Traveling as a couple for the first time is a big deal. Exciting times but it puts a lot of pressure on the relationship. Are you really ready for it?
Traveling as a couple is a great way to become closer to each other. More than that, it can be fun, exciting, adventurous, and romantic. The question though, is when is it okay to embark on a holiday together?
Going too early in the relationship, when you’re still just getting to know each other, can be quite risky.
When you travel with your significant other, you will most likely spend 24 hours a day together. Just about everything you do, you do with each other.
Sleeping, waking up, eating, activities, you are in each other’s presence around the clock. It is a true test of your relationship, and your commitment to each other, whether or not you can survive the trip without wanting to kill each other.
In the early days of a relationship, you’re still only just getting to know each other. There is an adjustment period where you’re still getting used to someone. You are learning to deal with their quirks, but if it suddenly becomes a constant, all night all day thing, it can be too much.
Spending that much time together straight away means not having the adjustment period that most relationships need.
The right time to travel together depends on the type of people you are, and the type of travel you plan on doing. No couple is the same as any other, and every travel itinerary is different. Read on to find out what’s best for your relationship. [Read: 35 new relationship advice & tips to avoid common mistakes couples make]
Hitting the First Trip Milestone
What’s the big deal about a first couple’s trip? It’s still you and your partner, just off to a new place, right? Well, it’s actually a bit more than that. Traveling together for the first time isn’t just a change of scenery.
It’s a unique adventure that can play a pivotal role in your relationship. Let’s dive into why this first trip is a milestone and how it can test and strengthen your bond.
So, why is traveling as a couple for the first time such a milestone in a relationship? Well, it’s like a crash course in Team Us. You’re stepping out of your comfort zone, and science tells us that’s where the magic happens.
When you face new and unexpected situations together, you get this awesome opportunity to see sides of each other you might not witness back home. It’s like those team-building retreats companies love, but way more fun and with better scenery! [Read: Top 12 alternative destinations for romantic breaks]
Now, think about this: you’re with each other 24/7, navigating everything from which sights to see to who gets the last croissant at breakfast *the real tests of love, right?* This constant togetherness speeds up the whole ‘getting to know you’ process.
Relationship experts say that this kind of intense, shared experience can actually deepen your understanding of each other. It’s like a fast track to figuring out all the little quirks and charms that make your relationship tick.
And let’s not forget the power of shared experiences in creating strong bonds. There’s a reason why those travel stories become the ones you tell again and again.
When you’re exploring new places together for the first time, your brain is releasing all these feel-good hormones. It’s a cocktail of excitement, happiness, and love, strengthening your connection with every new experience. [Read: 32 fun ideas to build & grow intimacy in a relationship and feel more loved]
But it’s not just about the good times. Travel can throw curveballs, and how you both handle these challenges speaks volumes about your relationship. It’s about finding that balance between relying on each other and respecting each other’s independence.
You know, like when one of you wants to hike up a mountain while the other would rather chill in a café. It’s all about compromise and finding that sweet spot where both of you get what you need.
And, oh boy, does travel test your communication skills. It’s like a boot camp for talking and listening. From planning your itinerary to navigating mishaps, you learn to communicate effectively and efficiently. It’s these skills that can help fortify your relationship in the long run.
How Traveling as a Couple Tells If Your Relationship Will Work Out
It doesn’t matter if you’ve been dating for 1 week or 3 months, you should travel together somewhere *and we don’t mean to your grandma’s house* to find out the little things you may be overlooking when you’re in your home city.
Just you two, alone, on your own. Go on a road trip to California, go backpacking across Europe, or go camping in the mountains. When you do that, this is what you’ll learn:
1. Organization Station vs. Winging It
When planning a trip somewhere, it’s important to remember the basics – destination, clothes, food, how much money you need, etc. But it’s also important to think about how you would react if your partner isn’t as organized or prepared as you are.
For example, do you always check the weather before you pack for a trip? Do you usually forget to bring toothpaste? Do you have a first-aid kit? Do you usually forget to carry cash around? Do you know how to change a flat tire? What if your partner doesn’t?
