See WahThey say two’s a company, three’s a crowd—but that’s an outdated way of thinking. Travelling with a couple as a third wheel doesn’t have to be awkward or uncomfortable; in fact, it can be a fantastic experience if approached the right way. With solo travel and “me time” becoming bigger priorities in 2025—thanks to trends like the rise of self-care retreats and digital detox getaways—being a third wheel gives you the best of both worlds. You get to enjoy quality time with your friends while also having moments to explore on your own. Whether it’s using downtime to check out a new coffee shop solo or giving your friends space for a date night while you enjoy a sunset walk, learning to balance group dynamics and personal time can turn your trip into a win-win for everyone.
Also read: Why Travelling With Friends is Better than Travelling Solo
1. You get to practise your selfie skills
Being a third wheel on a trip is the perfect way to level up your selfie game. Since your friends will want plenty of cute couple photos, you’ll have extra time to practice taking great pictures of yourself too. While they pose for romantic shots, you can find the best lighting, test out new angles, and perfect your solo travel selfies. Plus, with no one rushing you, you can take as many tries as you need to get that perfect shot. By the end of the trip, you’ll have a camera roll full of amazing pictures—and some serious selfie skills! Below are some examples of the selfies taken on a trip as a third wheel!
2. Find other people to be your plus-one
If social anxiety makes you hesitant to take photos alone, use the trip as a chance to get others involved. Ask your friends to jump into pictures with you, or even invite friendly locals or fellow travellers for a quick group shot. It’s a great way to break the ice, make new connections, and feel more at ease in social settings. Plus, focusing on shared experiences helps you stay present in the moment instead of overthinking. The more you put yourself out there, the more confident and comfortable you’ll feel—both in photos and in real life. After all, it’s always fun to make friends on a vacation!
Also read: Solo Travel: How to Make Friends While Travelling Alone
3. You can have nice things to yourself
Sometimes, the best part of travelling as a third wheel is getting to enjoy things completely on your own. For example, you can enjoy your own umbrella when it rains, staying dry and comfortable! The same goes for other experiences—whether it’s picking the perfect spot at a café without compromise, enjoying a quiet museum visit at your own pace, or taking detours to explore hidden gems that interest you. Being a third wheel isn’t just about tagging along; it’s about embracing your personal space while still having the company of friends when you want it.
4. Spending quality time with your friend
Being a “girl’s girl” while third-wheeling means supporting your friend and joining her in activities her partner might not enjoy. You can go shopping together, help her pick out cute outfits, or take Instagrammable photos to capture the fun moments. If she loves pampering herself, you can join her for a relaxing spa day or nail treatment. It’s all about making sure she has a great time and feels supported, whether it’s hanging out or making memories that don’t need a partner to be complete.
5. Be helpful while enjoying your me time
Third-wheeling doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your own time too. While hanging out with your friend and their partner, you can still be helpful by looking after belongings or handling small tasks. If they’re busy chatting or having fun, offer to hold onto bags, phones, or jackets, so they can fully relax. You can also use the time to enjoy your activities, like reading a book, checking out a nearby café, or listening to music. It’s all about balancing being supportive while still making the most of your own time.
6. Taking cute couple photos
Helping your friends take cute couple shots is a fun and heartwarming way to third-wheel! You can capture both candid moments of them laughing or having fun, as well as more posed, nice photos they’ll love. Not only does it give them special memories, but it also lets you join in on the fun. Plus, you can ask them to take Instagrammable shots of you that you might not have been able to get if you were solo. It’s a win-win, as everyone gets great photos to look back on!
Also read: Singapore Quarries: Instagrammable Nature Escapes You Never Knew Existed!
Also read: 3 Swoon-Worthy Valentine’s Day Getaways in Asia for Couples
The next time your friends, who happen to be a couple, invite you on a vacation, don’t hesitate to say YES! With these simple tips on how to third-wheel effectively, you’re sure to have an amazing time and create unforgettable memories.
