You can’t tell if you’re more excited about the wedding or the destination itself. And the best part about that is, it doesn’t matter what you’re the most excited about: You get to experience both!
Whether you’re heading towards sand, sun, and tropical aquamarine surf, or you’re bound for a winter chalet tucked at the base of majestic snow-capped peaks, we’ve got a list of all the must-have destination wedding bridesmaid essentials.
Let’s start with the basics.
Weather Appropriate Clothing and Accessories
Research the weather where you’re traveling, and pack clothes that will keep you warm, or cool, depending on your destination.
Pack a mixture of casual and comfy, plus dressier options for a fun night out.
Don’t forget the essentials:
- Socks
- Underwear
- Bras
- PJ’s
- Flip Flops and Swimsuit for warm weather
- Baseball cap or big floppy sun hat
- Sunglasses
- Parka, beanie, boots, and thick socks for cooler temps
In addition, if you’re going to partake in any of the local fun while you’re out and about, bring the appropriate attire. No one should have to zipline in mules and a sundress.
The number of items you decide to bring is up to you. Some people like to have a lot of options, other people thrive on packing light. For a 5-day vacation, the average person typically packs:
- 2-3 pairs of pants or shorts (climate dependent)
- 3-5 tops, including a light jacket—long sleeves and winter jackets for colder climate
Bridesmaid Dress and Wedding Day Accessories
This should go without saying, but you’d be surprised—don’t forget to pack your:
- bridesmaid dress
- wedding day shoes
- additional accessories
- Portable steamer or iron
- Garment protector for your dress
For those still on the lookout for the perfect bridesmaid dresses, Bella Bridesmaids has a gorgeous collection in an incredible assortment of styles, colors, and fabrics. They’ve got a huge selection of dresses perfect for every climate.
Travel Documents
If you’re traveling internationally, make sure your passport is still valid. If you still need one, time is of the essence—get started on the application, now.
Depending on where you’re going, the travel documents you may need are:
- Driver’s license or government-issued ID
- Passport—only necessary for international travel
- Flight and hotel documents
- Instructions on getting from the airport to the hotel
For any e-tickets or booking confirmation received via email on your phone, make sure you have a charger with you. If you’re texting or posting status updates while waiting at the airport to help pass the time, you’ll likely be draining the battery quicker than usual. Make sure you have your:
- Phone charging device
- Battery pack
- Socket adaptor for international travel
The adaptor is especially important when you’re traveling to a foreign country since it will also enable you to power your:
- Hair dryer
- Curling iron
- Straightening Iron
- Battery powered toothbrush
You’re also going to need to pack your personal toiletries. You’ll need your:
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Floss
- Facewash
- Shampoo and Conditioner
- Moisturizer
- Sunscreen
- Hair products
- Hair ties, bobby pins, and other accessories
- Razor
- Makeup
- Small first aid kit
- Small sewing kit
- Advil and other medication
- Feminine products
Remember, you’re prohibited from bringing anything that’s over 3.4 liquid ounces onto the plane with you. If you’re only traveling with a carryon, either purchase products in travel-size bottles, or decant what you have into containers of the appropriate size.
Packing Tips
Now that you’ve covered all bases—you’ve got your wedding-related items, personal care, and clothing taken care of—the following tips will ensure you have everything you need, without overpacking or overburdening yourself in the process.
Be realistic about what you’re going to need
It’s normal when packing for somewhere you’ve never been to feel the urge to prepare for multiple scenarios. Be realistic about the time you’ll be away from home, and what you’ll actually need versus what you think you may need.
Consider what’s available at the detonation
Most resorts and popular tourist locations have the essentials on hand, should you forget something basic, like a toothbrush.
However, if you’re going somewhere off the beaten path, it may be a good idea to be a little more thorough and methodical when packing to ensure you don’t forget something that you’d be unable to replace when you arrive at the destination.
Use packing cubes
Packing cubes are an excellent way of keeping “like” items together, and maintaining harmony within your suitcase.
Be extra careful when packing anything liquid, wrap it in two to three plastic bags. It would be horrible if it leaked, and go all over your bridesmaid dress.
If you want to travel light
For those aiming to travel with as little as possible, it’s not necessary for everyone to pack a straightening iron or a bottle of Advil.
Get together with the other bridesmaids and go over the essentials. Then create a list for each of the bridesmaids, making one responsible for bringing the sunscreen, another in charge of the first aid kit, etc.
Use popular packing methods such as the ‘5, 4, 3, 2, 1 packing rule’ to help determine what you actually need.
Conclusion:
When the travel day arrives, be especially vigilant to ensure you bring your passport, wallet, electronic devices and chargers, and of course, your bridesmaid dress!
Do something comfy for the flight, grab your suitcase and purse, jump in the Uber, and prepare to have the time of your life.