The way you feel about these are important to know, and when traveling, sooner or later, you will find out which ones really bother you. [Read: How soon is too soon to travel as a couple for the first time]
2. Kindness vs. Rudeness
On any trip, you’re going to stop somewhere to eat, get gas, ask for directions, or take a break. An easy way to see how your partner treats others is to pay attention to how they interact with people they’ll probably never see again.
Was he rude to your waiter? Did she cuss out a little girl for crying on the airplane? Did he see someone drop money and run up to them really fast to return it? Remember, how they treat others is eventually how they may treat you. [Read: 7 sneaky little signs that reveal a bad relationship in the making]
3. Following Directions vs. Getting Lost
When traveling, you’ve usually got directions to your destination whether with your GPS, map, or a mental image of the area. But just because you have a map, doesn’t mean it will be right or you’ll be able to read it accurately, especially if you’re in a foreign country and don’t speak the language.
It’s safe to assume you’ll probably get lost at one point or another, and you’ll either find yourself angry, laughing, crying, or all the above. Will you be mad if she gets you two lost? Will he be okay with admitting that he didn’t know the way to the fountain, after all?
Again, these are little things that could be big things, and traveling brings them to the surface. [Read: 23 do’s and don’ts you always have to remember in a relationship fight]
4. Emergency Backup vs. Oh-no-1-1
If something goes wrong on your trip like your wallet gets stolen or there’s really bad weather, do you have a game plan? If not, what would you do? Would you be really annoyed if he didn’t have a hidden stash of cash somewhere? Would you be inwardly glad that she has a backup plan for canceled flights and stolen luggage?
How you two react towards each other during an emergency can tell you a lot about one another. It shows you how well your partner reacts to a dire situation, and it also shows you how well you two can formulate a solution while under pressure.
5. Behaving vs. Driving You Crazy
Have you two been in the car together for over 10 hours? Does he keep making you listen to heavy metal? Do you want to listen to the Frozen soundtrack? Does it annoy you she’s been belting out every word? Are you annoyed she doesn’t even know the right words but sings like she does anyway?
These are characteristics you will absolutely find out about each other when traveling as a couple, and it’ll either drive you so insane you want to jump out of the car, or you’ll be able to laugh it off and find another reason to fall in love with your partner. [Read: 7 life lessons you will learn on an awesome road trip]
6. Comfortable vs. Anything But
When traveling, you’ll learn pretty quickly if you feel very comfortable around each other or if your partner has done anything that scares you.
Has he done anything to make you feel uncomfortable, like punch a wall because he might have had one too many drinks? Did she start having a panic attack when things don’t go according to plan? Does he open all the doors for you, and hold your hand?
When dating someone, it’s very important to feel like you are safe. If you notice any red flags, pay attention to them, and ask yourself if maybe it’s a sign that your partner isn’t as stable as you thought they were. [Read: 22 early warning signs of a bad boyfriend you need to leave ASAP]
7. Agree to Disagree
You two may be in love, but that doesn’t mean you are always going to agree on everything. Do you love cats, but he hates them? You want pizza for dinner, but she wants Mexican food? You want to go to Venice and then to Rome, but he wants to go to Rome first and then Venice?
It doesn’t matter who wants to do what, but what is important is how you two figure out what you end up doing. You’ll either have a huge fight every time or respect each other and talk it out as the two enamored adults that you are, so you can figure out a plan that you both are happy with.
Just another reason why traveling helps bring out the way you two solve problems in your relationship. [Read: Do couples always have to like the same things?]
8. Might as Well Try vs. Absolutely Not
If she’s really adventurous and wants to go hang-gliding, but you don’t, are you going to be more than happy with just watching? Or will you get upset she’s going to do it without you? Does he want you two to climb the Statue of Liberty, but since you’ve already done it before, you don’t want to, even though you know it’s important to him?
It’s important to support each other, and just because you’ve done something before, doesn’t mean it’s going to be the same experience.
