Ahead of Australia’s busiest holiday travel period, new research reveals the ideal travel partner may not be your nearest and dearest, but someone better suited for the job, like a stranger you’ve just met on social media.
An Edith Cowan University (ECU) tourism study looked into the popular Chinese “dazi” Gen Z social relationship trend of choosing the right companion for certain activities, such as travelling.
The study found that travelling with a travel buddy with lightweight, internet-based social connections was more likely to result in more memorable experiences than going it alone or with close family and friends.
ECU Professor of Tourism & Services Marketing Sam Huang noted that compared with solo travel, travelling with a partner enabled shared experiences while offering a sense of safety.
“With the advent of social media, access to travel companions has transcended traditional kinship and social circles. More and more young travellers tend to establish temporary travel partner relationships with strangers who share common travel goals through online travel communities,” he said.
The research found that travel partners with extensive travel experience and a strong sense of conscientiousness are better equipped to overcome obstacles while travelling and work effectively together to achieve shared goals.
Compatibility in consumption values (aka spending money), travel preferences and lifestyle habits can also significantly reduce friction and conflict during a trip.
When travel partners align on these factors, they tend to enjoy smoother journeys and more positive, high-quality interactions.
“Interestingly, the research revealed that the best travel partner may depend on what each traveller values most,” Professor Huang said.
“The research in no way suggests that you shouldn’t be travelling with your wife, or even your in-laws. But the advice is that if you are travelling with family, be sure to set some goals and expectations before packing your bags,” he said.
