Hong Kong trip 2013 is coming to a close. With that, some quick trips for traveling with your mom (or dad or friend or partner or whomever) ALSO KNOWN AS how not to kill your travel companion.

1. Don’t hold it all in. If you’re annoyed, say so. If you want to go some place, say so. Voice what you want. Pick your battles, but a lot of the time, I think my mom and I were on the same page. Still, remember to compromise.

2. Expect that there will be a fight. It happens when you’re spending all your waking hours with someone. Have your disagreement, give yourself time to calm down, and apologize. My mom and I have had one fight, and the first thing I did (after I calmed down), was told her that I was sorry.

3. Have time apart. My mom and I always left each other alone in the room when the other person was getting ready in the morning or ready for bed at night. It was nice to have time alone in the room to shower or read a book.

4. Be patient and be kind. If the other person doesn’t feel well, be empathetic. Imagine how you would be feeling if you didn’t feel well.

5. Eat, drink, and sleep properly. Easier to have a good time when you’re both in a good mood.

6. Spend time with others. I was always reminded of how much I love my mom and all her good qualities when we met up with friends or made new friends.