You’ve got the travel dates, the tickets are set, and the excitement builds—then you remember who you’re going with. Whether it’s a difficult family member, a challenging friend, or someone you barely know, the idea of spending hours or days with them can turn a dream trip into a dreaded one.
Pause, woo-sa…continuing on.
But you don’t have to cancel your plans. With the right mindset and a few simple tricks, you can get through the trip and still enjoy yourself. Here is your guide to surviving a journey with someone who gets on your nerves.
Remember, It’s Temporary
The most powerful tool you have is a simple idea: this situation won’t last forever. The flight will only be a few hours, the train ride a bit longer, and the whole trip has an end date. This isn’t your new life; it’s a short-term project.
When a tough moment happens, take a deep breath and tell yourself, “This is just for a little while.” By keeping your eye on the finish line, you can let small problems go, knowing you’ll soon be free to be yourself again.
Their Stuff, Not Yours
This part is hard, but it will give you the most freedom. Much of the annoyance you feel with this person comes from their own issues—their need for control or their bad habits. Their problems are their own business, not yours.
When they complain about a delay or get upset about a wrong food order, remember that this shows how they are feeling, not how you should feel. Don’t take it to heart. Stay focused on your own happiness and your own trip. You can be polite and helpful, but you don’t have to carry their emotional weight.
A Little Planning Goes a Long Way
You probably already know what this person does that drives you crazy. Don’t let yourself get caught off guard. The key to a good trip is to guess what might happen and get ready for it.
Pack Your Peace
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: This is your best tool. They let others know you are busy and give you a quiet space right away.
- A Book or Tablet: When you need a break, a good book or a show you can get lost in is your best friend.
- A Sleep Mask and Earplugs: These are key for a good night’s rest, especially if your travel partner sleeps differently. A tired person is more likely to get upset.
- A Portable Charger: Nothing makes a tough person tougher than a dead phone. Keeping yourself and their device charged can stop a bad mood before it starts.
Plan to Keep Things Calm
The secret to a good trip with a difficult person is not spending every moment with them. It’s about finding a good mix. Plan activities that don’t need a lot of talking or let you spend some time apart.
- Museums or Galleries: A quiet museum is a perfect way to spend time together without needing to chat. You can walk on your own and meet up later.
- A Shopping Trip: This is a good activity that naturally lets you split up. You can agree to meet in an hour or so and use the time to do your own thing.
- Tours: Taking a guided tour lets you see a city together while someone else does all the talking.
- Alone Time: Have a way to get out. Saying, “I’m just going to walk to the end of the street to stretch my legs,” or “I’m going to get a coffee by myself” is a nice way to get some alone time.
Bonus Tip: The “Don’t Go Hungry” Rule
This sounds simple, but it is powerful. Many travel fights get worse because of hunger, thirst, and being tired. Make it a personal rule to take care of your basic needs first. If you feel stress rising, ask yourself:
Am I tired? Am I hungry?
A quick snack or a glass of water can do more to calm a situation than any talk. Taking a moment for yourself to eat or rest makes sure you are reacting with a clear mind, not with anger from physical stress.
The Reality of Traveling with Them
Traveling with a difficult person is never easy, but you can do it without losing your cool. Just remember the trip is not forever, don’t take their issues to heart, and prepare for your own needs. You can get through the journey and still make memories you will want to remember.
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