Spring break season is upon us, and whether you’re a sophomore at a university or a company exec with college as a distant memory, it’s a time of year that instills a certain kind of wanderlust in all of us. If you’ve been looking for the perfect excuse to grab your bestie and travel to one of this year’s top spring break destinations, look no further than these 9 getaway essentials. They’re so good, they’re reason enough alone to head out of town!
You and your friends deserve a nice break from your daily routines — you deserve a girls trip. You know, one that'll give you all those sweet, sweet laugh-out-loud moments to reminisce on when you're back at your desk next week. But with every girls trip comes one very important question: what the heck should you pack? So, while you're busy making plans for the best brunch and some supreme R&R, we've rounded up some cute essential items you'll need on your next girls trip.
TKEES Lily Nudes Pout Flip Flops ($55)
Image via TKEES
A classic pair of flat-sole flip flops are a necessity for a girls trip. They're great for trekking to the beach or slipping into when those sexy stiletto heels cause your feet to ache after a couple of hours.
Stoney Clover Lane Travel Case ($88)
Image via Stoney Clover Lane
Alongside your makeup, you'll probably also have your cell phone charger(s), headphones, and backup batteries. This case, complete with removable dividers, makes sure everything is protected and organized in a cute way.
Stoney Clover Lane Packing Cubes (Set of 5) ($108)
Image via Stoney Clover Lane
If you plan to bring a lot of items you can't bear to leave at home, this set of packing cubes will see you through. You can even go the extra mile by labeling them, keeping everything in its proper place.
Solid & Striped Polaroid Go Camera (White) ($99)
Image via Solid & Striped
The idea of lugging your laptop around so you can upload and edit your vlog might be fun at home, but having a portable Polaroid camera to capture instant moments is adorably nostalgic and even more convenient.
Solid & Striped The Wategos Sunglasses ($99)
Image via Solid & Striped
Make a pistachio green statement with this pair of sunglasses by Solid & Striped. You can wear these while sitting at the bar on the beach, sipping a yummy cocktail — tequila mockingbird anyone?
Sold & Striped The Beach Towel (Pacific Blue/Marmalade/Buttercup) ($25)
Image via Solid & Striped
When's the last time you actually invested in a towel that didn't get ruined by wet sand? If you've had your fair share of experiences with sand getting trapped in places you weren't expecting, this beach towel can help eliminate the chance of that happening again.
Rue De Verneuil Tote M Palais Royal ($267)
Image via Solid & Striped
This tote is the perfect beach bag! It's stylish enough to serve as a purse, but durable enough to deal with all the beachy elements. It's also got soft canvas inside so you don't have to worry about scratching your sunnies when you toss them inside.
Red Dress Jumping In White Multi-Print Bag ($44)
Image via Red Dress
Are you the friend who over packs or at least makes sure everyone will have what they need? Then you need this versatile, trendy bag from Red Dress. It's large enough to fit snacks, a few drinks, and that extra sunscreen you most definitely need in it.
Lisa Says Gah Cupid Sunglasses ($155)
Image via Lisa Says Gah
Go retro with this pair of cute, classic sunglasses from Lisa Says Gah! While you may not be able to star in Grease, you can still invoke some modern The Pink Ladies energy.
Lisa Says Gah The Oasis Hat (Tan) ($149)
Image via Lisa Says Gah
Beat the heat with this wide-brimmed straw hat from Lisa Says Gah! Made of sisal hemp with a fedora shape, the sun won't stand a chance against this hat.
Clare V. Red with Navy Checkered Passport Sleeve ($115)
Image via Claire V.
Encase your navy passport in this red and navy checkered passport sleeve. Not only is it easily recognizable (in case you happen to lose it in your bag), it's functionality makes it worth the buy.
Clare V. Luggage Tag ($55)
Image via Claire V.
If you and your friends plan to fly to your destination, you may be worried about it getting lost in the sea of other bags at the airport's baggage claim. To quell your fears, this red and navy checkered luggage tag from Claire V. lets you more easily spot your suitcase.
Show Me Your Mumu Lido Sarong ($44)
Your swimsuit sarong just received a colorful upgrade with this vibrant sarong. You can wear a nude bathing suit, or opt for warmer tones like SunKist orange or hunter green.
Show Me Your Mumu Kiran Sarong ($54)
Image via Show Me Your Mumu
Not everyone likes a mini sarong. Some prefer a little more coverage, like this Show Me Your Mumu Kiran Sarong, and that's perfectly fine! When paired with a white bikini and wide-brimmed straw hat, you'll look beach-ready.
