✈️ Girl Math: The Unofficial Financial Philosophy Powering Women’s Travel Trips
Girls trip to Tulum
If you’ve ever justified a plane ticket because “future me deserves this,” or declared that a hotel upgrade is “basically free” when split four ways, congratulations — you’re already fluent in Girl Math, the playful, logic system that makes travel feel more joyful and a lot less guilt‑ridden.
Girl Math didn’t appear out of nowhere. It grew out of a generation of women where everything — housing, groceries, travel, even basic fun — costs more than it ever has. And let’s be honest—we’re no longer marrying men to help out with our financial situation. It’s our way of saying: If the world is going to financially screw me anyway, I’m at least going to find a loophole to enjoy where I can.
Girl Math isn’t about ignoring financial responsibility. It’s about reframing spending in a way that aligns with how women actually experience travel: socially, emotionally, and with a healthy dose of humor. And honestly, it works.
Let’s break down how Girl Math shows up on female or solo travel trips — and why it makes those trips even better.
💄 1. The Pre‑Trip Purchases That Don’t Count
According to Girl Math, anything you buy before the trip is an investment in the experience — and therefore not a real expense.
New swimsuit? “I’ll wear it for multiple trips and summers to come, so it’s basically free.”
Matching vacation outfits? “Memories and the cute photos are priceless.”
New luggage? “Purchasing a new carry-on saves me time and money from checking in.”
The logic isn’t about denial; it’s about acknowledging that preparation is part of the fun. Women often bond through planning, and Girl Math turns that bonding into a guilt‑free zone.
👗 2. The “Save Here, Splurge There” Equation
Girl Math thrives on balance — or at least the illusion of it. Nowhere is this more obvious than in the way women prep for travel. We’ll hunt down $12 SHEIN dresses, $6 sunglasses, and a $9 bikini set… all while boarding a $10,000 vacation like it’s nothing.
Because in Girl Math, outfits are temporary, but the experiences are forever.
It’s not hypocrisy. It’s prioritization.
Cheap outfits = “I’m being financially responsible.”
Expensive trip = “I’m investing in my happiness.”
A once‑in‑a‑lifetime excursion = “You can’t put a price on memories.”
We want to look good, but we want to feel even better — and that feeling comes from the trip itself. The laughter, the late nights, the beach days, the inside jokes, the photos we’ll scroll through for years. The clothes are just props; the moments are the main event.
Girl Math says: If I save money on the little things, I’ve earned the right to splurge on the big things.
🧮 3. Cost Per Wear… But Make It Travel
Girl Math loves a good cost‑per‑use calculation. On trips, this becomes cost‑per‑memory.
A $200 excursion? If you talk about it for the next five years, that’s practically pennies per emotional return.
A $50 beach hat? If it appears in 12 photos, the cost per Instagram moment is unbeatable.
A new $2,000 Louis Vuitton bag that I’ve been obsessing over? I will be wearing it for life and I saved $400 getting it tax-free overseas! And the stories that will surround this special purchase… priceless. It’s not just a bag, but the bag I got at the flagship, two-story Louis Vuitton store in Paris strolling along the Champs-Elysees.
Travel isn’t just about the activity — it’s about the story you’ll tell later. Girl Math simply quantifies that truth.
👯 4. Splitting Costs = Everything Is Cheaper
One of the greatest gifts of women’s group travel is the communal approach to spending.
A $400 villa split among six friends? “Practically free.”
An upgrade from Garden to Ocean View split between friends? “No brainer.”
Shared Ubers? “Cheaper than staying home.”
A charcuterie board for the table? “Group expense — doesn’t count.”
Girl Math thrives in community. When women travel together, the financial load becomes lighter, and the emotional payoff becomes bigger.
🙋♀️ 4. Investing in Future You
One of my favorite and most-used forms of Girl Math is the art of spending today so future you can thrive on vacation. It’s not delusion — it’s long‑term financial strategy with a side of serotonin.
· Pre‑Booking an All‑Inclusive = Future Me Lives for Free. There is no greater Girl Math high than stepping onto an all‑inclusive resort property and realizing everything is already paid for. Suddenly, every meal, every drink, every poolside snack is “free.” Honestly, I’ve spent less on a week at an all‑inclusive than I have on groceries, gas, and random Target runs at home. That’s not a vacation — that’s financial optimization.
· Gambling for Future Discounts. Is it risky? Sure. Is it Girl Math? Absolutely. If you gamble enough on a cruise or at certain hotels, you can qualify for discounted or even free future trips. So yes, go play that roulette, sis — you’re not losing money, you’re investing in future vacations.
