When you’re heading out for a girls’ trip, especially with fashion-loving friends like my Blonde Squad crew, you want your outfits to shine without draining your bank account. Packing for a trip is already a challenge, but packing for a girls’ getaway means there’s a little extra pressure to look put-together. The good news? With a few affordable girls trip packing tips, you can bring your A-game style while sticking to your budget.
1. Shop Secondhand for High-End Labels
One of my favorite ways to elevate my girls’ trip wardrobe is by thrifting. You’d be amazed at what you can find secondhand—my Lily Pulitzer pieces came from Goodwill and Poshmark (use my referral code IDODECLAIRE when joining Poshmark for $10 credit) for a fraction of retail. Shopping secondhand not only saves money but also keeps your looks unique (no one else in your group will show up in the same outfit!). Check out my Poshmark shopping tips, too. Another great place to check is Thredup. I haven’t used them in years because their pricing was getting absurd, but it seems to be more reasonable recently. If you are part of the local Buy Nothing Group on facebook, you can sometimes get secondhand clothing and accessories for free! I give a lot away on our local group.
This THML top was a Goodwill find last winter. I paid under $10 and finally wore it this summer.
Top (similar, similar) | Earrings | Necklace | Jeans | Sandals | Bracelet
2. Use Promo Codes and Seasonal Sales
Before buying anything new, I hunt for promo codes. Signing up for email lists, checking browser extensions like Honey, or searching for discount codes can save 10–30% instantly. Many brands also run seasonal clearance events—perfect for snagging that statement dress you’ve been eyeing. It may seem strange to buy end of season for the next year, but I have snagged incredible quality pieces for amazing deals that way.
Top (similar, similar) | Earrings | Necklace | Jeans | Sandals | Bracelet
3. Find Budget-Friendly Statement Pieces
Stores like SHEIN and Amazon are great for trendy, budget-friendly finds. If you’re looking for colorful tops, vacation dresses, or matching sets for your trip, you can score entire looks for the price of one department store item. Just remember to read reviews and check sizing charts to ensure a good fit.
A statement dress like this has high end vibes, but cost less than $40 from Shein. Add some thrifted and DIY beaded bracelets for just a few dollars for a pulled together look.
Dress (similar, similar) | Sandals | Bag | Belt
4. Build Outfits Around Versatile Pieces
When space is limited, every piece in your suitcase should work in multiple outfits. Pack solid bottoms that go with several tops, or bring a neutral dress you can style differently with accessories. This is one of the best affordable girls trip packing tips because it saves both money and luggage space.
Dress (similar, similar) | Sandals | Bag | Belt
5. Plan Outfits Ahead of Time
Before you start packing, lay everything out and pair each piece with accessories. This ensures you’re not overpacking and helps you avoid those “I have nothing to wear” moments on your trip. Bonus: Planning ahead means you can spot any gaps in your wardrobe and fill them with budget-friendly options before you go.
This Lily Pulitzer dress was under $20 at Goodwill.
Dress (save option) | Sandals | Bag | Necklace (similar)
6. Pack Accessories That Transform Your Looks
Statement earrings, scarves, and bold shoes take up little space but can change the whole vibe of an outfit. On a girls’ trip, this is a cost-effective way to create more looks without buying more clothes. Think belts, woven clutches, bright earrings, and fun shoes. I even made some of the beaded necklaces I wore for a few dollars!
Dress (save option) | Sandals | Bag | Necklace (similar)
7. Borrow From Friends
Don’t underestimate the power of borrowing. Swapping clothes or accessories with friends before a trip means you get fresh styles for free—and they do too. We’ve passed along a few items throughout our friend group and have talked about doing it on a larger scale at some point. It’s a great way to clear out and refresh your closet a bit.
These Shein pants were a steal! I DIYed the beaded necklace.
Top | Pants | Shoes | Necklace (similar)
8. Keep Your Budget in Mind While Packing
Fashion is fun, but overspending before your trip can cut into your travel budget. Using these affordable girls trip packing tips helps you arrive feeling confident in your style and your spending choices.
Another Poshmark score
Romper (similar, similar) | Bag (similar) | Sandals (similar)
Final Word:
With a little planning, creative shopping, and smart outfit building, you can pack like a fashion pro on a budget. Whether it’s thrifted Lily Pulitzer, sale finds with promo codes, or trendy SHEIN pieces, you can look amazing for every photo and memory on your girls’ getaway—without the post-trip credit card regret.
To make getting ready for your lake getaway a breeze, I’ve put together a complete packing list so nothing gets left behind—whether it’s swimsuits for sunny afternoons or a hoodie for those cool Wisconsin evenings. You can scroll through it here, or click the image or the link below for a free printable version to check items off as you go.
Packing List
Last week’s favorite post was from Andrea at Living on Cloud Nine. Check out her amazing Amazon picks!
Between Naps on the Porch | I do de Claire | Walking in Memphis in High Heels & The Fashion Canvas | Tuesday Twirl | My Slices of Life | The Style Splash | Curated by Jennifer | Mummabstylish | Shelbee On the Edge | Nancy’s Fashion Style | Momfessionals | Marsha in the Middle
