How many kids do you want? What city do you see yourself living in? Do you want a prenup? These are common questions engaged couples may ask each other. They're the big "life decision" questions that every bride or groom-to-be wonders about. While the answers to these questions are undoubtedly important and impactful on your future, there are other considerations couples shouldn't overlook. Questions like, how often should we visit extended family? Or do you plan on taking a vacation yearly? Discussions about these less apparent topics can help reveal your expectations and work towards compromises (if needed) ahead of time. Seriously, no one wants to argue at the airport gate about whose family they will visit for the holidays. Here are ten seemingly odd questions to ask your partner before you tie the knot.

10 Questions To Ask Now Instead of Later

How often do you plan on visiting extended family?

Some of us have fantastic relationships with our family members; others, not so much. If you have the former, you may want to visit your parents, siblings, or relatives often. And, you couldn't imagine missing a birthday party or get-together. Alternatively, your partner might be comfortable only seeing extended family on major holidays, preferring to spend time as a couple. Visits to see your relatives can become a point of contention if you're not careful. See if you can come up with a compromise if you and your partner have differing opinions on when to see the fam.

Do you plan on regular vacations?

Maybe your winter holiday break was always spent abroad. Or, perhaps you didn't travel out of state until you went to college. There are a lot of factors and feelings that can play into vacations. Such as how much you like to travel, budget concerns, and family tendencies. Non-vacationers can feel anxiety about traveling or spending money on vacation. At the same time, travel-lovers may get serious wanderlust if you're never venturing out of your neighborhood. It's a good idea to get on the same page about vacations and travel before the honeymoon.

What about the holidays?

Speaking of family and travel, what are your and your partner's thoughts about the holidays? We've all met the holiday fanatic who loves to go all out with food, decor, and parties. But we're willing to bet you may know someone who is the polar opposite. Aside from celebration preferences, ask if your partner likes staying home for the holidays or if they don't mind traveling to see their friends and family. Even if you don't have strong feelings now, both sets of in-laws likely will have an opinion that will necessitate a conversation between you and your significant other.

How should the chores be divided?

If you are already living together, you may have already conquered this conversation. But this topic deserves some discussion for couples who don't move in together until after marriage. No one should feel overburdened or burned out by household chores. Instead, couples can work together to tackle tasks. How duties are shared looks a little bit different for everyone depending on work schedules, preferences, and expectations.

How long does it take you to get ready in the morning?

That cute little starter home with one bathroom is adorable and perfectly suitable until you realize your spouse spends over an hour getting ready each morning! A frank conversation about your morning routine and bathroom habits is a must. It can factor into everything from which living space you put a downpayment on to creating your work schedule. No one wants to be battling over the bathroom with their spouse like they're siblings.

What about same-sex friend boundaries?

There's nothing wrong with having same-sex friends, though; that doesn't mean it can't make you or your partner feel uncomfortable. Additionally, marriage is a big step in a relationship; sometimes, it can be necessary to adjust expectations. Talk about any discomfort with your partner and work through your feelings together. You'll be happy you had an honest conversation instead of hiding your feelings!

What's your thermostat set too?

Seriously though, there are people who would rather wear ten blankets than touch the heat in the winter, and there are those who turn their living room into a tropical oasis in December. Knowing which one your partner is before getting married and moving in together can help squash thermostat battles before they begin.

Feelings on fertility issues?

If we're honest, this conversation is tough. It's a worst-case scenario no one wants to think about. However, this topic is an important part of the "kids" discussion most couples have. Beyond the questions of "do you want kids and how many?" you and your partner might want to talk about your feelings on fertility issues. Would you try assistive reproductive technologies? What about adoption? Your opinions may evolve, but it can be helpful to at least have a general idea regarding how your partner feels about such topics.

What are your gift-giving expectations?

Do you go crazy with gift-giving, or are you a thoughtful card type of person? Being on the same page as your partner with gift-giving expectations can decrease the chances of hurt feelings in the future. If one person is gift-centric while the other is not, use this conversation as a way to enlighten each other about what you both expect when it comes to special days.

How do you handle illness?

There are generally two types of sick people – those who want to be coddled and those who want to be left alone. Assuming your partner is one type when they're not might lead to an argument or two. Instead of waiting until one of you comes down with a cold to find out which type you are, talk about this topic beforehand. That way, you'll know whether to have soup and a heating pad on hand or to steer clear for twenty-four hours. This list isn't extensive. We're confident there are plenty more conversations you and your partner can (and probably should) have before tying the knot. They may not always be the easiest or most enjoyable discussions, but they are essential. These weird topics can sometimes even open the door for crucial conversations, like debt, familial role expectations, and more. Having a few areas in which you and your partner don't see eye to eye is normal. If that's the case, a prenup can offer you peace of mind and protection.