The Ultimate Honeymoon Packing List for a Stress-free Escape

You’ve settled on a honeymoon destination and made your reservations, and you’re all set for your dream honeymoon! Now you just have to figure out what to bring. But with a wedding fast approaching, who has time for that? Luckily, we’re here to provide you with our ultimate honeymoon packing list so you can quickly and easily get ready for your romantic escape.

This honeymoon packing guide will cover everything you need to pack for your honeymoon and make sure you don’t forget any essential items! Read on for our top honeymoon packing tips, honeymoon packing dos and don’ts, and a complete list of what to pack for your honeymoon!

Honeymoon Packing Dos and Don’ts

Do Make a List

There is so much going on when you get married; it’s easy for things to slip through the cracks. Making a honeymoon packing checklist (far in advance of your departure date) will help ensure that you don’t forget something vital!

Use our honeymoon packing list below as a starting point, and then think through your trip. What activities will you be doing? Where will you be going? What will the weather be like? Imagining all of that will help you think of the right clothing and items to pack.

Keep your honeymoon packing list in a handy place so you can easily add items as you think of them. Then use it when you pack! Check each item off as it goes in the bag (not before!).

Do Discuss What You’re Packing with Your Spouse

Here’s an opportunity to practice one of the most important tools for a happy marriage: communication. Ideally, you’ll create your honeymoon packing list together, but even if you don’t, have a conversation about what you are each bringing. That will ensure that you don’t pack duplicates, or leave something vital behind because one of you thought the other was bringing it.

Don’t Let Someone Else Pack Your Bags

While it may be tempting, packing for your honeymoon is too important to delegate. Plus, you don’t want to leave yourself open to pranks!

Do Pack Ahead

Don’t wait until the last minute! You will be tired and stressed, which makes it more likely that you’ll forget something. Plus, the last thing you need the night before your wedding is to stay up late packing. Try to pull as much together beforehand as possible.

Do Try on Clothes Beforehand

Quickly trying on everything you plan to bring will ensure that it all still fits! Especially if you’re going to a climate that’s different than where you live, you may not have worn these clothes in a few months. It’s a hassle to get to your destination only to find out your one nice outfit is now too small!

Don’t Bring New Shoes

It’s tempting to buy new shoes for your honeymoon, but resist. Shoes that haven’t been broken in will probably cause blisters.

Do Share Your Itinerary

Be sure to let a trusted family member or friend know the details of your trip. Ideally they won’t have any need for this information, but it could come in handy in case of emergency. Share with them details like your flight numbers and schedule and your hotel name, location, and reservation dates. If you’ll be traveling to multiple areas, list out your full itinerary.

Do Notify Your Bank and Credit Card Companies

Call your bank and credit card company to let them know you’ll be traveling, and where. This will ensure that they don’t suspect fraud and freeze your accounts!

Don’t Pack Valuables in Your Checked Bag

Luggage gets lost (or rummaged through) all the time; you can easily replace clothes, but not your jewelry, electronics, or cash. The same goes for your prescription medication.

Consider leaving any sentimental jewelry at home (including your engagement ring). You don’t want your blissful honeymoon ruined by the loss of a meaningful piece. Some couples even leave their wedding rings behind and wear inexpensive placeholders instead, just to be safe. We know, it’s not very romantic, but neither is having your wedding ring slip off your finger while you’re snorkeling.

Do Label Your Luggage

Make sure to put your name and contact information on all of your luggage with tags, and also inside each bag on a piece of paper. That way if your luggage gets lost, it will be easier to get it back to you. You can even use honeymoon-specific luggage tags.

Tip: Use luggage tags that are brightly colored or tie a unique ribbon on your bags to help them stand out on the baggage carousel at the airport.

Consider going a step further and investing in some Apple AirTags for each checked bag. Nothing can ruin a trip like missing luggage, and you certainly don’t want your honeymoon messed up. With Apple AirTags, you can see where your bag is at all times. If the airline loses it, you can actually show them where it is.

Do Weigh Your Bags

In order to make sure you don’t get charged an overweight fee—or worse, have to repack your bag at the airport—weigh any luggage that you plan to check to make sure it falls under the maximum limit. If one bag is too heavy, just move a few items to another suitcase.

