This might seem like the easiest step. For many, it will be. Choose a bad travel companion, however, and it could be the end of your friendship as you know it.
Make sure your travel mate knows what they’re in for. If they are an uber-keen surfer like yourself, then you’ve little to worry about. Arguments arise when trip-goers want different things. Talk about this before you go. Same goes for travel budget.
Keep a chill attitude. Things will go wrong. You will get flat tyres/have your wallet stolen/get a ding in your board. You’ve just got to stay positive, accept that life is sometimes shit and get on with enjoying the journey.