The saying, “I want you to want to do the dishes” is so true. Dishes are little things, but it’s not about the dishes. It’s about saying, “I’ve got your back, and I want to support you.” [Read: 13 warning signs to look out for in the first few months]
If your partner isn’t positive and supportive about what your interests are, it’s a huge red flag telling you that they’ll probably try to stop you from doing things you want in the future. [Read: 13 small changes in your partner that are big red flags]
9. Are You Laughing?
The most important thing when traveling as a couple *and even when not traveling* with each other is to have fun! No matter what road bumps you’ve come across, what detours you had to go through, and what arguments you had to endure, you need to ask yourself, “Did you have fun?”
If you answer yes, then your relationship is on the right track. If you get home from traveling, and are laughing, smiling, and maybe even crying thinking about all the ridiculous things you did together, then you two are ready for so much more!
However, if the trip ended up making you question whether or not you can ever endure spending another day with this person, then it may be a sign that you two aren’t as compatible as you thought you were pre-trip. [Read: Relationship compatibility: What it is, 40 signs you have it & ways to improve it]
When to Go on Your First Trip as a Couple
Thinking about taking that leap and going on your first couple’s trip? It’s a big step, right? You’re probably wondering if it’s the right time to pack your bags and explore new horizons together.
Deciding when to pack up for your first journey as a duo can be a mix of excitement and nerves. Let’s break down the top 10 signs that you and your partner are ready to hit the road *or the skies* together for the first time!
1. You’re Both Comfortable Being Yourselves Around Each Other
So, you’ve reached that point where you can be your true selves around each other, huh? That’s awesome! Traveling as a couple means there’s nowhere to hide.
If you’re both cool with that – morning breath and all – it’s a good sign you’re ready for your first trip together. It’s about embracing the realness, whether you’re in your hometown or halfway across the world.
2. You’ve Nailed the Art of Compromise
If you can smoothly navigate through a Netflix series choice, chances are you can handle travel decisions too. Finding a middle ground is crucial when planning trips. It’s about ensuring both of you get to do what you love. Your first trip together is a great test of this balance. [Read: Compromise in a relationship: Ways to give & not feel like you lost]
3. Stress? What Stress? You Handle It Together Like Pros
Ever had a flat tire on a busy day or a dinner that burned to a crisp? How did you both handle it? If you tackled it together without losing your cool, you’re travel-ready.
Dealing with delayed flights or getting lost in a new city will be a piece of cake for you two. That’s the kind of teamwork you need when traveling as a couple.
4. Excitement is in the Air
Are both of you equally thrilled about the idea of traveling together? That’s a green light! Your first couple’s trip shouldn’t feel like a compromise. It’s about sharing experiences that you’re both stoked about. Whether it’s hiking, beach bumming, or exploring ancient ruins, mutual excitement is key. [Read: 21 secrets to be a happy couple that’s truly in love & envied by all]
5. Dealing with Differences in Travel Style
Maybe one of you is a planner and the other’s more spontaneous. If you’ve talked about this and are willing to find a happy medium, you’re set for your first trip. It’s all about blending your travel styles to create an adventure that suits both of you.
6. Talking About Travel Dreams
Have you two spent nights chatting about places you dream of visiting? If you’re both on the same page about your travel bucket list, it’s a good sign. It shows you’re in sync when it comes to exploring the world together. Your first trip traveling as a couple might just be the start of many adventures.
7. Budget Talks Aren’t Taboo
Let’s talk money without cringing, shall we? If you’re comfortable discussing budgets and expenses, that’s a solid foundation for traveling as a couple. Whether you’re splurging or backpacking, being on the same page financially is crucial for your first trip together. [Read: How to talk about money with your partner without fighting about it]
8. You Respect Each Other’s Space
Even on a trip, everyone needs a little ‘me time’. If you’re cool with spending some moments apart, say reading a book or taking a solo walk, it’s a good sign. It shows you respect each other’s space and individuality, which is super important when traveling together.
9. Patience is Your Middle Name
If you’re both patient with each other during everyday annoyances, traveling together will be a breeze. Patience is key, especially when you’re in unfamiliar territory or facing travel hiccups. It helps keep the vibe positive and enjoyable on your first couple’s trip.
