The TRAVEL Cycle: Why Most Trips End Before They Begin

We often say we want to travel.
But behind every trip that almost happens,
there’s a pattern we rarely acknowledge.

This post isn’t just about wanderlust, it’s about the emotional rollercoaster many face
when planning group trips that never take off.

Whether you’re based in Nigeria, Canada, the U.S., or Australia,
this story might sound painfully familiar.

Key Factors to Consider

Planning a trip often looks like progress,
but the truth is it follows a predictable cycle.
Let’s break down the hidden stages of how many travel dreams die quietly.

The TRAVEL Breakdown

T – Temptation by Destination

It always starts with a whisper.
You see a TikTok video of Zanzibar.
A friend posts dreamy pictures from Cappadocia.
Suddenly, you’re obsessed.

The destination you never considered becomes your new dream.

R – Research Mode Activated

Before you know it, you’re in deep.
You’re checking weather patterns, browsing blogs, saving reels.
Maybe even comparing flight prices and hotels.
You convince yourself it’s not just daydreaming.

This is the phase where excitement grows quietly like a secret crush.

A – Ask the Crew

Now comes the test:
You text your circle: “Trip idea?”
But of the five people you ask,
four reply with “hmm,” “not sure,” or worse silence.

Your hopes take a hit.
But you hold on.

V – Vibes are High (Because One Said Yes)

One friend—just one says yes.
And it changes everything.

That single “I’m down” fuels a whole plan.
You start making itineraries in your head.
You believe again.

E – Excitement Peaks

A group chat is born.
Google Docs, Airbnb links, outfit planning.
Even playlists get made.

This is the phase where the trip feels real.
Dream meets digital coordination.

L – Last-Minute Letdown

Then it happens.
Two weeks to go. One person ghosts.
Another suddenly can’t afford it.
The one who said yes? They flake.

And just like that, it’s over.
Not with a bang. But with a group chat that slowly dies.

How to Get Started (And Actually Travel)
    •    Start with yourself. Don’t wait for group consensus. If you’re truly serious, be willing to go solo or start planning without relying on others.
    •    Use deadlines. Make everyone commit early with flight bookings or deposits.
    •    Set realistic expectations. Not everyone is in the same financial or emotional place as you. Respect that but plan accordingly.
    •    Avoid overplanning. Keep it simple. The more complicated the trip, the more likely people will back out.

 Considerations

Many people don’t hate travel they hate the uncertainty of planning with unreliable people. So next time you feel the TRAVEL itch,
don’t just stop at the group chat. Push past the cycle. Even if it means going solo.

You’ll be surprised how liberating it feels
to not wait for five maybes when your “yes” is already enough.

Have you ever planned a trip that never happened?
Share your story in the comments. Let’s normalize the failed plans too.
#TravelRealities #GroupTripChronicles #TravelAloneAnyway