If not, maybe it's time to travel in separate groups. Ouch!

We all have one or two such friends in our group who are always ready to splurge on a trip while the others are trying to save up.

It can get frustrating when you have to skimp and save only to end up at an overpriced resort.

So you should set a budget for the trip beforehand so that everyone can get an idea of the cost involved.

This way, your friend trying to save can also enjoy the journey without breaking the bank.

Speaking of expenses, one way to alleviate some of that financial pressure is by splitting costs evenly between all travelers . It could be anything from airfare and accommodation to food and activities.

It just takes a bit of organization before you leave and makes for less headache once you're there.

Backpacks (photo: S&B Vonlanthen)

It always sounds easier than it is, but your trip will be that much more enjoyable if you pack smartly. By this, we mean bringing only the essentials and clothes that can be easily mixed and matched.

No one enjoys lugging around a heavy backpack, especially if you're going to be doing a lot of walking.

It can be downright crazy and confusing to pick between your best dresses and your favorite shoes , but trust us—you won't need them.

And if you really can't bear to leave them behind, consider storing them at your accommodation instead of packing them in your bag.

Everyone in the group must be on board with the game plan if you want things to go smoothly.

Who is planning the itinerary (well, we are sure everyone would like to participate in this one), what activities are everyone interested in doing, how much those activities cost, where everyone will be staying, etc.

Everyone in the group is assigned a task, and as a result, it will be more organized and less stressful for everyone.

It's probably the essential tip on the list. No matter how well you plan, sometimes things happen that are beyond your control.

When you're traveling in a group, those mishaps can end up costing a lot of money if someone gets sick or injured. That's why it's always safe to get travel insurance before you go on any trip, just to be safe.

Factor in what your insurance will and won't cover, as well as the cost of the policy, when you're budgeting for your trip.

Let technology do some work for you. You'll find a few friendly apps that can help you keep track of your spending when you're on vacation.

One is called Trail Wallet, and it's an app that enables you to track your expenses by category (food, transportation, lodging, etc.) so you don't go over budget.

Another app to check out is TripIt, which organizes all your travel information in one place (flights, hotels, car rentals, etc.).

This way, you always have everything at your fingertips and don't have to spend time digging through emails or printed-out confirmations.

Ask your friends to install and familiarize themselves with the apps before the trip.

You forgot about it, didn't you? Of course, who thinks of dangers and damages when planning an exciting long-awaited trip with friends. But just like any vacation, Murphy's Law is always lurking around the corner, ready to strike.

Be sure to have a first-aid kit packed and easily accessible. It's not only for cuts and bruises but can also come in handy if someone gets sick while on vacation.

If you're really into planning and want to be extra prepared, consider packing some over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen and antibiotics as well.

Is your music list updated? Make sure to download your favorite tunes and pack your headphones for some much-needed personal time.

If you're traveling with friends, ask each person to download their best travel playlist to share with the group.

This way, you'll never be out of new music to listen to! If anyone in the group has a portable speaker, bring that too!

Another crucial thing is planning and packing games to keep everyone entertained. Monopoly, Cards Against Humanity, and charades are always great options.

Okay, you're going to have a good time, but don't you think there's some need for rest?

Don't forget your travel pillow, an eye mask, and a scarf or shawl. These will come in handy on long car rides or plane rides when you need to catch some shut-eye.

Last but not least, don't forget your camera! With all of the new friends you'll make and the memories you'll create, you'll want to have a way to document it all.

If you don't have a physical camera, be sure to use the camera function on your phone. And if your device is short on storage, you can always delete old photos to make room for new ones.

Be sure also to pack your sense of adventure and spontaneity—essential for any good vacation. With a wee bit of planning and preparation, you're sure to have a fantastic time traveling with your friends.

This story was brought to you in partnership with Park Place On The River.

Planning a trip? Go Backpacking recommends:

  • G Adventures for small group tours.
  • Hostelworld for booking hostels.

WA_horizontal_logo_GOLD-1

  • Member Login

The Pros & Cons of Group Travel

'I've never done a group trip before...is it really for me?'

