Moroccan Magic — A Girls Trip Series Travel Story We’ll Never Forget

There are trips you take to see a place, and trips that quietly change the way you move through the world afterward. Morocco was the second kind.

This Girls Trip Series journey unfolded over twelve days, moving from the pulse of Marrakech to the stillness of the Sahara, through the Atlas Mountains, and finally to the Atlantic coast. It was layered, textured, and deeply human. The kind of travel that doesn't rush to impress, but stays long enough to be truly felt. What made it extraordinary was not just where we went, but how we moved through it. Slowly. Curiously. Together.

If you had told me Morocco would become one of my favorite places on earth, I might have overlooked it. But after 12 days wandering through vibrant souks, sleeping under the Sahara stars, riding into golden dunes, and laughing until our sides hurt with some of the most incredible women, the magic of Morocco is officially locked in my heart forever. This wasn’t just a trip; it was a transformation. A deep, beautiful, soul-stretching journey where adventure met culture, connection, and pure sisterhood. And if you’re even thinking about joining us next year…trust me, you’ll want to read every word.

Marrakech: Learning the Rhythm

Marrakech does not ease you in - it asks for your attention immediately. The colors are louder than you expect, the sounds overlap, the medina feels endless…and you can either resist it or let it carry you as you let your days away just flow. Our arrival day was spent without plans, allowing the women to settle in and kick things off with our trip kick-off meeting. Throughout our 12 days in Morocco, we use Marrakech as our hub for arrivals, transit breaks and departures - giving us the chance to experience it in different ways and cadences along the way. From wandering souks without agendas, sitting longer than planned over mint tea, soaking in a traditional hammam, and shopping for textiles and ceramics - we let the city set the pace.

The Sahara: Where Things Get Quiet

From Marrakech, we packed into our beloved Sprinter van and got the journey started. The scenery changed gradually, then completely. Cities gave way to palm valleys, the snow-capped Atlas Mountains, winding roads, rock formations, and stretches of land that felt almost lunar. By the time we reached the Sahara, the group had already begun to feel like something solid…like questioning how old we all were sitting in that van (lol).

The Sahara Desert is a hell of a way to start the trip. Nothing prepares you for seeing the soaring dudes for the first time as the sunrise creeps up from behind it. Our time there was unforgettable and a bucket-list travel experience that created core memories for every single woman on this trip. The desert strips everything back - no distractions and no noise beyond the wind and the soft rhythm of the sand beneath your feet.

From riding ATVs through giant dunes, to spending time learning and having lunch with local nomadic Beber families, to packing up and onto camels as we ride into the dunes for sunset as we head off to a luxury desert camp, and spending that night under a sky crowded with stars - conversations became quieter and more honest. This was not a performative connection. It was presence - the kind that does not need to be named while it is happening.

This is where the group began to soften. Conversations started to deepen. The nervous energy of arrival faded into something steadier.

Atlas Mountains: Movement and Perspective

Leaving the desert, we moved into the Atlas Mountains and the Dades Valley. The terrain shifted again. Roads curved through dramatic landscapes, and villages appeared and disappeared just as quickly. Traveling this way builds perspective. You start to understand how diverse Morocco truly is - and how many lives exist beyond the postcard images.

As we made our way to the Dades Valley, we stopped at Todra Gorge, a dramatic canyon carved by the Todra River and framed by towering limestone cliffs that rise hundreds of feet on either side. The air was cooler here, the light sharper, and the scale of the landscape impossible to ignore. Locals passed through on foot, while climbers scaled the rock faces above, reminding us that this gorge is not just a scenic viewpoint, but a living part of daily life in the High Atlas region. It was a grounding pause in the journey, offering perspective and contrast before continuing deeper into southern Morocco, and a poignant reminder of the varied and powerful landscapes along this route.

Leaving Dades Valley heading back to Marrakech, we passed through Aït Benhaddou, a centuries-old fortified village built from earth and stone along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech. Rising quietly from the landscape, the ksar feels both cinematic and deeply rooted, its narrow passageways and layered architecture shaped by history, trade, and survival in southern Morocco. Walking through Aït Benhaddou offered a tangible sense of time and place, a reminder of how architecture and landscape work together in this region, and why this UNESCO World Heritage Site continues to be an essential stop when traveling through the Atlas Mountains and the Dades Valley corridor.