What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag (and/or Purse/Backpack)

Be sure to put all important documents and travel essentials in your carry-on (or purse/backpack). Basically, the rule of thumb for what to include in your carry-on is, if you can’t live without it—or if your trip would be ruined without it—carry it with you and don’t let it out of your sight.

These honeymoon travel must-haves include:

Travel Documents

This includes whatever you need to travel to your honeymoon destination, whether you’re driving, flying, taking a train, or going on a cruise, such as airline or train tickets (printed or on your phone) or e-ticket confirmations, cruise ship reservation information, and any other documents you’ll need to show to get where you’re going.

This also includes any documents you may need when you get to your honeymoon destination, such as printed reservation confirmations for hotels, restaurants, and/or activities that aren’t available electronically. You might want to carry printed versions even if you have electronic confirmations, just in case you’re unable to access the Internet.

Passport (and visas, if needed)

If you’re traveling abroad, be sure to have your passport easily accessible. It must be up to date and more than 6 months away from expiring, as many countries won’t accept passports that expire soon.

Driver’s License

Bring a valid driver’s license or government ID. If you don’t need a passport where you’re going, this will serve as your official identification while you travel, but bring it even if you do have your passport. It will be needed if you need to do any transactions at banks or if you want to rent a car. Also, having at least two forms of ID will be helpful in case one of them gets lost or stolen.

Credit Cards

The easiest and safest way to pay for things during your honeymoon is with a credit card. It takes up less room than cash, and you can always cancel a card if it gets stolen. Only bring the card(s) you need to minimize the damage if your wallet gets stolen or lost.

Be sure to call your credit card company and notify them that you are traveling, so they don’t suspect fraud and freeze your card!

Tip: Bring two cards and hide one in a safe place for an emergency backup. Also, make sure you have a separate record of your credit card numbers, as well as the customer service contact information.

Cash

You will want to bring some cash for tips, taxis, and places that don’t accept credit cards. If you don’t want to carry much cash with you while traveling, you can always get it from an ATM once you’re at your honeymoon destination.

Keep in mind that you don’t want to walk around with a lot of cash on you at any time.

If you’re traveling to a foreign country, you may want to get some of the local currency before you leave. This will come in handy if the transportation you take from the airport doesn’t accept U.S. money. It also buys you a little time to find the best place to exchange currency, since rates and fees can vary.

Tip: Depending on where you honeymoon, you may need to pay a departure tax in cash at the airport, if it’s not included in your plane ticket. Be sure to ask in advance and set that cash aside if so.

Important Phone Numbers

Yes, you have everyone’s number in your phone, but what if your phone gets lost, stolen, or damaged? Make a separate list of important numbers like emergency contacts, doctors, health insurance company, travel insurance company, house or pet sitter, the hotel where you’re staying, credit card companies, and the nearest American embassy if you’re going overseas, and keep it in a safe place.

Medicine

As with any trip, make sure you pack all medicine that you need. Put it in your carry-on bag so you don’t have to worry about your luggage getting lost. In addition to any prescription medication, make sure you bring some over-the-counter drugs (like aspirin, ibuprofen, stomach remedies, seasickness medicine, antihistamines) so you’ll have them on hand if you need them. People tend to overindulge while on vacation!  

Tip: Keep all prescription medications in the original bottles to avoid any issues.

This category includes any sort of birth control items you may need; be sure to bring enough to last for the length of your honeymoon plus a little extra just in case you encounter delays.

It also includes a small first aid kit. You don’t want minor illnesses or injury to ruin your honeymoon, so it’s worth bringing items like bandaids, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment, pain relievers, sunburn cream, antihistamines, upset stomach/anti-diarrhea/heartburn remedies, motion sickness medicine, and insect bite relief cream. Research where the local pharmacy is too for any emergency purchases.

Destination Information

You may be asked to provide the name and address of where you’re staying when you get to your honeymoon location, so be sure to have that readily available. It helps to print out your hotel reservation. This will also come in handy if you are taking a taxi to your hotel.

Health Insurance Cards

Hopefully you won’t have any need for your health insurance information while on your vacation, but it’s good to be prepared for an emergency.

Travel Insurance Information

If you have purchased travel insurance, make sure you have this on hand as well.

Vaccination Information

Bring copies of immunization records if your honeymoon destination requires special vaccines, as well as any COVID-19 documentation you may need.

