Honeymoon packing
By Diana Elliott
With the focus on the big day it’s sometimes easy to forget to pack properly for your dream holiday afterwards. Here’s a guide to help you pack.
Luggage selection
If you’re expecting to receive new luggage as a gift, remember some guests won’t conform to the time-honoured tradition of delivering the gift prior to the big day. If you are flying out the day after the reception, this could leave things a bit late.
To save yourself (or your new husband) any unnecessary back trouble be sure to invest in suitcases with wheels and a handle. If you’re using older luggage (with handles only) or duffle bags, think seriously about buying a luggage trolley to make moving them about easier.
How many bags?
Depending on your arrangements you might want to pack two separate bags - an overnight bag for your wedding night in a hotel and your honeymoon luggage. Ask the best man or one of your bridesmaids to pick up any items from the hotel that you don’t need to take on your honeymoon.
Pack appropriately for the weather
Even if your fiance is planning a honeymoon at a surprise destination make sure he tells you the expected weather you’ll encounter. Packing for all climates might add to the ‘thrill’ factor but it will only end in tears if you cannot wear the majority of your clothes once you arrive.
What to wear
Remember to pack a cocktail dress or something similar even if you’re intending to spend most of your time relaxing about in casual gear. You will probably want to glam it up one night at a fine restaurant or party. Remember that fine dining establishments or clubs in tropical areas often have a more relaxed dress code than the same restaurant in your local city so there’s no need to overdo it. Also make sure your guy packs at least one collared shirt and decent pants, just in case.
Tickets/visas/passports
Make sure these are ready to go as early as possible and don’t pack them in your main luggage – you will need them after you’ve checked your bags in so you can pass through customs!
Currency
If travelling overseas, it’s a good idea to arrange foreign currency in small amounts before you leave. Pack your credit cards and travellers cheques, if you intend using them. Most international cities have ATM facilities now so unless you’re planning to go off the beaten track for most of your holiday, you can probably rely mostly on withdrawing funds once you get there. Before you leave, check with your bank about how to withdraw funds overseas using your debit or credit card.
Camera/electronica
Unlike your wedding day, you will need to rely on capturing the memories of your trip yourselves so pack your camera/video and a diary to record the magical moments.
Take your mobile phone if you want to. If you’re going overseas, speak with your carrier beforehand to set up international roaming or enquire about international phone cards. Take your laptop if you’re attached to it but remember - you’re getting away to relax and spend time with your new spouse.
You’ll also need to buy international adapters so you can use your electronic gadgets overseas. You can buy these from camping shops or airport stores.
Check with your hotel about hairdryers. Even the more basic hotels these days have them and it will save on all-important space and weight in your luggage.
Pack lightly
Every guide for packing luggage will tell you this no matter where you’re off to or why: leave space to bring purchases home. You don’t want to pay extra baggage fees on your way back and it’s surprising how quickly luggage weight increases. Pack once then repack, only including the things you really think you’ll need.