As much as you love taking trips and seeing the world, you have to admit one thing: You haven’t really thought about your travel plans. Instead, every morning when you roll out of bed, you glance over at your bucket list posted on your mirror and say to yourself, “I’ll get there one day.” I mean this in the nicest way possible: What are you waiting for? I can understand wanting to rack up extra funds before purchasing a plane ticket, but it seems like you’re also looking for the stars to align.
Best Friend Is A Very Good Travel Partner?
So here’s a friendly reminder that the day is now. I’m talking about 2016. There’s no reason to put off buying a ticket when your friend already said yes to the trip. You have vacation time? Great! As long as you’re not planning on taking a trip to Antarctica (right in the middle of winter) or to a place you can’t get to without a passport, it doesn’t matter what the date is on your vacation. It’s time to go. Especially if, by the time you get back, the newspapers will be full of your favourite city crumbling to the ground.
Best Places For 17-Year-Olds To Travel
On the other hand, maybe you can’t afford the plane ticket. I get it. But that’s OK, too. As long as you and your best friend can afford to leave your shared living situation for an evening, you’re in a better place than you think. Now, the only thing you need to worry about is how you’re going to get your tickets. But don’t lose hope! There are plenty of ways you may be able to get free plane tickets. While some options may require you to make some sacrifices, you’ll be rewarded for them.
Free Tickets
Frequent Flier Miles
If you’re trying to get to someplace on the East Coast, there’s a good chance you’ll only have to pay a couple bucks for your best friend to get on the plane with you for free. The reason for this is airlines will give you frequent flier miles based on how much you fly. The more tickets you buy, the faster your miles add up. And believe it or not, airlines will also give you miles if you go to places that are popular. Of course, this all depends on what airline you fly and their rewards system, but it’s definitely worth a try.
Free Event Tickets
If you lived in NYC or Chicago during 2013, you had a great chance of being able to get free plane tickets to upcoming concerts. Online service called Eventbrite made this possible a few years ago. If you didn’t know, Eventbrite is a service where you can go to concerts in your area and even reserve tickets. As long as you did that, you’d be able to get into those concerts free, as long as you bought a ticket to get to the show. So if you couldn’t afford the trip to the concert, you could still get the concert tickets if you bought a ticket to the city where the concert was being held.
If you don’t live in or near a city with constant live music, there are other ways to get tickets for free. For example, if you like to watch movies or go to museums, there are a ton of free events going on in your area that come with a pass that allows you to reserve tickets for free. And if you’re lucky, some of these events will have beverages, snacks, and other features, like live music and even shopping. Even if you don’t get a free plane ticket out of it, you’ll still get a free night out.
Loyalty Programs
If you’re a fan of one airline over another, there are a few factors that may come into play when it comes to getting free tickets. While the free travel pass you get for getting an airline credit card is nice, chances are, you’re going to be fine without one. Whether you like Southwest, Enjet, or Delta, the free ticket you get from signing up for a rewards program won’t cover the cost of your flight. So while having one is nice, you don’t have to have one.
But what if your friend is thinking of moving, and you want to visit them before they move? You can use a loyalty program to help you get free plane tickets that will cover the cost of your trip. No matter what loyalty program you have, chances are, you have a combination of miles and dollars you can use at the end of the year to buy a roundtrip ticket. Better yet, maybe your friend is already a member of a loyalty program. Now it’s your turn!
In the end, it doesn’t take all of your money to get free plane tickets. It takes planning. And hopefully the work will be well-worth it. If you’re ready to travel, there are plenty of ways to get free tickets. If you’re a frequent flyer, you’ll end up spending some money on the trip, but there’s a good chance you can still rack up free miles for another trip. If you’re not a frequent flyer, but you still want to try to save a buck, you may be in luck. There are plenty of places you can get rid of points you don’t need and put them to good use. Or maybe your friend has a few points to spare. Now that you have a free pass, you can enjoy visiting your friend. Congratulations! You’re now one step closer to the friend zone. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with that.
Bali
This product was recommended by Mrs DDuffin from Icanshowyoutheworld5
Bali has so many beautiful adventures, visit temples, relax on the beach, visit a monkey forest sanctuary and more. You can visit hotel K, Bali’s notorious prison, a must see site. The best place in Bali to stay with for female friends is Bliss sanctuary for women.. They have several packages, such as wellness packages, yoga packages and thill seeking packages. Here they will arrange for you to do a variety of activities such as white water rafting and a volcano trek. For the ultimate beat friend getaway, visit Bali.