These days were about motion. Long drives, shared playlists, pee breaks, lots of snacks, and the roadside stops that turn into unexpected moments. The kind you cannot schedule and would never want to.

The Coast: Letting the Body Catch Up

On the coast, the energy softened. In Essaouira, days unfolded at an unhurried pace with wide skies, ocean air, and a medina that felt calm rather than chaotic. We wandered blue-and-white streets without pressure, ate amazing food, hit markets with a local family who opened the doors of their home to us for a traditional cooking class, browsed artisan shops, and lingered over long meals where conversation stretched naturally. By this point, the group dynamic was effortless. Laughter came easily. Silence felt comfortable. Friendships had settled into something real, not forced, not rushed - and it was really starting to hit us that our days here were close to coming to an end.

From Essaouira, we continued south to Taghazout - a small Atlantic surf town where slow, barefoot mornings are shaped by the tide. Life here revolves around the ocean: surf sessions, salty hair, casual cafés, and evenings that end with sunset instead of schedules. Together, these coastal stops offered space to rest, reset, and let the body catch up to the journey, balancing movement with ease in a way that felt deeply restorative.

Where the Journey Came Together in Morocco

The final morning began before sunrise, floating quietly above Marrakech in a hot air balloon as the city and surrounding landscape slowly came into view. It was an unexpectedly emotional moment for all of us, shared in near silence and a ton of gratitude where connection felt felt rather than spoken. Watching the light shift across the land became a natural pause and a chance to reflect on how much had been experienced together and how complete the journey was starting to feel.

Later that day, we gathered for our final group meal, a tradition on every Girls Trip Series trip. Over food and unhurried conversation, each woman is asked to respond to a set of thoughtful questions, sharing what the journey and the connections with new women offered her and what she was taking home.

The afternoon was left open for a final wander through the medina, choosing textiles, ceramics, and small souvenirs to carry the experience beyond Morocco. By the time it was time to leave, the group felt deeply connected, with goodbyes filled with tears that carried gratitude rather than urgency, and a shared understanding that this was not an ending but a continuation of making future travel plans.

What This Trip Really Was

This Morocco Girls Trip was not about ticking destinations off a list. It was about immersion, connection, and traveling with intention. It was about giving women the space to arrive as they are, to be curious instead of performative, to experience Morocco beyond the surface level, and to experience themselves differently because of it. This is what The Girls Trip Series is built on.

Looking ahead, Morocco will return this year in November! If you are someone who craves depth in your travel, you value thoughtful itineraries, cultural respect, and genuine connection (and if you want to move through a place in a way that feels considered rather than rushed) this journey might be for you.

Join the waitlist for the next Morocco Girls Trip Series departure and be the first to receive trip details and early access to sign-ups when the trip launches on Friday, January 30th. If you are local to Vancouver and would like to attend a Moroccan dinner in celebration of the trip launch (or you just want to make new friends) - click here!

Some trips stay with you. This will forever be one of them.

Gorilla & Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda: A Once-In-A-Lifetime Safari Experience for Women

There are fewer than 1,000 mountain gorillas left on Earth…and in January 2027, a small group of women will have the rare opportunity to come face-to-face with them in the wild through The Girls Trip Series’ Gorilla & Chimpanzee Trekking Safari in Uganda & Rwanda. This 7-day overland adventure begins in Kigali, Rwanda, and travels deep into Uganda’s most iconic national parks — combining gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking, and a classic African wildlife safari into one thoughtfully curated experience. Most trips only offer one of these activities. This one offers all three.

If you’ve ever dreamed of East Africa, this is the kind of journey that changes everything.

Why Gorilla & Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda Is So Rare

Mountain gorillas exist only in a small region of East Africa — primarily in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda. With such a limited population worldwide, trekking to see them requires strict permits, local guides, and protected land access. It’s not an experience you can stumble into — it must be intentionally planned. Permits for peak seasons sell out fast and well in advance, so if you’re wondering why we’re launching this trip so far out, it’s because we’re on top of our operations game ;)

Chimpanzee trekking adds an entirely different kind of magic. In Kibale Forest, one of the world’s best primate tracking destinations, we’ll channel our inner Jane Goodall and follow expert rangers through dense rainforest to observe wild chimpanzee families in their natural habitat. Now combine that with a full safari experience in Queen Elizabeth National Park — home to elephants, buffalo, hippos, tree-climbing lions, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species — and you have one of the most diverse wildlife itineraries in all of Africa.

