Pack Your Bags Besties: Why Girls’ Trips Matter and Where to Head Next
The older I get, the more I value my time with my sisters and girlfriends. Don’t get me wrong, I love spending time with my spouse and kids, but sometimes I need time with my female buddies. Why do I feel this need?
One of my three sisters summarizes it nicely with a toast virtually every time the four sisters get together:
“Here’s To No Responsibilities!”
This toast has happened daily while on vacation. But it also occurs at a local breakfast place where the four of us occasionally meet when our schedules are overflowing with ‘must-dos and have-to.’ While clicking our mugs of lukewarm coffee, that toast is like the starting horn at the races. And they’re off! We discuss stupid things about stupid people. We listen to each other vent. And we laugh. A lot.
When it comes to The Sisterhood, sometimes the thought matters more than the time spent together or the location.
But let’s delve into Girls’ Trips because even though these can be rare, they’re super important. And they’re not the same as a breakfast or dinner date with your besties. Girls’ Trips require more thought, commitment, and time—that translates into value and a higher level of importance.
Why Are Girls’ Trips So Important?
Girls' Trips, whether for a night, weekend, or week, are essential for many reasons—emotionally, mentally, and physically. Spending time with kindred spirits, away from the stresses and strains of everyday life, is a special time.
Here are a few reasons why Girls’ Trips matter:
Deepen Friendships
Spending extended time together without everyday distractions lets you bond deeper. Sharing new experiences, inside jokes, and late-night talks strengthens the connection.
Mental Health Boost
Getting away with people who get you can be incredibly refreshing. Laughter, venting, and shared joy are great for reducing stress and recharging emotionally.
Empowerment and Support
Something is empowering about being surrounded by strong, supportive women. It’s a chance to hype each other up, reflect on goals, and remind yourselves of your worth outside your usual roles.
Freedom and Fun
You get to be your whole self—silly, relaxed, adventurous—without explaining or filtering anything. It’s a kind of freedom that’s often hard to find in your everyday life, which is filled with many responsibilities and expectations.
New Perspectives
Traveling with others means seeing the world through different eyes. You might try new things you wouldn’t have considered (because traveling with friends means everyone gets a voice in what you do) or have meaningful conversations that shift how you see things.
Tradition and Memory-Making
Girls’ trips often become a cherished tradition. They give you stories you’ll laugh about forever and photos that instantly take you back to those special times.
Where Should You Consider Going?
There are many choices, and planning a Girls’ Trip as a group can be part of the fun.
First, decide what kind of trip you want. What’s the vibe you all most want? As the devil Lucifer on the Netflix series of the same name says, ‘What is it you truly desire?’
Here are some different vibes and possible destinations to consider:
Party & Nightlife
Las Vegas, NV – World-class clubs, shows, pools to lounge by, and slot machines.
Miami, FL – South Beach, rooftop bars, Latin flair, and ocean vibes.
New Orleans, LA – Bourbon Street, live jazz, cocktails, and incredible food.
Chill & Wellness Seekers
Sedona, AZ – Gorgeous red rocks, spas, energy vortexes, meditation spots, and hiking.
Santa Fe, NM – Art, adobe charm, Native American influences, great food, and a slower pace.
Calistoga, Napa Valley, CA - Natural hot springs, mud baths, and world-class wine in a charming small-town atmosphere.
Beach-Lovers
Key West, FL – Island time, scooters, and sunset cruises. The Overseas Highway, which runs through the Florida Keys, is a drive like no other, with all its bridges spanning the water.
Hilton Head, SC - Beach days, bike rides, and golf. Day trip to Savannah, GA, or Charleston, SC.
Maui, HI – Beach days, hikes, laid-back island time, and guaranteed good weather.
Adventure & Nature
Acadia National Park, ME - Hikes along the ocean or in forested mountains, horse-drawn carriage rides, popovers and jam at Jordan Pond House, lobster rolls, and shopping in Bar Harbor.
Jackson Hole, WY - Rustic-chic gateway to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, hiking, wildlife, and breathing in that clean air.
Olympic National Park, WA - Mountains, rainforests, and the Pacific all in one park. Coastal trails, mossy forest walks, and hot springs.
Music Lovers
Nashville, TN – Honky Tonks on Broadway, the Grand Ole Opry, Country Music Hall of Fame, and live bands everywhere (not just country).
New Orleans, LA – The soul of jazz. Frenchmen Street for live jazz, Preservation Hall, and late-night street dancing. Plus, great food.
Tips for Traveling with Besties
Since you won’t be traveling solo, with your spouse/significant other, or with your household, it’s important to be all on the same page when deciding where to go, how long to stay, what you will do there, and more. One article I wrote that will help put you on the right path for a great Girls’ Trip is Get 12 Tips for Traveling with Friends.
Here’s To No Responsibilities!
