our wedding in ojai

27 Top Destination Wedding Packing List Items for 2026 + What NOT to Bring

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There are few things more exciting than a destination wedding! Whether your destination is tropical and relaxing or an adventurous winter wonderland, you’re sure to have an absolute blast. Our destination wedding was in Ojai, California and it was definitely the best day of our lives! It can be tricky to know what to pack for a destination wedding, regardless of whether you’re in the wedding or merely attending.

We’ve created this comprehensive destination wedding packing list to help you figure out what to wear, what NOT to pack, and answers to your top FAQs.

Also, don’t forget to bring an open heart and plenty of patience in case plans change!

My hubby and me at our wedding in Ojai, CA.
My hubby and me at our wedding in Ojai, CA.
Table of contents
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What to Pack for a Destination Wedding – 27 Essentials

  • 1. Neck Wallet

    Neck Wallet

    Any time you’re traveling to a foreign place, it’s essential to keep your important belongings organized and secure. Use a neck wallet to keep your passport, cash, credit cards, flight and hotel information, and other important documents easily accessible and tucked away safely beneath your shirt.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 2. Gorgeous Dress

    Gorgeous Dress

    Whether you are the bride, in the bridal party, or are just attending the wedding, you can’t go wrong packing a gorgeous dress. Wear it before or after the wedding day, to the ceremony, or to the reception. This dress is inexpensive and comes in a variety of fun colors perfect for any destination wedding.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

    how a vpn works

    If your destination wedding is bringing you to a foreign country, you’ll be glad you brought a VPN when you use your laptop or phone to connect to Wi-Fi in public places. Not only will it protect your sensitive information from potential hackers, but it will also grant you access to websites that might be blocked or censored in the host country. You can also use your VPN to get around paywalls on popular news sites that restrict your number of article views per month.

    View NordVPN.com Options

  • 4. International Power Adapter

    International Power Adapter

    Depending on where you’re traveling to, you will likely need to use a power adapter to plug in your electronics during your destination wedding. This handy universal power adapter works in nearly every country and comes with a lifetime warranty guarantee!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 5. Jet Lag Relief

    Jet Lag Relief

    If your destination wedding is taking you across multiple time zones, you’ll likely experience some of the nasty effects of jet lag. Treat and prevent these symptoms by bringing along these natural jet lag relief pills, they really work!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 6. Destination Wedding Travel Insurance

    Destination Wedding Travel Insurance

    You’re going to want to make sure you’re covered in case of emergency before you head off to your destination wedding. Faye is always our top choice for travel insurance because of their comprehensive coverage and affordable plans. Their app lets you handle everything in one place, from medical claims to 24/7 support to real-time flight updates. It may be required for the destination you are heading to and can save you thousands rather than paying out of pocket if any issues come up. We never travel without them!

    Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye

  • 7. Windproof Travel Umbrella

    Hero Umbrella

    Don’t get caught in the rain at your destination wedding without a windproof travel umbrella! The last thing you want is for your hair and nice clothes to be ruined in a storm. Protect yourself and your belongings by packing this in your purse or day bag. This umbrella also works great as protection from the sun.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 8. TSA-approved Travel-Sized Bottles

    TSA-approved Travel-Sized Bottles

    Make your life much easier by packing your liquid toiletries into TSA-approved travel-sized bottles like these ones. These will ensure you won’t have any problems going through security with your liquids and you’ll have just the right amount of everything you need to get you through the wedding.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 9. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

    travel towel

    Destination weddings tend to leave some downtime in between the festivities. As you sit around the pool or head to the beach, use this towel to dry off instead of lugging around a giant fluffy beach towel. It’s great for excursion days and doesn’t get mildewy since it dries 10x faster than cotton.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 10. Hanging Toiletry Bag

    hanging toiletry bag

    I used to have to dig for every lip balm or Q-tip, until I found this hanging toiletry bag. Now my self-care routine doesn’t drive me crazy, and this bag can hold my whole family’s toiletries, including my makeup.