That’s what makes this trip so extraordinary: three bucket-list wildlife experiences in one journey.

Designed for Women Who Want More Than a Typical ‘Grammable Safari

This is not a luxury photo-shoot safari, and it’s not a backpacking trip either. This journey is intentionally designed as an overland-style adventure, with mid-level boutique lodges and eco-camps to keep the trip more accessible, community-driven, and grounded in nature.

Expect:

• Scenic road travel through Rwanda & Uganda’s countryside

• Forest lodges surrounded by wildlife sounds

• Campfires, shared meals, and slow mornings

• Real connection to land, people, and each other

• A curated group of incredible women that will make the journey feel THAT much more enjoyable and approachable.

A moderate fitness level is required, as trekking through rainforest terrain can take several hours and involves uneven paths, mud, and elevation. This is part of what makes the experience so rewarding…we’ll experience and earn every moment together.

What’s Included in the Gorilla & Chimpanzee Safari Experience

This 7-day itinerary includes:

• ✅ Arrival hotel in Kigali, Rwanda

• ✅ Gorilla trekking permit in Bwindi

• ✅ Chimpanzee trekking permit in Kibale

• ✅ Wildlife safari game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park

• ✅ Kazinga Channel boat safari (hippos & crocodiles)

• ✅ All park entrance fees

• ✅ All accommodations & most meals

• ✅ Private 4x4 safari vehicle with expert guide

• ✅ Border transfers from Kigali to Uganda

• ✅ Cultural experience with the Batwa community

This is a fully supported, guided safari experience from start to finish. Photos above are examples of accommodation levels, but please note they are subject to change based on the final group size.

Why Booking Early Matters

Gorilla and chimp trekking permits are extremely limited and regulated by the Ugandan government to protect the animals. Once permits sell out, no additional access is possible, regardless of demand. Launching this trip early also allows for lower payment plans, making a once-in-a-lifetime adventure far more accessible without the pressure of paying everything at once.

Who This Trip Is For

This experience is for women who:

• Want a deep, real, meaningful experience

• Are ready for adventure, not just a vacation

• Value wildlife, nature, culture, and connection

• Want to do something that most people will never experience in their lifetime

Sign-Ups Open Friday, December 12th at 10 AM PST

This journey has very limited spots available due to permit restrictions and small-group design. Here’s everything you need to know about the launch.

• Add Yourself To The Interest List
  Our interest lists give you exclusive & early access to all trip information and sign-ups before the trips get posted publicly online! At 10 AM on Friday, December 12th, everyone on the interest list will get the trip details sent to their email with a link to sign up for the trip. If there are any spots remaining at 11 AM PST, they will get posted on IG.

• Fill Out The Application From Before The Trip Launches.
  You must fill out an application form to have on file before you reserve a spot. This is not to pick favourites, it's to ensure that this trip is in alignment with your travel style. Booking experiences for yourself is an investment, and you must land on something that is the perfect fit for you! If you have not yet completed this form, please click here and do so now. Anyone who does not complete this form and signs up for the trip is at risk of having their spot cancelled.

• What If The Trip Sells Out?
  Please add yourself to the waitlist!!! The waitlist button is your best friend in the event of a sell out. Why?

  + If there are enough people on the waitlist, we may add a second departure that will run immediately following the first trip.

  + In the event of any trip cancellations, priority is given to the women on the waitlist in the order of which they’ve joined.

If you’ve ever felt called to explore Eastern Africa…
If gorillas and chimpanzees have lived on your bucket list for years…
If you’re ready to do something bold, wild, and unforgettable…

This is your moment. See you on launch day <3

Best Apps Every Woman Needs on Her Phone While Travelling

Planning a trip is exciting—but it can also feel overwhelming if you don’t have the right tools in your pocket. Luckily, your phone can become your best travel companion when you’re equipped with the right apps. Whether you’re heading out on a solo adventure, joining a group trip with women, or booking a bucket‑list getaway, these are the must‑have travel apps every woman should download before she goes.

1) Google Maps (Navigation & Offline Use)
Google Maps is more than just directions. You can download offline maps (perfect for when Wi‑Fi isn’t reliable), save must‑see spots, and even create shared maps with your girlfriends so everyone’s on the same page. Pro tip: star your hotel or Airbnb so you can always find your way home. Why it’s great for women: Safety and convenience are everything. Reliable navigation reduces stress and keeps you confident while exploring.