I was talking to a new member of our community of travellers here at Wheel & Anchor recently and our conversation took a fascinating turn as we got into the subject of group travel and who it's really for.

No question - it's not for everyone. Many travellers fit the independent adventurer mold and want to do all of the planning and free-wheeling exploring on their own (I've done a lot of that myself, and it can be fun!).

But just because you've never travelled with a group before doesn't mean it 'isn't for you' - it very well may be something you love but didn't know it yet! Sometimes it's just a matter of going on the right kind of trip with the right kind of people.

Appreciating that going on your first group trip is a bit of a leap of faith, I made a short video this week discussing some of the pros and cons of group travel:

There are a lot of decisions to make when it comes to travel — and one of them is whether it’s smarter to travel with a group, with a partner, or with yourself. Group travel has its merits, which make it a very attractive option for many prospective vacationers — even for first-timers.

Group travel pros! Wheel & Anchor exploring Egypt, January 2019.

Group travel pros! Wheel & Anchor exploring Egypt, January 2020

What is group travel?

In the context of commercial tourism, group travel often involves a group of strangers coming together on a common trip itinerary via one tour company. It’s an excellent way to network, manage costs, and still experience what the world has to offer.

Nothing in life is perfect, however, and group travel comes with its own benefits and drawbacks. Here are some common pros and cons of group travel:

What are the pros of group travel?

No planning, just enjoying With group travel, you can just lay back and go with the flow. Touring with like-minded people is a great way to live in the moment, as you won’t have to worry about the nitty-gritty. There’ll be more discovery of what a country has to offer in terms of food, culture, and experiences, and none of figuring out how much to tip and which areas are senior-friendly.

Reputable tour companies have the ability to provide a memorable experience for all sorts of people. At Wheel & Anchor, for instance, we put a premium on bringing together travellers with similar tastes. This way, all of our trips are memorable all throughout.

Experiences you might not be able to have alone Solo travel is in many ways as therapeutic as advertised, but many trips simply can’t be done alone. Some things just are much better shared. With group travel, you’ll be able to share a meal, ask a groupmate for a photo against a scenic landscape, and more.

Safety in numbers Not every city is postcard perfect. You can always run into trouble, such as pickpockets, poorly disciplined drivers, and the like. Many travellers sometimes run the risk of having an encounter with unsavory elements such as those listed above, but being part of a bigger group may help lower that risk.

Travelling with a group means you’ll have extra sets of eyes and ears watching your back, helping to protect yourself and your belongings. Needless to say, that is also something your travel companions will expect of you. Being in big groups also makes it harder for attackers to corner one prey and harm or mug them.

People to talk to and make experiences with The most successful group tour companies are those that are led by charismatic and knowledgeable guides who are able to gather a group of strangers and create a memorable and enjoyable experience for them. A sense of togetherness is often fostered among members of these kinds of tour groups, and it’s also a great way to make new acquaintances and even develop friendships.

It pays if your tour company primarily caters to certain demographics, as it will give you the best chance to be grouped with persons of similar tastes and characteristics.

Rely on expert advice Reputable group tour companies like Wheel & Anchor are passionate about your overall experience. We’ve gone lengths to ensure that we know each tour location and itinerary like the back of our hands. This expert perspective sets our group trips above the crowd.

Expert advice pays off when it matters the most. From keeping with the local customs to finding lesser-known gems off the beaten path, our seasoned travel guides and tour developers will make sure that your trip is enjoyable, safe, and one of a kind.

What are the cons of group travel?

Less flexibility with schedules Tours are usually predefined long before the actual trip, so don’t expect a lot of leeway in terms of departure times, destinations, and the like. Tour companies often reserve the right to make changes midway, particularly for safety reasons, but the vacationers themselves rarely get to decide on those changes. This is how tour prices are kept competitive.

Many regular tours don’t allow free time Unsurprisingly, many group tours rely heavily on tourist traps for their activity lineups. Many tour companies try to cram as many of these target destinations into an itinerary so that their customers can experience as much a country has to offer as they can. The problem with this is that between distance, traffic, and many other variables in between, there’s rarely any free time left for tourists to have to themselves.

