The busy honeymoon travel season is here, which means many newlyweds have already booked their airline tickets and secured hotel reservations. Now it's time to get packed for that once-in-a-lifetime vacation. Follow these easy organizational tips and travel recommendations to ensure your trip goes as smoothly as possible.
DO label your luggage inside and out. Mark your suitcases on the outside with something unique to avoid losing them. Just a few simple adjustments will deter other travelers from mistaking your bag for their own. For starters, try using creative luggage tags or colored string.
DON'T wait until the last minute. Start your packing list at least one week before your scheduled departure. If your honeymoon plans have you leaving right on the heels of your wedding, the last thing you want is to be packing frantically and rushing out the door. Plan ahead and get packed early to prevent stress and a greater chance of leaving key items behind. You'll be glad you did in the end.
DO make photocopies of passports, IDs, and credit cards. Print out two copies of each. Bring one with you and leave the other behind. If you ever lose your wallet, purse, or have any essential items stolen, you'll still be equipped with the information you need to get replacements.
DON'T overpack. Big, heavy bags are a pain to travel with, challenging to maneuver, and most importantly, super unnecessary. Traveling light simply avoids a lot of hassle.
DO bring important items with you on the plane. This carry-on list includes medications, key documents (like tickets, itineraries, or emergency contact info), a change of clothes, and entertainment options such as magazines, books, or cards.
DON'T pack shoes you've never worn before. Whether it's hiking boots, sneakers, or upscale dress shoes, broken-in shoes will help you avoid blisters and other foot problems that could otherwise prevent you from participating in much-anticipated honeymoon activities.
DO provide hotel details, contact information, and your itinerary for family members. If there's an emergency while you're away, your loved ones will know exactly how to reach you.
DON'T forget how useful plastic bags and ziplocs can be. You'll find these especially practical for toiletry items (to prevent spills) and storing dirty clothes. You can also pack all of your clothes in clear plastic bags and then divide them by item, such as shirts, underwear, or shorts. This really helps keep things organized and maximizes space.
DO carry water bottles. Stay hydrated throughout your trip via reusable water bottles. Most designs fit snugly in backpacks, making them easily accessible and a breeze to transport around.
DON'T bring bulky toiletries. Travel-size items for necessities like deodorant and toothpaste will lighten your load and save a ton of space. Plus, you won't have to throw them out at airport security if you put them in your carry-on bags.
DO ditch the books. By all means, consult as many guidebooks and language dictionaries as you'd like. They can be extremely helpful when on the go, especially abroad. But bringing physical books will only weigh you down. Instead, go with language and guide apps or digital downloads on your smartphone or tablet.
DON'T let healthy habits fall by the wayside. You can take action by packing a bottle of instant hand sanitizer like Purell or bringing a few antibacterial wipes to clean off dirty surfaces. It's also easy to pack daily vitamins (and a cinch to bring via travel organizers) or at least bring a few immunity tablets to ensure you're receiving essential nutrients.
DO utilize a backpack or daypack. Ideal for day trip activities such as city walking tours and hiking treks, a backpack conveniently stores hefty items like cameras, chargers, and water bottles. Meanwhile, you can keep other important documents with you at all times (think confirmations, itineraries, and reservations).
DON'T spend time on social media. Leave the computer at home. Stay off of Facebook and Twitter. You can upload photos and write witty messages when you get back. Remember, this is your honeymoon! Be in the moment. Pay attention to each other and relax.
In case you missed it from Traveler's Joy:
Honeymoon Glamping: 7 Breathtaking Getaways Across North America
10 Ways to Add (Even More) Romance to Your Honeymoon
7 Tips for Picking the Perfect Honeymoon Destination
Offbeat Honeymoon: 6 Unique Alternatives for Your Trip
6 Romantic Winter Honeymoon Ideas
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