May
From Plane to Party in One Bag
Attending a destination wedding sounds like a dream—until you try to fit everything you need into a single carry-on. Between beach days, group dinners, and the wedding itself, you’ll want to be prepared without overstuffing your suitcase. The key is to pack versatile, lightweight pieces that can do double duty while keeping you polished for every moment.
Pack for the Itinerary, Not Just the Ceremony
Before you even open your suitcase, get a clear idea of the full wedding itinerary. Will there be welcome drinks, a beach day, a rehearsal dinner, or a morning-after brunch? Many destination weddings come with a full weekend (or longer) of events, and understanding the schedule helps you pack intentionally. A few outfits can go a long way if planned well.
Hoodies
Beanies
Choose a Color Palette That Works Together
Pick 2–3 complementary colors that you can mix and match easily. Neutrals like ivory, tan, or navy work well, and adding one standout color lets you layer in personality without packing too many statement pieces. This trick makes it easier to repeat shoes and accessories without looking repetitive.
Lean Into Lightweight Fabrics
When packing for warm destinations, focus on breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, and lightweight silk. Not only do these materials take up less space in your bag, but they also transition well from day to night. A linen midi dress can work as a beach cover-up by day and a dinner outfit by night with a belt and earrings.
Hoodies
Beanies
Rely on Multi-Use Footwear
Shoes take up more space than anything else in your luggage. Instead of packing different pairs for every event, bring two pairs that can multitask: a stylish sandal that works for both casual outings and dressier dinners, and one pair of low-profile sneakers or espadrilles for walking and exploring. If the wedding is formal, opt for a neutral block heel that can work with more than one dress.
Plan One Wedding Guest Look and Build Around It
Start with your main wedding outfit and plan everything else around that. If you’re wearing a statement dress, keep other pieces more subtle. If your wedding look is simple, you can get more creative with accessories elsewhere. Stick with fabrics that resist wrinkles and pack it in a garment bag if needed.
Hoodies
Beanies
Accessories Make the Outfit
Lightweight accessories—like layered necklaces, a bold earring, or a colorful scarf—can instantly change the tone of your outfit. A scarf can work as a shawl during a chilly evening, or even double as a beach wrap. One or two great accessories go further than five outfit changes.
Stick With One Versatile Bag
You don’t need a bag for every outfit. Bring a single medium-sized bag that works for the plane, daytime sightseeing, and casual dinners. For the wedding itself, a small clutch or crossbody that tucks easily into your suitcase is more than enough.
Hoodies
Beanies
Don’t Forget What Matters Most
At the end of the day, a destination wedding isn’t a fashion show—it’s about celebrating someone you love. Pack what makes you feel comfortable and confident, and don’t stress if you wear the same outfit more than once. No one is keeping track, and your hosts would rather you show up relaxed than overloaded with luggage.
