You’ve tied the knot, tossed the bouquet, and danced the night away—now it’s time for the icing on the (wedding) cake: your honeymoon. Whether you’re jetting off to a chic city escape, a sun-drenched island, or an off-the-grid adventure, planning the perfect honeymoon is a whole vibe—and it’s not something you want to wing last-minute.

At Destination I Do, we’ve seen every kind of honeymoon imaginable. From overwater bungalows in Bora Bora to a grand adventure to Antarctica, one thing is clear: the more prepared you are, the smoother (and more magical) the journey will be.

Here are five things you need to know before jetsetting on your honeymoon.

Photo by zstockphotos

1. Start Planning Early—Like, Earlier Than You Think

We get it. Between vendor meetings, dress fittings and all the auxiliary wedding events, your calendar’s packed. But don’t let your honeymoon become an afterthought. Booking early means better flight options, more availability at your dream resort, and time to snag honeymoon perks. Destinations like Santorini, the Maldives, or Tulum fill up fast—especially during peak wedding months.

Pro Tip: Many resorts offer honeymoon packages with sweet extras like couple’s massages or sunset dinners—make sure to ask before booking.

2. Think Beyond the Beach

Yes, we all love a toes-in-the-sand moment, but your honeymoon should reflect you as a couple. Are you foodies? Head to Tokyo or Mexico City. Adventurers? Try a safari in South Africa or glacier hiking in Iceland. Prefer slow mornings and wine country strolls? Think Tuscany or Sonoma.

Photo by Aleksandar Nakic from Getty Images Signature

3. Pack Smart—Not Just Stylish

This isn’t your average getaway, so pack like a pro. Think multi-functional outfits, swimwear that doubles as loungewear, and a few elevated looks for date nights. Don’t forget essentials like adaptors, sunscreen (reef-safe if you’re headed somewhere tropical), and any travel-size skincare that’ll keep your post-wedding glow going.

Pro Tip: Planning to honeymoon in a bustling city like Tokyo or Paris? You’ll want to be sure to pack a set of earplugs and an eye mask to ensure you get the best quality sleep and feel recharged for your adventuring. We recommend the CleanBamboo® Sateen Eye Mask by Ettitude! Also great for long/overnight flights, the Sateen Eye Mask is not only the most luxurious feeling fabric ever, but it’s also filled with plush, recycled water bottle (PET) material to create an eco-friendly product!

4. Leave Room for Downtime

It’s tempting to fill every moment with sightseeing and romantic dinners, but trust us, you’ll want space to rest. Weddings—especially destination ones—can be go-go-go. Give yourselves permission to sleep in, order room service, or simply do nothing together. 

Photo courtesy of Suzy and Juan

5. Expect the Unexpected (and Embrace It)

Even the best-laid plans can hit a bump—delayed flights, a forgotten charger, or unexpected weather. But that’s part of the adventure. Pack a good attitude, stay flexible, and remember: your honeymoon is about connection, not perfection.

Bonus Tip: Don’t Let Travel Documents Delay Your Honeymoon

You’ve planned the perfect escape—don’t let paperwork get in the way of your first big adventure as newlyweds. ItsEasy.com is the honeymooner’s secret weapon for stress-free travel documentation. Their award-winning ItsEasy Passport Renewal & Photo App makes renewing a passport a breeze, letting you take your own compliant photo and complete your application—without leaving your house.

Headed somewhere exotic like Egypt or Tanzania? David Alwadish, the founder & CEO of ItsEasy’s says their TripBuilder tool walks you through exactly what kind of visa you need and how to get it, whether it’s an e-visa or a traditional application. It’s perfect for couples who want to focus on sipping cocktails or planning excursions, not deciphering government forms.

And if you’re taking your spouse’s last name, be aware, Alwadish reminds us. Your passport needs to match your airline ticket and other IDs. ItsEasy.com guides you through the name-change process step-by-step, ensuring your documents are legally correct and accepted at every border.

Your honeymoon is more than a reward for wedding planning—it’s your launchpad into married life. With a little forethought and a sense of adventure, it can be the unforgettable, soul-filling experience you’ve both been dreaming of.

Featured Image by Aleksandar Nakic from Getty Images Signature