How to Start Planning Your Honeymoon: A Step by Step Guide
By Libby Austin
Chances are, If you’re anything like me, you’ve had your honeymoon planned your entire life, and haven’t thought of the first detail for your actual wedding. Okay, so maybe you can’t relate. I know a lot of people have been dreaming of their wedding since they were a child. – I on the other hand have this honeymoon planning thing down pat.
The honeymoon marks the beginning of a lifelong adventure together. Planning a honeymoon should be even more exhilarating than planning your wedding, and I want to make sure it is. Though it is fun, it does require a thoughtful approach to make sure it is everything you have always dreamed of, and won’t break the bank, even more than is already accounted for.
When you start planning?
Before you even start planning your honeymoon, you might ask yourself, “When should I start planning?” It is a good idea to start planning your honeymoon about 8-12 months in advance. Though it can be done in a shorter amount of time, planning it in advance means you are less likely to have to settle on something that may not be your first choice. It also gives you plenty of time to rearrange plans if you later have second thoughts.
So, let’s dive into the 6 steps of planning the ultimate honeymoon.
1. Dream Together-
Even if you have the perfect vision of what you want out of your honeymoon, you will need to speak with your future spouse to make sure what they want is also incorporated into the trip. They might have some non negotiables on their dream honeymoon list too.
You may also come up with new ideas together that you never thought of on your own. Discussing your preferences, interests, and must-have experiences can help set the tone for the honeymoon planning journey.
2. Set a Budget-
Everyone needs a budget. A budget can be small or large, but is important nonetheless. Starting the beginning of the planning process with an established budget helps navigate the direction you could take your honeymoon. You should consider all potential expenses, such as travel costs, accommodation, meals, activities, and anything extra. When setting the budget, you should keep it realistic, and remember that the honeymoon should be relaxing, and not a financial burden.
3. Research-
After setting a budget and communicating your wants and needs with your partner, start researching! You will likely have it narrowed down to at least what type of honeymoon vacation you are looking for now. Whether it is relaxing on the beach, exploring a new city or hiking in the mountains, knowing what type of vacation you want is huge!
4. Decide a Destination-
Now that you know what type of vacation you want, you can start to pinpoint the destination. You should consider factors like season, weather, and travel restrictions. Whether it’s a serene beach, a bustling city, or a secluded mountain retreat, pick a destination that reflects your shared interests and allows you to create unforgettable memories together.
5. Start Booking-
Now is the fun part! Once you’ve chosen your destination, you can start looking into accommodation options, from luxurious resorts to comfy bed and breakfasts. Make reservations for any must-do experiences to avoid missing out on them.
6. Plan for Post-Wedding Logistics-
Before you jet off into the sunset as a newly married couple for the first time, make sure any post-wedding logistics have been thought through. This may include updating your passport, changing your name, and notifying banks and utilities of any change. Tie up any loose ends so you can fully relax and enjoy your honeymoon without distractions.
Other great things to think about:
Consider Honeymoon packages
Consider All Inclusive Resorts
Hiring a Private Travel Agent
These are great options for when you don’t want to think about so many choices and decisions. After all, the point of a honeymoon is to relax.