Stanley The Iceflow Flip Straw Tumbler (20 oz) ($26)
Image via Stanley
Remember what we said about storing extra drinks in your tote bag earlier? Well, this tumbler is sure to keep you cool and refreshed, regardless of what you're drinking!
Rare Beauty Positive Light Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 20 ($30)
Image via Rare Beauty
Since you and your girls will be probably be in and out of the sun, wearing a full face of make-up might not sound appealing. Instead you can wear Rare Beauty's Positive Light Tinted Moisturizer. It contains SPF 20, so not only will your skin be protected from the sun, you'll also have a radiant complexion while you're at it.
Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask ($49)
Image via Summer Fridays
Jet lag is very real and can cause your skin to look and feel dull. To help combat that, Summer Fridays formulated a mask filled with ingredients like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid to calm your pores while putting moisture back in your skin.
Summer Fridays ShadeDrops SPF 30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen ($36)
Looking for a lightweight sunscreen that feels as smooth as a serum does, but is also full of rich antioxidants that helps protect your skin from sun damage? Summer Fridays' ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Mineral Milk Sunscreen has you covered — literally.
Sun Bum Texturizing Sea Spray ($17)
Image via Sun Bum
Are you looking for something that gives you effortless, "I just walked out of the water" hair? Try Sun Sum's Texturizing Sea Spray that's made with sea kelp. Your hair will thank you later.
Beis The East To West Tote in Beige ($108)
Image via Beis
Cute carry-on bags do exist — just ask Beis. Their The East To The West tote is made of recyclable material and has various compartments that can house items like your Stanley Tumbler, or your passport if you're traveling out of the country.
Manifatura Beach Towel (Pistachio Green) ($56)
The oversized beach towel of your fantasies just arrived in the form of this pistachio and cream towel. You'll feel like you're sitting on a treat due to being made of Turkish long fiber cotton. Seriously, it's the ultimate soft beach towel.
Sunday Supply Black Sands Beach Chair ($152, was $169)
Image via Sunday Supply Co.
If sitting or lounging on a beach towel sounds like the last thing you want to do, try bringing your own trendy beach chair. This one is portable and doesn't take up a lot of room.
Analog CC Analog Camera with Development ($30, was $32)
Image via Analog
If you're feeling nostalgic, you'll love carrying around a disposable camera to have developed at your local CVS.
CALPAK Silk Travel Set ($38, was $95)
Image via CALPAK
To speed through the length of time it takes to get to wherever you're going, try investing in a neck pillow and matching eye mask. You won't have to worry about having a sore neck the next time you fall asleep on your long car or plane ride.
CALPAK Water Bottle Holder ($42)
Image via CALPAK
If you don't want to risk your tumbler spilling in your tote bag, this waterproof water bottle holder will ease your worries. It has a shoulder strap in case you don't feel like holding it with your hands and it's completely insulated.
For more inspiration that takes you beyond summer, stop by our travel Pinterest board.
Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
Header image via Stoney Clover Lane
No matter what kind of day you're having, Marissa Cooper's having a worse one. Mischa Barton's The O.C. character went through the ringer during the first three seasons of the teen drama (remember how she overdosed in Tijuana...and also saw her parents post-hookup after their divorce?).
And during her time on The O.C., Mischa Barton struggled with drug and alcohol abuse. She was arrested for a DUI in 2007 and eventually received involuntary psychiatric hospitalization in 2009 after allegedly threatening to end her own life. And in a new interview, Peter Gallagher (who played Sandy Cohen on the show) says he's "just so grateful" for "the fact that she’s still alive."
- Mischa Barton starred alongside Peter Gallagher in The O.C. from 2003-2006.
- The actress has revealed the "trauma" of being a star at that point in her life.
- Peter recently opened up about how he's thankful "she’s still alive."
Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for FLC/John Lamparski/Getty Images
The O.C. follows Ryan Atwood, who moves in with the Cohens after getting kicked out of his mom's house, and starts a relationship with Marissa shortly after. While Peter Gallagher played Adam Brody's TV dad instead of Mischa's, Sandy was a definitely father figure for Marissa, and it seems like Peter felt that same responsibility off camera.
"I’ve always felt very protective of her," Peter told The Independent. "First fame is toxic. First fame can kill you. She was 16 years old when she started working with us, so just the fact that she’s still alive, I’m just so grateful."
“You can go to therapy every day for the rest of your life,” Mischa said in a 2023 interview with The Sunday Times. “There’s just a certain amount of trauma [from] all that I went through, particularly in my early twenties, that just doesn’t go away overnight.”
Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage revealed that season 1 overdose not only served as a cliffhanger, but gave “network executives an escape hatch on a performer they had been wary about” (via People). But Mischa Barton got her big break, becoming "how people knew the show," and (thankfully) Marissa recovered — only to die after a car crash in season 3.
As hard as that season 3 ending is to watch, Mischa did have the opportunity to watch it with Rachel Bilson and Melinda Clarke for the first time on their rewatch podcast. "It needed to be a thing, after everything she's been through, but if it's here I'll watch it with you," Mischa says.
"I couldn't do it, Mischa, I couldn't do it," Rachel adds. "But I'm going to do it if you're going to do it."
Mischa says even though being written off the show "was a little bit of a bummer," it wasn't necessarily a surprise. "The character was just doing too much," she told Vanity Fairin 2023. "And I think they ran out of places for her to go. It was not the best thing in the world, [but] there wasn’t much you could do at that point. It was whether she could sail off into the sunset, or die. At that point, I guess it’s better to have the more dramatic ending.”What did you think of The O.C. season 3 finale? Let us know on Facebook!
Look, no one likes waiting in lines. Especially if said line is the one thing between you and a relaxing vacation or stress-free travel day. Thankfully, there are plenty of travel shortcuts to help you say goodbye to those pesky security lines and long waits, namely TSA PreCheck. Wondering if TSA PreCheck is worth it or how to get TSA PreCheck in time for your summer travel bucket list? Keep reading!
What is TSA Precheck?
TSA PreCheck is an airport security program designed to make flying a breeze, allowing participants to bypass long security lines while minimizing inconveniences like taking off shoes, belts, light coats, and removing laptops for screening. It's available at most major U.S. airports and is included with Global Entry/NEXUS membership packages.
TSA Precheck allows travelers to breeze through airport security faster by bypassing traditional screening processes. Membership costs $78 annually and lasts five years.
Approved participants receive a Known Traveler Number that must be entered when booking flights; this will display a TSA PreCheck indicator on their airline boarding pass, providing access to expedited lanes.
Travelers looking for TSA Precheck can apply either online or in person at one of the many enrollment centers like Staples. Usually, the process is quick and painless; however it may take longer during peak times; most people receive their approval within weeks.
Citi AAdvantage Executive credit cards offer reimbursement of Global Entry and TSA PreCheck application fees (up to $100 every five years). Service members in uniform automatically enroll, while civilians must add their Known Traveler Number when making leisure travel reservations or frequent flyer programs to ensure it appears on boarding passes. It's possible to reapply six months before your current membership is set to expire.
How much does TSA Precheck cost in 2023?
TSA PreCheck costs $78 to apply for and is valid for five years, payable by credit card, money order, company check or certified/cashier's check — some travel credit cards even reimburse application fees! Once an applicant submits an application they can schedule an interview at one of 350 TSA PreCheck enrollment centers around the country.
Interviews for TSA PreCheck typically involve a brief and straightforward background check process, along with fingerprinting and photographs being taken of applicants. Successful participants receive a Known Traveler Number which they enter when booking flights and is used by TSA security checkpoints to identify them as well.
What's the difference between TSA Precheck and Global Entry?
TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are both trusted traveler programs through the Department of Homeland Security that facilitate expedited airport security screening. Both require a background check, interview, and fee to enroll; enrollment centers include airports, Staples stores, and an increasing number of IdentoGo locations.
Once approved, you'll receive a Known Traveler Number which can be used when booking airline flights. In some instances, airlines will automatically assign this number when you book or check-in for your flight.
Global Entry differs from TSA Precheck, as it expedites your customs experience when traveling internationally. You can find more information, such as eligibility requirements, on their websites. Typically, U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents are eligible to enroll; children aged 12 or younger may use their parents' memberships.
Is TSA Precheck right for me?
Let's weigh the pros and cons. TSA PreCheck is available at many airports and allows travelers to skip regular security lines, providing them with a quicker experience using dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes without needing to remove shoes and belts; members also can keep electronics and 3-1-1 compliant liquids in their bags without worry of removal by security officials.
On the downside, the TSA PreCheck application process can take some time, and the initial application and renewal fee of $78 every five years might seem a bit steep. However, many credit cards offer reimbursement for this expense and your membership lasts for five years.
Even if you only fly a few times a year, the time-saving benefits make TSA PreCheck totally worth it in our book. TSA PreCheck remains an attractive solution for frequent flyers looking to ease their travel experience. Global Entry may offer greater value as its membership includes both PreCheck and Global Entry membership for one price tag, though.
What are other time-saving travel hacks I should know about?
