Planning a wedding is usually a joyous adventure, and organizing your perfect honeymoon is the delightful cherry on top. This unique time is meant for you and your new spouse to enjoy each other’s company without worrying about wedding details like invitations, outfits, or decorations. It’s all about the two of you in a romantic setting.
However, with weddings often straining finances, honeymoons can end up as an afterthought. Considering the average honeymoon costs around $5,000 for a week, affording a lavish trip might seem tough right after paying for a wedding.
But don’t give up on your dream honeymoon just yet. With some careful planning, you can pull off an amazing wedding and honeymoon. Here’s how:
### Ask for Honeymoon Donations
Instead of traditional wedding gifts, why not ask your guests to contribute to your honeymoon fund? Many people already give cash as wedding presents, but if everyone chipped in for your honeymoon, it could significantly ease your expenses for flights, accommodations, meals, and activities. When you send out your wedding invitations, let guests know you’re more interested in funding your honeymoon than receiving physical gifts. You can provide a PayPal link for donations or accept contributions at the wedding itself. This also means less to carry home after the big day!
### Cut Wedding Costs
Another way to afford a great honeymoon is by trimming your wedding expenses. Sit down with your partner and decide what’s most important for your day. Could you cut back on flower arrangements? Do you need a designer dress, or could a simpler one do? Is hiring a wedding planner essential?
For example, we saved a lot by choosing a Sunday wedding and forgoing an open bar. Small changes like these can save you thousands, which can be redirected to your honeymoon budget. Guests often won’t notice these adjustments, and they can help you afford your desired trip.
### Use Credit Card Rewards
If you have rewards-based credit cards, use your points or cashback to cover your honeymoon expenses. My partner and I did this by getting two specific reward cards—one linked to an airline and another to a hotel chain. We used the cards for wedding expenses and daily purchases, always paying off the balance in full each month. Soon, we had enough points for a week-long, all-inclusive stay in Jamaica, costing only $400 in total. This method isn’t for everyone, especially if you have credit card debt or poor credit history, but it can be a smart way to fund your trip if used responsibly.
### Delay the Honeymoon
Finally, consider postponing your honeymoon to allow more time to save. While it might be tempting to go right after your wedding, waiting a few months or even a year can make it more affordable. This delay lets you plan and budget more effectively, potentially for your first anniversary. Look for cost-saving options such as Airbnb for accommodation, avoid major airlines, or travel during off-peak seasons to save money.
Don’t let finances stop you from having a fantastic honeymoon. Plan early and use these strategies to make your dream trip a reality. What steps are you taking to afford your dream honeymoon, and where do you want to go?