how-to-plan-your-honeymoon

How To Plan Your Honeymoon

So, you’ve said “I do,” cut the cake, and danced your heart out. Now it’s time to tackle planning your honeymoon! Whether you’re dreaming of sipping cocktails under a tropical sunset, cosying up in a mountain cabin, or taking a bucket-list road trip, here’s everything you need to know to plan a honeymoon that’s as unique as you make it.

But let’s face it, pulling off the perfect honeymoon takes more than a bit of daydreaming. From choosing the right destination and deciding on your vibe to navigating budgets and timing, there’s a lot to consider. Should you go all-inclusive or bespoke? How do you avoid tourist crowds? And what if you want to bring the dog?

This guide has everything you need to plan a honeymoon you’ll never forget. We’ll walk you through expert advice on picking the ideal destination, tips on saving money without skimping on romance, and even the surprising details you might not have thought about, like why a marriage certificate might be your most important travel accessory. Whether you’re jetting off straight after the wedding or planning a “mini-moon” close to home before the big trip later, we’ve got you covered.


How To Plan Your Dream Honeymoon With Our Honeymoon Planning Checklist

Get Inspired

Before diving into logistics, take a moment to dream. Is your ideal honeymoon fast-paced and adventure-filled, or are you imagining a slow, indulgent escape where the hardest decision is beach or spa?

For an extra personal touch, think outside the box. Love tulips? Why not visit the tulip fields in Holland? Bonded over sushi on your first date? Jet off to Japan for a food-filled adventure. And if your partner’s idea of heaven is a roaring fire and hot cocoa, a snowy cabin retreat might just be the ticket. Get an idea of what the ‘perfect’ honeymoon looks like for both of you. 

Top tip: Save some pennies by considering honeymoon packages or all-inclusive resorts. Sure, the flight might cost more, but some destinations are a steal once you’re on the ground.

Budget

Once you’ve nailed down the vibe, it’s time to talk about money. Start by getting a rough estimate of the costs for your dream destination. And don’t forget about honeymoon funds! Many couples are adding honeymoon registries to their wedding wish lists, where guests can chip in for flights, hotel stays, or even a cheeky couples' massage.

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maldiives honeymoon inspiration at Kandima

Call A Professional 

If your honeymoon plans involve multiple destinations, excursions, or just general logistical chaos, it might be time to call in the experts. A professional honeymoon planner can take your Pinterest board dreams and turn them into a stress-free reality.

And here’s the juicy part, agents have insider connections. Think VIP treatment, boutique hotels, and being first in line for room upgrades. Couples who book with agents are connected to the best guides and hotel teams. It’s all about those relationships that ensure honeymooners feel like royalty.

If you thought hiring a honeymoon planner was next-level, let us introduce you to the ultimate luxury: The Designer Honeymoon. Go2Africa has taken personalisation to the extreme by hiring a private investigator (yes, really!) to follow couples for a week before their trip. From digging into your social media to chatting with your friends and family, this PI leaves no stone unturned in discovering your likes, dislikes, and guilty pleasures.

Armed with these insights, the team crafts a honeymoon so tailored to you that it feels like it was plucked from your wildest dreams. Emma Hill, African Safari Expert at Go2Africa, says, “It’s important to opt for a bespoke honeymoon rather than a packaged deal as that way you can play with the budget to get the best value. They can provide a way to go affordable for some elements and then splash out at the end to make the trip truly special! We’re definitely seeing tailor-made travel becoming more sought-after.” 

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How To Choose Your Honeymoon Destination

Choosing where to go is half the fun, but timing matters too. Avoid peak seasons to save money and dodge crowds. Trust us, skipping the endless lines will feel like a honeymoon gift in itself. 

A few things to keep in mind:

  • European coastal spots often shut down in winter.
  • Want summer vibes in December? Head to the Southern Hemisphere.
  • Be aware of monsoon seasons in tropical locales like Costa Rica.

 

The honeymoon scene is evolving, with more options for couples travelling with kids or even pets (One survey by Shark revealed that nearly 40% of Brits are keen to take their pets on holiday).

If you’re dreaming of a peaceful, romantic getaway, consider booking an adult-only hotel. Many couples forget about this and end up surrounded by noisy kids splashing in the pool. If you’ve fallen in love with a resort that isn’t adult-only, inquire about whether they have an adult-only section for a little added tranquillity.

Need some more guidance? Head to our article for everything you need to know about choosing your dream honeymoon destination

When To Book Your Honeymoon 

Aim to start booking about six months in advance. Six months should give you ample time to be able to get booked into the flights, hotel/accommodation, excursions and activities you want to do before they go! If the idea of planning your honeymoon while still knee-deep in wedding prep makes you break out in hives, don’t sweat it, waiting a few months after the wedding is perfectly fine. In fact, it can be even better. A delayed honeymoon gives you something to look forward to once the wedding whirlwind is over.

