There’s something thrilling about destination Weddings. The adventure begins the moment you book your flight. The Sun kissed beaches, fairytale mansions and the cityscape become a magical part of your love story, where your journey and “I do” merge into one unforgettable experience. But let’s be real, as exciting as it all sounds, packing for your big day requires careful planning and can be a bit overwhelming.
But here’s the good news, you don’t have to do it alone!
Our expert team at Wedded Wonderland have compiled the ultimate destination wedding packing list to help you feel organised and stress free. With a little planning, and a few insider tips, packing can be part of the fun as your prep for your big day.
If you find yourself feeling stuck at any point, our complimentary concierge service is just a click away. We’ll help you match up with the best planners and venues worldwide. So you can focus on what matters, making unforgettable memories.
Packing Essentials for the Couple
- Wedding Attire & Accessories
- Your wedding outfit deserves its own first class seat. Literally. It’s recommended to carry your own wedding dress or suit on board in a breathable garment bag. Make sure you keep all your jewellery, rings and shoes with you, never leave them in checked luggage just to avoid accidents and missing items. Don’t forget to pack extra cufflinks, belts, a second pair of shoes for dancing, and your reception outfit, if you’re changing things up in the night.
- Important Documents & Travel Essentials
- Keep all important documents, such as your passports, visas, travel insurance, flight confirmations and a printed copy of your itinerary, in one spot. It’s smart to have both physical and digital backups. Don’t forget your IDs, credit cards and a little local currency. Chargers, adapters and a portable power bank will be life savers, especially for capturing every dreamy moment at your Destination Wedding.
- Personal Essentials
- Pack your must haves: prescription meds, skincare, toothbrush, and your wedding fragrance. What’s even better? Make everything travel size! A mini steamer or wrinkle release spray is a bride’s best friend for any last minute touch ups. And let’s not forget our sunscreen and lip balm because no one wants a sunburn before their wedding.
- Emergency Kit & Day-Of Extras
- A little prep goes a long way. A small pouch with safety pins, clear nail polish, fashion tape, pain relief, blotting paper and breath mints can be a total lifesaver. Make yourself a little makeup touch-up pouch with lipstick, mascara, hair ties and a powder puff. Don’t forget your vows (print two copies!), and anything sentimental like something old or blue. Make sure you keep this close with you in your carry on. You’ll thank us later.
What to pack based on your destination:
United Kingdom
Destination Weddings in the UK are a dreamy mix of elegance and heritage. So don’t let the weather catch you off guard as it’s famously unpredictable. Stay prepared by packing a stylish trench coat, compact umbrella and a shawl or cardigan for the cooler breeze, even in summer. Stylish flats or low block heels are essential for outdoor lawns, so save the stilettos for indoor venues.
The UK has beautiful countryside backdrops so if you’re deciding on outfit inspo, think romantic lace dresses, tailored suits and classic accessories that’s suitable for both city and garden landscapes.
Australia
Australia’s scenery for a wedding destination is both sunshine and style. So whether you’re having a vineyard or beach wedding, keep it cool and sun-safe. Choose airy fabrics like linen and cotton, paired with flowy dresses or relaxed suits. Sunscreen is a non negotiable in Australia, so pack wide brimmed hats to avoid sunburn!
Aussie style is both effortlessly chic and elevated comfort, so dressy sandals and wedges are perfect for beach venues and walking on the sand. Evenings by the beautiful coasts can cool down so a lightweight cover up or blazer will keep you warm against the breeze.
Dubai, UAE
Dubai is where the desert meets the cityscape, so expect heat, even at night. Knowing how to pack thoughtfully is key. You’ll want lightweight, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton. Modesty matters in the UAE, especially when you’re planning to explore beyond the resort. So respect local customs and pack a silk scarf or a pashmina to drape over your shoulders or hair when needed.
For daytime events, sunhats, sunglasses and SPF’s are musts. Rooftop celebrations and desert ceremonies call for elegant cocktail dresses with modest coverage. Indoor venues are often heavily air conditioned, so bring a light shawl or blazer to stay comfortable.
In Dubai, wedding style is about confidence and sophistication, so men can stick with tailored shirts and linen suits, while women shine in flowing gowns and abaya inspired pieces.