2) iTranslate (Instant Language Help)
Forget juggling multiple translators. iTranslate not only offers access to different language dialects but also voice‑to‑voice translation, offline dictionaries, and phrasebooks in one clean apps - so menus, street signs, and quick chats with locals feel simple and stress‑free. Confidence booster for solo female travelers: From ordering at restaurants to asking for directions, you’ll feel more connected and at ease in any country.

3) Pimsleur (Learn the Language on the Go)
Want to go beyond translations? Pimsleur helps you actually speak the local language. Its audio‑first lessons are designed for busy travelers - perfect for walks, commutes, or airport waits. Each lesson is 30 minutes and extremely practical for both people who want to learn the conversational basics, to actually learning a language. Toss your duo-lingo and get on board with Pimsleur! Why women love it: It builds confidence and makes interactions with locals more meaningful.

4) PackPoint (Smart, Stress‑Free Packing)
Packing shouldn’t be stressful. PackPoint creates personalized packing lists based on your destination, travel dates, and planned activities. It even considers the weather so you don’t forget a jacket or swimsuit. For group trips: Compare lists with friends to make sure someone remembered the speaker, adapters, or first‑aid kit.

5) Splitwise (Easily Split Costs)
Money conversations can be awkward, especially in groups. Splitwise tracks shared expenses like dinners, rideshares, and groceries - so no one is left fronting the bill. Everyone can settle up at the end with ease. Why it matters: Women traveling together deserve to focus on connection—not stressing over who’s got what.

6) Timeshifter (Beat Jet Lag Like a Pro)
Jet lag doesn’t have to steal half of your trip days. Timeshifter uses science‑backed guidance to help you adjust faster to new time zones - telling you when to get light, when to nap, and when to sip (or skip) caffeine. Why it’s great: Maximize your energy so you can enjoy your adventure from day one.

7) Airalo (Affordable Global eSIMs)
Say goodbye to roaming charges. Airalo offers affordable eSIMs so you can access data in 200+ countries without hunting for a local SIM. Get $4.50 off your first eSIM when you use my code ALLY5705 at checkout. Why women love it: Staying connected means you can share locations, access maps, and keep in touch with loved ones—safely and affordably.

8) Calm or Insight Timer (Mindfulness On the Go)
Travel is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. Calm and Insight Timer help you reset with quick meditations, sleep sounds, and breathing exercises—perfect for long flights or winding down after a big day. For solo trips: They can ease nerves and help you stay grounded in new places.

9) Places (Curated City Guides)
A Places membership grants you access to our carefully curated collection of global destinations. From low-key local establishments to iconic institutions, you’ll find handpicked selections sourced to please. You can use the app to curate two kinds of lists: places you love (with the ability to add specific notes) and places you want to try in new cities - keeping all of your travel lists in one place. The layout and user experience is one of my favourite apps to date. From sharing my curated list of city favourites to making reservations - this is one of my most used apps when I’m on the road.

Why it’s useful: Cuts through the noise so you spend less time researching and more time experiencing.

10) Viator (Book Tours & Experiences)
From food tours to skip‑the‑line museum passes, Viator makes booking local experiences seamless. Browse reviews, compare options, and reserve on the spot. If you head to Viator via this blog - I’d love it if you used my travel agent link <3

Why women love it: It removes guesswork and opens doors to unique, memorable adventures.

11) WhatsApp (Stay Connected Internationally)
From group chats to location sharing, WhatsApp keeps you in touch without racking up phone bills. Many countries rely on it daily—so you’ll blend right in with the locals. Why it’s essential: Share your live location with friends for extra safety and peace of mind. Use the same number as back home - even when switching SIMs.

12) Tezza (Creative Photo Editing)
For women who love capturing the aesthetic of their travels, Tezza is a go-to. With beautiful preset filters, vintage-inspired edits, and easy-to-use tools, it makes turning your raw travel shots into magazine-worthy photos simple. Why women love it: It helps you create a cohesive travel aesthetic and document memories in a way that feels elevated and creative.

