Planning for a destination wedding? Ensuring you have everything you need for your big day, from your dress to the smallest details, will make your journey smoother. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to pack and how to prepare for your destination wedding, so you can focus on enjoying the moment.
1. Keep Your Wedding Attire With You at All Times
Your wedding dress is irreplaceable and should travel with you, not with checked luggage. Here’s how to do it:
– Use a garment bag or carry-on for your dress and any other wedding attire. Check with your airline in advance to understand their policies on carrying a wedding dress in the cabin.
– For grooms and bridal party members: make sure suits and attire are packed similarly, if possible.
2. Transporting Wedding Decor and Favors
If you’re bringing any decor, consider the following:
– Bring invoices for any items you’re carrying to demonstrate the value.
– Request a letter from your wedding coordinator that confirms your event at the destination hotel, especially if your items might exceed $500 USD, which is the import limit in many countries.
– Divide the items among family members or friends if they’re valuable—splitting up decor can help you avoid duty charges.
3. Essential Wedding Day Items
Don’t leave home without these essentials:
– The Rings: The symbol of your love! Keep them close and secure.
– The Garter: If you’re including this traditional item.
– Accessories: Think earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and any other accessories.
– Wedding Shoes: Pack these carefully in a protective bag or box.
– Good Deodorant: A long day of festivities means you’ll want something reliable.
– Makeup Kit: Even if you have a makeup artist, bring your essentials just in case.
– Hair Accessories: Your stylist may not have these, so pack any specific hairpieces, combs, or clips.
4. Cross-Pack Your Luggage
Split your items between two suitcases, ideally packing a mix of essentials in each. That way, if one bag is delayed or lost, you’ll still have essentials with you.
5. Bring Tip Money for Wedding Staff
Bringing small denominations of cash can help you tip those who work hard to make your day special.
6. Wedding Favors
If you’re bringing favors:
– Divide them among family and friends.
– Bring invoices if needed for customs.
7. Bring a Compact Steamer
Many hotels do not offer steaming services for wedding attire. Here’s how to avoid wrinkling:
– Pack a travel steamer. It’s a lifesaver for last-minute wrinkles.
– If you forget it, hang your dress in the bathroom and run a hot shower to let the steam help smooth out wrinkles. Just make sure the dress stays outside the shower!
8. Bride Emergency Kit
Prepare a small kit with essentials in case of any last-minute mishaps. Here’s what to include:
– Band-Aids for blisters from new shoes.
– Scissors and a small sewing kit.
– Bobby pins, nipple covers, hairspray, and a Tide pen.
– Personal items like pads or other necessities.
9. Personal Medicine Kit
A small medicine kit can be a lifesaver:
– Liquid IV or hydration packets.
– Pain relief like Tylenol or Advil.
– Alka-Seltzer for any unexpected stomach issues.
– Aloe for any sun exposure.
Pack everything in mini sizes and keep your emergency kits within your personal carry-on. Stay organized, and remember to follow TSA guidelines to avoid any hold-ups during security.
Packing may seem daunting, but with this guide, you’re all set for a stress-free wedding journey. Here’s to a beautiful wedding day—safe travels and congratulations!
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I truly believe it is my calling to ensure couples find their perfect match for their next romantic escape. I work with couples that are looking to create an experience that fits their own journey.
I’m able to draw from my extensive first hand experiences and from my network of travel partners to ensure that couples are able to find an option that truly is as unique as their story.