10. Communication is Your Strong Suit
Do you find it easy to talk about anything and everything? Great communication is the backbone of any trip. If you can discuss expectations, fears, and hopes openly, you’re definitely ready for your first traveling adventure as a couple. [Read: 42 secrets to communicate better in a relationship & ways to fix a lack of it]
Challenges When Traveling as a Couple & How to Survive Them
Alright, you’ve decided you’re both ready for your first couple’s trip – exciting times! But, let’s be real, this doesn’t mean everything will be sunshine and rainbows.
Every journey has its bumps, especially when traveling as a couple for the first time. To give you a heads-up, here are some common challenges you might face and handy solutions to keep your trip smooth and enjoyable.
1. Differing Travel Styles
You love museums, your partner loves beaches – sound familiar? It’s common for couples to have different travel interests. The key? Communication and compromise.
Talk about what you both want from the trip and plan a balanced itinerary. Maybe a morning at the museum for you, and an afternoon at the beach for them? It’s all about give and take on your first couple’s trip.
2. Budget Battles
Money talks can be tricky. Maybe one of you is thinking champagne and luxury, while the other’s thinking beer on a budget. Sit down together and set a realistic budget that works for both of you.
It’s important to respect each other’s financial comfort zones, especially when traveling as a couple. This way, no one feels stretched too thin or held back.
3. Stressful Situations
Missed flights, language barriers, or getting lost – stress is inevitable. How you handle it together matters. Stay calm, be patient with each other, and remember, these are just hiccups in your adventure. Working through these challenges can actually strengthen your relationship. Plus, they make for great stories later! [Read: How to reduce stress: Fastest hacks to a calmer & happier life]
4. Decision-Making Deadlocks
What to do, where to eat, when to rest – decisions, decisions. Sometimes, you might not agree. That’s okay. Take turns making decisions, or if it’s a big one, find a middle ground. It’s important to respect each other’s opinions and preferences when traveling as a couple.
5. Personal Space and Time
Being together 24/7 can be overwhelming. Remember, it’s okay to take a breather. Maybe you take a morning walk alone, or they enjoy a solo coffee break. Respecting the need for personal space can keep both of you refreshed and cherishing the times you spend together more. [Read: Ways to give space in a relationship & feel closer than ever before]
6. Packing Puzzles
One of you packs light, the other prepares for an apocalypse. To avoid luggage lugging dramas, discuss and agree on a packing strategy. You might need to compromise a bit – but finding that balance ensures no one is burdened or missing essentials on your first trip as a couple.
7. Jet Lag and Fatigue
Long flights and time zone changes can leave you both cranky. Be understanding and patient. Build some rest into your schedule, especially at the beginning of your trip. It’s better to ease into your adventure than to start it exhausted.
8. Cultural Challenges
When traveling to a new country, cultural differences can be surprising. Do your research beforehand and be open and respectful to new customs. It’s a learning experience for both of you and can enrich your travel experience. [Read: Secrets to make friends in a new city & spark small talk with people you like]
9. Over-planning or Under-planning
Striking the right balance between a packed itinerary and winging it is crucial. Over-planning can lead to burnout, while under-planning might mean missed opportunities. Find a happy medium – plan some activities, but also leave room for spontaneous adventures.
10. Managing Expectations
Your first couple’s trip might not be picture-perfect – and that’s okay. Keep your expectations realistic and be adaptable. The goal is to enjoy your time together and create memories, not to have a flawless expedition.
Tips to Help You Have a Great Time
Although traveling is fun, it can take your relationship to another level. Make sure that neither of you has different expectations and remain on the same page when it comes to preparing for your trip.
No worries, we have you covered with the following tips that can help you have an amazing time when you travel.
1. Create the Agenda Together
Planning the agenda together is all about compromise. Both of you must be willing to come together on the activities you want to do, sights you want to see, days you want to be active and not so active, and so forth. [Read: 65 couples activities & fun things to do that’ll make you feel closer than ever]
Couples who plan their agenda together end up having a successful trip and getting just what they wanted from their travel experience.
