The complete packing checklist for honeymoon couples
The wedding bells have been rung, the reception is over, and a new chapter in life officially begins. Before married life becomes all too normal, there is the small issue of the honeymoon. Whether heading abroad, staying local, choosing a warm climate, or preferring something a little cooler, it’s a moment to celebrate, as just the two involved. Unfortunately, fresh from the excitement of the wedding, a few things may have slipped the mind, and with take-off fast approaching, it wouldn’t be surprising if one touched down in another country only to find something essential was left back home. Have no fear, a comprehensive list has been put together to ensure the honeymoon goes without a hitch.
What should we put in our hand luggage?
Passengers are often bound by very specific bag dimensions for their carry-on bags. Therefore, it is advisable to check the airline requirements before departure. Arriving with a bag that exceeds the allowed size will result in it being placed in the hold, incurring a significant storage fee.
Typically, a bag measuring approximately 56x36x23cm is suitable, although some airlines, such as EasyJet, permit bags of up to 45x36x20cm. After sourcing the appropriate bags and consulting the provided list, the value of having a well-prepared carry-on becomes evident, especially in cases where hold luggage is delayed or lost.
- Passport
- Driving licence
- Wallet/Purse (with cash and cards)
- Phone charger
- Powerbank
- Copy of any travel documents
- Couples travel insurance documents (it’s cheaper than getting separate policies!)
- Some form of entertainment (book, games console, tablet)
- One change of clothes
- Basic toiletries (remember restrictions apply in certain countries over which items can go in hand luggage. Check before flying)
- Travel pillow (for long-haul flights especially, these can be a game changer!)
What to pack in the hold luggage for a honeymoon
With hand luggage nicely packed, the suitcase comes next. Remember, a specific weight has been paid for, and even though it might not seem like it will be exceeded, it’s wise to be mindful that bringing gifts home will likely add a few kilograms to the final weight of the case.
Some items listed below may not sound essential at first, but in the event of losing anything or experiencing delays, they can soon become more important than initially thought.
Considering the climate and potential activities is important. It’s not advisable to travel with just casual dress in mind, but also not wise to pack as if every day requires a look akin to modeling for Armani. Being sensible and allowing for a range of attire to cover all bases is recommended.
- Smart clothing (for those romantic meals out!)
- Casual, light clothing (for the days around the pool and exploring the area)
- Lightweight jacket, or something warm and heavy if going on a winter break!
- Swimwear
- Smart shoes to complement the best outfits
- Trainers to go with the more relaxed attire
- Underwear (set for every day!)
- Hat (sun hat for summer, beanie for winter!)
- Sunglasses
- Nightwear
- Handbag/ “man bag”
- A jumper, hoodie or similar for cooler evenings
If a honeymoon is more likely to be a winter getaway, simply swap some items out. Add jumpers or sweaters, reducing the number of t-shirts. Replace shorts with trousers. There might also be a need to revisit footwear if heading somewhere a little cold. The open-toed sandals or flip flops won’t cut it, so they should be replaced with boots or sturdy walking shoes. Then top up the case with scarves, gloves, and maybe some thermals.
With all clothing covered, it’s important to remember the essential toiletries. Airport and hotel prices are never kind to the wallet, so it’s advisable to run through the below to ensure one isn’t caught out.
- Suncream
- Shampoo/Conditioner
- Shower gel
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Skincare products
- Insect repellent
- Razors
- Shaving cream
- Deodorant
- Hairbrush/comb
- Hair ties
- Aftershave/perfume
- Small set of first-aid supplies
- Makeup
- Medications (Check that the medications are allowed to be taken into the country first!)
Added extras for a honeymoon suitcase
With the hand luggage sorted and the suitcase highlighting one’s style, there are just a few more items that should be considered for packing before departure.
It was mentioned earlier about having travel documents in the hand luggage. It is perhaps also worthwhile to make some copies and put them in the case. This not only provides an extra set should any documents go missing but also assists in case the luggage gets separated from its owner. Make copies of:
- Booking confirmation for flights and accommodation
- The emergency contact details
- The travel itinerary
- The couples travel insurance documents
Then, to complete the packing, just a few small additions can be made to ensure that all eventualities are covered.
- Small bag for when out at the beach or on day trips
- Spare bags for the dirty clothes
- An umbrella and/or poncho
- Journal (not for everyone, but a honeymoon diary could be a nice touch compared to posting all over social media!)
This should cover the essentials! Of course, no trip comes with a weather guarantee, so it’s advisable to conduct a little research in advance and adjust the packing list accordingly.
For warmer climates, the focus should be on light, summer clothing, but it’s also wise to consider cooler evenings and the possibility of rain.
For colder trips, packing should aim to keep warm, but it’s also important to note that nights back at the accommodation may not require excessive layers. Finally, ensuring safety and enjoyment is crucial. Having appropriate insurance and gaining some knowledge about the area can help in identifying places to explore and areas to avoid.
The editorial unit
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