In 2019, my very good friend from college suggested we celebrate our 40th birthdays the following year with a trip to Sonoma. I said, “sounds great; let’s touch base after the new year and see what 2020 looks like…” Well, we all know what happened in 2020. My friend, who lives in Denver, turned 40 with her husband and two girls, and I turned 40 here in PA with my husband and two girls. Now we are fully vaccinated, and it is Girls Trip time!!!!

Based on the type of trip, I’d normally pack pieces that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of looks. I’d plan on functional outfits that will keep me comfortable for the activities I’ve organized and opt for items that won’t wrinkle easily or require a lot of maintenance. However, after the year we’ve all been through, and the fact this will be my first non-husbanded travel of any kind in over a decade, for this vacation, I’m pulling out all the stops and bringing the style heat with statement pieces. When and where else am I going to wear a gold sequin pull-on pant, if not on a Girls Trip to wine country? Will I need three jumpsuits for a 4-day trip? Quite possibly, but probably not. Is a crocheted lavender ruffled peplum crop top the most flattering thing in my closet? No, but it’s fun, and it’s California, where everyone dresses ridiculously.

Of course, I’m joking a bit here. For this upcoming trip, yes, I want to bring and wear things I don’t normally have the opportunity to wear. Still, obviously, I also want to be comfortable and pack practically, in addition to fabulously. Some key pieces for any Girls Trip or travel, in general, include Jeans, comfortable shoes, a sweater, a crossbody bag, and sunglasses.

Travel jeans can be tricky. Anything too tight won’t be comfortable for actual travel, i.e., driving a car, sitting on a plane. However, baggy or roomy jeans lose their shape and start to sag, requiring a lot of hitching up as you go about travel activities, i.e., sightseeing. My trick is to pack skinny jeans and wear a comfortable pull-on pant (with pockets) while you’re on the road or up in the air. Then wear skinny jeans or any non-baggy jeans on the actual vacation for tours, parks, and shopping. Swap in a pair of well-fitting denim shorts for the summer.

While it may be tempting to bring along fancy, high-heeled shoes for a trip, nine times out of 10, they just take up space in the suitcase. Of course, not all flat shoes are ideal for travel. Ballet flats may be adequate for a long day at the office, but when you’re walking on cobblestones, sidewalks, trails, or sand, you need a shoe that supports your foot while allowing a full range of motion. A good travel shoe should have flexible soles, little to no heel, and be wide enough for all your toes to move around comfortably. If air travel is on your itinerary, opt for a slip-on to navigate airport security lines more efficiently. And don’t forget a pair of slippers or house shoes to wear in your accommodation.

Yes, even in the summer, a sweater should be part of your packing list, if not actually worn during your journey. Whether your mode of transport is by plane, train, or automobile, chances are the AC will be pumping, and you’ll want the option of having an additional layer. Plus, most destinations are cooler in the evening, and you’ll be able to drape that cardigan or pullover around your shoulders for moonlight strolls and al fresco dinners.

Crossbody bags and sunglasses are versatile and practical travel accessories no matter where you are headed. A crossbody purse allows you easy access while being secure. Unlike a shoulder bag or bookbag, it is less likely to be tampered with. Even in colder climates, sunglasses not only protect your eyes, but they also (in my experience) act as a means of security. It helps to avoid eye contact in crowded places, and you can skip the eyeliner.

Girls Trips are just as diverse and interesting as the women going on them. Some friend groups may go to a cabin in the woods; others may go to a city or a spa resort. No matter your girls-only vacation plans, like any getaway, you should plan your outfits, pack for your needs, and dress for yourself.