Holiday checklist: 20 things to pack for a girls’ getaway

Get us on that plane, stat.

Holiday checklist: Four young women with sun hats sitting by the poolside of a resort swimming pool during a summer holiday

by Lily Anderson |
Updated on

From throwing shapes at the club to becoming a local tour guide thanks to Google, who doesn't love going on holiday? That said, one thing we can all agree on, is that we don't love packing. Luckily for you, we've created a holiday checklist with things to pack for a girls' getaway to make things easier.

From high waisted bikinis to stylish sun hats, the list of items you could bring is almost endless. However, most of us don't have the space or an extra suitcase to pack everything you'd want to take. That's why you have to get strategic when it comes to must-haves for the journey, beach and pool.

If summer is your time to travel and escape on a break with your best pals, then we've got you. Here at Closer, we've pulled together the only holiday checklist you need for a girls' getaway.

Holiday checklist for girls holiday 2023

Did you know that back in 2019 there were 93.1 million visits overseas by UK residents? Neither did we.

If you and your besties are booking that trip of a lifetime and are worried that you'll end up having to sit on your suitcase to fit all of your belongings in it, never fear.

Stick to our holiday checklist of must-haves and you'll be ready for group photoshoots, trying local cuisines and everything in between.

SHOP: The best holiday checklist essentials

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If you're ready to sip on Pina Colada's by the pool, it's time to invest in a mega chic passport holder to store all your important documents. We love that this holder will ensure you can travel anywhere with ease.

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Trust us, the last thing you'll want to be doing on holiday is dealing with ultra-greasy hair. Pop a Batiste mini in your bag and you'll be thanking us later.

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Do we really need to explain this one? Perfect for freshening up *down there* on long journeys, especially if you're out in the sticks for a little too long.

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As well as investing in travel insurance, it's essential to pack a first aid kit for your own peace of mind. It will easily fit inside your cabin bag and contains a range of dressings, plasters, bandages and other supplies to treat common injuries.

Ray-Ban u00ae Round Metal sunglassesray ban

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Is it really a girls' trip if you don't invest in a statement pair of sunnies? We're obsessed with these timeless Ray-Bans.

NIVEA Sun Protect & Moisture Sun Spray SPF30Photo: Amazon

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Whether you're relaxing by the pool, headed to the beach or sightseeing, buy a good suncream. As well as moisturising your skin, it will protect you from getting burnt.

Women's Remina Waterproof Insulated Parka Jacket BlackPhoto: Regatta
Price: £39.95 (was £100)

www.regatta.com

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It doesn't matter if you're headed on a city break or a beach hol, you can never predict the weather. That's why whenever we're going away, we always pack a waterproof jacket like this practical one from Regatta.

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From listening to a podcast on the plane to tunes around the pool, a pair of decent headphones is a must for any girls' holiday.

What A Time To Be Alone, Chidera Eggerueamazon

Rrp: $18.99

Price: $13.47
Alternative retailers
Target$13.69View offer

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Pick up a copy of What A Time To Be Alone and read it around the pool. It's a social media favourite that will leave you feeling empowered.

Boots Flight Earplugsboots

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Earplugs are a staple for any girls' break. A pair of earplugs could mean the difference between a good night's sleep and a terrible one.

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From your hotel transfer to excursions, we guarantee that this memory foam pillow will be travelling with you everywhere.

Rose Gold Flamingo Pool Floatthe range

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How cool is this flamingo pool float? We're living for its fun design.

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Capture the magic of your holiday with the instax mini. We adore the fact that you can take a piece of your trip back home with you.

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Booked a festival with the girls? Want an adventurous trip? Get out the camping equipment and sleep under the stars. Alternatively, invest in some new gear like this Skandika Daytona XXL 6 Person Tent.

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Pack your bags in style thanks to the Tripp Suitcase. Featuring a strong yet ultra-light design, TSA Lock and mesh divider, it is the only piece of luggage needed for a few nights away.

Kitsch 11 Piece Travel Bottle Setboots

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Packing toiletries can be a challenge when travelling, especially if you're escaping abroad. Thankfully, Boots stocks this incredible 11 piece travel set that allows you to bring along your favourite products, including perfume.

Beach towel - Pink Mixboux avenue

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Searching for a soft beach towel? We've found it.

Description

If where you're staying doesn't have a hairdryer, this travel one will be your new BFF. We've got a full guide to the best travel hairdryers here.

Balco Selfie Tripod Stickcurrys business

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Selfie sticks were all the rage back in 2015, and we think it's about time to bring them back for your next trip.

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OK, this travel plug adaptor is a game-changer when it comes to holidays and charging your devices. It's compatible with plugs in over 150 countries, including US/EU/UK/AU plugs.

Tropical Mesh Cover Up Maxi Beach Dressboohoo
Price: £13.50 (was £18)

www.boohoo.com

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Bold, beautiful and best for the beach, this blue maxi dress is everything.

Multi Abstract Print Slinky Asymmetric Strap Detail Bodycon Dresspretty little thing

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How stunning is this dress? The cutout design and print are outfit goals for any getaway. It's available in orange, pink, black or blue.

adidas Originals adicolor three stripe fitted playsuit in blackasos
Price: £19.25 (was £35)

www.asos.com

Description

Playsuits are super versatile and ideal for any day trip while you're away. As well as being super comfortable, you can layer this adidas number with a basic tee or shirt.

Nike Swimming animal tape cut out swimsuit in purpleasos

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Whether you're a bikini or swimsuit gal, you'll adore this purple number from Nike. Sporty yet sexy, it's perfect for chilled days on the beach or poolside.

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Best destinations for a girls' holiday

Already thinking about where to jet off to for your next break? Across the world, there are hundreds of destinations to travel to, which can make choosing where to go quite difficult.

To save you the hassle of planning, here are our top ten holiday destinations for your next girls' holiday:

Paris - From the iconic shopping, landmarks and food, have your own Emily in Paris moment.

Ibiza - Beautiful beaches to wild nightlife, this destination truly has it all.

Santorini - The ultimate Instagrammable holiday. You'll love the world-famous sunsets and beautiful architecture.

Barcelona - Nightlife, culture and beaches, this Spanish city is an unrivalled hotspot.

Copenhagen - A city break like no other, you'll fall in love with the Danish capital thanks to the nightlife, food and landmarks.

Bali - If you love the sun, sea and sand, then this is the holiday of a lifetime.

Croatia - Island hop, discover stunning national parks and even attend a world-class music festival.

New York - The Big Apple is home to the Statue of Liberty, Broadway and Bloomingdale's, what more could you want?

Tenerife - If you ain't at Siam Park, where TF you at?

Marrakech - Sex and the City 2 have inspired us with this next recommendation. From visiting a souk to relaxing around the pool, this destination is dreamy.

Pack your bag, huns, and head to the shopping capital of the world or a sun-soaked resort for a dream holiday with your besties. Life's too short not to.

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