Solo travel, posting about trips on social media, different travel preferences, and conflicts about money account for the most problematic dynamics when it comes to trust.
Relationships without trust are fundamentally problematic, and people who have trust issues feel this is justified. A 2023 study found participants who had experienced a failed relationship or whose parents had divorced had lower trust scores. The scores correlated negatively with avoidant and anxious attachment styles, which accounted for 42% of trust variance. Relationship beliefs accounted for another 25%.
If a person doesn’t trust their partner, they aren’t likely to trust them traveling solo. People are told they must either convince themselves that their partner is trustworthy or must not care what their partner does, but that oversimplifies the dynamic. Alarms will go off in obvious cases, like someone with a history of gambling problems going off to Vegas or someone who cheated in the past on another weekend “with the boys.”
Less apparent travel dynamics can still raise trust issues, especially in long-term relationships, when people know each other well, including what each one is capable of.
Solo travel
Of all travel dynamics, nothing raises more trust issues than solo travel. One partner traveling alone for extended periods, whether for work or fun, can make the other partner feel left out. The partner who’s left at home will be concerned about how the other person is spending their time or that they might have met someone new.
There are many reasons for wanting to travel alone, including generational differences. According to recent data, 96% of millennials are likely to travel solo. Still, the green-eyed monster is never far away. A report revealed that trust in a relationship was highest among people without any experience of infidelity, with 82% saying they trusted their current partner completely. This figure dropped to 68% among those who had caught a significant other cheating on them in the past. Previous negative experiences compound fears, especially considering serial cheaters that stay married make efforts to hide affairs.
Posting on social media
Some partners may feel uneasy if their significant other travels and frequently posts photos or updates, especially if the posts show new friends, colleagues, or fun activities. This can lead to feelings of exclusion or suspicion. A 2024 survey revealed that 33% of couples have argued about the social media content they post or interact with. 42% of people report seeing something on their partner’s social media account led them to experience trust issues.
Different travel preferences
If one partner loves adventure and the other prefers to relax, this can lead to frustration and conflict on trips. One partner may feel like their desires are being ignored, leading to resentment or doubts. They may start to question whether the other partner is invested in the relationship.
There are generational differences in this respect, too. Millennials are 13% more likely to visit a site with historical or cultural significance than other generations. They are also more likely to go ‘off the beaten path.’ 41% of boomers are likely to go on a cruise, compared to 19% of millennials and only 9% of Gen X.
Conflicts about money
As of 2023, financial issues accounted for around 19% of all conflicts described by spouses. An earlier survey by TD Bank found that 40% of millennial couples argued about money once a week or more often. In 2024, 34% of partnered Americans identify finances as a source of conflict in their relationship.
If one person overspends or doesn’t contribute equally to the trip’s costs, it can lead to feelings of being taken advantage of or concerns about future financial planning. One partner might begin to worry that the other is hiding expenses or mismanaging joint funds. It can even lead them to question if their lifestyles are compatible.
FAQ
How do you overcome trust issues?
Open and effective communication is essential for trust. Partners must be patient and give each other the chance to change.
How can couples travel well together?
Couples share happy moments, but they should also share problems. While it’s important to spend time together, always being together is not the best option.
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