Compared to the amount of planning that goes into creating a beautiful wedding, the honeymoon is a snap, right? Find a dreamy destination, give ’em your credit card number, and kablammo—the trip is booked and you’re done, at least until it’s time to pack. Well, it’s time to pack. You don’t want to take too much, but you want to have everything you need. Here are our picks for the essential items you should bring along:
Clothing & Accessories
Don’t go overboard carrying every dress you’ve ever bought yourself. One little black dress and a couple sundresses should do. Then add three or four pairs of shorts and the same amount of T-shirts, and pack extra socks, underwear and bras.
Do be liberal with the accessories, however; jewelry, scarves and headwear are lightweight and make your wardrobe more versatile. Check yourself when it comes to shoes—one pair of heels, a pair of everyday flats or flip-flops and a pair of sneakers should be enough.
If you’re headed to the beach, remember your swimsuit and cover-up, and don’t forget a light sweater for the plane and chilly restaurants. And bring one luxury leather handbag in a neutral color; more than that is unnecessary and just takes up too much room in your suitcase.
First Aid & OTC Medication
Of course, you’ll need your makeup and makeup remover and your everyday toiletries such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, body wash, facial cleanser and hair products. Also include a small first aid kit that has antacids, sunscreen, lip balm, anti-allergens, pain relievers and Band-Aids, along with any prescription medicine you take. If you wear contact lenses, be sure to pack an extra lens case, lens solution and eye drops. Keep a doctor’s number handy in case of emergency.
Documents
Put together a folder with photocopies of all your important documents, including your driver’s license, credit cards, travelers check receipts, airline tickets and hotel reservations. If you are traveling out of the country, don’t forget your passports, visas, pre-paid phone cards and vaccination certificates, if applicable.
The Little Extras
Consider packing these items as well:
- Lingerie
- Aromatic massage oils for you and your husband
- A small scented candle for the room
- A journal, to write down the first moments of this new life together
- A good camera
- If you are honeymooning abroad, a currency converter and a English translation book; or, install a language translation app and a currency converter on your smartphone
- A weather app, especially if you plan on enjoying outdoor activities
- Ear plugs, sewing kit, anti-bacterial lotion
- Blow dryer
- Umbrella
- Headphones
- Deck of cards
- A favorite board game for quiet evenings
- A good book
Above everything, remember that your honeymoon is meant to be fun and relaxing. It’s the antidote to the hectic time leading up to the wedding. Even if everything doesn’t go exactly as planned, as long as you and your new hubby are together, it’ll be great. Enjoy your first vacation as a married couple.
