Seasoned traveller shares why you should always have a conversation about money before going on holiday with your mates
An experienced traveller has revealed three rules groups should follow before taking a trip together - in order to ensure a holiday without arguments.The seasoned explorer shared the advice online, explaining that their experiences on group trips around Europe informed their experiences.While some trips end well, others terminate in disaster - and there are some foolproof ways to ensure a successful voyage. Reddit user Ambitious_Vast1611 wrote: 'I love my friends, but travelling with them across Europe taught me that good intentions don't replace clear boundaries. I've done two group trips around Europe with two completely different sets of friends, and the difference was night and day. 'The first trip ended with two guys fighting, and one girl crying in a café in Amsterdam, and it took a few weeks after getting home for us to even be friends again. 'The second trip, literally the highlight of my life. I love solo travel, but when you're in a group with no fights and just love and good vibes, nothing beats that feeling.'But the difference between the trips wasn't the people, but agreeing clear expectations. Here are the three rules every group should follow to ensure a seamless experience... 1. Have clear conversations about money before you leave Planning a group trip can be stressful - but having a chat in advance can really helpDiscussing finances before departure is essential - and should include daily budgets as well as big expenses. Decide on a budget that works for everyone.Ambitious_Vast1611 wrote: 'Have a proper chat before the trip about daily budgets, big expenses (concerts, fine dining, that random wine tour someone wants to do), and create an approximate total cost everyone's comfortable with.'On the first trip, we'd all verbally agreed on places we wanted to see and on the general activities. Everyone booked their own flights and hotels since we all had partners and figured we'd just meet up and figure it out. 'Except when we actually got there and had to pick where to eat, someone would suggest a Michelin-recommended spot while someone else wanted street food for authenticity.'This led to general awkwardness when on the trip - and can easily be avoided. 2. Ensure there's space for solo time Setting expectations for periods alone can also greatly improve a holidayEven just a few hours of solo time can make or break a group trip. If everyone establishes in advance that they will want to do some experiences alone, you'll save any tense conversations further down the line.Ambitious_Vast1611 said: 'When solo time isn't part of the plan and someone randomly decides to separate from the group, it feels weird and almost rude.'But everyone needs it - so settle this in advance. 3. Give everyone roles - don't just decide on the day Assigning roles - such as map reader and money manager - can also help'Usually we kinda know who's gonna navigate, who to listen to for food recommendations, all that but don't just assume it'll work itself out,' Ambitious_Vast1611 wrote.When their groups did so, it really helped - even more so when they assigned a 'money manager'.This person, they explained booked all accommodation, tickets, events, and must-see expensive restaurants with one card and they divided the amount at the end. There was a separate card for daily expenses, which was also split evenly at the end. Having a fair and equal financial plan is a great way to avoid any trouble.
