Planning a girls trip can be one of the most rewarding—and memorable—ways to reconnect with your favorite people. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, bachelorette, milestone, or just craving quality time together, pulling it off smoothly takes a bit of prep. Here’s your complete guide to planning an unforgettable, low-stress, high-fun getaway for your group of besties.
1. Start with Brainstorming and Organizing
Before diving into logistics, take a moment to think about the heart of the trip. What’s the purpose? Are you all looking to relax, adventure, party, or just catch up? Reflect on your favorite shared memories and what makes your group special.
Also, decide how you’ll plan—Will you use a shared Google Doc? Group chat? Trip-planning app like TripIt or Wanderlog? It may seem like overkill, but getting organized upfront is like sharpening your pencils before a test. It sets the tone.
2. Decide If You Need a Co-Host
If the group is large, recruiting a co-planner can be a game-changer. Not only does it lighten the load, but it also brings in another set of ideas and insights. Tag-teaming the work can help keep things fun and collaborative instead of overwhelming.
3. Create the Guest List
Choose wisely. The wrong mix of personalities can derail even the best-planned trip. Consider past group dynamics and where everyone is in their lives right now. Ask yourself: “Would this group vibe well for a few days straight?” Trust your instincts, and don’t be afraid to keep it intimate.
4. Lock In the Dates
One of the trickiest parts is aligning calendars. Start with a broad poll to find a general time frame. Use scheduling tools like Doodle or When2Meet to find overlap. Narrow it down to 2–3 options, and let the group vote. Once the date is confirmed, make sure everyone blocks it off—no last-minute bailouts!
5. Pick the Perfect Destination
Now for the fun part: choosing where to go. Think about your group’s vibe:
- Are you craving sun and sand, or cool mountain air?
- Do you want culture and nightlife or total seclusion?
- Is there a festival or event you want to build the trip around?
Match the destination to your group’s energy and interests. Dream big, then narrow it down based on budget, travel time, and accessibility.
6. Choose the Right Accommodation
Your home base matters. Look for a place that balances comfort, safety, and fun. Consider:
- Number of bedrooms and bathrooms
- Common spaces for hanging out
- Must-have amenities (pool? kitchen? walkable area?)
- Proximity to your planned activities
Don’t stress about meeting every single want—focus on the group’s shared needs.
7. Talk Money—Early and Honestly
Money can make or break a group trip. Have open, respectful conversations about budget expectations before anything is booked. Talk about:
- Total estimated costs (lodging, activities, meals, transportation)
- Payment deadlines
- What happens if someone backs out last minute
Transparency keeps things drama-free and avoids financial strain on anyone.
8. Plan the Activities
A great girls trip balances structured fun with downtime. Plan a mix of:
Low-key bonding activities (at your place):
- Game nights (Taboo, Cards Against Humanity)
- DIY photoshoots
- Themed dinners
- Mini spa nights
Out-and-about adventures:
- Escape rooms
- Dance or cooking classes
- Local markets or festivals
- Outdoor excursions like hiking or kayaking
Aim for variety, but leave room for spontaneity and rest.
9. Don’t Skip the Details: Food, Alcohol, & Transportation
These three essentials can cause tension if they aren’t addressed ahead of time:
Food:
Talk about dietary restrictions, food preferences, and how often you want to dine out versus cook. A shared grocery run or meal plan can save time and money.
Alcohol:
Discuss everyone’s comfort level and expectations around drinking. Who’s drinking, who isn’t, and who’s the designated driver if needed? Have a plan for handling over-indulgence with compassion.
Transportation:
Figure out how you’ll get around: Will you rent a car, use rideshares, or walk? Assign drivers or schedule transport for group outings. No one wants to miss brunch because no one planned the ride.
10. Help Your Friends Get Ready
As the organizer (or co-host), share the info they’ll need to pack and prepare. Create a simple itinerary with times, addresses, and reservation info. You can also:
- Send a packing checklist
- Recommend travel insurance
- Share important group rules or boundaries
Keeping everyone informed helps reduce last-minute questions and sets expectations upfront.
Final Word
Planning a girls trip takes effort, but it’s also a chance to nurture your friendships and create core memories. With clear communication, thoughtful choices, and a little creativity, you’ll create a trip that your crew talks about for years to come.