Here at Wheel & Anchor, we intentionally plan our trips with balance in mind — which is why our tours always have room for “me” time.

Consider your own personality and interests when deciding on travelling with a group, but also, don’t forget to check on the tour provider’s reputation and track record. For instance, Wheel & Anchor is known for the quality and level of curation of the experiences we provide.

We also limit our tour group sizes, moderately pace our itineraries, and make sure that our guides have intimate knowledge of the destinations. Why not try one of our shorter weekend tours in Panama and the Azores to see what it’s all about?

Wheel & Anchor is a community of people with a passion for travel. Build relationships and experience the world with our list of unforgettable experiences. Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest inspirational travel tales and don’t forget to check out our upcoming tours . Sign up today .

it's smarter to travel in group

Gordon Dreger

Founder, Wheel & Anchor

Gordon Dreger is the founder of Wheel & Anchor and has been in the travel industry for over 30 years. Travel is a self-expression for him, and there is nothing he likes more than talking about travel and sharing all of the joys of it with others.

Leave a comment! Cancel Reply

Cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

  • ← Older
  • Next →

Recent Posts

Webinar replay: jordan: land of sand and stone 2025.

  • Webinar Replay: W&A LiveAways: Madeira 2025
  • Webinar Replay: Egypt & the Nile 2025
  • Why Costa Rica Has All The Sunshine You’d Ever Need
  • Webinar Replay: Crossing the Andes: Argentina & Chile 2025

You may also be interested in...

Webinar Replay: Jordan: Land of Sand and Stone 2025

Check out the webinar replay from our recent Q&A webinar about our Jordan: Land of Sand and Stone ...

Webinar Replay: W&A LiveAways: Madeira 2025

Webinar Replay: W&A LiveAways: Madeira 2025

Check out the webinar replay from our recent Q&A webinar about our W&A LiveAways: Madeira 2025 Program: ...

Webinar Replay: Egypt & the Nile 2025

Webinar Replay: Egypt & the Nile 2025

Check out the webinar replay from our recent Q&A webinar about our Egypt & the Nile 2025 Program: ...

International Business Seminars

  • 480-874-0100
  • Make a Payment

It’s Smarter to Travel in Groups

Posted by Katharina Sinnwell on August 6, 2019 in IBS Student Blogs • Summer China

it's smarter to travel in group

Why it´s smarter to travel in groups

travel in a group

More people ask more questions

What I learned in the company’s presentations taught me a great lesson about how business is done in China. Still, the discussions the group shared with the companies representative after the official presentation often gave an even deeper insight into this field. We learned how living with a family in Shanghai can be managed. We met so many people telling us about what to look out for, giving us personal examples of why relationships are key to everything in China. Being with the group gave me the possibility to be part of this conversation and the possibility to learn so much more than I would have on my own.

People are interesting

Everyone on the trip has a different story. For me, this was really interesting. Getting to know all the others and making friends. I learn more about myself with every person I get to know. Every person I meet gives me a little piece of their experience. We talked about so many different things and everyone has their own perspective on things. It is also really helpful to talk to everyone about the things happening in China. Together we discovered so much more than just what one person would have found. Like many places to go to eat or to go shopping that I would have not visited on my own.

Some moments are worth sharing

travel group in China

Experience can help

We often thought about where to get food or how to get money out of a working ATM machine. How to use the subway or how to buy stuff at a small store if you don´t have WeChat Pay . The thing is everyone has a little experience with something and together we were always able to come up with some solution. I am not sure I could have fixed all these problems on my own. And it would have been less fun for sure.

Communication is key

If you can´t find any solution within the group, you can always ask. This gets a little complicated if nearly no one speaks English. So if you get lucky and you have someone with you who speaks Chinese, great! If not, it is really helpful to have many people in your group with translator apps. Half of the people have internet access, half of those who have internet have the app and half of the apps actually work. This gives an amazing number of possibilities of what to say even before you´re trying to pronounce it right.

