5 Girls’ Trips to Take Before You Get Hitched

Relish time with friends before your big day.

By: Kelly Smith Trimble

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Whether you're a month away from your dream wedding or you're still swiping left, there are certain types of trips you just need to take when you're single. With your friends. So drop the wedding planning and start travel planning for one of these great girls' getaways.

1: A Trip With No Plan

Women Biking

Reduce your carbon footprint and participate in Earth-friendly transportation options like biking, walking and taking public transit. These alternatives are often cheaper than taking a cab or renting a car.

Photo by: Thinkstock

Thinkstock

Well, maybe not no plan, but I encourage you to not have much of one. Road trips are great for this. Just start driving and stop whenever something catches your eye. You can book a few hotels or campsites, or just leave it up to chance. If not the open road, try the beach and just go with the flow.

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2: Break With Your Bestie

Photo by: Yelena Kovalenko

Yelena Kovalenko

A trip with tons of friends is great, but there’s nothing like one-on-one time with your best friend, whether that’s your sister, brother, mom or college roommate. Don’t over-plan the itinerary, though you should frame it around something you both love (read: wine). Be sure to leave time for chatting in confidence and catching up about the important stuff.

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3: Totally Alone Tour

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Woman taking picture

Photo by: Jupiterimages

Jupiterimages

To some, it sounds scary to travel alone, but for others, it sounds glorious. Whichever camp you’re in, you should definitely try it. Choose a place you’ve always wanted to visit, and just go. While you’re there, I recommend reveling in being the mysterious woman confidently eating alone at dinner.

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4: Girl Power Getaway

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Held every August, the Quebec City Marathon winds its way through some of the city’s most beautiful areas along the northern and southern shores of the St. Lawrence River.

Nothing beats the confidence boost that a good gal pal can give. Whether you’re trying to get in shape for the wedding or just choosing exercise to relieve stress, opt for a high-activity vacation with encouraging friends (no negative nellies). You’ll return feeling healthy, refreshed and more confident than ever.

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5: Bachelorette Party

For the Adventurer: Vail, CO

Vail is a great option for the bride who can't sit still. Off the slopes, your party can take a Cocktails & Canvas class at the Alpine Arts Center, go whitewater rafting, zip line in the Colorado Mountains or ride horses from Beaver Creek Stables. Regardless of the season, check into the luxurious Cordillera Lodge -- the mountaintop retreat's award-winning spa is renowned for its relaxation treatments.

Photo by: Getty Images

Getty Images

It may sound trite, but a trip with your girlfriends before the big day can be a great way to set the tone for the next phase. While the traditional choice is night-life somewhere like Vegas or New York, I prefer something outside the box, like a ski excursion, camping trip or vineyard tour. You can also plan a trip focused on something every woman loves: chocolate.