Block Island, RI
This product was recommended by Austin Tuwiner from Scubaotter
Block Island, RI has everything you could want for an epic trip with your best friend, whether it’s for guys, girls, younger, older, lgbtq, or whomever else. A quick ferry ride, so no expensive travel from the east coast. Super close to NYC. Lots of beautiful beaches, upscale or affordable accommodations, hiking and outdoor activities, and a party that lasts all summer long! It’s the quintessential New England summer vacation experience for all.
Charleston
This product was recommended by Seth Steinman from Free Tours by Foot
If you’re looking for a unique, memorable trip with your best friend, the dark history of Charleston can’t be beat. Ghost Tours are especially popular, with many bringing you right into graveyards, the Provost Dungeon, and the Old City Jail. Some are intended to frighten, while others focus more on the history (the oldest gravestone is from the 1770s). During the day, Charleston is a vibrant city full of great food and historic architecture, right on the water.
Ghana
This product was recommended by Akosua from ACC Tours
Ghana is the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to receive its independence from colonial rule. It is the ideal location for best friends who love sun, beach, culture, food, nightlife and history! Sitting on the edge of West Africa, this diverse and bustling nation of 30 million, with a fast growing economy and diverse metropolitian feel – think old meets new – Ghana is the perfect gateway to this majestic continent.
Equatorial Guinea
This product was recommended by Héctor Nguema from Rumbo Malabo
Equatorial Guinea is the hidden jewel in Central Africa. Historically, this small country has been inaccessible for visitors due to the difficulty obtaining the visa. Those days are fortunately gone, If you are a pair of adventurers, and love the feeling of being alone in most of their amazing landscapes, Equatorial Guinea awaits.
Japan
This product was recommended by Michelle Endo from Wander Eat Write
I always recommend Japan as it really has everything from the hustle and bustle of the city to peacefully beautiful nature. There’s an endless amount to see and do and there’s nothing better than being able to experience it all with your best friend. Japan is great for beginner travels as its safe and friendly while still feeling like you’ve stepped into another world. Even for those who have been to Japan many times, there’s always more to explore, whether it’s the amazing food, unique culture, or breathtaking sights bridging the ancient world with modern innovation.
Big Bend, Texas
This product was recommended by Raul Mercado from Camping Helper
When you’re traveling through big bend you see these gigantic mountains and hundred foot canyon walls and its absolutely beautiful. But without being able to share it with someone it doesn’t quite have the same feelings. Taking your best friend with you to hike the trails and camp out in the wilderness is an experience unlike any other. And having someone you feel close and connected to also makes you feel safe when your miles from any help. The two of you can look out for each other, all while getting to share amazing experiences you can’t find anywhere else. You’ll have a stronger relationship with your best friend after some time in Big Bend.
Kauai
This product was recommended by Christopher Kosloski from Elevated Journeys
The Best Place I’ve traveled with my Best Friends was Kauai. My friends and I are golfers and not only LOVE playing the courses on Kauai but we LOVE staying at Waimea Plantation Cottages located in Waimea town. Waimea town is located on the southwest shore of Kauai and is well off the beaten path. Waimea Plantation Cottages is a small homey resort where guests stay in cottage homes that were once part of a sugar plantation.
Bodega Bay
This product was recommended by Suzette Mack from Suzette Mack Travel
Bodega Bay is off the beaten path for most tourists. It has a large beautiful beach, great restaurants, with amazing fresh crab & seafood, and cute galleries and shops. Bodega Head is a great location for whale watching during the season. Outdoor activities including kayaking, hiking, ziplining, and fishing. Or take a leisurely drive along the rugged Sonoma coastline up to the Russian River, ending at Goat Rock Beach. And the wineries, yum!
Turkey
This product was recommended by Charli Burbidge from Petz
Turkey is my pick for the destination to go to with your best friend. Me and my best friend love to see beautiful vistas, and something about experiencing it together makes it very special. Turkey is a great place for exactly that. One day you could gaze at the beautiful ruins of Ephesus and the next you could stare down at the valleys from a hot air balloon in Cappadocia. The latter is especially fantastic as it feels as though you and your friend are the only ones around; it’s an unforgettable experience that should be on the bucket list of everyone, regardless of age. It’s not something you should do alone either. While it may seem enjoyable, the idea of being hundreds of feet without anyone to share the view with seems lonely.
