The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Honeymoon

Last modified on 6/20/25

Planning your honeymoon is one of the best parts of the wedding journey. It’s a chance to dream up the perfect post-wedding escape. Whether you’re picturing total relaxation, nonstop adventure, or a mix of both, your honeymoon deserves thoughtful planning. Here’s your step-by-step guide, plus a clear timeline to keep you on track and stress-free.

12 Months Before: Dream and Decide on a Budget

Brainstorm Your Ideal Honeymoon Destination

Start talking with your partner about what your dream honeymoon looks like. Are you craving a peaceful beach, an adrenaline-filled adventure, or exploring a culture-rich city? Now’s the time to daydream and scroll through Pinterest or TikTok together to see what sparks excitement. Take your shared bucket list and use it as a launching point. What places have you always wanted to visit? This is your chance.

Ready to turn those dreams into plans? Start a free Honeyfund and let your guests help send you there.

Set a Realistic Budget

Decide on a general price range for your honeymoon, including flights, hotels, meals, activities, tips, and extras like souvenirs. Be honest about what you’re comfortable spending—and remember, guests might pitch in via Honeyfund.

Pro tip: This is a great time to look into travel credit cards with perks like welcome bonuses, flight points, or hotel upgrades. Just make sure you understand the terms before applying.

9–10 Months Before: Research and Narrow Down Options

Research Destinations and Compare Seasons

Start comparing destinations based on seasonality and weather. Some locations have rainy or off-seasons, while others shine in shoulder months. Also look into honeymoon packages since many resorts and tour companies offer bundled deals that include activities, meals, and even perks for newlyweds, which can save money and time.

Check Passport and Visa Requirements

Going international? Make sure your passport isn’t about to expire (renew if it’s within six months). Check if your destination requires a visa or specific vaccinations. This stuff takes time so don’t leave it for the last minute.

6–8 Months Before: Book Your Big-Ticket Items

Lock in Flights and Accommodations

Now that you’ve picked a destination and timeframe, book flights and accommodations. Popular honeymoon spots can fill up fast, especially in peak seasons. Early booking can also mean better prices and more options like ocean-view suites or boutique stays.

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Set Up Your Honeyfund

Haven’t created your Honeyfund yet? Do it now so guests can start gifting your dream experiences like flights and couples’ massages or even sunset dinners and zipline tours.

4–5 Months Before: Plan Your Itinerary

Create a Rough Itinerary of Activities

Sketch out what you want to do. Mix in excursions (think food tours or snorkeling) with down days to unwind. A balanced plan lets you explore without burning out.

Check for Any Special Requirements

Book in advance for popular or limited activities. Some things like scuba diving, cooking classes, or spa services sell out. Permits or licenses may be required for certain adventures.

2–3 Months Before: Book Essentials and Finalize Details

Book Transportation and Dining Reservations

Depending on your itinerary, you may need a rental car, local train passes, or airport transfers. If you have your heart set on a fancy dinner or a hard-to-get reservation, book it now.

Look Into Travel Insurance

A smart move, especially for international travel. Travel insurance can cover flight cancellations, lost luggage, or unexpected medical issues just in case.

Check Your Travel Documents

Print and/or save digital copies of all key confirmations: flights, hotels, tours, insurance, and IDs.

1 Month Before: Pack and Prepare

Make a Packing List

Think climate, activities, and romantic extras (a dress for a beach dinner or hiking shoes for a mountain trek). Don’t forget chargers, toiletries, sunscreen, and any prescriptions.

Confirm All Reservations

Double-check your bookings. It’s also worth calling your hotel to let them know you’re honeymooners. Many places will offer surprise upgrades or treats just because!

Check Your Registry

If guests are still shopping, don’t forget to update Your Honeyfund so they have plenty to choose from.

1 Week Before: Final Touches

Prepare Your Travel Documents and Finances

Make sure you have everything: passport, IDs, boarding passes, confirmations. Let your bank know you’re traveling. Carry a backup card and a bit of local currency if needed.

Pack Your Bags and Essentials

Start packing 3–4 days before your trip to avoid the night-before scramble. Bring snacks, a comfy travel outfit, headphones, and any carry-on essentials you need for the flight.

Honeymoon Day: Bon Voyage!

You made it. Board that plane, toast to married life, and soak in the experience. You earned this.

Pro tip: Share your adventure and show your guests how their gifts made it all happen. Include photos of what experiences your guests contributed to with your thank you notes!