Girls Just Wanna Have Sun: How to Travel with Friends for Less

August is here, which means it’s Women’s Month – the perfect excuse (not that we needed one) to round up your girls and plan a feel-good, sun-filled getaway that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re dreaming of beach days, sundowners, spa sessions or late-night chats under the stars, you don’t have to max out your cards to make it happen. 

Let’s talk cheap holiday packages, smart travel budget hacks, and how to split the bill without ruining the vibe. These vacation ideas for best friends are all about making memories and saving money. 

Is Travelling with Friends Cheaper? 

In a word: yes. Travelling with your squad means you get to share costs – think shared accommodation, group transport, groceries if you’re self-catering, and even that cheeky cocktail pitcher. When you split your expenses smartly, your money goes further, and your fun multiplies. That’s a win-win. 

How to Split Travel Expenses with Friends (Without it Getting Awkward) 

Money can be a mood killer, but it doesn’t have to be. Before you book anything, chat honestly about budgets. Some friends might be saving hard, others may be more relaxed. Try to find a sweet spot where everyone’s comfortable. 

Here’s how to keep it easy: 

• Use a trip expense splitter app like Splitwise or Tricount. These are lifesavers for keeping track of who paid for what, and who owes who. 
• Group bookings often come with discounts, especially for cruises or villas. Our Pentravel experts can help you find a deal that fits your group. 
• Assign a trip treasurer. Not someone to hoard the cash, but someone to help keep track of shared costs and remind everyone when payments are due. 

Budget-Friendly Girls’ Trips? Yes Please. 

Here are some of our favourite cheap beach holidays and affordable all-inclusive resorts perfect for a girls getaway – and when you’re ready to plan, chat with us at Pentravel. We’ll help you match your budget to the best deal and make your trip amazing. 

Quad-Sharing Cruise Cabins: More Room, Less Cost 

Cruise holidays are the upgrade you never knew you needed. Think beach stops, pool decks, themed parties, bottomless food, and that ocean breeze – all included. Opt for a quad-sharing cabin and split the cost four ways. 

Why it works: You pay one price and get accommodation, meals, entertainment, and travel to multiple destinations. Bonus: less planning, more tanning. 

Want to know if cruising fits your budget? Chat to us at Pentravel – we’ll find your perfect match. 

Self-Catering or Apartment Stays in Mauritius 

Mauritius isn’t just for honeymoons. Book a self-catering apartment with the girls and enjoy your own space, your own kitchen, and a pool – all without the all-inclusive price tag. 

Pro tip: Shop local at markets and split cooking duties. Not only will you save, but it turns dinner into an activity too. 

Let’s match your group to a Mauritius holiday package that fits your wallet – chat with us about options today.  

Budget Bali Villas 

Bali is one of the cheapest countries to travel to from South Africa – especially when you’re splitting costs. Private villas with pools and lush gardens? Totally doable. Choose areas like Canggu or Ubud for a mix of beach, culture, and Instagram-worthy everything. 

Why it works: Daily living costs in Bali are super low, and group stays bring the price down even more. 

Not sure what kind of Bali accommodation you can afford? Chat with us at Pentravel and we’ll help you find one that suits your crew (and your purse). 

Thailand Fun on a Budget 

When it comes to cheap beach holidays, Thailand still wins. Stay in shared villas or boutique hotels. Party in Phuket, unwind in Krabi, or explore island life on Koh Samui. 

Why it works: Affordable flights to Thailand, cheap transport (hello, tuk tuks), and loads of local food options make a Thailand package the go-to for group getaways. 

Ask us how to build your perfect Thailand trip based on your group’s budget – we’ve got you. 

When Friends Have Different Budgets for Travel? 

This happens. The key? Flexibility. Choose a destination that offers a mix of affordable activities and a few splurge options. One friend can chill on the beach while another books a boat trip. And remember not everything has to be done together. Different budgets don’t mean you can’t travel together – you just travel differently. 

Need help managing expectations? Let Pentravel help you design a holiday that suits everyone in the group – without the drama. 

Where’s the Best Place to Travel on a Budget? 

Here are a few top picks we love: 

• Thailand 
• Bali 
• Vietnam 
• Mauritius (self-catering style) 
• Zanzibar 
• South African road trips – yes, even local is lekker 

We can help you decide which destination gives you the best bang for your buck. Talk to us! 

Where’s a Good Place for a Girls’ Holiday? 

Anywhere you can laugh till your stomach hurts, chat till midnight, and maybe sip a margarita while watching the sun go down. But for real? We love: 

• Cruises for a little glam and a lot of fun 
• Mauritius for beach days and spa stays 
• Bali for affordable luxury 
• Thailand for food, fun, and island hopping 
• Cape Town or the Winelands for a local long weekend that doesn’t need a passport 

Know the kind of energy you’re after? We’ll help you find the place to match it – budget included. 

Make the Trip Happen 

The best trips to go on with friends aren’t always about where you go – but how you make it work. Budgeting together, splitting fairly, choosing smart stays, and planning in advance can turn “we should totally go” into “we’re going!” 

Book your package through Pentravel – from cruise deals to Bali villas, we’ll help you find affordable holidays that suit your budget and your squad. Whether you’re planning months ahead or chasing last-minute sunshine, we’ve got the deals and the know-how. 

So, grab your girl gang, your trip expense splitter app, and start planning. Because girls just wanna have sun – and you deserve it. 

Let’s get you there. Chat to Pentravel today.