· Loyalty Points: The Girl Math Retirement Plan. Hotel chains and airlines practically beg you to earn points, and Girl Math says it would be irresponsible not to. The more you travel, the more freebies you unlock — room upgrades, lounge access, bonus nights. It’s like a rewards program for being fabulous.
· Travel Credit Cards = Future Flights in Every Purchase. If you’re not earning points on every coffee, grocery run, or impulse buy, you’re leaving future vacations on the table. Travel cards turn everyday spending into flights, hotels, and upgrades. That’s not debt — that’s an investment to future joy.
· Booking Your Next Trip Before You Leave. One of the most powerful Girl Math moves: booking your return trip while you’re still on vacation. Resorts and cruise lines often offer massive discounts if you book before you leave. And honestly, what better time to commit to another trip than when you’re sun‑kissed, relaxed, and convinced you’re moving abroad permanently.
🍹 5. Vacation Calories and Vacation Dollars Follow the Same Rules
Just like vacation calories “don’t count,” vacation dollars operate in a parallel universe.
The $18 cocktail is part of the ambiance and support of the local economy.
The overpriced airport snack is a survival tactic.
Ordering the region’s signature dish isn’t indulgence — it’s research. You’re educating yourself about other cultures. That $28 entrée? A tuition fee.
The souvenir bracelet is a future heirloom.
The rooftop bar is an ROI on excellent photos.
Travel Girl Math says: if it enhances the vibe, it’s worth it.
👜 6. Time Is Money — And Girl Math Values Time Highly
Women often juggle work, caregiving, emotional labor, and social commitments. So when they finally take a trip, time becomes the most precious currency.
That’s why Girl Math justifies:
Paying extra for a direct flight—Bonus Girl Math: If you take the red-eye flight, you pay for one less hotel night and increase your time abroad by having a whole extra day!
Upgrading to a hotel closer to the city center—Bonus Girl Math: staying in the city also saves you money by paying less on transportation if it’s a walkable city.
Booking the spa appointment instead of “roughing it”.
It’s not indulgence — it’s efficiency.
🌍 7. Experiences Are Assets
Girl Math reframes travel as an investment in personal growth, friendships, and mental health.
You don’t “spend” on travel. You gain:
Confidence
Connection
Perspective
Joy
A camera roll full of serotonin
In this framework, travel isn’t a luxury — it’s a form of self‑care.
💖 Why Girl Math Works for Women Travelers
At its core, Girl Math is a playful way of acknowledging something deeper: women deserve rest, adventure, and pleasure without apology.
It’s not about ignoring budgets. It’s about giving yourself permission to enjoy the life you work hard for.
And honestly? If Girl Math is what gets you on that plane with your best friends, it’s worth its weight in gold.
Jamaica—One Love
Doctor’s Cave Beach, Jamaica, 12/15/25
Bob Marley said it best: One Love, One Heart, Let’s Get Together and Feel Alright.
No truer words could describe my feeling towards this incredible country—especially a month and a half after being hit by the strongest hurricane ever in history. As a frequent traveler and passionate admirer of this beautiful country, nothing could have prepared me for the roller coaster I experienced these past couple months.
Jamaica: Where Every Vibe Feels Like Home
Jamaica isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling, it’s a culture, it’s a vibe. From the moment your feet touch the island, you’re wrapped in warm breezes, rhythmic music, and a culture that moves to its own soulful beat. Although I’ve never had the true pleasure of vacationing here since I often go for work, I’ve always said that nothing says vacation to me more than a swim-up bar or beach with a cocktail in my hand while listening to reggae music in the background. That is vacation. That is Jamaica.
The Island’s Natural Beauty
Although Jamaica has some of the most breathtaking beaches, the island’s landscape is a masterpiece of natural hidden gems. While powdery white- or gold-sand beaches line the coasts with sparkling turquoise waters, you have the emerald green mountains rise dramatically inland. The Blue Mountains are famous for producing some of the world’s best coffee, while natural surprises such as Blue Hole and Dunns River Falls invite visitors to climb, swim, jump, and reconnect with nature in the most refreshing way possible.
A Culture That Changes You
When I say Jamaica is what vacation means to me, it’s not just the beaches or the reggae music. It’s the language, the laughter, and the deep sense of community—something I didn’t know was as strong as it was until after Hurricane Melissa. It’s the chill vibes and calm attitude that remind me to slow down and savor the moment.
