As you get closer to your wedding day, you’ll need to start thinking about and preparing for any post-wedding tasks and events. This can include anything from preparing the paperwork to changing your last name, to writing and mailing your thank you cards, and of course, packing for your honeymoon.
Since a checklist is always the easiest way to keep track of all your to-dos, we thought we’d put together this comprehensive honeymoon packing list that covers all of your honeymoon essentials. We include general travel basics, items for the bride, the groom, and a few useful extras.
Use our handy honeymoon worksheet to jot down any flight, hotel, and travel insurance information. Tweak and fill out these lists according to your destination, and you’ll be on your way to the perfect honeymoon.
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Travel Basics
The list below includes items you don’t want to forget while traveling. Even if your destination is somewhere close, having this with you will help you avoid any delays and ensure a smooth journey to your honeymoon destination.
Passport And Government ID
When traveling internationally, a passport is always required. Be sure to keep it close to you and safe. We recommend getting a small case or passport holder to keep all important documents together and handy.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are easy to carry and cancel should they be compromised. Some banks usually offer low or even no international fees on certain credit cards. Be sure to contact your bank prior to travel to let them know you’ll be using your card abroad.
Cash And Traveler’s Checks
It’s always a good idea to keep some emergency cash or traveler‘s check with you at all times in case you run into any cash-only businesses or venros. Usually, large banks will offer the best exchange rate so try to avoid the airport or train station currency exchange kiosks.
Copies Of Important Documents
Take at least two clear photocopies of any important documents. Keep one with you, scan another copy and keep it in your phone and be sure to leave one with a close friend or family member. In case of an emergency or delays in your return, your contacts will be able to help.
Emergency Contacts
Keep a list of two to three emergency contacts in your wallet, carry-on and checked bags. Should you lose any items or have an emergency, your contacts might be able to help you out.
Travel Insurance
When traveling, plans can change in the blink of an eye. Travel insurance can help lessen the burden should you miss a flight, need to change your bookings or lose a valuable object like a camera or phone.
Chargers, Converters and Extra Batteries
Depending on where you’re going, be sure to check for the type of power outlet they use and buy a converter if necessary. Carry your charger with you at all times and an extra battery to charge on the go.
Books, Magazines Or E-Reader
You are bound to have some downtime during a long plane or train ride, so having something good to read can help the time pass by much faster.
Camera
Although phones usually take good photos, you might want to bring along your camera for some better shots. Many couples also like to disconnect during their honeymoon so bringing your camera will help you stay away from your phone.
Plane Tickets Or Scan Codes
Nowadays all you need is your flight’s scan code which can be easily stored on your phone. However, it’s always a good idea to print out a copy in case your phone runs out of battery.
Copies Of Your Reservations
Make sure you collect all of your confirmations into one folder in your inbox. If you won’t have service at your destination, print at least two copies of all your attraction tickets, bookings and reservations.
Itinerary
If you have one, be sure to keep it somewhere handy. Whether it’s in your phone’s notes or printed, it can help you and your spouse keep track of your daily activities and excursions.
Map Or Guide Of Your Destination
Even when you have phone service, make sure to keep a physical map or guide of your destination in your purse. Cell service can be spotty, especially if you’re traveling to a rural place or even a densely populated city.
Luggage Tags
Unique colored luggage and personalized luggage tags will help you identify your luggage much faster at the airport. Should they misplace your luggage, having them tagged and labeled properly can help you get it back much quicker.
Carry-On Bag
A carry-on bag is usually a must in our book. Even if you’re packing lightly, keep it relatively empty to pack a few snacks or bring back some cool souvenirs.
