Should I Risk Friendships Over Group Travel Expenses?

Problem/Goal: Friends wants to have a group travel pero credit card ko daw gagamitin sa bookings

Context: Help your confused friend, please.I’ve never had the chance to travel with my friends, whether domestically or internationally because it’s hard to get leave from work, flights are expensive, or I don’t have enough budget. We’ve tried discussing it before, but it never materialized. This year, the idea came up again. All of us have experience traveling (domestic/international), but always with family or other friends—not within our group.

Now, my dilemma is they want me to book the flights and accommodations using my credit card, and they’ll just pay me back. We’re a group of 8, and every one is employed (but I don’t know how much they actually earn).

I’ve had experiences with this group when we hang out where I’d pay the bill first (appointed), and they’d just send me their share via digital banking apps later because some of them didn’t bring cash. Those with cash would pay on the spot. This has happened a few times. However, some would transfer after a few hours, others after a few days, and some after months—and there are even instances where they haven’t paid me at all. Meanwhile, I’d see them going out or spending money with other friends. It honestly raises my eyebrows when I notice that, knowing they still owe me.

I’m the kind of person who values every peso because I’ve worked hard for my savings—it’s not something I can just throw around. Of course, there were times I treated them to a meal or drinks (within my budget) to celebrate something special.

Now, going back to the travel plans: Given that some of them have a history of delayed payments and I don’t like having to chase people for money that I initially spent from my own pocket, how should I handle this situation? Should I suggest that everyone book their own flights and accommodations instead? After all, there are plenty of payment options nowadays, even for those without credit cards.

*What makes this even harder for me is that I’d rather skip the vacation than risk losing a friendship because someone neglects to pay me back.*

Previous Attempts: None. Depende sa advice huhuhu

Edit: Thank you po sa lahat ng advice, insights, and reality checks. Naliwanagan po ang inyong friend. I will follow po ang payment upfront. Bayad muna bago booking for my security and peace of mind. If ayaw, kanya kanyang book kung gusto talaga ituloy. 🙏