If you’re planning a destination wedding, chances are your packing checklist is already growing — from essentials like your dress, rings, and passports, all the way down to the little stuff like sunscreen and swimsuits. But what about the destination wedding must haves you might not be thinking about?
Take it from me: I had my own destination wedding, I’ve attended three others, and I help couples plan them every single day. These are 14 destination wedding must haves that will save the day, keep you comfortable, and ensure your wedding trip is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
I’ve organized this list from pre-planning essentials, to travel and trip must-haves, and finally to fun extras that will make your time & wedding day even more enjoyable. I’ll also be linking to the recommended products throughout — so you can easily grab them and even support the blog while doing so!
Also, if you’d prefer to listen to the podcast version of this topic please feel free to listen here:
INSERT PODCAST EPISODE
1. A Travel Agent – Your Stress-Free Planner
Starting strong with a big one you may not be considering: a travel agent — but not just any travel agent.
You want someone who specifically specializes in destination weddings. There’s a huge difference between a standard travel agent and one who knows the ins and outs of wedding resorts, contracts, room blocks, group incentives, and all the details that can make or break your planning process.
Having a pro handle the logistics saves you time, money, and major headaches. Plus, they often have access to exclusive deals and perks you wouldn’t get on your own.
And yes — I’m one of those travel agents! If you’re new here, you might not know that about me, but I love helping couples plan their perfect wedding getaway. If you’d like to know how I got here you can read more of My Story. Feel free to schedule a consult with me!
2. Our Destination Wedding Planner (the book, not the person)
Planning a wedding from afar comes with its own challenges, which is exactly why I created a destination wedding planner — available on Amazon & Etsy.
Breezy Brides Destination Wedding Planner
Includes an An 18 month checklist that outlines every little to-do you’ll need to cross off before your big day. From picking the right travel agent to narrowing down the perfect resort, this planner will guide you through it all.
This planner helps you track important dates, vendor info, packing lists, and all the tiny but critical details that are easy to forget. It’s one of those items you’ll thank yourself for bringing.
And as a little thank you — if you purchase the planner from either platform, I’ll send you any one item from our Etsy shop for free. Just send me your order number via email so I can verify, then choose anything you’d like from our shop for your destination wedding.
3. Portable Chargers
Portable Charger with Built in Cables
Portable charger has 6 outputs and 3 inputs, you may charge 6 devices max at the same time, recharge battery pack with 3 options easily. It also has 3 build in inputs, which you can use to recharge battery pack conveniently.
This might seem obvious to some, but it’s still worth mentioning: portable chargers are an absolutely at the top of my destination wedding must haves list.
I love the one I’ve linked — it has multiple ports for different types of devices. Instead of bringing a bunch of separate cords for your iPhone, Kindle, headphones, etc., this one charger does it all. It’s compact, powerful, and a total space-saver.
Trust me, resort outlets aren’t always reliable, and travel days can zap your battery fast. You’ll be glad you have a backup.
4. Ear Plugs (and Maybe a Sleep Mask)
Sleep Mask with Ear Plugs
This Sleep Eye Mask by MZOO features a 3D contoured design with memory foam for pressure-free comfort and total light blockage. Its adjustable strap ensures a secure, no-hair-pull fit, making it ideal for travel, meditation, or a better night’s sleep.
These are more for peace of mind — especially when you need a good night’s sleep.
Whether it’s a noisy neighbor, a snoring roommate, or a wedding venue near the nightlife scene, ear plugs can be a total sleep-saver. And if you’re a light sleeper like me? Add in a sleep mask to block out unwanted light.
Some people also underestimate how poorly you can sleep in a new environment, so this just helps offer peaceful sleep you may not have realized would be disrupted. (If this doesn’t scream “I’m in my 30s with two kids,” I don’t know what does — but sleep is important!)
5. A Deck of Cards or Small Game
Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza
Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza is a fast-paced card game of quick reflexes and hilarious chaos. Perfect for groups enjoying vacation together, it’s easy to learn, guaranteed to get everyone laughing, and a great icebreaker between beach cocktails and dance floor moments.
Delays happen — whether it’s at the airport or between wedding events. That’s where a deck of cards or a small travel game comes in handy.
Games are a fun way to pass time, bond with guests, and keep the good vibes going. We’ve recently become obsessed with TCGCP on work trips, and I immediately bought it for myself after playing it once.
Other great options: Yahtzee (just five dice!), Exploding Kittens, or any fast-paced card game that’s easy to teach.
6. Portable Speaker
JBL Go 3 – Portable Mini Bluetooth Speaker
Small enough to pack in your luggage, but packs a powerful punch when it comes to sound quality. This speaker is also waterproof and dustproof, making it ideal for the pool and beach.
A portable speaker is one of the most vibe-setting items you can pack.
Sure, upbeat music is usually playing around the resort, but you don’t want to rely on that alone. Bring a speaker for moments like:
- Getting ready with your bridal party
- Late-night beach celebrations
- Impromptu pool parties
- Backup music if the resort isn’t quite bringing the energy
Bonus tip: create a few playlists in advance so you’re always ready to set the mood! Whether it’s a fun dance playlist for pre-wedding festivities or a calming acoustic set for you and your fiance to enjoy in your room, music can set the perfect tone for each moment.