Walpole, Western Australia
This product was recommended by Alex Hamilton from Walpole Rest Point Caravan Park
Walpole in the South West of Western Australia is the perfect destination for best friends seeking a nature lovers retreat. The rural destination is surrounded by large lush trees and greenery all year round, with friendly native animals roaming around and greeting visitors. Located right on the river and close by to the ocean, it’s also perfect for friends that want to escape the summer heat and go swimming in beautiful natural clean water. While you’re in Walpole, a few things you have to do with your best friend includes taking a treetop walk (known as the Valley of the Giants) through vast tingle forests, visit the many natural waterfalls in the area, and explore the breathtaking Walpole National Parks. There are also many small local businesses that offer pampering, day spas and relaxing retreats to make your next holiday with your best friend even more special!
Lima, Peru
This product was recommended by Vaibhav Zaroo from Lookuptwice
This coastal city is absolutely gorgeous and has the world’s largest fountain parks, therefore it is rightly hailed as the Garden City. If you are on for a city with a stretch of parks overlooking the ocean and beaches, then Lima is the place to visit.
Copenhagen, Denmark
This product was recommended by Vaibhav Zaroo from Lookuptwice
Being voted as the happiest country in the world, Denmark is the place to spend quality time with your friends. Going to the capital of the place that coined the concept is perfect in general. You can visit the famous Little Mermaid statue, and redefine fun at the Tivoli Gardens, a retro amusement park.
Reykjavík, Iceland
This product was recommended by Jessica Miller from Bike Inquire
This country is so supernaturally breathtaking that the prettiest Game of Thrones scenes shot in Iceland only touches the tip of the iceberg. Bus tours from Reykjavík, Iceland’s capital and largest city, which by itself is adorable and super walkable, can take you all around the volcanic island so you can get your perfect ’gram in front of a waterfall or mountain ridge. The photo ops are endless—and precisely why you need your BFF to patiently take bomb snapshots of you amidst every backdrop. If you can squeeze in a shot of the Northern Lights or a selfie in the Blue Lagoon, you’ll both be the envy of all your followers for life.
Palawan, Philippines
This product was recommended by Yaniv Masjedi from Nextiva
El Nido in Palawan, Philippines is a paradise on Earth. Traveling with your best friend on the sandy shores of El Nido is the perfect way to celebrate years of brotherhood while strengthening friendships further. Unlike Maldives and Hawaii, the prices are more affordable. However, tourists can still enjoy turquoise waters and fresh seafood like its more expensive counterparts. You can try exotic food like “tamilok,” which is a woodworm that tastes comparable to fresh oysters.
Dubai
This product was recommended by Samantha Wragg from Coco Travels
Dubai is a great place to travel to with your best friend as you can do everything! If you’re into partying then there are beach clubs (my favourite is Zero Gravity) and nightclubs, plus there’s Ladies Day on a Tuesday where women get free entry and free drinks everywhere. Plus there’s Friday brunch which is where everyone gets together for food and drinks. If chilling out is more your thing then the weather is great for sunbathing or there are plenty of cafes and a few big malls to visit for shopping. You can also have some once in a lifetime experiences with your bestie – climbing to the top of the Burj Khalifa, meeting penguins, spending the day on a yacht. I visited with my best friend just after my divorce and it was exactly what I needed to take my mind off everything.
El Camino de Santiago
This product was recommended by Jose Mari Ardanaz from El Camino People
It is an incredible journey. One to discover the real meaning of friendship, bond together even more and at the same time discover incredible places. Who doesn’t want to walk 800 km across Spain , drink wine, eat cheese, tapas and met incredible people from all around the world?
Mexico
This product was recommended by Lucy Ruthnum from AbsolutelyLucy
Mexico is the perfect place to take your best friend. Earlier this year, I spent a week exploring the Riviera Maya with a fried I met in Australia. We started with the amazing food, nightlife and gorgeous beaches of Playa del Carmen. Then hired a car and went on a road trip to the incredible Mayan ruins of Coba, Chichen Itza and Tulum – where we watched the sunset over the ocean. It was a perfect way to spend the week – and even better if you live on opposite sides of the world – it’s a great way to meet in the middle. Choose Mexico for spicy dishes, smoky Mezcal and wild nights after long days in the sun.