Also, creating the agenda together helps you communicate your wants and needs. It allows couples to engage in a meaningful conversation that can actually bring you two closer together.
With all of the planning, do not forget that you can still make time to be spontaneous during the trip. Having a solid plan will help you in the long run, but it is okay to go off-course to add more excitement to the trip.
But creating the agenda together in advance helps to lower the risks of mishaps that could potentially happen during the trip.
2. Take the Romance Up a Notch
Yes, keeping the spice alive in a relationship is always key. So there is no better place to take the romance up a notch than in new territory.
Couples usually go on trips with the mindset of having more time for romance. We get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life that we sometimes forget to give our honey some lovin’. [Read: Hustle porn: What it means, why it hurts your life & how to get rid of it]
Ladies, buy something sexy to put on for your man and switch it up a little. Guys, try creating the perfect atmosphere for romance by decorating the room, catering to her needs, and massaging the areas on her that need your special attention.
Try some PDA and express your love and appreciation for one another. Bringing the romance back or being more romantic than you usually are will definitely help you see the need for it. It is also a primary key to keeping you happy as a couple. [Read: 10 things a sex vacation can do for you]
3. Leave Your Worries Behind
Leave work, bills, kids, stress, issues and everything else at home. After all, the purpose of traveling is to enjoy yourselves and to escape from your daily duties. Make sure to clear up any issues or commitments before you leave for your trip.
This helps you have a great time because you will not spend the entire trip moaning and groaning about all the problems that are back home. Instead, you can focus on each other and the new sights and sounds you encounter on your trip. [Read: Negative thinking: 32 signs & ways to stop and get rid of negative thoughts]
Let’s face it, no one wants to talk about spilled milk while enjoying crystal-clear water and wonderful sunshine. If needed, implement a rule that neither one of you can talk about any major issues nor touchy subjects that you normally would discuss at home.
As a couple, this will help to keep you two in positive and uplifting spirits during the trip. The key to traveling is to enjoy yourselves fully! [Read: 10 ways you can reignite the lost spark in a relationship]
4. Eat, Drink, Play
Live it up during your travels by planning adventures that enable you to eat, drink and play. Try new foods you have never heard of before or that you have a hard time pronouncing to get a kick out of trying to say them.
Drink, responsibly of course, and immerse yourselves in dancing or just kick back and enjoy a drink. Play all you want, explore the place, mingle with the locals, or engage with other tourists.
New experiences help couples to bond and get to know each other better. Additionally, when you get home you will have new memories to share with your family and friends. Being in a relationship can become so mundane and that can increase the chances of couples growing apart. [Read: 29 signs you’re growing apart in a relationship & tips to reconnect]
That is why it is so important to create new experiences together. You may discover a few new things about each other and take away some new recipes or hobby ideas. [Read: 12 reasons some couples drift apart over time]
5. Take a Breather
You do not have to spend the entire trip hand in hand. Taking a day or just a couple of hours apart allows both of you to breathe. Maybe both of you can go participate in an activity alone, or explore something that you know your partner has no interest in.
Spending time apart allows you to embark on something new that you can later share with your partner. The wonderful thing about spending time alone is that it keeps things interesting, and you will not feel smothered by constantly being in each other’s company during the trip.
And once you finally meet up together, you can then talk about all the great things you saw while you were wandering on your own.
6. Plan a Surprise
Who doesn’t love a good surprise from their honey? Of course, it is great to plan the agenda together, but remember it was previously mentioned to also go off course. [Read: How to surprise your girlfriend and score brownie points]
Both of you can take the initiative to plan a surprise for each other. This can be especially useful if you do not know how to spend your alone time during your breather. Surprises say to your partner that you thought of them, that you cared enough to do something special for them, and simply that you appreciate their presence in your life.
It can be anything from a little souvenir that reminds you of your partner or tickets to an event that you know your partner may be into. You can even make your hotel room extra romantic with rose petals, candles, and sexy music so that your partner will be surprised when they get back to the room! [Read: 25 romantic ideas to make your lover melt]
7. Have a Lazy Day
A lazy day is a fantastic idea because it gives you a break to recharge after all of the exploring, eating, drinking, and playing you will be doing. Kick back, relax, and enjoy the view.