Overall, I think I experienced this trip so much differently than I would have on my own. We had so much fun together and learned so many different things. This is why I think traveling with a group for this trip was definitely worth it!

Share This Post

Katharina Sinnwell

Katharina Sinnwell

School: University of North Carolina, Wilmington

My experiences abroad have a strong impact on the way I see the world.

Similar Posts You Might Be Interested In:

  • Overcoming Fears and Enjoying Opportunities
  • When in Prague…
  • A Visit to My Mizu
  • My Personal Experience and Growth
  • Pre-Departure Planning Tips & City Favorites

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

  • IBS Student Blogs
  • IBS Study Abroad Blog
  • International Music
  • International Recipes
  • Summer China
  • Summer Europe
  • Uncategorized
  • Winter Europe
  • Winter SE Asia
  • CALL NOW: (480) 874-0100

Copyright ©2024 International Business Seminars. All Rights Reserved. 2930 E. Northern Ave., Bldg. B Phoenix, AZ 85028 | United States of America

it's smarter to travel in group

5 Reasons Why Traveling in Groups is Better

by Alexandra | Nov 2, 2022 | Tips for Beginners , Travel Tips

Years passed by after the coronavirus pandemic hit the whole world, resulting in many countries closing their borders. Now, many countries are opening their borders one by one so that you can travel the world again. Before that, make sure that you have prepared everything well. For example, traveling in groups for your trip. Traveling in groups offers a lot of benefits for you. Why? Read until the end to learn more.

Why we love traveling in groups

Have a support system, travel with like-minded people, less expensive, share fun experiences with others, make new friends in difficult times.

friends together standing in a beautiful sunset

God forbid something bad happens. But imagine you fall ill in another country; Wouldn’t you much rather have lovely people around you who can help you and sort things out for you, rather than being all alone? When you don’t feel well or something happens, it’s much easier to deal with it when you are in a group that can support you. And, who knows, maybe you’re lucky enough to have a healthcare professional among you.

friends together and sitting on a beautiful beach around a campfire while chatting

Finding people with the same attitude towards corona is easier than figuring out who in your close circle thinks about this pandemic the same way you do. Your parents are in their 60s, and your best friend has diabetes? Be sure to keep them safe! Traveling with like-minded people your age, who all share similar opinions on handling this unique situation, is a great alternative.

silhouette of three women, while Traveling in groups in the beautiful sunset

For many people, the effects of the coronavirus can be felt most in their bank accounts. It’s taken its toll on employment status and wages, so close friends and family might not be up for traveling to the next big destination any time soon. When you are traveling in groups, every cost is always split. For example, car renting has become much cheaper in groups than traveling alone. But not just the better cost when shared, making it less expensive . Experiences and adventures become better when you have others to share them with. 

Traveling in groups, sitting in a circle chatting to eachother in front of buildings

We are sure that we’re not the only ones who cannot wait to return and travel the world. Most of you reading this blog post are counting the days until measures are relaxed and the first flight ticket can be booked again. So imagine how easy it will be to find people traveling with you . It feels like we’ve all gone into a state of hibernation, stuck inside, not doing much. Let’s wake up together, be free, and HAVE FUN!

Traveling in groups of friends standing together and dancing in the beautiful sunset

Hard times make us bond more closely. We’ve all had to go through the same thing, strengthening our community. Everyone is ready to make new friends and be around people. What better way than by experiencing amazing times together and making life memories? We are sure you will have the best time traveling in groups.

As you can see, traveling in groups will fulfill your vacation expectation in ways it wouldn’t have been able to before. It keeps you safe, you can share the cost, and it is more fun than alone. And while the time has not yet come for us to travel, there is plenty of preparation time to at least plan your next trip. This way, it will make life a little easier when we can travel from home. If we have inspired you, check out JoinMyTrip to offer or discover unique trips. 

Welcome to JoinMyTrip

At JoinMyTrip, we bring together travelers from around the world.

