Packing for a destination wedding is very exciting, but of course, you won’t want to forget anything. Depending on where you’re planning on having your wedding, you may need to consider a variety of weather-specific items and essentials. When choosing tropical destinations, be sure to plan for the dry season and arrange your ceremony for the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Naturally, your attire, accessories and essentials will vary depending on the location and climate.
Wherever you’re headed to tie the knot, here’s a list of what you may need to pack for your destination wedding.
Clothing
Traditionally, weddings are formal occasions. While beach wedding attire tends to be more casual and bohemian in style, you’ll,, of course,, need your wedding dress and a light-colored suit, plus a second outfit for your reception if you plan to change. When packing clothes for traveling, aim for layers so you can easily adjust your outfit depending on the temperature outside.
If you’re staying in your destination to enjoy your honeymoon, be sure to bring plenty of suitable clothing for exploring and relaxing. Don’t forget the essentials: a selection of underwear, shoes and sandals, jackets and cardigans. Also, consider which specific undergarments you need for your wedding dress – for example, do you need a strapless bra? If there’s a pool or you’re headed to the beach, don’t forget swimwear, too.
Having some safety pins and a reel of double-sided tape or boob tape can make all the difference to an occasion dress. Be sure to pack a small sewing kit for last-minute fixes also.
Accessories
Sometimes all you need to revitalise the same outfit is a few pieces of well-chosen jewellery, so be sure to bring your favourites with you. For men, ties, belts, cufflinks, and of course, the rings are essential items you won’t want to forget.
Plan ahead by packing a set of press-on nails or some varnish in case your manicure or pedicure needs touching up before the big day. Beachy accessories such as light scarves, wraps or sarongs can do wonders for helping protect your skin from the sun, as can a wide-brimmed hat. For a cooler climate, pack gloves and a warm hat – even if it’s just to stay cosy while travelling to your wedding venue.
Toiletries
Basic toiletries such as your toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo and conditioner, body wash, and a razor can all take up less space in your suitcase by being replaced with more eco-friendly alternatives. Consider taking dry shampoo to save space and reduce the weight of your toiletries, and look for sustainable, plastic-free razors and toothbrushes to help protect the environment.
If you’re going somewhere sunny, don’t forget the sunscreen – it can be expensive to buy sun protection in touristy areas abroad. Of course, your make-up and hair products also need to be thrown in – but opt to decant them into smaller glass bottles if you can to reduce the bulk of your toiletries bag.
For the big day, have some mints, blotting paper and a pack of tissues handy to ensure your first kiss goes to plan and to avoid smudging your make-up with happy tears.
Essentials
With all the focus on your other items, don’t forget about your travel essentials. Passports, ID and visas, plus your phone charger and a suitable adaptor should be packed last so you can access them easily on the go. A good book, some headphones and a travel pillow can help make your journey more comfortable, whilst a bottle of hand sanitiser can help to prevent you from getting sick when using public transport.
With everything you could possibly need packed and ready, there’s only one thing left to do – enjoy your destination wedding!