13) West (Minimalist Travel Edits)
If you prefer a fun, moody, and disposable camera vibe, West is another must-have photo editing app. It offers film-like presets, moody tones, and minimalistic styles that elevate everyday travel photos into storytelling moments. Why it’s useful: Perfect for women who want to keep their social feeds cohesive and chic while on the go.

14) Expedia (One-Stop Travel Booking)
When it comes to planning the logistics of your trip, Expedia makes it simple to book flights, hotels, rental cars, and even vacation packages in one place. The app often offers bundle discounts, loyalty rewards, and real-time updates on your reservations, making it a reliable all-in-one travel tool. Why women love it: It saves time, reduces stress, and keeps all your bookings organized—so you can focus more on enjoying your adventure and less on piecing together the details.

Final Thoughts
Traveling, whether solo or with your best girlfriends, is one of the most empowering experiences a woman can have. With the right apps on your phone, you can feel safe, organized, and free to focus on what matters most: connection, adventure, and memories that last a lifetime.

At The Girls Trip Series, we design experiences that help women show up fully, connect deeply, and celebrate life’s milestones in unforgettable destinations. And now you’ll be more prepared than ever for your next adventure. Ready to adventure with us? Click here.

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Why Traveling with Women Changes Everything: The Magic of Female-Focused Travel

When women travel together, something transformative happens. Beyond the photos, the plane tickets, and the itineraries, there’s an undeniable magic that comes from stepping into new places with women by your side. Female-focused travel isn’t just about where you go, it’s about who you become along the way. Whether it’s sharing stories at a new coffee shop on the cobblestone streets in Lisbon, taking a salsa lesson in Mexico City, or making an absolute fool of yourself attempting to stand on a surfboard in Ericeira, traveling with women is powerful, healing, and unforgettable. Here’s why:

1. Connection Beyond the Surface
In everyday life, it’s easy to get caught up in work, family, and endless to-do lists. As women, many of us spend our lives taking care of others and putting ourselves second. But on the right girls trip, there’s permission to put yourself first to rest, to play, to reconnect, and to do it surrounded by like-minded women who understand the importance of that healing. Conversations become deeper. Vulnerability feels safe. And laughter (often the kind that makes your cheeks hurt) fills the gaps between moments. Traveling with like-minded women builds bonds that go beyond surface-level friendships. These are connections that often turn into lifelong sisterhood.

At The Girls Trip Series, our application process helps make this possible. It’s not about vetting who’s “cool enough” to join - it’s about protecting the energy of each trip. We believe travel is sacred (and a big investment), so we want to make sure you’re signing up for a trip that feels aligned with you, your values, and the kind of experience you’re craving. Because let’s be honest: not all friends are compatible to travel with. Planning group trips at home often comes with stress, mismatched expectations, and conflict. Here, you get to step into a safe space, free of pressure, where you can tune into whatever feels good to you each day. That freedom (to choose your pace, your connections, and your joy) is one of the most healing parts of traveling with women.

2. Why Connection Runs Deeper on Women’s Trips
When women explore the world together, they remind each other of their strength. Whether it’s conquering a hike, navigating a foreign city, or trying something completely new, these experiences empower you in ways you didn’t expect. Our trips travel well beyond adventure; they’re about sharing the real parts of life. They’re about finding empathy and relatability in the journeys we’ve all walked through as women. A trip with The Girls Trip Series becomes a safe place to speak openly - not only about the highlights of your life (and having other women genuinely celebrate those wins), but also about the real things that need support: relationships, motherhood, health, friendships, new chapters, career shifts, and everything in between.

There’s something profoundly healing about being seen and heard in this way. It makes the joys of experiencing something new together. The connections you’re building aren’t about superficial moments or just getting the perfect shot for Instagram - they’re rooted in honesty, shared experience, and a sisterhood that extends far beyond the trip itself. Safe & thoughtful spaces make experiences more meaningful.

3. A Safe Space to Be Yourself
The right female-focused travel creates a different energy than mixed-group travel. There’s less competition, less pressure to “perform,” and more space to simply be. From morning coffee chats to late-night reflections, there’s freedom in knowing you can show up as your authentic self.

At The Girls Trip Series, every destination is thoughtfully curated with that intention in mind. I choose trips that emphasize feeling your best rather than feeling like you have to look a certain way. Instead of hot-spot cities where there’s constant pressure to get dressed up and keep pace, we often stay in small towns and laid-back communities where walking around with no makeup and a salty messy bun feels natural. These destinations create space for you to exhale and reconnect with who you are - not who the world tells you to be.