Find your next small group travel adventure to unique destinations with JoinMyTrip.

subscribe now and get a €20 discount

Newest Blogs

  • Bali or Thailand: Which One is For You?
  • 25 Best Places to Visit in Asia Before You Die (Group Friendly)
  • 21 Best Vacations for Couples (Worldwide)
  • Top 7 Flower Festivals to See in 2024
  • 10 Best Digital Nomad Communities to Join

Meet the Writers

it's smarter to travel in group

  • Central America
  • Destinations
  • Digital Nomads
  • Group Travel
  • Hidden Gems
  • New Zealand
  • Scandinavia
  • Solo Travel
  • South America
  • Tips for Beginners
  • Travel Bucket Lists
  • Travel Buddies
  • Travel Guides
  • Travel Tips
  • TripLeader Stories
  • Uncategorized

it's smarter to travel in group

  • Internships
  • Professional Development
  • Volunteer Opportunities
  • Campus Sustainability Council
  • Eco-Ambassadors
  • Green Labs Team
  • Transportation

Take the Bus: Why it’s smarter to travel in groups

Watch these fun animated videos from bus company De Lijn to find out why taking the bus can save more than the environment:

Penguins Travel

Ants Travel

Crabs Travel

… And WE travel best in groups!

Energy , Ideas

' src=

July 8, 2013 at 4:02 pm

Quality content is the main to invite the viewers to go to see the website, that’s what this web page is providing.

' src=

August 10, 2023 at 4:07 am

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Posts by Category

Latest posts.

  • Job Posting 3/25/24
  • Job Postings 2/26/24
  • Job Postings 1/18/2024
  • Job Postings 12/21/23
  • Job Postings 11/28/23

Subscribe to our Jobs Blog

We offer a biweekly jobs blog digest that sends sustainability-related job openings straight to your inbox. Sign up today!

Job & Event Postings

Want to submit a job, internship, or event for our jobs blog or newsletter? Please email [email protected].

  • ENVS Program – Education and Careers
  • Facilities Services – Recycling
  • Tisch Sustainability Team
  • Tom Thumb's Garden
  • Tufts Bikes
  • Tufts Eco-Reps
  • Tufts Food Nexus Your one-stop for information on food events around Tufts and Boston
  • Tufts Sustainability Collaborative

Useful links

  • Center for International Environment and Resource Policy (CIERP) Developing innovative strategies for shifting global development onto a path that is more environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable.
  • Environmental Studies Program (ENVS)
  • Tufts Institute of the Environment
  • Tufts Office of Sustainability website
  • Urban and Environmental Policy and Planning

Find Us On Social Media!

it's smarter to travel in group

RSS feed – Career

Rss feed – events.

  • “Green” Your Move-Out May 9, 2022
  • 8th Annual U.S. C3E Poster Awards October 8, 2019
  • Carbon Neutrality Community Workshops February 19, 2019

© 2024 Sustainability at Tufts

Theme by Anders Noren — Up ↑

Disclaimer | Non-Discrimination | Privacy | Terms for Creating and Maintaining Sites

it's smarter to travel in group

Best cocktails in Jozi | 3 alcohol-infused places to try

it's smarter to travel in group

Top African islands worth visiting

it's smarter to travel in group

South Africa’s best mountain passes, and how to navigate them

it's smarter to travel in group

Unusual Date Ideas in Cape Town

it's smarter to travel in group

The A to Z of KAZA

McHardy House Museum

Things to do in Cullinan

it's smarter to travel in group

Must-visit foodie hangouts in Swellendam

it's smarter to travel in group

Four of South Africa’s national parks have expanded to safeguard wildlife and plants

Video: why it’s smarter to travel in groups.

All you lone rangers and believers of solo travel out there should have a look at these two videos. Clearly, we’re all missing some very obvious advantages to travelling in groups. Both videos are Belgian TV ads promoting public transport. Clever guys those Belgians.

