5 Proven Rules for a Stress-Free Couples' Vacation: Josh Haroldson's Expert Guide
A fun story my wife Stasia and I often shared at parties: We'd visited Europe together but never flown on a plane at the same time (she studied abroad in Wales, and I visited her). It's not that we dislike traveling as a couple—with marriage, demanding jobs, and creative projects, we spent our first 11 years exploring the Midwest by car.
Staying close to home taught us invaluable lessons for stress-free couple vacations. After relocating from Madison, WI, to her childhood home in Minnesota, starting new jobs, and settling in, we finally flew together for our first beach getaway to Cabo San Lucas with Sun Country Airlines.
Here are five rules we follow on every trip for an enjoyable, stress-free experience:
Rule #1: Embrace Alone Time
Embracing solo time might seem counterintuitive for couples' travel, but it's essential.
On vacation, it's tempting to spend every moment together, leading to compromises and potential resentment. Instead, pursue individual interests—like a cooking class for one and golf for the other, or photography time for me. This ensures no regrets, followed by sharing stories over dinner. As they say, absence makes the heart grow fonder.
Rule #2: Schedule Relaxation Time
Sun Country vacations offer flexibility for excursions, but balance them with downtime. Overpacking your itinerary leads to exhaustion.
Commit to at least one afternoon or full day at the resort: lounge, nap, enjoy tacos and margaritas together.
Rule #3: Take a Walk to Reconnect
Nothing fosters connection like a leisurely walk in a new place—perfect for couples on vacation.
Strolling sparks deep conversations, whether on the beach or through town. Ditch the phones, choose a direction, and go. You'll feel closer than ever.
Rule #4: Practice Patience
Travel's unpredictability tests patience, but it can make or break your trip.
Prepare by:
- Taking a deep breath before responding
- Remembering your partner isn't trying to upset you
- Apologizing first and showing kindness
As someone who doesn't find patience natural, I recommend starting now.
Rule #5: Plan Ahead
Prevent frustration with proactive planning—better than needing patience!
Key areas:
- Assign travel documents responsibility
- Share flight and hotel details
- Discuss special needs (e.g., my flying anxiety and podcasts)
- Incorporate the first four rules
Josh Haroldson, Sun Country Explorer:
@joshharoldson
I received airfare, hotel accommodations, and a stipend from Sun Country Airlines. All opinions are my own and uninfluenced.