    It hangs virtually anywhere to vertically-optimize your products and keep things at eye-level. Way better than juggling bottles on the edge of the sink or dealing with no countertop space in boutique hotels.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 11. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

    Lipstick-Sized Charger

    You won’t want to get stuck with a dead phone or camera and miss capturing all the wedding festivities! Keep this convenient, lipstick-sized portable charger in your purse or pocket and use it to keep your devices charged while you’re on the go.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 12. eSIM Data Service (Avoid Roaming Fees!)

    saily

    Skip the roaming fees and take a smarter approach. eSIM can be activated before you depart and re-upped if you need more data. It’s way more affordable than allowing your domestic provider to price-gauge you, and way more convenient than dealing with a physical SIM card that you have to stand in long lines for and swap out.

    You’ll be on the best network in that country and able to navigate, translate, and share wedding pictures with friends without a surprise phone bill.

    Saily offered us a 5% discount for our readers! Use our link for this stellar deal (code: ASHER5).

    Pick a data plan at Saily.com

  • 13. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

    TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

    When flying internationally, baggage damage and theft are more likely. These TSA-friendly locks give us a lot of anxiety relief since TSA can still inspect your bags as needed, but no greedy fingers will go rummaging through your things when they’re out of sight at the airport, on ferries, at hotel storage rooms, etc.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 14. Activated Charcoal

    Activated Charcoal

    One of our favorite parts of travel is indulging in new flavors, but this can wreak havoc on the gut. Even new water can cause food poisoning as your biome adjusts to the new bacteria. Use these activated charcoal tablets to flush out any harmful bacteria and get your digestive system right before the big day.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 15. Packing Cubes

    packing cubes

    Using packing cubes will revolutionize your whole destination wedding packing game! Use them to prevent overpacking and stay more organized than you ever thought possible. This set is amazing because it comes with separate cases for laundry and shoes and is available in a variety of fun colors

    View on Amazon.com

  • 16. Mosquito Repelling Wristbands

    Mosquito Repelling Wristbands

    If you’re headed somewhere tropical, you’re likely to encounter plenty of bugs. Keep yourself safe from unpleasant bites and mosquito-borne illness by throwing on one of these handy mosquito-repelling wristbands. They’re DEET-free and will work great for the kids, too!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 17. Lingerie

    Lingerie

    Lingerie is essential for a destination wedding, especially if you’re the one getting married! Make your wedding night that much more special by packing some sexy lingerie. Amazon actually has a great selection that is largely affordable, too.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 18. Cooling Towel

    Cooling Towel

    Destination weddings are typically in warm spots, so bring these cooling towels along to beat the heat. Simply add water and they get frosty cool, which feels so refreshing on a hot day. For an outdoor wedding especially, you’ll be thanking your lucky stars for them as you’re muggy and dripping in sweat.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 19. Water-Resistant Shoe Bags

    Water-Resistant Shoe Bags

    From the sand to the mud to the grime, you do not want to pack the elements in your clean suitcase, next to your fine wedding attire. These shoe bags are a must for separating your dirty kicks and fresh clothes, a small upgrade for a major elevation in your travels.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 20. Filtered Water Bottle

    Filtered Water Bottle

    Make sure you stay hydrated before, during, and after your destination wedding by bringing along a reusable water bottle. We recommend this one, which comes with a built-in filter to purify your water in destinations where you may not be able to drink from the tap.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 21. Electrolytes

    Electrolytes bottle

    Particularly if you’re traveling to somewhere hot or tropical, you’ll need electrolytes to help your body absorb the water you’re drinking. Between celebratory drinks and plenty of dancing and sweating under the hot sun, you’ll be glad you have electrolytes to add to your water.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 22. Waterproof Phone Pouch

    Waterproof Phone Pouch

    A waterproof phone case will keep your device safe during the entirety of your destination wedding. Protect your phone from dust, snow, rain, sand, and water by keeping it in this handy case, which even allows you to use your phone while in the water at the beach or pool!