Related Articles

it's smarter to travel in group

How to pack for a ski trip | Tips & essentials to include

5 April 2024

it's smarter to travel in group

5 things you should NEVER do on a game drive

4 April 2024

it's smarter to travel in group

Small travel accessories that will elevate your adventure

28 March 2024

it's smarter to travel in group

Tips for planning the perfect mid-year getaway

it's smarter to travel in group

Fun things to do in Zambia

it's smarter to travel in group

The world’s most fascinating aquariums

Privacy overview.

Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.

Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.

Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.

Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.

Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.

Biz Epic

Epic business news from around the world

it's smarter to travel in group

It’s Smarter to Travel in Groups. Here is Why.

Want to show off the benefits of your products or services without sounding like a salesman? Try telling a story that your audience can draw a strong conclusion on its own.

De Lijn, a Belgian public trasportation company, persuades people to travel by bus using these funny commercials. Watch this and giggle away!

Telling a story about your brand even a 5 year-old can easily understand is (or should be) the ultimate goal of a commercial. De Lijn is doing a great job with the commercials.

Share this:

Have you tried asking a drunk person to have a look at your business website, one secret to overcome your fear of failure.

Biz Epic Admin

Biz Epic Admin

Biz Epic is a business news website covering business, finance and marketing topics from a different perspective.

Related Post

Brand Magic on a Budget: Stickers That Boost Your Business

Brand Magic on a Budget: Stickers That Boost Your Business

In today’s digital-first world, businesses often overlook the tactile, engaging power of physical branding tools. However, one tiny adhesive hero…

The business world should not be boring. Agreed?

If you say “Absolutely!” please sign up to receive weekly updates from the extraordinary world of business, hand-picked from the web just for you.

it's smarter to travel in group

Please wait while your request is being verified...

IMAGES

  1. Find Out Why It's Smarter To Travel In Small Groups

    it's smarter to travel in group

  2. [1 PETER 5] It's Smarter to Travel in Groups

    it's smarter to travel in group

  3. Top tips for travelling in a large group

    it's smarter to travel in group

  4. it's smarter to travel in groups.mov

    it's smarter to travel in group

  5. it's smarter to travel in groups

    it's smarter to travel in group

  6. its smarter to travel in groups

    it's smarter to travel in group

COMMENTS

  1. it's smarter to travel in groups

    it's smarter to travel in groupsVideo Smile For The Planet

  2. 12 Reasons It's Better to Travel in a Group

    Here are 12 reasons why the answer is yes. 1. You'll gain valuable local knowledge. Laughing up a storm on a group food tour. Siem Reap Province, Cambodia. In my 14 years of traveling, I have never regretted hiring a guide at a heritage site or for a nature trek. The expertise of a good local guide is priceless.

  3. The Benefits of Traveling In A Group

    5. Stay in Touch. Ensure everyone in your group has a way to communicate with each other, so if someone gets lost or the group splits up, it's easy to reconnect. You might exchange phone numbers, set up a group text or print a list of contact information for everyone to keep with them, along with the itinerary. 6.

  4. The Complete Guide to Group Travel

    At its best, travel has a way of making every daily anxiety feel absolutely insignificant. And at its worst, even the tiniest mishaps, like the wrong ingredients in the paella, feel like the end ...

  5. Group Travel: 7 Tips To Help Keep The Peace : NPR

    5. Confront any social issues that arise head-on, with honesty. Don't avoid conflict in order to be polite, and don't let "unhealthy peace" fester. "Unhealthy peace is peace that's not really ...

  6. It's smarter to travel in groups

    About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features NFL Sunday Ticket Press Copyright ...

  7. Traveling With a Group? Here's How to Plan and Stay Friends

    Ali Killam, Airbnb's consumer trends expert, recommends creating a shared wish list and inviting group members to add listings and vote on favorites. "Determine what's most important to the ...

  8. Find Out Why It's Smarter To Travel In Small Groups

    When you travel in a small group however, you are sure to meet like-minded people quicker and easier. You'll make shared memories together that will last a lifetime, and on top of that you will have plenty of time to bond. Even before the pandemic, people were discovering how great it was to travel in small groups.

