For our recent Simpson Desert crossing we decided to invite along friends and family. We normally travel by ourselves or with one other couple so how did we go with five couples and one family?
With no false pretences we had a fantastic time. Yes, there were difficult moments but it was a wonderful experience. Would we do it again? Yes. Would we do it every trip? No. Travelling as a group should not be entered into lightly. It should be entered with flexibility and eyes wide open.
Why did it how recent group trip work?
- We were selective with who we invited. It sounds harsh but you have to be realistic.
- We had reliable experienced trip leaders who took control of the messy side of planning. (preparation, bookings, group discounts, logistics and timing)
- We had a well-planned trip itinerary which everyone had a copy of. It was open to changed and had several options at each destination.
- We were all open and flexible.
- Within the first few days of travel we were aware of each others strengths and weaknesses and factored these into planning.
- As we were a group of 14 we were often privy to group discounts which was a travel perk.
- We had plenty of “free-time” which allowed everyone to do what they wanted at their own pace.
At the end of the day everyone was there for the right reasons. We were all happy to be travelling through these amazing parts of Australia together. The key to happy group travels is choosing the right people and that we did.
Norris Around Australia 