Photocopies of Important Information

Before you leave home, make two sets of photocopies of all of the important documents above, including prescriptions for any medicine you’re carrying. Keep one with you and leave one in your hotel room at your destination. This information will be invaluable in case anything gets lost or stolen.

Tip: You can also take pictures of all important documents (your passport, driver’s license, insurance cards, etc.) and keep these on your phone. You may even want to email them to yourself or to an emergency contact just in case.

Emergency Contact Card

On a business card or small piece of paper that you can place in your wallet or somewhere that would be easily found, write down your name and the contact information for your family, in case of emergency.

Your Cell Phone

You might think this doesn’t need to be on the list—of course you’re bringing your phone—but don’t underestimate post-wedding brain fog! Make sure you have this before you leave the house. Pack your charger in your carry-on as well—your phone will be useless if you can’t keep it charged!

Bring headphones or ear buds as well.

Camera

The great thing about smartphones today is they have such great cameras built in. There’s no need to pack an extra camera, unless you want higher quality pictures than your phone can provide. If you do bring a camera, put it in your carry-on, and pack extra supplies like batteries and memory cards—plus the charger if it has one!

Hand Sanitizer

Hand sanitizer is an absolute travel essential these days. Pack several small bottles, and make sure you use it frequently.

A Change of Clothes and Basic Toiletries

Many travel experts suggest including your toiletries and a change of clothes in your carry-on, just in case your checked luggage is delayed. Women may want to bring pack their makeup bag if they use brands that aren’t easily replaced. If you do pack your toiletries in your carry-on, be sure to check the most current rules about what sizes of liquids are allowed on the plane.

If you wear contacts, be sure to bring any supplies you need as well as an extra pair, just to be safe! If you wear glasses, you may want to bring an extra pair of those as well.

Tip: If you’re going on a beach honeymoon, think about putting a swimsuit in your carry-on as well in case you can’t check in when you arrive. That way you can head straight to the beach!

Ear Plugs, Eye Mask, Inflatable Neck Pillow

If you’re going to be on a long or overnight flight, consider bringing these to make your flight more comfortable. Ear plugs and eye masks may also come in handy on your honeymoon, if your hotel room is noisier or brighter at night than you like.

Something to Pass the Time

If you’re on a long flight, you might also want to bring something to pass the time, like a deck of cards, a book, or a magazine.

What to pack in your checked luggage

The clothes and extra items you bring on your honeymoon will depend on your destination, but here is a basic overview. In order to pack light, think about items that can be dressed up and down with accessories, like a sundress that works for both a casual day trip and a dressy dinner. For a weeklong honeymoon, try to bring 4-6 tops and 3-5 bottoms that can be mixed and matched. If you bring some small packs of laundry detergent, you can wash things out in your sink.

Tip: Consider putting a few core items in each others’ suitcases. For example, put one casual and one dressy outfit plus some underwear and a pair of shoes for each of you in each suitcase. That way, if one bag gets delayed, you’ll still have a little clothing to tide you over until it’s delivered. Some travel experts even recommend packing half your clothes in each suitcase.

Shirts

When packing for your honeymoon, plan on wearing shirts that are suitable for the weather at your destination. For warm weather, men can bring t-shirts, polo shirts, and button-up short sleeve shirts; bring a tie if going to dressier places.

For women, you can bring t-shirts, tank tops, and lightweight blouses. If you’re planning on golfing, make sure to bring the appropriate clothing.

If you’re going somewhere with cooler weather, make sure to pack long-sleeved shirts and sweaters.

Dresses and Skirts

Women will want to add a few casual dresses or sundresses, or a skirt and top, to your packing list, especially if you’re staying at a resort that asks for “resort casual” wear in some areas. If you’re planning on dining at a more formal restaurant, bring a nicer dress and shoes to match. (Don’t forget an appropriate purse, too!)

Shorts and/or Pants

If you’re headed to a warm climate, shorts are essential for both men and women. Cotton shorts, khaki shorts, and even workout shorts can all be worn during the day at most places; just make sure they’re comfortable. Breathable fabrics like linen are ideal.

For men, pack lightweight pants such as linen or khakis. Women can pack Capri pants or lightweight slacks. If you’re planning on golfing, make sure to bring the appropriate clothing.