    View on Amazon.com

  • 23. Flotation Wrist Straps

    Flotation Strap

    If you plan to snorkel, kayak, paddleboard, or relax by the water, you will want to attach these flotation straps to protect your phone, camera, keys, or other small valuables from sinking out of reach if they accidentally fall in. Speaking as someone who has used the waterproof case and STILL lost their phone due to no float strap, lesson learned.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 24. Luggage Straps

    Luggage Straps

    Your suitcase really takes a beating when traveling these days. Baggage handlers have a reputation for it at this point as they rush to meet deadlines, and no one will “baby” your bags. We use these straps to reinforce our weak zippers since they can withstand 700 lbs of force tension (which helps against wild conveyor belt rides and overpacking).

    We also love that the bright colors help us distinguish our set in a crowd and get out of the arrivals terminal without grabbing the wrong bag.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 25. Packable “Just in Case” Bag

    Packable “Just in Case” Bag

    You’ll never regret having an extra, foldable bag in your case. As a diaper bag, beach bag, grocery sack, or personal item for the flight home to hold all your souvenirs – this bag packs away compactly yet offers plenty of storage for your new goodies.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 26. Swimsuit Cover-Up

    Swimsuit Cover-Up

    Regardless of your destination, you’re likely to encounter a pool, beach, or hot tub at some point during your destination wedding trip. Come prepared with a trendy cover-up like this one, which can easily be tossed on over your swimsuit, wet or dry.

    View on Amazon.com

  • 27. Rash Guard

    Long Sleeve Shirts

    If you’re going to a tropical destination like Hawaii or Mexico, you’ll definitely want a long-sleeved rash guard to protect you from the intense sun. You don’t want to look like a tomato before the big day!

    View on Amazon.com

What to Wear to a Destination Wedding

Be sure to do a bit of research about your destination before your trip so you can prepare to dress for the weather and the season wherever you’re headed. Also, make note of the destination wedding’s dress code, which could range from casual to black-tie to themed! No matter where your wedding is located, it’s wise to pack at least one or two nice outfits for wedding events, nice dinners, or nights out on the town before or after the wedding.

What Should WOMEN Wear to a Destination Wedding? – (Click to expand)

Below is a sample women’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

For a destination wedding, women should dress for the weather in the location you’re traveling to. Regardless of where you’re headed, you’ll likely want to pack a few nice dresses and outfits for the wedding ceremony, reception, rehearsal dinner, and nights out in the destination before and after the wedding. Beyond the wedding-related events, women will likely want to opt for casual, comfortable clothing that suits their location.


What Should MEN Wear to a Destination Wedding? – (Click to expand)

Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Men should dress for the weather when attending a destination wedding. Regardless of the location, men should bring a few nicer outfits and a suit or tuxedo to attend the wedding-related events and activities, as well as for nights out in the destination before and after the wedding. Also be sure to bring casual, comfortable clothing to wear during the rest of your trip to make the most of your vacation!


How to dress for different activities at a destination wedding – (Click to expand)

Beaches - If your destination wedding is located in a beachy or tropical destination, bring out your sundresses, shorts, tank tops, swimsuit cover ups, rash guards, and bikinis and prepare for some fun in the sun! Don’t forget to pack some sunscreen, sunglasses, and a trendy sun hat in your beach bag too.

Hiking and Adventure Activities - In your free time, you may have the chance to do some hiking and exploring in your destination. Be prepared with comfortable athletic clothing, a baseball cap, sturdy sandals or good hiking shoes. You may also want to bring a swimsuit if your activities involve getting wet!

Wedding-Related Events - Depending on the type of wedding, the destination, and the venue, you’ll want to make sure you’re dressed appropriately for all wedding events. Unless you’re attending a themed wedding, you’ll likely want to opt for a nice dress or suit, perhaps even a tuxedo or cocktail dress depending on the event.

Nights Out - Be prepared to enjoy a nice dinner or night out on the town before or after the wedding festivities during your destination wedding trip. Wear comfortable, stylish shoes, a nice top and jeans, or maybe a trendy dress or skirt. Be sure to dress for the weather wherever you’re headed!

