It’s been years of major changes in the travel and tourism industry. As I have been traveling for more than 07 years, I see it is getting new dimensions, opportunities, career options. Seems like you have parents who consider traveling as just a holiday and you are out of ideas to convince them.
I had to deal with a similar situation after my graduation. When I was planning my first trip, it was hard to convince my parents. I tried the best possible ways to show them the brighter side of traveling. As a result, I was able to convince them. Now, I am a happy traveler. If you are reading this article, it means that you love traveling and want to convince your travel-wary parents. For the reason that here are the tips to deal with your travel-wary parent.
1. Introduce your travel plans in baby steps
It is better to rely on time. You can change the thoughts of your parents about your travel plans. Before I went to study in Mumbai (probably the safest city in India), even taking the train alone from my home to New Delhi railway station was filled with a lot of instruction. Finally, my father decided to drop me at the railway station. My father gave me hundreds of instructions until the train left the station.
I was horrified to seek the consent of my parents for going on my first long weekend trip to Goa with a group of friends. Finally, my parents approved my trip to Goa after much interrogation. Now, weekend and week-long trips are common for me.
Above all, my point is that you need to take baby steps. Sit and talk with your parents about the idea of you traveling in a group or solo, nearby areas, or far.
2. Prepare yourself to get support
If you think you are the adorable child of your parents and they will not refuse you from going on a trip. Probably, you are thinking about it the wrong way. Be sure to do your homework before asking for permission from your parents. First of all, read up thoroughly about your destination, the cost your trip will involve, the culture and customs of the place, etc. Secondly, prepare your answers to the questions related to your safety concerns during the trip.
While sharing your travel plans with your parents, convince them that you will always be in touch to let them know that you are safe. When your parents will realize that you have thoroughly done your research about your travel, they will support you.
3. Avoid any tantrum and listen to their concerns
All I can tell you from my experience is to avoid any tantrums in case your parents refuse. Your parents may not support you even after you prove to them that you have done your research and fully prepared. Keep in mind the brighter side of avoiding tantrums. You may convince your parents that you are mature enough to tackle the world. Listen to their concerns, understand them, and find proper ways to reassure them about your plans.
4. Avoid panic calls to your parents
Making your parents aware of big or small changes in your trip is a good manner. It is advised to not upset your parents by sharing your adventurous aspects of travel. While traveling, be practical, and tell them what they can understand. Your adventurous spirit might lead you to sticky situations. In that case, it is important to trust your guts to get out of the situation, rather than calling your parents.
This tip is not about lying. On my travels, I find that it is okay not to share any small changes in the travel plans. It’s okay if you get off at a town or village because it was pleasant. It is okay to let your friends join you if they add an extra layer of comfort and security.
5. Save money for the trip, Don’t ask from parents
It’s probably not a good idea to ask your parents to fund your travel plans. By saving money for your trips you can prove your seriousness towards the trip. Your parents will understand your seriousness and ability to manage travel budget, and therefore, may support you happily.
6. Don’t put your travel plans as a holiday before your parents
It is very heart bearing to sacrifice your travel ideas and goals. Parents are always focused on your career and things related to your education or skill development. It is better to convince your parents that your travel is more than just a holiday for you. Show them that you are seeking experiences of culture, people, and foods and do something that you can’t learn from books.
7. Learn to compromise and find better plans
When you compromise, you understand that there are different perspectives and opinions about your plans. When your parents don’t support you after all attempts. You must have the willingness to look from their point of view.
For example, if you are planning a solo trip and parents are addressing their safety concerns. They are still against your solo trip after all attempts to convince them. Why not consider traveling with a group tour or recruit a travel buddy!
Sometimes it could be really difficult to deal with parents. Some parents will be supportive of your travel plans. They may encourage you to see the world. However, others may react differently. Try to understand the concern of your parents and you can efficiently convince your parents in your favor with the above tips.
