The Captain Phenomenon

As we head into Spring Break, we feel like it was the perfect time to discuss this important topic: how to successfully travel with your friend group. This is not talked about enough. While traveling with friends can be some of the most fun experiences you’ll have, we often don’t think about how complicated these dynamics can get.

In simple terms, the Captain Phenomenon is that one person, dubbed the Captain, controls the itinerary for the day. The Captain is responsible for the group's activities, excursions, and dining experiences. This phenomenon works well for a few reasons.

For one, this helps to reduce debate within the group. Everyone has their own agenda when you’re in a new place, but oftentimes you can’t make everyone happy. Having a Captain limits the conflicting opinions between the group because ultimately, it’s the Captains decision.

Secondly, having a Captain allows everyone to take the lead. Friend group dynamics will always have people more outspoken than others. There will be Type A’s that will be more proactive and then there will be Type B’s that are more relaxed and go-with-the-flow. While having different personality types in friend groups is great, ensuring that everyone has an opportunity to take lead is important. Having a Captain gives those timid friends a chance to be the planner.

Similarly, if there are multiple similar personality types, there can be conflict. The Captain removes any competition by making the duties fall on one person. Nobody can argue because it’s not their day to be Captain.

And lastly, planning is stressful. Breaking up the planning is the best way to prevent you from always worrying about the dinner reservations or if the Uber is on its way. Sometimes these small logistics can distract someone and prevent them from enjoying the trip. When you’re not Captain it’ll hopefully relieve some of that burden. Each person will have responsibility at some point to have a plan for the day. This can entail sightseeing, food reservations, excursion plans, and transportation. Appointing a Captain for each day is meant to mitigate the anxiety and stress that comes with planning all the time by taking turns.

If this concept seems interesting to you, suggest trying it with your friend group as it might help relieve tension, stress, and conflict between your friends. After all, traveling with your friends should be about having fun, not about arguing over the itinerary.

If you decide to implement The Captain Phenomenon during your travels, let @theedgemag know how your experience went.