Go Like the Pros

Traveling is just like anything else: The more you do it, the better you get. Which is why some people breeze through airport security while you fumble with those big gray bins. Get some practice in! And steal these tips from frequent globetrotters.

- SUSAN B. BARNES

Make Group Trips a Group Effort

The trickiest part of family vacations: coming up with an itinerary that suits everyone, especially when multiple generations are involved. To keep people happy, make them part of the planning, suggests Samantha Brown, a travel expert and the host of Samantha Brown's Places to Love. "Allow each member of the family to choose and plan at least one activity," she says. "The kids will like having a voice in the decision-making, and everyone will feel invested in the vacation." Create a shared file, like a Google Doc, or a survey (try Google Forms) so loved ones can jot down notes, make suggestions, and voice their opinions.

Have the Hard Convos Before You Head Off with Friends

Traveling with your pals can be a blast until you start arguing over what constitutes a "reasonable price" for dinner. Set expectations before you go, says Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon, creator of the travel site JetSetSarah. Do you tend to scrimp or splurge? Are you an early bird or a night owl? And, importantly, how much alone time do you think you'll want? "We all need it,' Greaves-Gabbadon says. "Just talk about it up front so no one feels offended." Let's say you hope to enjoy your morning coffee in silence, or you'd like to spend an afternoon solo halfway through the trip. Cheerfully tell your companions that you love them but you'll be better company if you have a little breathing space. They'll likely say the same.

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