For cooler climates, be sure to bring long pants.

Shoes and Socks

The type of shoes you bring will depend on what activities you want to do on your honeymoon. For a beach honeymoon you will probably want to bring water shoes, flip flops, and sandals. You may want to bring tennis shoes if you’re going to do a lot of walking or playing sports.

If you plan on hiking, you may want hiking shoes. If you plan on going to a nicer restaurant, bring a pair that will fit in there. And if you’re going to golf, bring appropriate shoes.

Be sure to bring several pairs of socks for any shoes that need them.

Try to bring the fewest pairs of shoes you can get away with, and see what can do double duty. For example, a comfy pair of black flats can work for walking around during the day and dressing up for dinner at night.

Tip: To save room in your luggage, wear your bulkiest shoes on the plane. If you’re heading to a warm destination, slip flip flops in your carry on so you can change as soon as you land.

Underwear and Pajamas

Make sure you pack enough pairs of underwear for your vacation, and bring whatever you like to sleep in. Women will want to bring several bras, including a strapless bra if you’re bringing tops that need it. And don’t forget any special lingerie you may have gotten!

Scarf or Shawl, Jacket

If headed to a warm climate, women may still want to bring a scarf, shawl, or light jacket in case they get chilly in air-conditioned places. These can come in handy on airplanes as well.

If headed to a cool climate, bring a jacket that will work well in multiple settings.

You may also want to bring a light rain jacket or poncho.

An evening outfit your partner hasn’t seen before

A fun idea is to pack an evening outfit that your other half hasn’t seen before; this can make a romantic date even more special. Just make sure to try it on right before you leave to make sure you’re happy with how you look. And don’t bring new shoes—that’s a big don’t for honeymoon packing, as shoes that aren’t broken in will probably cause blisters.

Other Items to Consider

GoPro Camera

The one camera we do recommend is a GoPro. That way you can take some video of your adventures underwater or other places where you won’t want to take your phone.

Phone Charger

You can’t use your phone if it isn’t charged! You may want to include an extra phone charger in your checked bag (in addition to the one in your carry-on) as a back-up in case you misplace the first one.

Travel Adapter/Plug

You can’t charge your phone if you can’t plug in the charger! If you’re honeymooning abroad, make sure you pack a universal travel adapter so you can use your gadgets.

Hairdryer

Most resorts these days have hairdryers in the room, but you may want to doublecheck this in case you need to bring your own.

Rucksack or Backpack

You’re going to want both hands free at times, so we recommend bringing a backpack to take sightseeing, or hiking if you plan to do that.

Special Extras

Think about items that can add some romance to your trip, like the perfume you wore on your wedding day, romantic playlists for hanging out in your honeymoon suite, battery powered tealight candles, massage oils, bubble bath, little notes or gifts you can surprise each other with during your honeymoon, a journal to record your memories, etc.

Miscellaneous Items

Ziploc bags tend to come in handy on trips, as does a Swiss Army knife and a small flashlight. You might also want to pack stain removing wipes in case you spill something on your clothes.

Below are some honeymoon packing list additions for specific types of destinations.

Beach Honeymoon Packing List

Beach Bag

If you’re going to the beach, a beach bag is an easy way to carry all your beach essentials. Make sure it’s made of a material that can get wet.

Sunscreen

On a beach honeymoon, you’re going to need plenty of sunscreen. This is especially true if you honeymoon in the Caribbean, which has stronger sunlight since it’s closer to the equator. Also, being on sand or water intensifies the sun’s rays. The higher the SPF, the better while you’re on the beach! You don’t want to go below SPF 30, but 50 or higher is best.

Bringing it from home ensures that you have the SPF you need, and will save you money. We recommend bringing some in your carry-on or personal item on the plane that is not larger than 3.4 fluid ounces. In addition, you will want a lot more in your checked luggage.

Tip: If you’re going to be snorkeling or scuba diving, or if you’re going somewhere like Hawaii which requires it, make sure your sunscreen is reef-safe.

Lip Balm with SPF

Lips are very susceptible to sunburn so protect them with a balm that has sun protection in it.

Sun Hats

Pack a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from the sun and help prevent headaches, heat stroke, or sunburn on your face and neck. One that is crushable and can easily fit in a small bag is ideal so you can take it on excursions.