- Mobile Passport: Say goodbye to those tedious customs and immigration forms with the Mobile Passport app. It lets eligible travelers complete their paperwork electronically, so you can skip the regular lines when you arrive in the United States. More time for exploring, less time waiting!
- Clear: Picture this: you effortlessly glide through security like a VIP. That's exactly what Clear offers. As a Clear member, you can breeze through designated lanes at participating airports, leaving those long security lines in your rearview mirror.
- Priority Boarding: Why wait in the line when you can waltz right onto the plane? Take advantage of priority boarding, available for frequent flyers, elite status holders, and those lucky ducks in premium cabins. Getting settled in your seat without the hustle and bustle of the general boarding crowd? Yes, please!
- Online Check-In: Skip the hassle and queues by checking in online before you even set foot in the airport. Online check-in lets you bypass the check-in lines and head straight to security or bag drop-off, depending on your needs. It's the smart way to start your journey smoothly.
- Pack Smartly: Let's lighten your load, shall we? Efficient packing is key to saving time. Travel light or use some cute packing cubes and follow the airline's baggage rules to avoid any hold-ups during check-in or at baggage claim. And don't forget to check the TSA guidelines to pack like a pro, without any security surprises.
- Non-Peak Travel Times: Want to dodge the crowds? Opt for non-peak travel times, like early mornings or late nights. This savvy move means less congestion and shorter lines at the airport. Smooth sailing from check-in to boarding. Ah, the sweet serenity of travel during quieter hours.
- Airport Lounges: Upgrade your pre-flight experience with a little VIP treatment. Airport lounges are havens of comfort and tranquility. Enjoy amenities like Wi-Fi, snacks, and cozy seating. It's the perfect place to unwind, recharge, and make the most of your downtime. Bon voyage, stress!
- Research the Airport: Before you take off, get the inside scoop on your departure and arrival airport. Knowing the layout, facilities, and shortcuts can make navigating a breeze. From check-in counters to restrooms, be the master of airport navigation. Knowledge is power, my friends!
- Plan Ground Transportation: Let's keep the travel momentum going. Don't waste time figuring out transportation on the fly. Plan ahead by booking ride-sharing services, rental cars, or airport shuttles. Smooth transitions from the airport to your destination? That's how we roll!
Remember to check the specific requirements and availability of each time-saving gem, as they may vary depending on the airport, airline, or program. Get ready to reclaim your time and make your travel dreams a reality. Happy travels, our fellow adventurers!
Image via Pexels/Spencer Davis
Former Disney Channel star Dylan Sprouse and model Barbara Palvin are certainly living the sweet life after tying the knot in Palvin's native Hungary. The couple, who have been together for nearly five years, have always been pretty low-key — except for the occasional and undeniably adorable Instagram post (and a stunning wedding!). We are simply ~obsessed~ with this celebrity couple, especially after they pulled out all the stops for their couple's Halloween costume. Keep scrolling to see some of their best moments :').
See Dylan Sprouse & Barbara Palvin's Halloween Couple's Costume!
For Halloween Dylan Sprouse and Barbara Palvin stunned as the Phantom and Christine from Phantom of the Opera. Dylan wore a mask and a black cape, while Barbara wore a beautiful white dress. While the costume is obviously a nod to the musical, it also totally reminds us of their day as bride and groom.
"In Sleep He Sang to Me," Barbara said in a post, quoting the musical's titular number. "@dylansprouse my forever Phantom."
Who did Dylan Sprouse marry?
On the couple's wedding day (July 15, 2023), Barbara wore a Vivienne Westwood wedding gown to celebrate her Hungarian nuptials, bringing together their nearest and dearest for an intimate(-ish) celebration. Barbara and Dylan tied the knot on her parent's property, which conveniently doubles as an event venue, with plans to host an larger wedding in California in the fall.
"This past weekend was supposed to be an intimate event, but we ended up having 115 guests in the end because there are a lot of people we care about, and we wanted them all to be there," Barbara told Vogue.
When did Dylan Sprouse and Barbara Palvin get engaged?
After months of speculation surrounding the couple's engagement, Dylan and Barbara confirmed their engagement in conversation with Sprouse's twin brother, actor Cole Sprouse, for V Magazine in June, sharing that they got engaged last September.
"We didn't necessarily feel the need to be fully transparent with the public about that aspect of our engagement," Dylan said. "What we wanted to do with Stephen [Gan, V editor-in-chief] and the V team is make something that was kind of tongue-in-cheek about the nature of private versus public. We're playing with the idea of perception."
