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How to Plan a Group Trip

How to Plan a Group Trip

Planning a group trip isn’t easy, but if you’re getting started and feeling overwhelmed, trust us, it is so worth it. Group trips have this magical ability to yank you out of your routine, toss you into a new adventure, and fast-track friendships through shared time and unforgettable moments. Yes, getting all the details to line up can feel like herding cats (believe us, we’ve been there), but like anything… it’s totally doable if you take it one step at a time. Don’t let the planning stress stop you from creating those memories that you’ll talk about for years.

Here’s your step by step guide to making it all come together.

1. Determine the Official Group

Who’s in? Locking in the squad early is a game-changer. It not only sets the vibe for the trip but makes it way easier to nail down things like where you’ll stay, how you’ll get there, and what you’ll do. Plus, it’s good to know who you’re potentially getting stranded on a mountain with.

2. Decide on an Approximate Budget

Money— sometimes the awkward elephant in the group chat. But best to talk about it early to avoid any side-eye moments later. Setting a rough budget means everyone’s on the same page and can commit without sweating over surprise costs.

3. Choose a Destination

Where to? If you didn’t start here, now is a good time to pick a spot that gets everyone excited. Whether it’s a nearby cozy cabin for the weekend or jetting off to a tropical beach vacation, the destination sets the tone for all the shenanigans to come.

4. Pick Dates

Finding dates that work for everyone can feel like solving a Rubik’s Cube blindfolded, but it’s gotta happen. Use a scheduling tool or drop a poll in the group chat to make it official. Alternatively: make this step one and let the group work itself out from there.

5. Pick a Place to Stay

From quirky Airbnbs to boutique hotels stocked with pillow chocolates, your accommodations matter. Look for a place that fits your group size, vibe, and comfort level. Bonus points if it has a hot tub.

6. Set Up Transportation

Planes, trains, or automobiles? Figure out how everyone’s getting there. If it’s a road trip, sort out carpool logistics. Flying? Try to coordinate flight times so no one’s waiting at the airport with their suitcase as a pillow.

7. Find Some Things to Do and Curate a Loose Itinerary

Plan just enough to keep things interesting but leave room for those “oh-my-gosh-let’s-do-that” moments. Look for activities everyone will enjoy, but don’t stress over scheduling every minute—sometimes, the unplanned stuff ends up being the highlight.

8. Make Some Time for Group Meals

This is one of our favorite tips…there’s something about sharing a meal that just hits different. Whether it’s a big breakfast you all cook together or a fancy dinner out, group meals are perfect for bonding and swapping stories from the day.

9. Once You’re There, Be There

The best part of a group trip? Living it. Be present, snap some pics, and soak up the magic. What does it feel like to be living a core memory? These are the moments that’ll make all the planning feel totally worth it.


Or … Don’t!

If planning isn’t your jam, don’t! We’ve got you. You can just join Closer instead — we’re a social membership platform that’s all about real connections, and we take care of the planning so you don’t have to. From curated events to epic group trips available seasonally, we handle the details so you can just show up and make the memories.

You can join us at any point and skip straight to the good stuff: laughter, new friendships, and stories you’ll be telling for years.

Whether you’re the planner of your friend group or you’re ready to hand over the reins, this is your sign: it’s worth it.


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A membership of curated plans designed to make friends & meet people