A visit to Costa Rica is so exciting, and knowing you are prepared makes it even more fun! You know you need a bikini, bug spray, and sunscreen, but what else? We have created an all-inclusive destination wedding packing list so you have everything you need for the big day!
UNDER YOUR SEAT PACKING LIST
We suggest packing a large “personal handbag” every time you board a flight. Everyone on our team always does this too! We like to know we have everything we need right at our fingertips.
The Essentials:
- Wallet with Cash and an ID – almost everything can be paid in USD but if you want to be extra prepared you can always exchange for some Costa Rican colones too!
- Headphones or earplugs – to relax during the flight.
- An eye mask and neck pillow – to relax even MORE during the flight! This eye mask is our favorite!
- Glasses (both sunglasses and prescription) & Contacts if applicable – We always carry a backup pair of prescription glasses or contacts when we travel, as that is a difficult item to be without when needed – and challenging to replace while traveling.
- A nice scarf or pashmina – to stay warm on chilly flights. We’re not fans of the cold!
- Ticket and passport – double and triple check!
- A book or magazine – to pass the time during the flight and enjoy poolside or on the beach during your trip.
- A notebook or journal, and a pen.
- Phone charger – and a portable charger is a plus!
- Small umbrella and/or rain jacket – even if just at the bottom of your bag.
- Hand sanitizer and even Lysol wipes – it’s nice to clean your seat and try when beginning a flight.
- Snack.. Or two!
- A water bottle – collapsible bottles are a plus.
- Bug spray and sunscreen – these are really expensive in Costa Rica!
- Mints, gum, face wipes, chapstick, a mini bottle of perfume, and tissues.
- Any medication you can’t do without if a checked bag doesn’t arrive at the same time as you.
The Extras:
- Computer and charger – only if you can’t completely unplug.
- A pair of socks – in case of a cold flight.
- A flashlight keychain.
- Keys and a lock for your bags
- Vitamin C for an immunity boost.
- Make sure to precharge all of your electronics and your extra battery too!
- Take a photo of your luggage.
- Pack all of your liquids in this bag! This way you don’t have to open your carry-on at all when passing through security.
CARRY-ON LUGGAGE / OVER HEAD PACKING LIST
We always plan for the worst, and hope for the best! We all dread being that one unlucky bag that goes missing. But, the reality is that it happens sometimes. So be prepared! Your main carry-on bag should be packed with enough necessities to last you a couple of days, including wedding attire if possible. One big thing we suggest is to take an extra copy of your passport and ID, and everything you need in case of an emergency.
The Essentials:
- Full attire for the wedding, or as much as possible.
- Versatile wardrobe for backup.
- An extra pair of shoes.
- Seasonal attire for your destination – such as a swimsuit and cover-up.
- Valuables such as jewelry and watches.
- Any wedding items, if applicable.
- Full face makeup, hair products, and bathroom supplies – within the allowed quantities for any liquids.
- A spare grocery bag for dirty clothes.
- Extra money and document copies.
- House keys – never keep these in your checked bag.
We know the days leading up to your trip can feel hectic. So we suggest starting the packing process early! This gives you some peace of mind, and less stress along the way. Start laying potential items out a couple of weeks (or more) in advance, and weed out unneeded items if you want to reduce. Keeping this list handy is always a great way to stay organized and double-check along the way.
Destination weddings are such a fun experience. Check if your hotel has items such as a hair dryer and communicate with roommates or other guests to divy up just-in-case items like a steamer for clothing and stain repellent. Anything you can consolidate will lighten your load and ease your mind!
Brides, feel free to send this blog to your guest list or include a link in your wedding website!
And special note for Brides and Grooms – we strongly recommend carrying your Wedding Attire on the plane and not packing in a Checked Bag. While delayed bags are generally delivered the next day, wondering if your dress will arrive is a nerve-wracking way to begin a trip! We suggest asking flight attendants to hang your garment bags in the closet. If they cannot accommodate this, no problem – we recommend laying your garment bags horizontally on top of carry-on luggage in the overhead bin. We also suggest packing a handheld steamer for easy dewrinkling throughout the trip.
Posted in Wedding Planning Tips