Barbara noted that the lovebirds wanted to announce the news "on our time," adding, "When some people leaked the information that we got engaged, our PR team was like, 'Hey, so you guys should do maybe a post about it or talk to this magazine or talk to that magazine…' That really annoyed me because I knew we were building this story up. So, I'm very happy that we ended up doing it our way."
When did Barbara Palvin and Dylan Sprouse start dating?
Sean Zanni / Stringer / Getty Images Entertainment
See Dylan Sprouse & Barbara Palvin's Dreamy Halloween Costume: "My Forever"According to People, the couple met back in 2017 after a party when the Suite Life On Deck star slid into the model’s DMs (and as they say, the rest is history). The duo made their relationship Instagram official back in 2018 with Barbara’s sweet birthday tribute for Dylan’s 26th birthday.
Let’s be real here for a second though, we all knew they were endgame the minute Dylan went above and beyond to support Barbara at the Victoria Secret Fashion Show that same year (remember this viral video?). Three days after the fashion show, the Hungarian model told Vogue Australia that she hadn’t had a boyfriend in six years, but had now found “the perfect guy” in Dylan (we aren’t crying, you are).
How old are Barbara Palvin and Dylan Sprouse?
Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images
Barbara Palvin was born on October 8, 1993, making her 31 years old. Dylan Sprouse was born on August 4, 1992, meaning he's 32 years old. So there's only a one-year age gap between them!
Stay up to date with all of Brit + Co's favorite celebrity relationships. Let us know your thoughts on Twitter!
This post has been updated.
2017's The Beguiled gave us one of the best groups of people of all time: Elle Fanning, Nicole Kidman, Sofia Coppola, and Kirsten Dunst just to name a few. And we're finally getting an Elle and Nicole reunion thanks to Apple TV+! "THRILLED to bring @rufithorpe genius hysterical heart-wrenching heartwarming book to your TV screens alongside a dream group of people!" Elle says on Instagram. Rather than having to test the success of its pilot, the series has already been ordered — even though the book it's based on isn't even out yet! Here's everything you need to know about the series.
- Dakota and Elle Fanning will produce the upcoming Apple TV+ show Margo's Got Money Troubles.
- The series follows Margo, who signs up for OnlyFans after learning she's pregnant.
- The cast includes Elle Fanning, Nicole Kidman, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Nick Offerman.
Who's in the Margo's Got Money Troubles cast?
Amy Sussman/Mike Coppola/Getty Images
Margo's Got Money Troubles Cast
We couldn't contain our excitement when we learned Margo's Got Money Troubles will star Nicole Kidman and Elle Fanning, but knowing Michelle Pfeiffer is also joining the cast is too much to bear! This is the first time the actress will collaborate with her husband, TV creator David E. Kelley, so we can't wait to see the magic they'll create (via Deadline).
Nick Offerman from The Last of Us and Parks and Rec will also star.
When is Margo's Got Money Troubles coming out?
Margo's Got Money Troubles Release Date
We don't have an official release date for Elle Fanning and Nicole Kidman's TV show yet. I'm thinking if the TV show is in the early stages of planning, we could see it in 2025! Check out all of this year's best New TV Shows to hold you over until then.
What is Margo's Got Money Troubles about?
Amazon
Margo's Got Money Troubles Plot
Margo Millet is the daughter of a Hooter's waitress named Shyanne (Michelle Pfeiffer) and an ex-wrestler (via Deadline). She's always had to make it on her own, even though she's not sure how. When she enrolls in her local junior college, she's totally unprepared to get swept up into a torrid love affair with her English professor — or to get pregnant.
Now at 20 years old, Margo needs an income and fast. She decides to experiment with OnlyFans and ends up taking some of her estranged father's advice from the world of wrestling to create a character users will fall in love with. You can order the book now!
What is Elle Fanning and Nicole Kidman's new TV show?
Margo's Got Money Troubles is coming soon to Apple TV+ thanks to a bunch of different producers. A24 is backing the film, as well as Elle and Dakota Fanning’s production company Lewellen Pictures and Nicole Kidman’s Blossom Films, to name a few.
What else has Elle Fanning and Nicole Kidman starred in?
Focus Features
Elle Fanning and Nicole Kidman starred in 2017's The Beguiled. The movie follows John McBurney, an injured Union soldier, who winds up at a female Southern boarding school after deserting the Civil War. But soon, as the women help him, tensions turn to rivalries and friends turn to enemies.
Are you excited for Elle Fanning and Nicole Kidman's TV reunion? Let us know what other New TV Shows you're watching in the comments.
Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
This post has been updated.