FIVE ESSENTIALS FOR A GIRL’S ROAD TRIP

BY CATHERINE DAY

We were all excited when we heard that producer Will Packer was rounding up the troops to bring us Girl’s Trip 2. That’s probably because we all need a break — and sometimes it’s just nice to fantasize about it while watching a flick. But instead of seeing it play out on a 40-foot screen, why not make it happen in real life? You need a trip and you need it with your squad. Day tripping by car is a good place to start.

Girls trips are notoriously known for being that needed reset button in your life. Whether you are traveling with your best friends, your favorite cousins, sisters, co-workers, moms, or daughters you probably already know that you are going to have the time of your life. Not only are girls trips a guaranteed good time but they can result in great health benefits, mentally & physically. Here are five things you need to bring when you finally do start tripping!

1. Enthusiasm: Usually to qualify as a road trip, the ride must last more than a single episode of “Sistas.” And considering you’ll be trapped in a limited amount of space for the better part of four hours dependent upon the destination, it is good to keep an open mind to the trip. Therefore, commit wholeheartedly, think of it as a mini vacay if you must but whatever mindset you do take, make sure it is filled with positivity as a good attitude is worth miles.

2. Communication: We live in an age where most interaction does not occur in person. However, when given the opportunity to engage with actual humans, please do so. Surprisingly, it’s fun. Also, good conversation eases the discomfort of a bumpy ride. I will not reveal what we gossiped… but good laughs always make the drive more tolerable.

3. Snacks: Healthy snacks (i.e. grapes, nuts, water) keep the driver/s alert. Take munchies that everybody can agree on — or have each person bring her own. This also is a great way to save money and avoid buying heavy meals along the way, which could weigh you down and make your trip miserable.

4. Compromise: The itinerary for weekend trips almost never gets followed exactly. When traveling with a larger group, each person has her own agenda. There has to be some level of compromise. So, split amicably down the center, going your separate ways. Team A may depart in search of rations while B (clearly the inferior team) may find solace in the form of retail therapy.

5. Resourcefulness: In every situation, there is a personality that somehow makes the trip more extraordinary. That’s why you always need the resourceful one. The resourceful one gets the accommodations. Whether it is finding the right cab company for a discounted price or extending your check out time, she gets it done. A rule of thumb is to remember that when in a group, there are several different personalities to consider, each gal touting her own bit of pizazz. Consistently laugh as inside jokes bring back found memories; and keep liquid intake at a bare minimum as stops rest stops soon grow tedious.

SPRING 2023