Winter Sports Activities - If you’re traveling to a cold weather destination, you’ll want to be prepared to participate in some fun winter sports activities like skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and ice skating. Wear your warmest wool socks, winter boots, warm hat and gloves, and coziest sweater to make the most of your trip!

What NOT to Bring to a Destination Wedding

  • 1. DON’T PACK a bulky towel

    Instead, opt for a lightweight, compact microfiber travel towel, that dries quickly and can easily be tossed into a beach bag or daypack. This can be used as a beach towel, a bath towel, or used during a waterfall hike or adventure excursion. You’ll be glad you packed this instead of a heavy, wet bath towel!

  • 2. DON’T BRING a hairdryer

    It’s likely that wherever you’re staying will have a hairdryer you can use that is properly suited to your destination. Voltage converters are unreliable and you may end up frying your electronics or even causing the fuse in your hotel room to blow if you try to use your dryer from home.

  • 3. DON’T TAKE expensive jewelry or electronics

    Only pack the absolute necessities for your destination wedding, as you don’t want to risk your favorite necklace or expensive laptop getting lost, stolen, or broken during your trip. Pack what you’ll need for the wedding but nothing more!

  • 4. DON’T PACK full-sized liquids

    You may have a hard time going through security at the airport or risk your full-sized liquids exploding all over your luggage if you pack them in your bag. Instead, fill these TSA-approved travel sized bottles with the liquids you’ll need for your trip so you won’t have to worry about a thing!

  • 5. DON’T BRING too much stuff

    The last thing you need at a destination wedding is to be bogged down by heavy, overstuffed luggage that makes it hard to move around from place to place. We recommend using
    packing cubes to keep yourself organized and avoid overpacking.

  • 6. DON’T TAKE uncomfortable shoes

    Nothing will ruin your destination wedding experience faster than uncomfortable shoes! Only bring shoes that are broken in and proven comfortable so you can have the most enjoyable trip possible.

What clothing should I NOT wear to a destination wedding? – (Click to expand)

Don’t wear clothing that doesn’t correspond with the weather in your destination! Do some research ahead of time to figure out what you’ll need. If you’re traveling to a traditionally more conservative destination, like India or the Middle East, avoid showing too much skin in public and consider bringing a lightweight shawl to cover your shoulders and head if necessary.

FAQs for Going to a Destination Wedding

  • 1. When should I book my flights and accommodations for my trip?

    It’s wise to book your flights and accommodations as soon as possible in order to ensure availability at the best rates.

    Flights are typically available to book up to 11 months in advance of your trip, though hotels and resorts will likely be available earlier.

  • 2. How many people should I invite to my destination wedding?

    How many people should I invite to my destination wedding?

    It’s often understood that by choosing a destination wedding, you accept that only the people who you truly want to be there will show up.

    Getting away from work and saving up the necessary funds can be difficult for people, so it’s better to keep a destination wedding on the smaller side to accommodate the people you truly want to come.

    Many people opt for a small destination wedding and then do a larger party or reception back home afterward.

  • 3. Should I still get the couple a gift even if I’m attending their destination wedding?

    Yes, but you don’t need to bring it to the destination! Many couples will say that no gifts are necessary as your presence at the wedding will be more than enough for them.

    That said, it is still typically customary to get the couple a wedding gift and give it to them either before you leave or after you come back.

  • 4. Do I need to pay for my own trip or will it be taken care of by the couple?

    Do I need to pay for my own trip or will it be taken care of by the couple?

    As with any wedding, you will be responsible for getting to and from the destination and your accommodations while there.

    The couple will pay for the reception, ceremony, and wedding-related activities during your trip, but you should be prepared to pay for everything else yourself.

  • 5. Am I allowed to stay outside the hotel or resort selected?

    Some couples will book alternative accommodations for guests if their hotel or resort venue is very high-end, but if they don’t, you should ask the couple if they would mind you staying somewhere a bit more within your budget.

    If they’re counting on your attendance for a special wedding group package, you’ll definitely need to run your plans by the couple before booking.

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