You do not want to tire yourselves out during your trip, and then arrive back home and sleep for an entire day. Thus, maybe during the middle or towards the end of your trip, take a day to enjoy doing nothing.
Your life will probably be busy when you go back home, so why not enjoy a day of laziness, because it is something you rarely get to do. You can cuddle up and just bask in each other’s company. You can also watch movies, order takeout, or heck, just stay in bed all day! [Read: 69 best & most romantic movies that are a must-watch in 2023]
8. Mingle with the locals
The comforts of home may be convenient, but you have to step out of your comfort zone to fully experience the atmosphere of your vacation spot. The best way to do this is to immerse yourself in what the locals are into.
9. Capture the Moments
Hey, don’t forget your camera! Documenting your journey together is priceless. Snap those silly selfies, majestic landscapes, or cozy dinners. Later, you can relive these memories or even create a photo album or a digital slideshow.
It’s not just about the photos; it’s about capturing the feeling of being on this adventure together. Plus, you’ll have awesome stories to share with friends and family about your traveling experiences as a couple. [Read: 25 secrets to take a good selfie & look cute every time you snap a photo!]
10. Experiment with Local Delicacies
Dive into the local cuisine! Trying new foods is a thrilling part of traveling. Be adventurous – sample that weird-looking street food or dine at a recommended local spot.
It’s a delicious way to immerse yourselves in the culture. Even if you encounter some culinary misses, it’ll make for great stories. And hey, bring something for your tummy just in case – a snack or antacid can save the day! Remember, traveling as a couple is as much about new flavors as new sights.
11. Learn a Bit of the Local Language
Here’s a fun challenge: if you’re traveling to a place with a different language, learn a few key phrases together. Whether it’s “terimah kasih” in Indonesia, “merci” in France, or “gracias” in Spain, learning these simple words shows respect for the local culture and can be super endearing to the locals.
Plus, it might even lead to some unexpected friendships and deeper insights into the place you’re visiting. You don’t need to be fluent—just mastering a few words can go a long way. And, it’s a perfect bonding experience as you both laugh over mispronounced words on your first couple’s trip! [Read: 50 romantic phrases from different languages that will make you swoon!]
12. Indulge in Local Entertainment and Nightlife
Check out the local entertainment scene. Whether it’s a live music performance, a traditional dance show, or a cozy jazz club, immersing yourselves in the local entertainment is exhilarating.
It’s a great way to feel the pulse of the place you’re visiting and create fun, shared experiences when traveling as a couple. Dancing under the stars or enjoying a concert can add a magical element to your journey.
13. Stay Flexible and Open to Changes
Sometimes, plans don’t work out, and that’s okay. Being flexible and open to changing plans can lead to some of the best travel experiences.
If that museum is closed, maybe you’ll find a beautiful hidden garden instead. It’s all about going with the flow and seeing where the day takes you. This attitude can relieve a lot of travel stress and make your trip more enjoyable. [Read: Small ways to deal with big changes in your life]
14. Reflect and Appreciate the Journey
Take some time to reflect on your experiences. Maybe during a quiet evening or on your journey home, talk about your favorite moments, what you learned about each other, and how this trip has brought you closer.
Appreciating the journey you’ve shared can deepen your relationship and set a wonderful tone for future travels together. It’s these reflections that often turn a great trip into an unforgettable one.
It’s a Journey of Discovering Each Other in New Lights
There’s just something about being in a new location that brings out either the best or worst in people. That’s exactly why the ultimate test of whether you can weather any relationship storm is by taking a trip out of town!
Traveling as a couple for the first time is not just about seeing new places, it’s a journey of discovering each other in new lights. It’s a test of patience, adaptability, and how well you gel as a team.
[Read: Reasons why relationships are such hard work]
And amidst all the planning, packing, and sightseeing, it’s crucial to remember why you’re traveling as a couple in the first place – to enjoy each other’s company and create memories that you’ll cherish forever. So go ahead and plan that trip – it’s one of the best ways to find out just how great you are together. Safe travels!
