With all the excitement of picking out the perfect dress, securing a venue, finding the best photographer and making sure every detail is taken care of, it’s hard to remember to factor the big event AFTER the wedding— your honeymoon, into your budget. According to a Conde Nast Bridal Infobank survey, couples today spend an average of $5111 (USD) on their honeymoon, which means it should definitely be accounted for. Here are some hints for lowering your honeymoon bill without compromising what will be the most memorable trip you take as a couple.
Book in advance
It may seem like you are planning backwards, but it’s good idea to start making a decision about your honeymoon destination as soon as you get engaged. Not only will this ensure that you don’t get shut out of your choice hotels and experiences, but you will also be able to find some great deals earlier out. On the flip side, the second best time to land travel deals are last minute. If you are a chronic procrastinator, this tactic may work in your favor. As the time for your trip grows closer, and resorts still have rooms available, they may lower their rates to fill the space rather than let them go unoccupied. Just keep in mind that the longer you wait, the more limited your options will be. [divider]
Register your honeymoon
If you are a couple who already own their own dishes, blenders and other typical registry items, you may want to consider registering in a new and different way. Rather than be limited by tangible items, brides and grooms now have the opportunity to register for trips and experiences. Give your guests the option of sponsoring part of your hotel costs, a spa treatment, an upgrade to first class on your flights, or dinner at a highly rated restaurant. Sites like knackregistry and honeyluna are great sites to let your guests know what is on your wish list. Suddenly a trip that you thought was out of your league is now a reality.[divider]
Photo by Duane Storey
Go All-Inclusive
When you are honeymooning, you want to be completely carefree and for the champagne to flow freely. You can avoid the potential stress of overspending by paying everything up front. From accommodations to meals, drinks and entertainment, you will be free to indulge to the fullest extent without worrying about a bill waiting for you when you get home. Some all-inclusives do not include alcohol and/or excursions, but may offer them as an add-on for an additional fee. Make sure to research and find the package that most suits you so there are no surprises when you arrive. [divider]
Stay close to home
The cost to fly— especially overseas, can account for half of your honeymoon expenses. Save on travel by opting for a location that you can reach by driving. Explore your home or neighboring city or perhaps take a fun road trip with several stops along the way. Find the nearest shore or lake and check out activities that are offered around the area. Keep in mind that if you go to a typical honeymoon destination, you will be one couple among many. Choose a destination off the beaten path, and you will be treated by hotel staff, restaurants, etc who will be excited to have newlyweds among them. Staying close to home also means that you can repurpose the money you save on travel expenses for a longer stay or upgraded accommodations. [divider]
Spread the love
There is no rule that says that a honeymoon must be taken immediately after the wedding. Many couples have been putting a modern twist on this old tradition by taking a few “mini-moons” or smaller, shorter trips instead of one grandiose vacation. This trend is great for couples with many interests— it could mean relaxing in a luxurious beachfront resort for one trip followed by a rock-climbing adventure for the next. By splitting up your trips, you will be able to put away some money between the two, rather than having to pay one larger bill all at once. [divider]
Don’t forget to check out the other great tips in our money saving series!