Sunglasses

The sun at beach destinations is strong, so you’ll want to make sure you protect your eyes. Sunglasses are a must; they should have UV protection.

Flip Flops

Flip flops are the ultimate beach honeymoon shoe. You can throw them on to walk to the beach, pool, or spa, or use them to walk into the local town. They’re useful for every occasion.

Flip flops are the best footwear for the beach. We suggest bringing two pairs, a nicer pair for dining and one for everything else.

Swimsuits

The last thing you want is to do on a beach honeymoon is forget your swimwear and spend the first day trying to find something half-decent in local stores. After all, it’s not just your wedding photos you’ll be looking at for years to come—you also want to look great in those honeymoon shots!

Make sure you bring several choices so you don’t have to wear a wet suit.

If you’re planning on doing any water activities, women may feel more comfortable wearing something other than a bikini bottom. Either bring some shorts you can put over your swimsuit, or find swim shorts for women.

Cover-ups

Instead of changing in and out of your swimsuit, it’s much easier to just throw on a cute cover-up. These are easy to pack and will save you time when you’re getting ready for casual dinners or drinks by the pool. Note that it’s expected in many places to wear some kind of cover-up in public areas.

Rash Guard

If you’re planning on doing any water sports, a rash guard will come in handy. It can also protect you from the sun.

Beach Towels

Resorts will provide you with beach towels, but if you won’t be staying at a resort, bring a couple of towels if you have room.

Snorkeling Gear and/or Goggles       

While all-inclusive resorts will often have complimentary snorkeling equipment, and you can certainly rent it if not, you may prefer to bring your own. Goggles especially are easy to pack; if you wear prescription goggles you will definitely want to bring those.

Waterproof Phone Case

A waterproof phone case can be a lifesaver when you’re on a beach vacation!

Waterproof Bags

Waterproof bags are great for keeping your things safe from sand and water. You can take them with you snorkeling or scuba diving and leave the bag in the boat knowing your valuables won’t get wet. They are also perfect to bring to the beach or the pool.

Insect Repellant

Nobody likes bug bites. If you’re going somewhere tropical, this can be a huge help!

Honeymoon Cruise Packing List

Most of the items on the beach honeymoon packing list will also be necessary for a cruise honeymoon, but there are some additional things you’ll want to pack, such as:

• Motion sickness medicine or wristbands
• Comfortable walking shoes (most cruise ships are very large and you’ll be doing a ton of walking)
• Formal outfits, shoes, and accessories for fancy dress dinners
• A waterproof travel bag for onshore excursions

Ski or Mountain Honeymoon Packing List

If you’re going skiing, traveling to somewhere cold, or honeymooning in the winter, here are some items you’ll probably want to pack:

• Heavy jackets and sweaters
• Warm or lined pants, snow or ski pants if needed
• Hat, scarf, earmuffs, mittens or gloves
• Long underwear
• Boots and heavy and/or waterproof socks
• Hand warmers
• Thick lotion/moisturizer and lip balm
• And don’t forget sunglasses and face sunscreen! Sun bouncing off snow is especially bright.

Tip: Since cold weather clothing is bulky and can take up a lot of room, consider using vacuum bags to pack them so you can fit everything in your suitcase.

Top Honeymoon Packing Tips

As you prepare for your honeymoon, here are some tips to make sure you bring everything you need.

• Check your hotel or resort’s dress code. Some places, especially all-inclusive resorts, may have a nicer restaurant or two that require you to dress up a bit more.
• Check the weather for your honeymoon destination and dates to make sure you bring the appropriate clothes and extra items (like a travel umbrella if rain is forecast).
• If honeymooning abroad, consider getting a VPN before you leave, so you have secure internet access on your trip. This encrypts all your online data and allows you to use U.S.-based streaming services.
• Make sure you pack a change of clothes in your carry-on bag. This way, if your checked bag is lost, you will have at least one fresh outfit.
• Pack light. Not only will this make packing and unpacking easier, but you’ll be thankful when you’re carrying your bags around.
• Leave some room for shopping. You will want to bring some souvenirs home with you to remember your honeymoon by!

With these honeymoon packing tips and our honeymoon packing checklist, we hope you have everything you need for a stress-free and magical honeymoon! Let us know if you think we forgot anything!