Picture this: You and your best friend on a month-long adventure through the buzzing streets of Bangkok, sipping coconuts on pristine Thai beaches, then hopping over to Australia to road-trip the Great Ocean Road and explore vibrant cities like Sydney and Melbourne. Sounds like the plot of a feel-good Netflix movie, right?
Well, my story didn’t quite go like that. Our trip started with high-fives, laughter, and shared playlists. But somewhere along the way, the dream fizzled, and we ended with awkward silences and separate flights home.
Travelling with your best friend is often sold as the ultimate bonding experience—but is it? Let’s break down the highs, the lows, and what I learned.
Why travelling with your bestie can be amazing
Shared memories that last forever
There’s something magical about seeing the world through the same lens as someone who just gets you. Whether it’s bursting into laughter over a lost-in-translation menu or comforting each other during a bumpy tuk-tuk ride, these shared moments become inside jokes you’ll treasure forever.
Your personal hype squad
Facing challenges feels easier when your best friend is there to cheer you on. Scared of snorkelling? They’ll nudge you in. Feeling homesick? They’ll be the shoulder you cry on over that overpriced hostel beer.
Splitting costs = more fun
Two people mean shared expenses. You can afford the dreamy villa, enjoy fancy dinners, or splurge on that island-hopping tour. When you’re not blowing your budget alone, you can double the fun without draining your wallet.
When travelling together gets complicated
Let’s be real: even the strongest friendships can hit turbulence on the road.
Different vibes, different priorities
I’m a “lazy beach and book” type. My friend? A “wake up at 6 am and tick off every attraction” type. By week two, our travel styles clashed like socks and sandals.
Zero alone time = friction
Spending 24/7 together sounds great until you realise you haven’t had a moment to breathe—or meet new people—without them hovering. Even besties need space.
Compromises that sting
Where to eat, what to see, when to relax—every decision required negotiation. After a while, I found myself saying yes to things I didn’t really want, just to avoid an argument. Resentment? Oh, it sneaks in fast.
When travelling together gets complicated
Let’s be real: even the strongest friendships can hit turbulence on the road.
Different vibes, different priorities
I’m a “lazy beach and book” type. My friend? A “wake up at 6 am and tick off every attraction” type. By week two, our travel styles clashed like socks and sandals.
Zero alone time = friction
Spending 24/7 together sounds great until you realise you haven’t had a moment to breathe—or meet new people—without them hovering. Even besties need space.
Compromises that sting
Where to eat, what to see, when to relax—every decision required negotiation. After a while, I found myself saying yes to things I didn’t really want, just to avoid an argument. Resentment? Oh, it sneaks in fast.
Travelling together vs solo: The ultimate showdown
| Aspect | With a Best Friend | Solo Travel |
|---|---|---|
| Decision-making | Must compromise | 100% your call |
| Expenses | Shared costs | You cover everything |
| Social life | Familiar company | Meet new people easily |
| Flexibility | Coordinated plans | Spontaneous freedom |
| Personal growth | Bonding experience | Self-discovery jackpot |
Tips for a drama-free bestie trip
If you’re still keen on travelling with your friend, here’s how to keep things fun:
- Talk before you go. Discuss your travel styles, must-dos, and budgets.
- Schedule alone time. Take breaks from each other—solo days or a few hours apart can work wonders.
- Divide responsibilities. One books transport, the other handles food spots. Teamwork makes life easier.
- Be honest, not passive-aggressive. If something’s bothering you, talk about it before it snowballs.
So, yay or nay?
Travelling with a best friend can be a dream if you’re on the same page and respect each other’s space. But if not, it can quickly turn sour. Solo travel, on the other hand, gives you the freedom to do whatever you want and the chance to grow in ways you can’t with a constant companion.
My verdict? If your friendship can survive a trip, it can survive anything. But if you’re unsure, start with a weekend getaway instead of a 3-month epic adventure.
