Tips for planning a stress-free girls trip
Did someone say girls’ trip? An escape to a sparkly new destination with your girlfriends is a chance to unwind like no other. While solo female travel is on the rise, there’s just something extra special about a stress-free getaway surrounded by like-minded women — there’s no getting bored in that company.
That said, you do have to be proactive in creating relaxing foundations for an enjoyable girls’ trip. Here’s what to know before you click book.
Choosing the Right Destination for Everyone
“Sisters not twins” is advice that spans far beyond make-up (who else remembers panicking at wonky brows in the mirror). Just because you’re the closest friends doesn’t mean you must align on every interest. Diversity and individuality are important; just pick the right destination for everybody.
Perhaps one of you loves spa days and is desperate for a midweek pamper? Maybe another girl is a self-proclaimed culture vulture, raring to sightsee an unfamiliar city? Perhaps one of you is dreaming about a day spent sunbathing on a beautiful beach?
Establish your interests and choose a destination that caters to all interests and preferred holidaying styles.
Create a Flexible Itinerary
Flexibility is the secret hack to a stress-free girls’ trip. Creating a flexible itinerary before you arrive avoids any last-minute (and potentially awkward) compromises in person.
Set a precedent before the trip by avoiding overscheduling activities and allowing for sufficient downtime. Make it clear that participation is entirely optional for all proposed activities; this way, the group can divide if interests butt heads. Booking group ski holidays is a prime example here. You only add the extras that each person wants, and the slopes are ready and waiting, no matter who decides to ski or sleep in.
Managing Group Expectations
Always underpromise and overdeliver. Where possible, have an in-person discussion with all attendees to establish exactly what they’d all like to gain from the experience.
Consider everyone’s accommodation preferences; some girls might prefer to save their hard-earned cash and spend it on activities, while others prioritise hotel comfort. Also, discuss the non-negotiable or potential bucket list activities individuals want to experience.
If someone wants to hike Machu Picchu while another person wants to take a food tour through Lima, a clear itinerary division must be established. Manage expectations around this; will people be happy embarking on guided tours alone? Equally, on a side note, a girls’ trip probably won’t save a dying friendship. Expect problems at home to follow you abroad.
Packing Light and Smart
Packing for a girls’ trip can quickly look like Doomsday prepping. There is no point in overpacking and each footing a fee for overweight or larger luggage. Where possible, pack light. The most effective trick is to minimise duplicate items by sharing clunky belongings like hairdryers.
Similarly, coordinate clothes ahead of time to avoid one person “missing the memo” or resorting to one outfit on repeat (and wasting luggage space). Light and smart should be the packing mantra for any successful girls’ trip.
With the right approach, your girls’ trip will be totally stress-free. Enjoy it! You all deserve the downtime.
