Tips for Planning an Affordable Honeymoon

29 Jun Tips for Planning an Affordable Honeymoon

Your honeymoon should be a once in a lifetime trip for you and your new spouse. Unfortunately the cost of your dream trip may be intimidating. Follow these tips planning an Affordable Honeymoon.

1. Make a plan & set priorities

When we first meet with clients, we recommend you sit down to discuss priorities for your honeymoon. Create a list of must-see and must-do activities and use this list to create an initial budget. This will be your guideline throughout the planning stage.

2. Travel Agents can help you plan an Affordable Honeymoon

As travel agents, we have access to exclusive wedding packages that you will not find online or directly through a hotel. In addition, the relationships that travel agents have with hotels can earn you free perks such as a room upgrade or couples massage. Not only will travel agents save you money, they are also your first point of contact if any issues should arise.

3. Weigh your options

After you set your priorities, Travel+Leisure suggests that you list several options at varying costs that fit your budget. A travel agent can help you narrow down and compare these options.

4. Be realistic

Be aware that you will have at least some out of pocket expenses on your trip, even if you are staying at an All-Inclusive. Factor in every expense you might incur from the cab to the airport to the extra tip for a helpful staff member at your resort. Include an estimate of these expenses in your initial budget for your Affordable Honeymoon.

5. Beware of Hidden Fees

Hidden fees and unknown deposits can blindside travelers that are not prepared. If booking your Affordable Honeymoon through a travel agency, they should be aware of all fees and deposits you will encounter. If you are booking any portion on your own, it is wise to call the hotel, airline, and transportation service prior to arriving in destination to make yourself aware of hidden costs.

6. Look out for free stuff and discounts

Ask about free perks and discounts upfront – whether to your travel agent or directly to the hotel or airline. If you are staying at an All-Inclusive resort, check what is included with your package. Some resorts offer motorized sports, resort credits for off-property excursions, or specialty classes such as mixology or yoga. Be aware of what is included in each of your narrowed-down options in order to make an educated decision on your Affordable Honeymoon.

7. Take advantage of your newlywed status

Tell everyone you meet that you are on your honeymoon! Most restaurants and resorts will indulge you and offer free stuff such as a bottle of champagne or the table with the best view. Some car companies in Hawaii offer a free convertible upgrade for honeymooners. All you have to do is ask!

8. Consider a honeymoon registry

A honeymoon registry allows your wedding guests to gift you with activities and upgrades for your honeymoon, such as a candlelit dinner or couples massage. Many travel agencies offer this service free of charge, and several websites are also available that you can set up on your own for free.

9. Choose an Off-Season Destination

Choose a destination whose off-season or shoulder-season (the period right before and after high season) coincides with your travel dates. This will offer you discounted prices and less crowds. It is not true that off-season always entails bad weather. Many Caribbean destinations have warm temperatures year-round, but their demand skyrockets from January to April as tourists wish to escape the winter blues. This cannot be said about all destinations you may be considering, however. Many locations do experience scorching heat or bitter cold during their off-season, so be sure to do your research. Once again, a travel agent can help you with this.

10. Consider Alternate Airports

If you live in an area with a few nearby airports to choose from, be sure to compare prices between them. It may be worth driving a farther distance if it means saving a significant amount of money. Prices vary greatly depending on the size of the airport and the airlines that fly there. Let your travel agent know that you are open to alternate airports so they can compare these for you.