Modern life often leaves little room for meaningful time with friends, yet nearly a quarter (24%) of British travellers plan to holiday with friends in 2026—showing a growing desire to reconnect and travel together.
With Easter, the May Bank Holiday, and summer trips on the horizon, Cheryl Brown, Managing Director of inland waterway holiday company Le Boat, shares practical advice for planning a successful group getaway.
“Travelling with friends offers a unique opportunity to deepen connections and create lasting memories,” says Cheryl. “A boating holiday, in particular, allows you to slow down, unplug, and truly enjoy shared moments—whether that’s watching a sunset, trying something new, or simply soaking up the calm of nature.
“That said, spending extended time together in an unfamiliar setting can sometimes lead to disagreements. Everyone brings their own habits, preferences, and expectations, so thoughtful planning and open communication are essential to keeping things smooth and enjoyable.”
Here’s how to make your next friendcation stress-free and memorable:
Align expectations early
Start by agreeing on the overall vibe of the trip. Is the focus relaxation, adventure, cultural exploration, or a mix? While some flexibility is important, major differences—like one person wanting lazy mornings while others plan early starts and packed itineraries—can cause friction.
It’s equally important to discuss key preferences in advance. Will you stay in a hotel, rental, or something more unique like a boat or campervan? Who is comfortable sharing rooms, and who values private space? How often will you eat out versus cook? Getting clarity on these details early helps avoid misunderstandings later.
Set a clear budget
Agreeing on a shared budget is essential. Break costs into categories such as transport, accommodation, food and drink, and activities. Don’t forget to allow for extras like taxis, unexpected excursions, or coffee stops.
Look for ways to stretch your budget—options like boating or campervan holidays can combine transport and accommodation while offering self-catering facilities. Using an expense-sharing app like Splitwise can also make it easier to track and divide costs during the trip.
Divide responsibilities
Group chats are great for communication, but decision-making can stall when everyone weighs in on every detail. To keep things moving, assign each traveller (or couple) a specific role—such as managing transport, accommodation, meals, or activities.
This approach spreads the workload and ensures no one person feels overwhelmed.
Avoid overplanning
It’s tempting to pack the itinerary, but leaving room for flexibility is key. Unexpected changes—weather, delays, or shifting moods—can disrupt even the best-laid plans.
Aim for one main group activity per day, allowing time for individuals or smaller groups to do their own thing. Whether it’s relaxing with a book, exploring a local trail, or browsing shops, having personal downtime helps everyone recharge.
Pack collaboratively
Coordinate packing to avoid unnecessary duplication. For example, you don’t need multiple tubes of toothpaste for one bathroom.
Bring clothing suited to your planned activities and the weather, along with essentials like comfortable shoes, a waterproof jacket, and a day bag. If you have special plans—like fine dining—pack accordingly.
It’s also smart to bring a few basics like snacks, tea, or coffee for arrival, and to check nearby grocery stores or restaurants in advance—especially if you’re arriving late. For self-catering stays, arranging a grocery delivery can make the first day much easier.
And don’t forget entertainment—board games or puzzles are perfect for relaxed evenings or rainy days.
Communicate—and compromise
Even the closest friendships can be tested when sharing space around the clock. One common source of tension? Sleeping arrangements.
If you’re staying in shared accommodation, rooms may vary in size or quality. Instead of competing for the “best” room, allocate based on individual needs—light sleepers might prefer quieter spaces, early risers may benefit from proximity to communal areas, and night owls may not mind busier locations.
Clear communication and a willingness to compromise are essential. Small adjustments can make a big difference in maintaining harmony.
Remember to enjoy it
At the end of the day, you’re on holiday. Relax, embrace the experience, and focus on the moments that matter.
Travelling with friends may require patience and flexibility, but it also offers the chance to strengthen bonds, share new experiences, and create lasting memories.
Why boating holidays work so well for groups
Self-drive boating holidays are particularly well-suited to group travel, combining accommodation, transport, and unique shared experiences in one.
With private cabins and communal living spaces, they strike a balance between social time and personal space. Flexible itineraries allow some travellers to unwind onboard while others explore destinations along the way—making it an ideal option for groups with different travel styles.
