Packing checklist
The Ultimate Destination Wedding Packing Checklist Brides Wish They Had!
Planning a destination wedding is exciting but also comes with unique challenges—packing being one of the biggest! Whether you’re jetting off to a tropical beach or an exotic city, it’s essential to make sure you have everything you need for your big day. Here’s the ultimate packing guide for brides so your destination wedding goes off without a hitch.
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Destination weddings: where the only thing more stressful than saying ‘I do’ is fitting your entire life into a suitcase.
Wedding Day Attire
Your wedding day look is the star of the show, so it’s crucial to pack everything related to your attire:
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Wedding Dress: Pack your dress in a breathable garment bag and consider taking it as a carry-on to avoid the risk of lost luggage. If it’s a delicate dress, bring a steamer or confirm if the resort provides one.
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Veil or Headpiece: Don’t forget accessories like your veil, tiara, or headpiece.
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Shoes: Pack both your ceremony shoes and a comfortable pair for dancing.
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Jewelry: Whether it’s heirloom pieces or new purchases, make sure to store these securely in your carry-on.
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Undergarments and Shapewear: Include everything from bridal lingerie to shapewear.
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Bridal Robe: Perfect for getting-ready photos.
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Reception Dress: If you plan to change after the ceremony, remember to pack your second outfit!​
Pro Tip: Bring a few emergency repair items, such as safety pins, a mini sewing kit, and fabric tape, for any last-minute fixes.
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As you prepare your packing list, it’s also important to align your wedding plans with your budget. For tips on how to allocate your expenses wisely, check out our guide on How to Plan Your Destination Wedding Budget.
Groom’s Essentials
Make sure the groom has all his wedding-day attire packed and ready:
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Suit or Tuxedo: Make sure this is pressed and packed well in a garment bag.
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Tie/Bowtie: Double-check this accessory before heading out.
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Shoes: Dress shoes for the ceremony and more comfortable shoes for dancing.
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Cufflinks: Ensure these small yet important accessories are packed!
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Cologne and Grooming Products: Hair products, shaving kit, etc.
Legal Documents and Travel Essentials
Having your documents in order is crucial, especially if you’re getting legally married at your destination:
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Passports and IDs: Carry these on you at all times.
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Flight Tickets/Boarding Passes: Physical or electronic copies.
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Marriage License: Ensure you have all necessary legal paperwork required for your wedding location.
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Hotel Confirmation: Keep copies of your hotel booking handy.
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Travel Insurance and Wedding Insurance: Essential for peace of mind in case of unexpected issues.
Beauty Kit
For brides doing their own makeup or preparing to look their best, make sure you have:
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Makeup: Foundation, blush, mascara, lipstick, eyeshadow, and any specific products you want.
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Hair Tools: Don’t forget your curling iron, flat iron, or hairdryer (if not provided by the venue).
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Skincare: Hydrating moisturizers, sunscreen, and any essential skincare products.
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Perfume: Pack your favorite fragrance for the big day.
Pro Tip: If hiring a hair or makeup artist, bring inspirational photos of your desired look.
Wedding Décor and Details
Destination weddings may not offer all the personalized details you want, so don’t forget to pack:
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Wedding Favors: Small, lightweight items for guests.
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Place Cards and Stationery: Any custom stationery for seating arrangements or thank-you notes.
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Guest Book and Pens: For your guests to leave special messages.
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Decorative Items: Personal touches like signage or small décor pieces (but avoid packing bulky items that are difficult to transport).
Miscellaneous Essentials
You’ll also need practical items for your comfort and enjoyment throughout the wedding trip:
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Sunscreen and After-Sun Lotion: A must for outdoor ceremonies in sunny locations.
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Swimwear: If you’re planning on relaxing by the beach or pool.
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Comfortable Clothes and Shoes: For exploring the area and post-wedding activities.
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Bug Spray: Especially for tropical destinations to avoid pesky bites.
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Backup Chargers and Adapters: Keep your devices charged and ready to capture memories.
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Umbrella: In case of unexpected weather changes.
Bridal Party and Guest Gifts
Don’t forget gifts for those helping you celebrate:
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Bridesmaid and Groomsmen Gifts: Small tokens of appreciation like custom robes, jewelry, or other personalized items.
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Thank You Cards: Have these ready for family and vendors who helped with your big day.
Important Extras
Some items can make a world of difference when you’re away from home:
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First Aid Kit: Pack band-aids, pain relievers, and any medications you might need.
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Comfort Items: Consider a cozy sweater or wrap for the evenings.
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Copies of Contracts: Have printed copies of all supplier and venue agreements just in case.
Photography Props
Bring along items that will enhance your wedding photos:
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Ring Box: A photogenic place to store your wedding bands.
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Custom Signs: Items like "Mr. & Mrs." signs can make cute photo props.
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Extra Stationery: Keep a few extra invites and décor pieces for your photographer to capture.
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To make sure you’re fully prepared for your wedding day, take a look at our Ultimate Cancun Wedding Photography & Videography Timeline so every moment is captured beautifully, from start to finish.
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What to Leave Behind
As tempting as it may be to bring everything, some items are better left at home:
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Bulky Décor: Large items like centerpieces or fairy lights are better rented from local suppliers.
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Valuables: Avoid bringing expensive items that are not essential to the wedding.
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Large Hairdryers or Makeup Kits: Most hotels provide hairdryers, and you can limit makeup to just touch-up products if you’re using a professional artist.
If you’re still planning your destination wedding and looking for a dedicated Cancun wedding photographer and videographer, feel free to explore our portfolio. We’d love to chat and help make your special day unforgettable!