  9. 5 Reasons Why It's Better to Travel in Groups

    2. Can't speak the language? At least you'll be there with someone who can't speak it either. Or maybe you'll be there with someone who has one of those super cool translation apps that you forgot to download. 3. Company! When you travel by yourself, it's easy to get bored.

  10. Tips for Traveling in a Group: How To Plan a Trip With Friends

    If it's just the ladies, then a day of shopping and spa-ing might be in order. Maybe a golf or poker weekend would suffice if it's just the guys. But if it's a group trip, you'll need to find some middle ground with which everyone can agree. Choose a Destination. Be prepared for this one because it can get heated.

  11. The Pros & Cons of Group Travel

    Travelling with a group means you'll have extra sets of eyes and ears watching your back, helping to protect yourself and your belongings. Needless to say, that is also something your travel companions will expect of you. Being in big groups also makes it harder for attackers to corner one prey and harm or mug them.

  12. It's Smarter to Travel in Groups

    Why it´s smarter to travel in groups. When I first thought about coming to China to experience the culture and people a few years ago, I was not sure when that would be possible for me. Last year, during my semester abroad at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington one of my professors told us about short-term study abroad options ...

  13. 5 Reasons Why Traveling in Groups is Better

    Less expensive. Sharing the cost is a big plus. For many people, the effects of the coronavirus can be felt most in their bank accounts. It's taken its toll on employment status and wages, so close friends and family might not be up for traveling to the next big destination any time soon. When you are traveling in groups, every cost is always ...

  14. Take the Bus: Why it's smarter to travel in groups

    Take the Bus: Why it's smarter to travel in groups - Sustainability at Tufts. Take the Bus: Why it's smarter to travel in groups. February 7, 2012 / Anne Stratton / 2 Comments. Tweet. Watch these fun animated videos from bus company De Lijn to find out why taking the bus can save more than the environment: Penguins Travel.

  15. Video: why it's smarter to travel in groups

    Video: why it's smarter to travel in groups. Posted on 7 March 2013. All you lone rangers and believers of solo travel out there should have a look at these two videos. Clearly, we're all missing some very obvious advantages to travelling in groups. Both videos are Belgian TV ads promoting public transport.

  16. Smarter To Travel In Groups

    We thought these great ads by De Lijn were not only funny, but also relevant to group travel! Watch this video for a smile and a reminder why it's "Smarter T...

  17. it's smarter to travel in groups

    About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features NFL Sunday Ticket Press Copyright ...

  18. Time apart while together: A smart trip design for group travelers

    Introduction. Tourists often travel in groups to spend time with family, friends, or significant others to co-create shared experiences and memories (Su et al., 2021), and to strengthen family or social ties.Shared experience in group tourism can be a source of happiness, but it can also be a cause of tension (Melvin et al., 2020).On the one hand, members enjoy their quality time together ...

  19. It's Smarter to Travel in Groups. Here is Why.

    Here is Why. - Biz Epic. It's Smarter to Travel in Groups. Here is Why. Want to show off the benefits of your products or services without sounding like a salesman? Try telling a story that your audience can draw a strong conclusion on its own. De Lijn, a Belgian public trasportation company, persuades people to travel by bus using these ...

  20. It's Smarter to Travel in Groups

    It's Smarter to Travel in Groups - Advert. Let's do English ESL general grammar practice. Choose correct answers to grammar and vocabulary questions. Colours, past simple, word order.

  21. Why is it smarter to travel in groups?

    Absolutely! Group travel can be a fantastic way to create lasting memories with your friends and family. It allows you to share experiences and strengthen bonds while exploring new destinations together. 9. Is travel insurance necessary for group travel? Travel insurance is always recommended, regardless of whether you are traveling alone or in ...

  22. It's Smarter To Travel in Groups

    It's Smarter To Travel in Groups - Animals & Comparisons. ebvans530. 577

  23. It's Smarter to Travel in Groups

    Recopilación del conjunto de vídeos que componen la campaña "It's smarter to travel in groups" (Es más inteligente viajar en grupos) de la empresa de transpo...