Destination weddings offer an exciting mix of romance and adventure, turning a special occasion into an unforgettable experience! However, the key to a smooth and stress-free event lies in careful planning — starting with your packing list. To help you prepare for your big day, I’ve created the ultimate destination wedding packing guide so you can have a successful celebration!

Starting Your Destination Wedding Packing List Early

Before diving into this destination wedding packing list, let’s focus on why it’s so important to pack early! Starting early with your packing allows you to avoid the rush of last-minute preparations. Plus, it gives you more time to work out issues, such as missing items or outfit malfunctions. You also have the opportunity to double-check that you have the right documents. Being proactive not only reduces stress, but also ensures you have everything you need!

Important Documents & Valuables to Bring to Your Destination Wedding

Documents and certain valuables are definitely at the top of the list on what you must bring to your destination wedding! Every couple needs these items because they’re not only necessary for travel and legal purposes, but also play an important role in your ceremony. 

• Passports/IDs

• Money/credit cards

• Travel documents (plane tickets, hotel reservations, etc.)

• Wedding license

• Wedding rings

In addition to packing these items, it’s a good idea to make copies of important documents, such as your passports and wedding license. These copies can be kept separately from the originals in case of loss or theft. You could get an organizer to keep your documents secure and in one place. Also, check for any specific entry requirements for your destination well in advance. Doing this can help you easily navigate any obstacles or unexpected situations!

Bride’s Essentials & Beauty Items

When preparing for your destination wedding, the bride should pack both her wedding attire and all the beauty and personal care items she’ll need. This ensures that you’re well-prepared for the big day and any related events, while also keeping you looking and feeling your best!

Bride’s Essentials:

• Wedding dress and other wedding-related outfits

• Accessories (veil, shoes, jewelry, etc.)

• Casual clothes 

• Sleepwear

• Bridal emergency kit (sewing kit, stain remover, double-sided tape, etc.)

Hair and Makeup Essentials:

• Makeup products (foundation, eyeshadow, lipstick/gloss, blush, etc.)

• Makeup brushes

• Makeup remover

• Hair products (shampoo, conditioner, hairspray, etc.)

• Styling tools (hairdryer, straightener, curling iron, etc.)

• Moisturizer, facial cleanser, eye cream, etc.

• Comb and brush

Beyond the basics, you can pack a small, portable garment steamer to keep your dress and other outfits in great condition! Also, think about bringing a few pieces of comfortable loungewear for moments of relaxation before and after the big day. For hair, makeup, and skincare, travel-sized versions of your favorite products can save space. If you’re flying, make sure any liquids you’re bringing in a carry-on bag follow TSA rules. Lastly, you could pack a travel-friendly mirror in case of last-minute touch-ups.

Groom’s Essentials

Just like the bride, the groom needs to have everything in place for the wedding, as well as grooming products and any items needed for activities before and after the wedding. 

• Wedding suit/tuxedo and other wedding-related outfits

• Accessories (cufflinks, tie, shoes, etc.)

• Casual outfits

• Grooming items (shaving supplies, hair products, etc.)

• Small grooming kit for touch-ups

To ensure you’re looking in top shape, I recommend bringing along any specific products you regularly use to maintain your preferred look, including beard care items, if applicable. Also, consider packing a travel-size steamer or wrinkle remover for your suit to keep it looking sharp. Don’t forget to include extra dress socks and a couple of additional ties or bowties, just in case!

Toiletries & Personal Items

Apart from destination wedding-specific items, there are everyday essentials and personal items you’ll need to make sure you pack to have a comfortable time and avoid doing any last-minute shopping!

• Toothpaste, toothbrush, floss, mouthwash, etc.

• Nail file, nail clippers, tweezers, etc.

• Deodorant

• Razor and shaving gel/cream

• Sunscreen

• Tissues

• Phone chargers and power banks

• Entertainment (books, electronics, etc.)

• Medications + first-aid kit

For toiletries, I suggest using leak-proof travel bottles and containers to prevent spills and keep your bag organized. To ensure you’re never without power, especially on your wedding day, pack a high-capacity portable charger that can recharge your devices multiple times. Also, bringing a sleep mask and ear plugs can come in handy for sleeping, especially if you’re traveling across time zones or staying in a noisy area.

Wedding Details For Your Photos

As a destination wedding photographer, I like to recommend couples to bring special items that will contribute to the visual storytelling of their day. Having photos to look back on your beautiful wedding details is so worth it!

• Wedding invitations and save-the-date cards

• Personalized vows or handwritten notes

• Heirlooms (family jewelry, tokens of significance, etc.)

• Stationery items (table numbers, place cards, menus, etc.)

• Guest book or any special keepsakes

Including these items in your packing ensures that your wedding photographer has all the necessary details to create stunning images! Wedding invitations and save-the-date cards can be beautifully photographed as part of flat lay shots. Personalized vows, notes, heirlooms, and stationary items can add a personal touch to your photos, capturing the precious moments of your special day. Also, bringing a guest book provides an opportunity to preserve memories in a meaningful way!

Cassie Beth Photography | Destination Wedding Photographer

I hope this destination wedding packing list has helped you feel more prepared before you officially tie the knot at your dream location! I’m ready to be a part of your journey and help you capture your big day. Let’s create some beautiful memories that you can look back on forever!

You can learn more about me here. If it sounds like I’d be the perfect photographer for you, then fill out my contact form. I seriously can’t wait to meet you!