Rick Steves Explains Why You Should Consider Traveling With A Partner On Your Next Trip

We get it. In today's economy, costs can add up quickly and it may seem like more money is going out than coming in. That certainly doesn't change when you're traveling; in fact, costs may add up even more when you're in some destinations abroad. Fear not. Budget travel expert Rick Steves has the perfect solution for how to travel cheaper without compromising on the experience. While solo travel may be freeing, traveling with a partner, whether romantic or platonic, can be the best way to save money on your hotel room or explore Italy on a shoestring budget.

In a Rick Steves blog post, he explains how traveling with a partner is a fantastic way to enjoy Europe's beauty, but at half the cost. "A single hotel room often costs nearly the same as a double. And by splitting taxis, chores, guidebooks, and picnics couples save both time and money," Rick writes. When it comes to saving money for traveling, we're sure to listen to someone like Rick, who is a trusted voice in the travel world.

Another way to save money when traveling with a partner is to look for couples' or group discounts to avoid a sneaky "solo supplement" cost hit. When booking a tour, room, or day-trip, solo travelers may see a price, think it's great, then be slapped with an extra charge for traveling alone. When a company markets their tours and services, whether it be through campaigns, or travel agencies, the costs are typically geared towards double occupancy, which makes more sense to companies since most leisure travelers are in pairs.

When it comes to traveling with a partner, there are a slew of other benefits that don't just focus around the cash savings. Unlike traveling solo, where you meet random people that you may or may not talk to ever again, when there is another person with you, whether it be your grade school bestie, cousin, or significant other, you're likely to share more than just the bill. Plus you'll have someone with you to take that perfect photo in front of the Duomo. 

Is your partner more adventurous when it comes to tasting food from around the globe when you're a burger and fries type of eater? Having someone to push you out of your comfort zone, motivate you, and encourage you to try new things will make for an amazing story to recall around the table for years to come. And who knows? You might just find your new favorite dish while you're at it.

There's a reason why the saying "two heads are better than one" exists. When it comes to deciphering new bus routes, a foreign city map, or communicating with the locals, having someone to help you problem solve is a great way to strengthen your bond, enhance your communication skills, and even learn a thing or two about each other that you may not have known before.