7. Insulated Tumbler
30 oz Stainless Steel Insulated Tumbler
Made out of 18/8 food grade stainless steel, this double walled vacuum insulated tumbler is perfect for a tropical beach wedding vacation.
This one has been popular for a while, but still worth mentioning: a large insulated tumbler.
Most destination weddings happen in warm, tropical places, and resort drinks can melt fast. A tumbler keeps your drinks cold longer, reduces your trips to the bar, and adds a personalized touch — especially if you get it customized for your wedding party.
Better to bring your own than pay $40 at the resort gift shop or go without.
8. Inflatable Floats
7 Piece Pool Floats + Beach Balls
Suitable for the pool, beach, or swim up rooms. Throw in a little extra fun with the beach balls to toss around.
Inflatable Pool Drink Holders
This 3 pack of drink holders are a fun surprise for your guests and come in multiple different shapes!
Inflatable pool floats add fun and are super easy to pack.
Some even have built-in drink holders, which makes them perfect for lounging with friends. Way cheaper to bring from home than to buy at the resort — and your photos by the pool will thank you.
9. Waterproof Camera
Waterproof One-Time Use Camera
These are great for the candid moments you can ask your guests to capture throughout their trip without having to worry about damage.
GoPro Hero – Compact Waterproof Action Camera
More of an investment to capture memories of a lifetime. Take it with you to the pool, beach, or strap it to a groomsmen’s chest at your wedding reception!
This is one of those destination wedding must haves purely for capturing memories — especially the unfiltered, candid kind.
A waterproof camera is perfect for pool days, beach adventures, and all the fun moments your photographer won’t catch. Distribute a few to your guests for some of the best (and maybe most unhinged) content of the trip.
You could go old-school disposable or use a digital action cam like a GoPro. At my own wedding, my brother-in-law brought one and filmed us all in the pool on the first day. That footage? Still one of my absolute favorite memories.
10. Beach Bag
Becokan Waterproof Beach Bag with Zipper Pockets
An extra large beach bag that will hold everything you need to avoid running back to your room multiple times.
A beach bag may seem obvious, but it’s easy to overlook when you’re prioritizing outfits and accessories.
Pick one that folds easily into your luggage but is big enough for all your day-at-the-pool items: sunscreen, towels, sunglasses, snacks, etc. Look for one with multiple compartments to stay organized throughout your stay.
11. Electrolyte Packets
Redmond Re-Lyte Hydration Electrolyte Sticks
A refreshing blend of electrolytes, trace minerals, coconut water powder, non-GMO citric acid, and stevia leaf extract along with natural flavors derived primarily from fruit and plants to avoid dehydration.
These are more popular now than when I got married in 2017, but still worth reminding everyone: electrolyte packets are a game-changer.
Between the heat, the cocktails, and all the festivities, dehydration sneaks up fast. If you’re doing welcome bags, include some for your guests — but also encourage them to pack their own. You’ll be amazed how much of a difference they make after a sunny day and a few mimosas.
12. Insect Repellent
Badger Bug Travel Size Insect Repellent
A clean, simple bug spray for the whole family to use in case it’s needed throughout your trip.
If you’re getting married near the beach, jungle, or anywhere tropical — do not forget insect repellent.
Bugs are real, and they will show up. Go for a travel-sized, DEET-free spray or wipes to avoid irritation. Bonus points for citronella-based options that are more natural and smell better too.
Some resorts have repellent included in your bathroom amenities, but don’t count on it.
13. Stain Remover Pen
Badger Bug Travel Size Insect Repellent
A fast acting stain remover you can throw in your wedding day emergency kit. This one can be used on wet and dry clothes and is perfect for on the go.
Now we’re getting into wedding-day-specific items. First up: a stain remover pen.
From champagne spills to makeup smudges, there are endless ways for stains to sneak into your day. This little pen is easy to pack and can totally save the day. Keep one in your bridal emergency kit — and maybe give one to someone in the groomsmen crew too. (Let’s be honest: they’re the most likely to need it.)
14. Sewing Kit
Portable Sewing Kit Essentials
This sewing kit has absolutely everything you’d keep for an emergency, while fitting in the palm of your hand.
Last but definitely not least — a sewing kit.
Buttons pop. Hems rip. A bridesmaid’s strap suddenly decides to fall apart. A small kit with needles, thread, scissors, and safety pins can be a lifesaver. Add in some fashion tape and maybe a couple of bandaids for blisters while you’re at it.
Brides — assign someone in your wedding party to carry this on the big day so you’re not worrying about it, but know exactly where to find it if something comes up.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — 14 destination wedding must haves you may not have considered for your, but absolutely should.
These little additions can make a huge difference in how smooth, fun, and stress-free your trip is. I’ll be linking all the must-haves I mentioned so you can easily find what you need.
If you found this post helpful, feel free to share it with a fellow bride or groom-to-be! And if you have any questions — or need help planning your own destination wedding — I’d love to connect. Happy planning and happy travels!