What to Pack (or Not Pack) for Your Destination Wedding
We’ve said it once, and we will say it again! Wedding planning can be extremely stressful and planning a destination wedding overseas just adds another layer to the stress. While we know that once all is said and done and you and your partner run off into the sunset (maybe literally) there are a few things you need to pack to get you to ‘I Do.’ We went ahead and compiled a list of what to park, or not pack when it comes to getting that wedding destination!
P.S. You can send this article to your guests too and though not all items will apply they can certainly take what they need from this article!
Destination Wedding Packing List
Documents
The first thing on the list, and likely the most obvious, is your documents. You will need documents such as your:
- Passport
- Airline ticket, boarding pass, hotel information, and any other lodging or travel documentation (i.e. train tickets, rental cars, etc.)
It’s always important to have these documents printed out in the even something happens to your mobile device such as issues with outlet adapters or internet connectivity. When packing you passport it’s best to ensure that the passport doesn’t expire for at least another 6 months, just in case there are issues with re-entry back into your home country. You may also consider leaving a copy of your passport with an individual NOT attending your wedding for the same reasoning.
Other important “documents” to have include
- A credit card
- Cash
- Traveler’s checks
- Copies of your vendor contracts just in case anyone has any questions when you get there
- Any wedding stationary, such as your vows, reception place cards, etc.
- Receipts of wedding party gifts or favor bags for Border Patrol/Customs
- Trip insurance
- Any other wedding details you’ve collected
Last but now least if you were married in your home country and are just going to have a ceremony abroad be sure to pack a copy of your marriage certificate. Not all countries will require it, but some will ask for legal proof that you are legally married.
That’s it for documents! The rest of the categories will be broken into roles at the wedding! Be sure to skim everyone’s section as you never know what might job a memory and prompt you to pack!
The Bride
Okay, brides you’ve got this! If perhaps you haven’t had a ton of support around the wedding planning and now you are in charge of loading up your suitcase too? Well don’t you worry we’ve created a complete list of things that should trigger a whole host of other things we didn’t include that are specific to your big day. Be sure ot pack:
- Your Wedding Dress (duh)
- Wedding Rings
- Veil
- Hair and Make-up (tiara, hair clips, brushes, foundation, etc.)
- Wedding Shoes
- Reception Outfit
- Wedding Night Lingerie
- Wedding Day Jewelry
- Reception Dress if you are changing
- Change of shoes for the reception
- Something Old, Something New Something Borrowed, Something Blue
- Wedding Day Emergency Kit (eye drops, mini mirror, hair spray, tissues, tweezers, nail file, polish, etc.)
- Getting ready robe for you and your bridesmaids
- Bridesmaids Gifts
- Gift for your partner
The Groom
- Wedding attire
- Tie or Bow Tie
- Cufflinks
- Wedding Day Shoes
- Razor and Shaving Cream
- Groomsmen Gift
- Gift for your partner
Collectively, you will want to make sure you pack vendor thank you notes and separate envelopes with their tips in it, copies of your vows, and honeymoon essentials
Bridesmaids and Groomsmen
- Your wedding attire
- Documents
- Rehearsal dinner speech for the Maid of Honor and Best Man
Miscellaneous
Of course, these are some of the most important items that might lead you to think about wedding specific items we didn’t include. With that being said everyone should pack toiletries and electronics. Also, be sure to pack whether specific clothing and shoes too! If you are going to a tropical island, think sunscreen, swimsuits, and beach towels. If you are going to a cabin to get married near a hidden waterfall pack more comfortable clothing and comfy shoes to get to the wedding destination.
Start with packing an outfit for each event, then by each day, and then add 2! Make sure to add two outfits, one casual and one more dressy just so you are prepared for whatever may come your way! This is especially important for guests staying for longer than just a couple of days and who don’t know the itinerary for the trip.
Honeymoon
In addition to all of the previously mentioned packing list, you should also pack for your honeymoon. One of the cool things about destination weddings is that it often doubles as a honeymoon for couples too. When packing for you honeymoon be sure to include destination specific clothing that are both casual and dressy! Pack comfortable shoes and if you are feeling it something a little more private for those honeymoon nights!
This list should get you mind working towards grabbing all the things you need! Be sure to think of it like a Christmas list and check it twice (and then check it again). There is nothing worse than being thousands of miles away from home and realizing you forgot your mascara!