1.    Make a Mock Itinerary Prior to Leaving

Know the top things everyone wants to see and do when travelling to your destination. See what places are close to each other and what is the most efficient way to hit all the stops on your group’s bucket list. You can sign up for a tour to guarantee an itinerary planned for you. You’ll also have a guide at your disposal for advice on cool activities to do in your free time!

2.    It’s Okay To Split Up

When travelling with a group of new friends, it can be hard to please everyone. Some friends might be seeking a trip to the museum while others crave a shopping spree. Splitting up into smaller groups or pairs is an easy way to let everyone do their own thing. When travelling in a big tour group, it strengthens your chances of finding people who want to see the same sites and do similar activities.

3.    Share Your Location

Going out at night, it is a good idea to build safety in numbers. Knowing where your friends are at all times can reduce the risk of losing a friend or getting lost on your own. Using apps like “Find My Friends” can be a life-saver! It is important to have a plan in place on where to meet back up after splitting to use the toilets or grab a drink at the bar.

4.    Be Aware Of Budget Differences

Travelling is expensive and not everyone in a group may budget the same spending money for eating out and fun excursions. Be mindful and understanding of other’s backgrounds. Be willing to compromise. If no one else wants to sit down to a four-course dinner at a fancy restaurant, don’t push it. At the same time, it’s okay to order less than others or split something with a friend if the group decides to go somewhere that is a stretch for your wallet. Going on an all-inclusive tour is an easy way to align individual budgets. Give or take a little spending money, a tour allows everyone to know how much a trip will cost before you set off.

5.    It May Be Challenging, But Ultimately So Rewarding

Spending time with new people 24/7 on a new trip is an amazing way to become really close with some great new people but can also be challenging at times. Being around people 24.7, whether you've known them your whole life or you've only just met them, is going to lead to the occasional irritation. It is important to give people the benefit of the doubt and keep an open mind. Travelling on a group tour can help you meet more people and increases your chances of building more wonderful friendships.  It’s okay to become closer with some people over others during your trip, you don’t have to be best friends with everyone. The good friends you do make could be great buddies for your next adventure!

Travelling is all about having fun and embracing new experiences! Make memories and new friends but be responsible and considerate of others as you navigate an unfamiliar place. Consider the advantages of signing up for a tour over planning a trip on your own. Tours are designed to show you the highlights of each destination at a set budget. Check out INTRO Travel's trips here .