In the last few years, destination weddings have exploded travel markets. Every couple wishes to say “I do” in both cold and hot destinations all around the world.
No matter if you are going, planning, or simply thinking about it – you need to pack properly. Make sure you have everything that you need for your big day. The items can be different depending on the location, but some of the stuff is universal and can be used in both warm and cold places.
You don’t need to worry about packing. We got everything covered for you. From essentials to those things you might not think about packing at all.
Consider the Location and Climate of the Destination
Not all the places for destination weddings have the same climate. Logically, if you are going to the Amalfi coast, your main shoewear would be flip flops and sandals. However, if you are planning a winter wedding in a European castle then you need to think about something warmer like a pair of boots and your winter coat.
These are the essential things you need for different climates and destinations.
Warm Destinations
- Bathing suit
- Outdoor clothing
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
- Sunglasses
- Light sweater or wrap
Cold Destinations
- Gloves, hat, and scarf
- Pair of boots
- Parka or raincoat
- Hand and feet warmers
- Sunscreen
- Body lotion
- Socks (plus some extra socks)
Start Packing Early
This is a golden rule not only for destination wedding packing but for travel in general. Starting early with packing will keep you out of trouble of forgetting something important. Also, you will have enough time to organize and prepare everything to the smallest detail.
Start packing early and keep writing everything you need. These checklists that we have prepared can help a lot not to get lost in a sea of information you can find.
Keep Your Carry-Ons Organized
Carry-on must include the most important things for your destination wedding. Wedding rings, a dress, documents, and other crucial things need to be placed somewhere safe. While many airlines allow you to use special safe you can ask some of the flight attendants to help you store your wedding dress.
Here are some of the things you MUST have in your carry-on. You will thank us later.
Documents
- Passport and other IDs
- Airplane Tickets/Boarding Passes
- Hotel Reservation Confirmation
- Shuttle/Transportation Confirmation
- Copy of Travel Insurance
Of all the items needed for your destination wedding, documents top the list. Your passport is something crucial, of course. Make sure it is valid six months beyond your return date. You will also need a marriage license, birth certificate copies for both you and your partner, as well as a copy of travel insurance. Check with your wedding planner or travel agency, since you might need a visa for some destinations.
You can make copies and keep them in your checked bag, while the originals should be near you in a carry-on.
Wedding Essentials
- Wedding dress
- Veil
- Shoes
- Other wedding-day accessories
- Groom’s suit, shoes, tie, dress shirt
These are the wedding essentials that you need to have with you. Your wedding dress can be short and A-lined or long with a train – the most important is to keep it clean and dry. You can do that by packing it in a wedding garment bag.
Wedding shoes can vary depending on the location. If you are going to Hawaii, you certainly won’t bring super high heeled stilettos, right? Why don’t you try sparkly sandals instead?
Groom should pack his suit, shoes, tie and dress shirt as well. He can use a garment bag for this as well. In that way, no stains will ruin the attire.
Other Important Clothing
- Reception dress and suit
- Swimsuits and Cover-ups
- Dresses
- Tanks, tees, and tops
- Shorts, skirts, pants, and bottoms
- Flip flops for the pool or beach
- Shoes for dinner or going out
- A sweater, just in case
- Workout clothing
- Sleepwear
Alongside a wedding dress and suit, you can pack reception outfits, swimsuits, if you are going somewhere hot, other dresses, tanks, tops, and shorts. You will have other activities besides the wedding ceremony, so make sure these clothes are comfortable and easy to style.
Toiletries and Meds
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouth wash
- Hairstyling products – curling or/and straightening Iron, hairdryer, comb, and brush
- Nail file, nail cutter, cuticle cutter, tweezers, small scissors, nail polish remover
- An extra bottle of nail polish in your wedding-day manicure color, just in case
- Deodorant
- Skincare (moisturizer, serum, lotion)
- Makeup and makeup remover (micellar water or lotion)
- Cotton ball/swabs
- Razor and Shaving Cream
- After-Shave
- Contact lenses, case, and solution (if needed)
- Bug Spray
- Aloe Vera
- SPF 50 or above
- Shampoo/Conditioner
- Soap/Shower Gel
- Body Lotion
- Perfume/Cologne
- Advil, Tylenol or any other pain relief pills
Your toiletries need to be well packed. You don’t want to run and buy nail polish for your wedding day, or to lose your contact lenses. Be sure to bring your regular medications, if you use them or to have something for pain relief.
Sunscreen is a must-have whether you are heading to the mountains or at the seaside. Makeup and skincare will keep your face fresh and healthy-looking.
Gifts for Guests
Some couples like to bring welcome bags with gifts to their wedding guests. You can make something creative like small kits made of destination souvenirs or something similar. Research and see where you can buy gifts after you arrive at the destination.
Think About The What-Ifs
Maybe that copy of your visa or marriage license will save the day. That is why you need to keep in mind “what if” situations. Buy extra stuff that you think is necessary. For instance, hairpins for your hairstyle, or that false lashes that you planned on putting for the big day. What if they get ruined? You will always have an extra pair in reserves.
What To Do Before Leaving
There a few things you can do before leaving:
- Call the cellphone provider and ask for an additional travel package to add to your plan.
- Pay any bills that can become due while you are away for your destination wedding.
- Clean out the fridge
- Turn off the electric
- Close and secure your doors and windows
Related Articles
- Top 8 Most Popular Places for Destination Weddings
- Elizabeth and Stephen’s Destination Wedding in Venice, Italy
- 5 Important Tips in Planning an Idyllic Beach Wedding
- 7 Factors to Help You Decide How Much to Spend on a Wedding Gift
- JJsHouse Real Wedding —— Kim & Connie