Headphones
If you’d like to listen to music, watch TV, workout or meditate anytime during your trip, headphones can be helpful. They also don’t take much space so might as well bring them along
Tote Or Reusable Bag(s)
Packing an empty tote or bag can be useful when bringing back dirty laundry or even fragile souvenirs. You can also use them to wrap your shoes and keep them away from your clean clothes
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Bride
Below are some of the items you won’t want to forget to pack for your honeymoon. Tweak it based on your style, destination and duration of your trip. As a rule of thumb, it’s always best to pack extra underwear, T-shirts and jeans or leggings.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Cute Day Flats Or Sandals
Dressy Evening Shoes
Date Night Dress(s)
Dressy Blouse(s)
Jeans
Leggings
Casual T-Shirt(s)
Light Jacket Or Cardigan
Accessories For Your Outfits
Pajamas And Lingerie
Socks
Underwear
Strapless And Nude Bra
Sunglasses
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Groom
If you’d just like to pack the absolute basics, use the list below. Be sure to add or remove items depending on the weather and your trip’s itinerary. For example, if you know you’ll be doing some hiking, a good pair of hiking boots is something you might want to consider bringing.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Dressy Shoes
Date Night Shirt(s) And Pants
Blazer
Tie (optional)
Jeans
Casual T-Shirt(s)
Button Down(s)
Light Jacket Or Hoodie
Pajamas
Underwear
Belt(s)
Socks
Sunglasses
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Weather Extras
Although the weather can be unpredictable, be sure to continually look at the forecast to gauge the type of weather you’ll be encountering. Below are some of the things you might want to bring for either hot or cold climates.
Swim Trunks And Suit
Shorts And Skirts
Beach Towels
Tunics And Cover-Ups
Flip Flops
Heavy Jackets
Mittens
Warm Hats And Earmuffs
Thermals
Scarves
Rain Or Snow Boots
Waterproof Pants And Jackets
Thick Sweaters
Soothing Moisturizer And Lip Balm
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Toiletries
Although we include a long list of toiletries to bring, keep in mind that many of these might be provided by your hotel. If so, lower the list to include only the items you’ll be needing. If you’ll be flying to your destination, remember to follow any federal or airline restrictions.
Shampoo, Conditioner and Body Wash
Prescription Medications
Small Emergency Kit
Sunscreen
Hand Sanitizer
Toothbrushes And Toothpaste
Feminine Products
Hair Products
Hair Brush And Hair Ties
Face Wash And Skin Care Products
Face And Body Lotion
Razors And Shaving Cream
Deodorant
Lip Balm With SPF
Tweezers
Nail File And Clippers
Cotton Pads And Cotton Swabs
Makeup And Makeup Remover
Eye Drops, Contacts And Lens Solution
Floss
Contraception
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Useful Extras
The items on this list might not always be necessary, but depending on the type of destination and duration of your trip, they might make your stay much more comfortable. Consider packing a few of these if you think they’ll be hard to find at your honeymoon destination.
Insect Repellent
Sun Hat Or Cap
Aloe Vera
Anti-Itch Cream
Antacid
Antihistamine
Diarrhea Medicine
Motion Sickness Medicine
Asthma Inhaler
Earplugs
Shower Cap
Swiss Army Knife
Hair Tools
Sewing Kit
Workout Gear
Disposable Local Phone
Alarm Clock
Face Mask Or Eye Mask
Neck Pillow
Stain Removing Pen
Wrinkle Release Spray
Small Umbrella
Card Deck Or Table Game
Honeymoon Planning Tips
- Establish your budget early. Talk to your partner to establish the max you’re both willing to spend. This will help you hone in on your destination and length of your trip.
- Leave essential items with family and friends. Copies of your trip’s itinerary, wills, life insurance, passports, and account information might be useful to leave with someone you trust. In case of an emergency, your family will be able to handle your
- Leave your rings at home. You might want to show off your newly acquired wedding band, but consider keeping your engagement ring at home to avoid misplacing it.
- Book early. Not only will you find the best prices, but you might also avoid long lines at tourist attractions if you buy tickets or make reservations well in advance.
- Plan the trip together. To plan a balanced honeymoon both you and your spouse can enjoy, it’s always best to make all of your plans together.
- Ask friends and family for recommendations. Although a honeymoon should always be tailored to the couple, it’s still a good idea to ask your loved ones for tips and recommendations.
- Book it at a time that’s best for you. Honeymoons don’t always have to be right after the wedding. Choose a time that works best based on your availability at work, budget, and the best season to visit your destination.
- Make time for downtime. Cultural trips are always fun, but make sure to schedule time to relax and enjoy each other’s company. Book a massage, hang out by the pool, or simply take a nap together.
- Plan a date. Block off a few hours throughout your trip for each of you to plan a fun date or surprise. Give each other important details like what to wear or bring during your date.
After Customizing Your Honeymoon Packing List
Now that you have a list of every possible item you could need during your honeymoon, you’re ready to take off into your first adventure as a married couple. Remember to relax, enjoy your time, and capture as many memories as you can to build a beautiful honeymoon photo book.