And when you plan, leave room for some downtime. While a jam-packed itinerary sounds great in theory, you’ll want a couple of days to just… be. End your trip with some downtime so you come home feeling refreshed, not exhausted.

Are you planning to change your name after the wedding? Travel experts at StressFreeCarRental.com recommend that couples who are changing their names should travel with a copy of their marriage certificate, especially if the names are not yet changed on passports.” It’s a small detail, but it can save you a world of stress when checking in for flights or accommodations.

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Honeymoon Planning Checklist

Six Months or More Ahead

  • Set a Budget: Agree on what you’re willing to spend and stick to it.
  • Seek Inspiration: Discuss what your ideal honeymoon looks like a city break, beach getaway, or something adventurous? Research destinations online and ask friends or family for recommendations.
  • Hire a Travel Pro: Consider a travel agent who knows your dream destination. They’ll have insider tips and can help you secure perks like upgrades and exclusive experiences.
  • Look into Savings Options: Check your frequent flyer points or credit card rewards. Create a honeymoon registry if you’d prefer monetary gifts towards your trip.
  • Book Flights and Hotels: Research accommodation and flight options early to snag the best deals. Many boutique hotels and luxury spots book up quickly.
  • Think About Transport: If you’ll need a hire car, compare options and reserve one now.
  • Health Prep: Check NHS travel advice and see if you need vaccinations. Some vaccines require multiple doses over months, so plan ahead.

 

Three Months Ahead

  • Check Your Travel Docs: Apply for or renew your passports if needed. British passports typically take up to 10 weeks to process, so don’t wait too long. Sort out visas or other travel documents. 
  • Get Travel Insurance: Protect yourself in case of cancellations, health issues, or extreme weather (especially during hurricane or monsoon seasons). Check coverage through your bank, travel agent, or an insurer.
  • Book Activities: Reserve tours, tickets, and activities, especially if you're travelling during peak seasons. Popular restaurants may also require advance booking.

 

Two Months Ahead

  • Sort Luggage and Gadgets: Invest in good luggage and a decent travel camera if needed. Practice using the camera so you’re not fiddling with settings on your trip.
  • Start Learning the Lingo: Download language apps like Duolingo or Babbel if you're heading somewhere non-English-speaking. Even a few key phrases can go a long way.
  • Get Certified: If you plan to scuba dive or try something requiring skills (like skiing), get lessons booked in.

 

One Month Ahead

  • Reconfirm Everything: Double-check flight and hotel bookings, and ensure all tours and activities are still on track.
  • Use Our Packing List: Plan outfits for activities and the climate. Don’t forget essentials like adaptors for UK plugs.
  • Plan for Pets, Kids or Plants: Arrange for someone to look after pets, plants, or even your home while you’re away. Kennels and babysitters book up fast.
  • Exchange Currency: Change a small amount of cash into local currency to cover taxis and tips on arrival.

 

Two Weeks Ahead

  • Prepare Your Travel Docs: Make photocopies of your passport, travel insurance, and other important documents. Leave a copy with a trusted friend or family member.
  • Download Travel Apps: Grab helpful apps like Google Maps (offline mode), XE Currency Converter, or Citymapper.
  • Check Your Phone Plan: Contact your mobile provider for an international roaming plan if you’re going abroad.
  • Sleep Schedule: For long-haul flights, try adjusting your sleep schedule a few days before you travel.

 

One Week Ahead

  • Pack Smart: Finalise packing, remembering any medication, toiletries, or chargers you’ll need.
  • Confirm Details: Reconfirm flights, transfers, and activities.
  • Leave Emergency Info: Share your itinerary and contact details with a trusted friend or family member.

 

Three Days Ahead

  • Check the Weather: Verify the forecast and adjust your packing if necessary.
  • Prep Your Home: Eat or toss perishable food, water plants, unplug appliances, and set timers for lights if needed.
  • Relax Plans: If you want a little romance, ask your hotel to arrange a surprise, like champagne waiting in your room.

 

The Day Before

  • Pack Final Essentials: Add last-minute items like your toothbrush and phone charger.
  • Label Your Luggage: Include your name, destination hotel address, and phone number both inside and outside your suitcase. AirTags also work well! 
  • Check-In Online: Avoid airport queues by checking in early for your flights.
  • Set Your OOO Messages: Update your work email and voicemail to let people know you’re on your honeymoon!

Planning a honeymoon doesn’t have to be stressful. Keep the focus on what’s most important, which is celebrating your love and making memories to last a lifetime. Whether you’re zip-lining through a jungle, sipping wine in Tuscany, or just lounging by the pool, your honeymoon is your chance to relax, recharge, and soak in newlywed bliss. Before you go, there’s just one more checklist you’ll want to have. Download our honeymoon packing checklist! It’s got all the essentials you could ever need! 

If you’ve decided on the Maldives as your honeymoon destination, then head to our ultimate guide to planning your Maldives honeymoon! Our top fave location right now? It’s Kandima Maldives