East Australia
This product was recommended by Francoise Chouinard from Francoise Helene Poetry
East Australia is a great place to travel for young adults’ travellers, especially with your best friend! There is a full adventure waiting to take your breath away. The Gold Coast is a lively and endearing place, from a royal blue sea parade to a stunning city view from buildings not too far from the sky; this vibrant place offers a lot of events. From the Gold Coast, you can make your way to Brisbane to enjoy the modern city vibes and make your way to a local bar call down under. Hostels are filled with travellers in their early twenties, who are waiting to join the adventure with you. There is a broad selection of day or overnight tours you can choose from, from sailing boat tours, party tours, Ayers Rock or perhaps, make your way to Cairns for a bungee jump and more adventurous activities. A trip to Australia with your best friend is one of a kind adventures that you won’t forget—recommended for young adults.
Hawaii
This product was recommended by Alejandra Cerball from Alex Cerball
Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore new trails or swim with turtles, there is nothing like an adventure in Hawaii with your best friend. Embrace the local culture and aloha spirit while island hopping in Hawaii. Treat yourself to a spa day, sample local Hawaiian cuisine, or throw out your itinerary and plans for the day and get lost on the North Shore of Oahu.
Bogota, Colombia
This product was recommended by Mike Charles from Unified Pest Control
The best place to travel with a best friend in my opinion is the South American city Bogota, Colombia. I recently took this trip with my best friend and it is a wonderful place filled with warm and genuine people, amazing history, a vibrant city life, and beautiful scenery. The first thing we did was stroll through the colorful bohemian streets of La Candelaria the historic center of the city. We also spent an afternoon at the Museo del Oro which is the most popular museum in the city, and features more than 30,000 pieces of gold. Finally, every visitor must make sure to climb Monserrate, a 10,000 foot mountain that provides breathtaking views of the city below.
Warsaw, Poland
This product was recommended by Levi Borba from ExpatriateConsultancy
After this whole Coronavirus crisis pass, nothing better than spend holidays in a beautiful but cheap place, right? This Central-European capital is not only inexpensive, but full of attractions for you and your best-friend. The central area of Warsaw is dotted with pubs, clubs and lounges for all tastes. From inexpensive _Pijalnia Wódki i Piwo _to the fancy rooftop bars, you will find something suiting your preferences and your pocket.While the 2020 pandemic caused a break in its rich schedule, in the last years the city witnessed heavyweights like Rolling Stones, Iron Maiden and Ed Sheeran. Poland already reopened to other european countries, and the pandemic situation is completely under control. With low-cost flights flying directly to the modern Chopin Airport, what are you waiting for?
Sanur, Bali, Indonesia
This product was recommended by Valerie Root from For Her About Her By Her
Bali is one of the most beautiful islands and Sanur has not succumbed to the dance parties like Kuta or western yoga and vegan diets of Ubud. There are beautiful beaches, snorkeling, kind people and plenty of options for scenic and authentic dining. The low-stress experience, safety, and warmth of the people (and water) make spending time here with your best friend a no brainer. I have been twice with my best friend and we always have an amazing time anywhere in Indonesia.
Palm Springs, California
This product was recommended by Christina Vidal from Jetset Christina
There’s something amazing about a girls weekend destination that you know is warm year round and embraces a lifestyle of poolside chilling and relaxing with a glass of rosé in hand. If you’re looking for a relaxing, easy getaway with your best friend, a desert escape to Palm Springs is always a good idea.
Melbourne, Australia
This product was recommended by Mitchel Baccinelli from Soybacci
You get a lively, diverse, cultural, urban city environment, an accessible, wine-growing countryside, great beaches, amazing food, and friendly people. And Melbourne even has penguins!
Nashville, Tennessee
This product was recommended by Shalyn Vukich from Sightseeing Señorita
This country music hot spot is a small town wrapped in a big city. There’s live music around every corner, it’s an amazing foodie city whether you’re looking for the best barbeque or a sweet iced tea, and you might even run into a celebrity or two! Nashville is insanely diverse with both historical charm and modern flare. A night on the town in Nashville is legendary for bar hopping or you can catch a famous show like the Grand Ole Opry. There’s no better place to travel with your best friend than Music City, USA. Plus, you just can’t beat that southern hospitality!
Florida Keys
This product was recommended by Melanie Musson from 4AutoInsuranceQuote
Going anywhere with your best friend is an amazing adventure, but the Florida Keys will take your trip to the next level. You can go paragliding if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, or you can lay out on the beach if relaxation is more your taste. You’ll also be able to visit historical locations, spot animals in nature preserves, watch sunsets over the water, and view an underwater world while snorkeling.
Well done again!
I will make sure I check some of those places.
Bali, Hawaii and Equatorial Guinea looks amazing!
I will share it through social media!
Best regards!