I also choose houses over hotels whenever possible. Why? Because this is where the true bonding (and the magic) happens. It’s in the cozy living rooms where early-morning coffee turns into heart-opening conversations, and late-night reflections flow effortlessly. These shared spaces become sacred: the backdrop for laughter, storytelling, deep talks, and the kind of connection that makes you feel like you’ve known these women forever. If you’ve made it this far and this paragraph lights your craving to explore, I highly recommend you join our trip called “The Reset”.

4. Celebrating Joy (Big and Small) & Healing Through Travel
Women are natural celebrators; birthdays, milestones, and even the tiniest victories. On a trip with The Girls Trip Series, that spirit comes alive in the simplest moments: the first sip of coffee with the early riser while everyone else is still asleep, a day of exploring new things together, the way everyone pauses to watch the sun sink below the horizon, or the laughter that erupts from an inside joke no one will ever forget. These little rituals remind us to slow down and find joy in the present.

What makes these trips even more special is that every woman joins for a different reason. For some, it’s navigating a big life transition. For others, it’s marking a milestone, taking a breather, or carving out space for a much-needed reset. And sometimes, it’s simply about giving yourself permission to step away from the noise of everyday life and reconnect with yourself in an intentional way. When you bring those intentions together in one space, the energy is contagious. Each woman’s “why” adds something beautiful to the group, turning the trip into more than just a vacation: it becomes a shared memory that stays with you long after you return home.

For many women, travel isn’t just about seeing the world; it’s about healing. Whether you’re moving through a life transition, craving inspiration, or simply needing a reset, there’s something deeply restorative about traveling in a community of supportive women. The world opens up, and so does your heart.

5. Creating Memories That Last Forever
When you look back at life, it won’t just be the places you saw that stand out. It’ll be the things you did with the women who were there with you: the one who gently nudged you to try something new, the one who stayed up late with you to talk it over until it made sense, and the one who made you laugh until you cried. These are the stories you’ll tell again and again and the ones that live long after the trip ends.

Why Female-Focused Travel Matters Now More Than Ever
In a world where women are constantly told to put others first, female-focused travel flips the script. It’s a reminder that you deserve to invest in yourself, to explore, to connect, and to experience joy without apology. Traveling with women changes everything because it’s more than a vacation; it’s a reclamation of freedom, connection, and belonging.

Ready to Experience the Magic?

At The Girls Trip Series, we believe travel is more than just a getaway - it’s a catalyst for connection, growth, and unforgettable memories. Our curated trips are designed exclusively for women who are ready to see the world and meet like-minded adventurers along the way. Whether it’s exploring the streets of Mexico City, crossing whale sharks off of your bucketlist in Baja, or staring off into the sunset in Ericeira, we create experiences that remind you what it means to feel alive.

Are you ready to join us? Explore upcoming trips and discover the magic of traveling with women.

I can’t wait to create some magic with you,

Ally P.

How to Survive Long-Haul Flights: 11 Tried-and-True Tips for Women Who Love to Travel

At The Girls Trip Series, we’re no strangers to jet lag, swollen ankles, and the soul-searching crisis that hits somewhere over the Atlantic when you've been in the same seat for 9+ hours. Whether you're heading to Portugal, Morocco, or a dreamy escape in Mexico, surviving a long-haul flight like a pro is part of the adventure. Here are our top 10 long-haul flight survival tips every woman should know before boarding that plane.

Select Your Seat In Advance.
Stop messing around - window or aisle? If you’re a frequent flyer, you already know what works best for you. But for long-hauls, aisle seats mean easy bathroom breaks and mid-flight stretching. For longer legs where I need to prioritize sleep to avoid jetlag, I try and bid for an upgrade. Otherwise, you’ll catch me cozying up next to the window so no one wakes me up for bathroom breaks!

Pro tip: join an airline rewards program to help you with upgrades. I personally use a the AMEX Air Canada Aeroplan Reserve. This is my main travel card that is linked to my Aeroplan account and gives me perks like access to building up e-upgrade credits with the program!

Hydration Is Your Best Friend.
Airplane cabins are drier than the Sahara. Bring a refillable water bottle and ask the flight attendants to top you up throughout the flight. Electrolyte tablets are also a game-changer for keeping your energy balanced. Some of my personal favourites to shop are: Spill-Proff Cup, Liquid IV (I’m obsessed with the popsicle flavour!!!), and Flight Fud. Other honourable mentions: LMNT, Blume.

