Understanding the Honeymoon Phase

Entering a new relationship is undoubtedly exciting. With the sparks flying high in the first few weeks and months of your courtship, you’ll likely want to spend every waking hour together. You may even be thinking about embarking on a romantic getaway with your sweetheart. However, you might wonder when exactly you should take your first couples trip.

The Ideal Timing for a Couples Vacation

According to couples therapist Herzog, the timing for a first vacation will vary from couple to couple, depending on individual comfort levels. She notes that many people report feeling comfortable and confident in their relationship around the six-month mark. Similarly, Omar Ruiz, a licensed marriage and family therapist, recommends bringing up the prospect of a romantic trip three months into the relationship. This approach allows enough time to plan the trip by the six to seven-month mark.

Essential Tips for a Successful First Trip

Communication is Key: Clear and open communication is crucial when planning a trip with your new partner. Discuss all aspects of the vacation planning process, from deciding where to go to finalizing reservations and booking activities. Herzog encourages couples to check in with each other throughout the trip. Here are three prompts to help you get started:

• What kind of experience do you want to have together?
• What are 1-2 things you would like to do on this trip?
• How much money would you like to budget for this trip?

Get Candid About Finances: It’s crucial to be upfront with your partner about your financial commitment to the trip. To avoid potential disagreements and points of contention, sit down with your partner to discuss how you will split costs and establish a budget. Determine if you will split everything 50-50 or if one of you will cover specific expenses.

Be Flexible: Practicing flexibility can make or break your trip experience. Travel can be stressful, especially in a new environment with a new partner. Herzog recommends being as flexible as possible, both on vacation and in the relationship in general. Lean on compromise, communicate openly, and check in throughout your trip.

Understanding Each Other’s Travel Style

Annalise Oatman, a licensed clinical social worker, advises figuring out in advance if one of you is more of a planner than the other. Understanding each other’s approaches to stretches of ‘free time’ can set you up to approach your vacation in a way that supports everyone’s needs and personality styles. If one of you is a planner and the other prefers spontaneity, have a plan that includes both structured and open, flexible time.

Managing Stress and Anxiety

Consider what stress-relief tactics have worked for you in the past and think about ways to incorporate them into your vacation. You may consider yoga, meditation, massages, and personal time. Also, develop a plan to support your partner in managing their stress and anxiety.