I’ve only ever been to Jamaica for work, but it has left a lasting impression. Our driver, Kevin—who’s worked with my company for 20 years—quickly rose to the top of my favorites list. He has this energy that makes you feel like everything will be alright. I didn’t realize how “LA” I was until I met Kevin—constantly asking about pickup times, deadlines, and schedules. He’d just smile and say, “Don’t worry, mon, I got you.” I’d reply, “I know you got me, but what time do you have me? I need to do XYZ…” And he’d calmly repeat, “Don’t worry about that. It’s going to be alright.”
That was the moment I realized I was on island time—and none of the things that stressed me out mattered anymore. Rain during the commute? Don’t worry. Running 10 minutes late? Don’t worry. Eventually, I started to embrace their way of thinking.
Even now, when life feels overwhelming, I ask myself: What would Kevin say? Throughout my life—whether it’s at home, work, relationships, setbacks—my colleague and I often remind each other, “It’ll be okay—Kevin would say that.”
I even sat through my first eight-hour flight delay on the way to Jamaica this past September, receiving constant upsetting news without an ounce of stress or frustration… just laughter. No one on the flight was upset either… I couldn’t believe it. Jamaica just does something to you—it changes your attitude and your outlook. I can’t explain it.
Flavor in Every Bite
Jamaican cuisine is bold, flavorful, and unforgettable. From flaky patties to my favorite—Scotchies jerk pork and chicken—there’s no shortage of dishes that will have you salivating the moment you arrive. Pair that with a sip of Jamaican Red Stripe or a piña colada made with Appleton Estate Rum, and the island greets you with flavor and feel good times.
The Jamaican Spirit
What truly sets Jamaica apart is its people—their warmth, resilience, and pride in their heritage. Visitors aren’t just guests; they’re family. Every time you return, you’re always welcomed home. It’s no wonder Jamaica has such a high number of repeat visitors.
Knocked Down, Never Knocked Out
On October 28, 2025, Jamaica was devastated by Category 5 Hurricane Melissa. Homes were destroyed, the island lost power, hotels shut down, and landmarks were damaged. Everything I loved about Jamaica felt shattered.
I wasn’t just heartbroken over the resorts—I grieved for the spirit of Jamaica, wondering if it could ever be the same. Were our friends safe? Did they have food, shelter, or electricity? Without electricity, I couldn’t get a hold of our friends to check in and see if they were okay. So, we had to rely on hopes and prayers. I felt helpless for an island that had given me so much.
Let’s Get Together, It’ll Be Alright
I’m grateful for my relationship with the Jamaica Tourist Board. Just days after Melissa hit, we jumped on a call for updates. We laughed, cried, and comforted each other in ways I didn’t know I needed. They told us they aimed to reopen by December 15 of 2025! I thought, No way—that’s impossible. You just had the strongest hurricane ever on record hit a couple weeks ago. I saw the video with the airport flooded, received daily reports of hotel closures and extensions of closures, and roads damaged. But they invited us to visit on December 15 to “Come See for Ourselves”—which is coincidentally their marketing tagline that we used prior to Hurricane Melissa. The goal was for us to see for ourselves so we could feel confident in offering travel to our guests there again.
My colleague and I returned with heavy hearts, very somber, bracing for devastation. We barely spoke to each other on the way out. We didn’t want to say out loud what we were expecting to walk into. We expected to walk into a war zone. But what we found was nothing short of miraculous.
How the Spirit of Jamaica Saved Them
We visited Negril, Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and Trelawny. The hotels that reopened looked as good as before—some even better. Roads were cleaner, beaches had more sand, and attractions retained their natural beauty.
Yes, some hotels remain closed, and certain areas will take time to recover. But the tourist regions? You’d never know a hurricane hit.
What moved me most was the spirit of the people. It didn’t break—it grew stronger. Everywhere we went, workers shared stories of loss, yet they were grateful to be alive and proud to welcome visitors back with a smile. Resorts housed displaced staff, built homes, and funded supplies. The sense of community and resilience was overwhelming.
Since October 29, Jamaicans have worked tirelessly to restore tourism—often prioritizing that over their own homes. They’re not bitter, not broken, not asking for handouts or pity. They’re simply grateful.
I never expected to see what I did. And I can say with confidence: if you book a trip to Jamaica today, you’ll have the time of your life. The best way to give back is to go back.
And I promise you this—the Jamaica you visit a year from now will be stronger than ever. Not even the most powerful hurricane in history could break them. They are proud. They are unstoppable.
Jamaica—you are my one love.