Download The Timeshifter App
Timeshifter is a smart, science-based jet lag app designed to help travelers reset their internal clocks and minimize the unpleasant effects of crossing time zones. It generates personalized jet-lag plans based on your itinerary, chronotype (whether you're an early bird or night owl), sleep habits, and even flight delays. Download the app, plug in your fight details the night before, and watch it give you a personal sleep schedule to help you avoid jetlag!

Dress for Success.

Compression socks. Oversized hoodie. Soft joggers. Layers. We don’t care how cute your airport outfit is—comfort wins every time. You can still be chic and nap-friendly. Linking some favourites below:

• OYSHO Straight Leg Trouser (but tbh anything from here is great. They have been my favourite brand for athleisure and athletic wear for years. I usually buy in-store in Europe but now they ship to Canada!).

• Matching Sweatsuit. I love the cotton fleece & boyfriend sets from Aritzia but if you’re looking for cheaper options, check this out.

• Compression Socks.

• A belt bag to keep all your essentials handy in one spot.

• A cute sneaker that’s easy to slip on and off. Forever one of my favs.

• Adding a short, sherpa jacket to your closet is a great essential. I love travelling with mine because it’s handy to have in cooler temperatures and I often use it as an extra blanket on the plane!

Bring Snacks!
I have a confession, I like airplane food - but my body doesn’t always feel the same way. Pack healthy, filling snacks like almonds, protein bars, dried fruit, and to-go mixes of your favourite warm bevies. Your belly (and budget) will thank you.

Build a Little In-Flight Spa Kit
Face mist, lip balm, moisturizer, hand sanitizer, and under-eye masks. Pop them in your carry-on and pretend you’re in a flying spa. Bonus points for essential oils—lavender or peppermint are perfect for relaxing or waking up. Here are some of my favourites:

• Lip Balm

• Hale Derma Spray (Use Code ALLY20)

• Under Eye Patches

• Saje Pocket Pharmacy

• Skin Edition Hyaluronic Acid Spray (Use Code ALLY20)

Download Now, Thank Yourself Later
No one wants to be stuck with a broken screen or no movies mid-air. Download podcasts, playlists, movies, and audiobooks before your flight. Our current rec? "Unfiltered w/ Ally Pintucci" for raw, real convos to pass the time. If some of your streaming platforms don’t work outside of your home country, download a VPN to your device!

Pass The F Out.
Invest in a supportive neck pillow, noise-canceling headphones or earplugs, and a blackout eye mask. Melatonin or magnesium can help you doze off naturally (but always check with your doctor if it’s new to you). Linking my favourites below for you!

• Neck Pillow

• Noise-Cancelling Headphones

• Favourite Ear Plugs

• Plane Leg Hammock

• Magnesium Spray (I pour from the big bottle into a carry-on-friendly size!)

• Eye Mask

Move Your Body
After I wake up form my slumber, I prioritize a bit of movement to help with circulation. On shorter flights, where I don’t need to focus on sleep, I try to get up every couple of hours to stretch or walk the aisle. Even simple things like doing ankle rolls or seated stretches make a difference.

Practice Mindful Travel
Long-haul flights can be mentally taxing. Use the time to journal, meditate, or unplug. This is your chance to transition out of everyday life and into travel mode. Breathe it in.

Freshen Up Before You Land
Pack a mini toothbrush, deodorant, wipes, and a touch of makeup to feel human before touchdown. Bonus tip: a quick hair tie switch and spritz of perfume can make you feel brand new.

• Toothpaste Tablets

• Instant travel toothbrush

• Skin Edition Hyaluronic Acid Spray (Use Code ALLY20)

• Colorescience Tinted SPF (Use Code ALLY20)

• Mini Deodorant

• Travel Size Moisturizer

Final Thoughts
Long-haul flights aren’t always glamorous, but they are the gateway to the experiences that change your life. With a little prep and the right attitude, you’ll show up feeling refreshed, confident, and ready to take on whatever destination is calling your name.

Want more travel tips and Girls Trip inspiration?
Follow us on Instagram @thegirlstripseries and stay tuned for upcoming adventures around globe and local events that connect you with women who travel well.

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