Surviving a Baecation

You want to know if the love you have is real? Go on an extended trip with your significant other ("baecation"). Feeling real ballsy, invite another couple to join you!

Traveling in general already puts you way out your element. You may be unfamiliar with the customs, language and area. When you're traveling with bae, you now also have to consider their style, agenda, mood, appetite, etc. Unlike when you're back home, it's harder to leave and go to your happy place when you're frustrated with each other. 

This can all be extremely challenging to maneuver, which is why I'm sharing some "baecation" survival tips! My fiance and I recently took a tour of Paris, Amsterdam and Marrakech with one of our couple friends - here's how we all came out alive:

1) Plan together: You both should set expectations for each trip. The best way to do this is to plan together! Planning together is a fun way to build excitement for your baecation and ensure the proper mix of activities to satisfy your traveling personality. 

2) Know your role: In almost any context, it's important to play up your strengths. With traveling, this also holds true. On every baecation, I know that I'm in charge of finding the great eats and Jordan is the master at navigating the streets. Though we may offer our suggestions every now and then, have a role on the trip that you can own!

3) Agree on a budget: I firmly believe in thoroughly enjoying your baecations; but, be sure to set a reasonable budget (with wiggle room) together. This will drive how much money you decide to withdraw, avoid unnecessary trips to the ATM and prevent embarrassing moments when deciding which cards to use...

4) Watch your liquor: Trust me when I say you don't want to get #fratboy wasted when traveling with your partner. Something always goes wrong. You're either up all night taking care of the other, or you do something stupid that pisses your partner off, or you put yourself in an even more vulnerable position while abroad. We're all adults and know our limits. Don't ruin your baecation (or your partner's) just because you have to have another tequila shot.

5) Put time aside: Sometimes you just need a little break! Whether that's a day at the spa or just a morning coffee alone - put that time aside! This is especially important when you're traveling with another couple. Be sure to schedule some girl/guy time to talk about the things that you talk about when your significant other isn't around :)  

6) Load up on swag: Souvenir shopping is one of my favorite activities when traveling. You can make this even more special by purchasing at least one souvenir that you both can enjoy together. Whether that's a painting for the dining room or hand embroidered sheets for the bedroom - this is a great way to have staple pieces to feature back in your home. 

7) Hedge on time: I strongly recommend hedging on time when traveling. Arrive to the airport, appointments, and reservations with ample time to spare. This will ensure your plans go smoothly and keep your anxiety at bay! Baecations should be relaxing, don't waste energy stressing in the security line you underestimated or worrying about losing your table at the restaurant! Being on the giving or receiving end of the resulting resentment due to tardiness is a surefire way to dampen your trip!

8) Seize the day: Have a "seize the day" mentality and realize that this wonderful vacation will be over before you know it. Don't sweat the little things things. Instead, take lots of pictures, have fun and create memories that will last you a lifetime! 

Naturally, you and your honey will have disagreement(s). However, with proper planning and a willingness to compromise, you can make your next baecation the best one yet!