5 Tips for Traveling with a Group as an Introvert

Ugh. Just reading that title stresses me out and makes me want to say “Nope.”

But yet, there are times in our lives where family, work, or friends push and plead us to join. “It’ll be great! So much fun!” (Sigh)

By following a few tips/best practices, you can have an unforgettable journey that allows for meaningful connection with others as well as peace in your own company. So before you start packing your bags, keep reading to find out five essential tips for being an active introvert traveler in a group situation (still makes me shudder).

1. Prepare Ahead of Time — research destinations, plan activities, and think about which spots will provide a chance to be alone when needed

Ahhhh, new adventures, new foods, new scenery. Taking a trip is exciting, but preparing for it can be a bit overwhelming. As you start to pump yourself up and pack your bags, take some time to research your destinations, plan activities that interest you, and think about places where you can escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet. It’s always better to do some homework beforehand to get a send of what to expect (on the positive-side). Do you go online and look at the menu before going to a new restaurant? Same difference.

Who knows what hidden gems you might discover while perusing travel blogs or review sites? With a little effort on the front end, you’ll be able to kick back and relax once you hit the scene. So grab your guidebook (or pull up your favorite travel site) and get started.

2. Set Boundaries — make sure the group is aware that you need your space occasionally and let them know your preferences for activities

Ah, boundaries. Like the fenced herbs in your garden and overly excited critters who love to munch, boundaries are merely suggestions to be trampled. “Hey, come on. You can sleep on the flight home.” “Hey, need some company at the pool?”

So when it comes to group activities, it’s important to let your fellow excited critters (aka, other people) know when you need some breathing room. Maybe you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed and need some alone time, or maybe you’re just not feeling up to a particular activity. Whatever the case may be, don’t be afraid to speak up and let your preferences be known. If you feel guilty about doing so (which you shouldn’t because it is your trip too), choose one activity or gathering to skip and make it time for you.

3. Having someone with you who understands you can be invaluable (or Fellow Introverts Unite!)

It’s no secret that even the most fun and exciting adventures can be overwhelming at some point. Often in the blur of crowds and louder and louder chatter, we can pick out a fellow introvert. That person, if you both connect and agree, is your wingman (or wingwoman) to team up and protect each other’s energy and sanity. You get how each other are feeling in these situations and are able to help each other navigate the social scenes. Plus, having someone to share inside jokes with always makes things more enjoyable.

So grab a buddy and venture out, for even the most introverted among us deserve to have a good time. Besides, it is way more fun to enjoy a drink and roll your eyes at others with someone who gets you.

4. Take Breaks — when the group plans too many activities in a day, suggest taking a break or find ways to divert from the plan, such as reading or enjoying nature

We often fall into the trap of over-planning and under-relaxing, especially when it comes to group activities. In the pursuit of having the perfect day, we (probably more so ‘others also known as extroverts’ tend to pack our schedule full of things to do, leaving little to no room for breaks. However, taking breaks is crucial for our mental and physical well-being. So, if you find yourself in a situation where the group has planned too many activities in a day, be bold and suggest taking a break or find ways to divert from the plan. And yes, going back to my room to stare at the ceiling or watch the news in a language I don’t understand is totally legit.

5. Embrace New Experiences — while it’s important to take care of yourself while on vacation, don’t be afraid to try new things and embrace different cultures

When it comes to vacation or group trips, some people jump on their dream of being the Social Activities Guide with the mostest — they plan every minute of the trip, and they’re not deviating from the itinerary. But what’s the point of visiting a new place if you’re not willing to get a little lost? Venturing into the unknown can lead to the most memorable experiences of your life. So here’s your chance to embrace the situation and honor yourself — Go for a walk (with a friend if you’re not comfortable alone).

Whether it’s trying a new food, exploring a foreign city by foot, or getting lost in a new language, embracing new experiences is exactly what vacations are made for. So pack your sense of adventure and get ready to learn and grow in unexpected ways. Your future self will thank you for it.

One Last Thing

Introverts don’t always have the easiest time traveling with a group, but that doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy the experience. Remember this…

Be kind to yourself.

Reframe your perspective to recognize the memories you could make and grow from experiences which could feel intimidating at first. Who knows, you may need to return to that location with a little trip all by yourself as a reward.

#activeintrovert

Learn more about being an active introvert at www.activeintrovert.com.