10 Ways Travel Has Strengthened Our Marriage

After almost 13 years of marriage, I’ve come to realize that some of our most cherished memories together have been made while traveling. We’ve wandered through new cities, soaked in breathtaking sunsets, and built countless memories that we’ll treasure forever. But it’s not just the destinations that have impacted us—it’s the act of traveling itself that has brought us closer. Each trip has deepened our connection in ways that staying in our everyday routine simply can’t. Here are 10 ways travel has strengthened our marriage & 10 reasons why I believe you should go on vacation with just your spouse.

1. We’ve Learned to Communicate Better
When we travel, especially to new places, good communication is key- especially when English isn’t the first language of those around us. Whether we’re figuring out directions, planning our day, or handling the unexpected- we’ve learned how important it is to clearly share what we’re thinking and what we need. Traveling has really taught us to listen more carefully to each other and value each other’s ideas without jumping to conclusions. Caleb & I occasionally have different hopes & expectations for a trip. So it’s important we communicate what we want to experience before and during the trip. And make sure you communicate your expectations for the trip in advance!

2. We’ve Become a Better Team
From planning trips to handling flight delays or lost luggage, travel is a true test of teamwork. Sometimes, it’s as simple as redistributing the weight of an overstuffed suitcase, and other times, it’s the adventure of learning to drive stick shift while navigating the winding roads of Tuscany. There’s an unmatched sense of accomplishment in making a last-minute train, stumbling upon a hidden gem, or simply laughing together when lost luggage means borrowing your spouse’s clothes for a few days. These moments—big and small—have strengthened us as a couple, and the teamwork we build while traveling carries over into our everyday life.

3. It’s Helped Us Appreciate Each Other’s Strengths
Traveling has highlighted our individual strengths in ways we didn’t always notice at home. My husband excels at navigating through cities, while I’m great at planning itineraries and finding unique spots to visit. Travel has given us the opportunity to rely on and appreciate these strengths, which brings a new level of respect and admiration for each other.

4. It’s Taught Us Patience
Not every trip goes as planned—flights get delayed, restaurants close unexpectedly, weather isn’t always perfect and sometimes things just don’t work out. These moments have taught us to be more patient with each other and with the circumstances. Learning to go with the flow has made us more resilient, both during our travels and in everyday life.

5. We’ve Created Memories that Last a Lifetime
The memories we’ve made while traveling are priceless. Whether it’s watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night, hiking through the mountains in Sapa, Vietnman, or simply enjoying a quiet dinner on a beach, these shared experiences have given us a collection of beautiful moments to look back on, bringing us even closer over time.

6. We’ve Learned to Compromise
Every trip requires compromise. Sometimes we want to do different things, or maybe one of us is tired while the other is eager to explore. Travel has helped us find balance in these situations, teaching us that compromise is key to keeping both of us happy, not just during a trip but also in our everyday life.

7. It’s Given Us Time Away from Our Routine
Breaking away from the daily grind is important for any relationship. When we travel, we escape the responsibilities, stress, and distractions of daily life, allowing us to focus fully on each other. Travel offers us the chance to reconnect and enjoy uninterrupted time together, which is essential for a healthy marriage.

8. We’ve Grown Through New Experiences
Whether it’s tasting new foods, trying an activity we’ve never done before, or immersing ourselves in a different culture, travel constantly pushes us out of our comfort zones. These experiences help us grow, both individually and as a couple, and we often come home with a new sense of gratitude for each other and our life together.

9. It’s Helped Us Reignite Romance
There’s something about exploring a new destination together that brings back the butterflies. Whether it’s a spontaneous weekend getaway or a planned vacation, travel has a way of reigniting romance in our relationship. The excitement of discovering something new, coupled with the time spent together, helps us keep the spark

10. Traveling Removes the Distractions
Travel strips away the noise of daily life, freeing us from emails, routines, and endless to-do lists. Without distractions, we can be fully present with each other—whether it’s through deep conversations, shared adventures, or simply enjoying the moment together. It’s a chance to reconnect, refocus, and experience the world side by side.

What do you think?
Have you noticed a difference in your relationship before/after you travel?

photos by Magda of Katie Donnelly Photography