Dear Michelle Valentine, What’s Your Best Tip for Couples Traveling Together?

Dear Michelle Valentine, What’s Your Best Tip for Couples Traveling Together?

—Cheryl T.

Dear Cheryl T.,

Traveling with your significant other can be one of the most romantic, rewarding experiences… or a fast track to frustration if you’re not prepared. Whether you’re jet-setting newlyweds or long-time partners, sharing a suitcase and itinerary can bring both joy and challenges.

I’ve traveled extensively with my husband over the years, and trust me—we’ve learned a few things the hard way (like how I like to plan excursions and he likes to just walk around till he finds something interesting). But with a little planning and communication, couples can grow even closer through travel.

Give Each Other Space—Yes, Even on Vacation

This might sound counterintuitive, but a little time apart makes togetherness even better.
Whether it’s a morning walk alone, reading at the pool, or doing separate activities for a few hours, allowing space prevents the dreaded “vacation claustrophobia.”

My husband might wander off to a local fishing pier while I explore a bookstore or sip coffee in a café—and we meet back up with fresh stories to share!

Divide and Conquer Planning Duties

One of the best ways to avoid conflict is to split the travel planning:

• One person books accommodations, the other handles excursions

• One researches restaurants, the other figures out transportation

This way, both people feel involved and responsible—and it helps prevent one person from feeling overwhelmed while the other feels sidelined.

Need a little help?

Download My Free “Romantic Trip Planner” Mini Printable →

Build Flex Time into the Itinerary

Not every moment of your trip needs to be scheduled. In fact, some of the best memories come from spontaneous adventures—stumbling upon a hidden beach, a hole-in-the-wall diner, or dancing in the town square with locals.

Leave an afternoon or evening open during your trip. If nothing magical presents itself? A nap in a quiet hotel room with your love is pretty magical, too.

Discuss Expectations Before You Go

Before your trip even begins, have a quick “travel goals” chat.

Ask each other:

• Do we want to relax or be on the go?

• What’s one thing you have to do?

• What’s your ideal pace?

This helps avoid surprises like one partner expecting daily sightseeing marathons while the other just wants to lounge by the pool.

Be Patient—and Remember to Laugh

No matter how well you plan, something will go sideways. A delayed flight, a wrong turn, a forgotten charger. Laugh about it. These are the stories you’ll tell later.

My husband and I still giggle about the time we got completely lost on a scenic walk through Toledo (Spain, not Ohio) and ended up finding an underground cave in a clothing shop! (True story—look for the video on social media!)

Final Thought from Michelle Valentine

Traveling as a couple isn’t about the perfect photo or flawless plan—it’s about experiencing life together in a new way. You’ll see the world through each other’s eyes, deepen your connection, and come home with not just souvenirs—but stories and smiles.

Wishing you joyful journeys,
Michelle Valentine
TV Host, Love Eat Travel with Michelle Valentine

Travel Together with Love

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