What to bring, what to skip, and how to avoid wedding-week packing disasters—especially if you're the couple getting married.
Packing for a destination wedding isn’t like packing for a vacation. When you’re the couple getting married, the stakes are higher. Forgetting your toothbrush? Mild inconvenience. Forgetting your marriage licence or wedding rings? Game over.
This guide is designed specifically for Canadian couples. Whether you’re tying the knot in Mexico, Jamaica, the Dominican, or Turks & Caicos, here’s exactly how to pack for a stress-free wedding week.
Start With the Essentials: Documents and Day-Of Must-Haves
Before you even think about flip-flops or fancy dinners, pack the non-negotiables.
In Your Carry-On (Never in Checked Baggage):
- Valid passports (check expiration dates now)
- Travel visas (if required)
- Printed itinerary with flight, hotel, and resort info
- Marriage documents (especially for a legal ceremony abroad — see how to make it official)
- Wedding rings
- Wedding attire (dress, suit, veil, etc.)
- Medications
- Electronics, jewelry, and sentimental items
Pro Tip: Many airlines allow you to carry delicate wedding garments onboard. Call ahead to ask about garment bag storage or overhead space.
Clothing and Wedding Week Outfits
If your celebration includes multiple events, plan ahead with designated outfits for each.
Pack:
- Welcome dinner outfit
- Poolside/resort wear
- Rehearsal dinner attire
- Getting-ready loungewear or robes
- Comfortable walking/dancing shoes
- One “just-in-case” backup outfit (formal or semi-formal)
For the Wedding Day:
- Undergarments suited to your outfit (strapless, shapewear, etc.)
- Fashion tape, extra socks or tights, steamer or wrinkle-release spray
- Small sewing kit and safety pins
Pro Tip: If you’re changing outfits for the reception, pack both in the same garment bag with clear labels.
Beauty, Grooming, and Wedding Accessories
Even if you’re using resort hair and makeup services, some things are better brought from home.
- Waterproof mascara and blotting papers
- Sunscreen and after-sun gel
- Hair accessories, ties, pins
- Fragrance (a spritz on your vow book or bouquet = great photo moment)
- Razor, tweezers, nail clippers, mini lint roller
- For grooms: beard oil, cufflinks, belt/suspenders, polish wipes for shoes
Vendor Materials and Keepsakes
If you’re working with a photography from home they’ll love you for bringing:
- Flat lay items: rings, invitations, vow books, heirlooms
- Tip envelopes for vendors or resort staff
- Favour bags or welcome gifts (if DIY’d at home)
- Signage or small décor that isn’t available at the resort
Related: Why You Should Bring Your Canadian Wedding Photographer
Gear You Might Not Think About (But Should)
- Power adapters (especially for Europe or older resorts)
- Mini first aid kit
- Portable speaker for getting ready
- Umbrella or parasol (for shade or surprise showers)
- Portable steamer or wrinkle-release spray
- Printed backup of your wedding day timeline
Related: Destination Wedding Timelines: How They Differ and How to Plan Yours Right
Final Packing Tips for Canadian Destination Weddings
- Check airline rules for baggage limits—WestJet, Air Canada Rouge, and Sunwing can be strict
- Don’t overpack—leave room for gifts, keepsakes, and resort swag
- Use a packing checklist (print and digital) to track everything
- Assign a packing buddy to help double-check must-haves
- Start early—don’t leave it to the day before you fly. Between guests, nerves, and final tasks, you won’t have time