We met in 2023 while studying abroad in Barcelona.  Four strangers who quickly became close friends over shared adventures, late-night laughs, and exploring new places. From the live streets of Barcelona to weekend trips across Europe, we made memories we’d carry forever.

When the semester ended, we knew this wasn’t the end of our story. Even though Katy and Meredith were heading back to the University of Arizona and Carly and Cammie, were going back to Montana State, we stayed connected. Throughout the year, we made it a point to visit each other, planning trips whenever we could. By the time we graduated in May 2024, it was clear how we wanted to celebrate: another big adventure. We packed our bags and headed back to where it all began—Barcelona. For a month, we explored, reminisced, and soaked in the magic of traveling together.

It was during the last part of our trip, sitting on a rooftop in Santorini, that the idea for Airplane Mode came to us. Reflecting on how much travel had changed our lives, we realized we wanted to help others experience the same. Airplane Mode is all about making travel easier and more accessible for students and young people. We create guides to help turn daydreams into real adventures, sharing tips, hidden gems, and ways to thrive abroad. Travel changed our lives, and now we’re here to help it change yours. Let’s stop talking about trips and start taking them.