France
Paris or the Riviera? Weddings in France span from rooftops to coastlines and it’s all about timeless pieces and European simplicity. Versatile pieces to pack include silk blouses, midi dresses, tailored trousers and a classic trench coat, perfect for unexpected weather changes.
Heels aren’t ideal on cobblestones, so opt for stylish flats or block heels to still feel elevated.
For summer events, a silky scarf adds flair and extra warmth at night. In cooler months, a stylish knit or a leather jacket will keep you cosy without compromising your style. Channel your inner Parisian elegance and remember, less is more.
Greece
Greece is all sunshine, sea breezes and romance. The Mediterranean climate is warm and sunny, so skip the heavy fabrics and pack breathable linens, cottons or bamboo blends. Flowy maxi dresses and wide leg pants are perfect for the relaxed elegance vibe. Pick colours in soft hues that will contrast against the Aegean blue scenery.
If you’re getting married in a church or temple, modesty is essential. Carry a shawl to cover shoulders or knees and it’ll double down as a cover up for the breezy island nights.
Add a wide brimmed hat, sunglasses and SPF to your essentials. Sandals are ideal for the coastline beaches but bring comfortable shoes for exploring cobbled lanes.
Keep your wardrobe relaxed yet elevated, neutral outfits and statement pieces will carry you from romantic candlelit dinners to seaside ceremonies.
Bali, Indonesia
Tropical, soulful and lush, Bali is a paradise for a destination wedding. The humidity calls for breathable resort wear, think linen shorts, airy dresses and swimwear. Rain can hit unexpectedly, so pop in a foldable poncho or light jacket.
Bali’s evenings can bring mosquitos, so pack bug spray and always use reef safe sunscreen for beach activities. Many ceremonies in Bali may include temple visits or cultural elements, so modesty matters. Bring a sarong or longer wrap to cover your shoulders and knees when needed.
Sandals are ideal, but if you’re exploring markets or rice terraces, then pack sturdy sneakers. A light shawl or kebaya blouse adds elegance for formal dinners. So pack light, dress with intention and let the magic of Bali do the rest.
Travel Smart: Luggage & Packing Strategy
- Choose quality luggage:Go for lightweight, durable suitcases with spinner wheels and lockable zippers, for reliability. For flights, use a carry on with a garment sleeve to keep your Destination Wedding attire safe and wrinkle-free.
- Pack with intentions using packing cubes:sort by day, event or person (wedding day, casual wear, swimwear). They save space, keep everything organised and prevent wrinkles. You’ll never go back once you try them.
- Build a timeless capsule wardrobe: pack versatile pieces in neutral tones like cream, navy, black and olive. Silk blouses, cocktail dresses and relaxed trousers. Add a few staple accessories to transition from a day to night look.
- Layer Wisely: A neutral blazer or elegant pashmina instantly elevates any outfit, and helps you stay warm on breezy nights or air conditioned venues.
- Limit yourself to three pairs of shoes:
- Wear your bulkiest pair (boots or heels) while travelling
- Pack one pair of dressy flats or low heels for the ceremony.
- Include one comfy pair of sneakers or sandals for exploring
- Limit yourself to three pairs of shoes:
- Bonus tip: never pack new shoes without breaking them in first
- Use smart packing techniques:
- Roll soft fabrics like knots and delicates to save space
- Fold structured garments to preserve their shape
- Place heavier items near the wheels of your suitcase for balance
- Wrap belts to avoid fabric snags
- Be beach ready: pack a couple of dry bags for wet swimwear or sandy clothing on the return trip if your destination weddings it as a beach or coastline.
- Leave room for memories: Leave an extra foldable tote or duffel in your bag for souvenirs, gifts or honeymoon finds.
Let Wedded WonderlandTake It From Here
Packing is just the beginning of the magic. Let our complimentary concierge service help you with the rest.
Our team can connect you with expert planners and local vendors worldwide just sign up to get started. Meanwhile, explore our Destination Wedding Guidesand Real Weddingsfor inspiration, and check out related tips on honeymoon planning and legal requirements.
With these packing tips andcomplimentary concierge assistance, you’ll be well on your way to a stress-free, picture-perfect destination wedding. Bon voyage and congratulations.
