A 6-Month Timeline to Plan Your Honeymoon

This updated six-month honeymoon timeline walks you through budget setting, destination and lodging research, booking flights and insurance, securing passports and vaccinations, and final logistics. It emphasizes checking official sources - U.S. Department of State, CDC, and airline/TSA rules - booking refundable or insured options when possible, and preparing documents and packing lists so you can relax on departure.

Plan your honeymoon on a schedule

Your wedding day is one milestone - your honeymoon is the first trip you'll take as a married couple. Planning it in stages reduces stress and keeps costs down. Below is a practical six-month timeline with current, reliable actions you can take.

6 months out - set the budget and research options

Define how much you want to spend and who will contribute. Look for travel budget worksheets and sign up for airline and hotel newsletters to spot deals. Decide whether a honeymoon registry (for example, Honeyfund or registry services offered by wedding sites) makes sense for you.

Consider whether you want an all-inclusive resort, an adventure trip, or a city break. Early research narrows choices and helps you plan bookings that save money.

5 months out - pick destinations and lodging

Compare destinations by season and weather. Use trusted travel lists (travel publications, national tourism sites) and read recent traveler reviews. Evaluate lodging types - boutique hotels, resorts, vacation rentals - and check cancellation policies and guest reviews.

If you plan to travel internationally, check entry requirements and advisories from the U.S. Department of State.

4 months out - book key items and buy insurance

Book flights and primary accommodations. Consider travel insurance that covers cancellations, medical evacuation, and unexpected interruptions - buy it when you make nonrefundable purchases.

If you're working with a travel agent, confirm their fees and what they handle (reservations, tours, visas). Agents can save time for complex itineraries.

3 months out - documents, health, and passports

Apply for or renew passports now if needed - many countries require at least six months of passport validity beyond your travel dates. For international travel, check visa rules and entry requirements (U.S. Department of State). Consult CDC Travelers' Health for recommended vaccines and health advice.

2 months out - logistics and packing prep

Review airline baggage and carry-on limits with your carrier and TSA rules. Buy luggage and travel accessories that match your itinerary. Create a packing list prioritizing essentials: medications, travel documents, chargers, and any required prescriptions or contraceptives.

Arrange pet care, hold mail, and confirm time off work.

1 month out - confirm, copy, and relax

Confirm all reservations and download confirmations and e-tickets. Make digital and paper copies of passports, IDs, and insurance policies, and store them separately from originals. Check weather forecasts and finalize your wardrobe.

On departure day, arrive early, carry important documents in your carry-on, and give yourself time to enjoy the trip - your preparation should let you relax and focus on each other.