When people talk about the average cost of weddings being $30,000, many brides- and grooms-to-be forget that this figure includes not only the ceremony, reception, accessories, bridal gown, and other day-of supplies, but also travel expenses, the engagement ring, wedding bands, and the honeymoon. In fact, that last item -- the honeymoon -- can add thousands of dollars to the cost of an otherwise reasonably priced wedding.If you are lucky enough to have well-off in-laws or parents who are footing the bill, yay! Your dream vacation awaits! But if you are paying for all or part of your own honeymoon, you may just be interested in saving a little money without compromising your trip. Here are some honeymoon planning tips that can help you do just that:
- Set a budget for your honeymoon just like you did for your wedding. Once you know where you want to go, determine how much you have to spend. Keep every possible expense in mind, from hotel costs to meals to all forms of transportation to entertainment. If you love to shop, set aside some money for presents for you and your new spouse, but don't go overboard. Put your budget in writing...and remind yourself of what you are saving for, like a house or new car.
- Your honeymoon is an important event, and you may not be qualified to plan it yourself even if you are a whiz with Expedia. Talk to one or more travel agents to see if any can get you some sweet deals. They may have access to all inclusive packages that are not available to the general public. Tell your agent what you're hoping for and what you have to spend, and then listen to their suggestions.
- If you're not married (ahem) to the idea of traveling right after the wedding, consider traveling in the off season. That's not an option? Then look for flights on weekdays instead of flights on weekends, which are often more expensive. Red eye flights are a hassle, but taking them can save you a bundle of cash, and the airport will more than likely be less crowded. Bonus!
- Splurge a little -- it's your honeymoon -- to avoid splurging a lot. If you deny yourself every luxury hoping to save that much more money, you may just end up snapping and spending yourself into debt. Choose one or two special activities or gifts that you normally wouldn't splurge on and enjoy them to the fullest. You won't blow your budget, but you'll remember your honeymoon as extra special.
- When packing for your honeymoon, think about packing some romantic items like candles, massage oil and some new lingerie. That way, you won't have to buy them when you get to your destination. Everything in tourist towns tends to be expensive, so bring what you can from home.
- That said, give yourself plenty of time to pack so you don't forget anything vital and end up having to buy it from the pricey little shop across from your hotel. Make a list of all the items that you'll need. Anything that you forget, such as suntan lotion, aspirin, toothpaste will always cost more to purchase at your destination.
- Take advantage of hotel freebies whenever you can. Many resorts pamper newlyweds, giving them free champagne, free meals, gift baskets, upgrades and other little treats, but this is dependent on your letting the concierge that you're a new wife. When making reservations for your honeymoon, let your hotel, resort or cruise line know that you are newlyweds.
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