Everybody knows that weddings are expensive, far more expensive than anyone expects, and the same problem applies to honeymoons. The difference is that though you may get help paying for the wedding, chances are no one is going to offer to pay for your honeymoon. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to cut costs that still allow you to have the honeymoon of your dreams without worrying about how you’re going to pay for it.
Budget first and plan ahead
The last thing you want to do is start your new life swamped in debt, so before you make any plans at all, know how much you can afford. When you do start planning, remember there are many incidental costs involved in a trip – everything from extra charges for baggage on airlines to taxi fares to tips – that can easily be forgotten in the budgeting process. Allow for all possible costs and plan accordingly.
Pick a less popular or unusual destination
Places like Hawaii, Jamaica, or Paris may sound perfect as romantic getaways, but that perfection comes with a price. Consider other destinations: out-of-the-way resorts in Mexico or Central and South America can provide as much luxury and beauty as any place in Hawaii or the Caribbean, and at a far lower cost. If you’re determined on Europe, there are any number of places that share the allure of Paris at a far lower price: consider the south of France instead, or Spain or Portugal.
Travel off-season
The weather may not be as good, but off-season airfare and hotel rates can save you a huge amount of money, with the added advantage that wherever you go will be less crowded and feel more relaxed. Even if you want to be traditional and have your wedding in June, there’s no reason you need to take your honeymoon immediately afterwards.
Drive and camp
The two biggest costs for your honeymoon are travel and accommodations. Though inexpensive airline fares and reduced hotel rates can be found, the costs can still add up fast. If you’re not put off by the idea of driving yourself and spending a few nights roughing it, you can have as romantic a time out on the road as you would in a five-star hotel. Road tripping also gives you the advantage of impulse: instead of being tied into a particular travel itinerary, you can swerve off in another direction entirely, and add a bit of romantic adventure to your honeymoon.
Make someone else pay for it
It may sound crass, but since you’re probably already registered and telling people what you want as a wedding present, why not include parts of your honeymoon as well? You can register for special activities, restaurants, spas, and any number of honeymoon related items. If you have a friend or family member who travels on a regular basis and is loaded down with frequent flyer miles, you might be able to transfer some to purchase your tickets or upgrade to first class.
Don’t be shy
When you’re making arrangements for travel and hotels, and once you’ve reached your destination, make sure everybody knows that you’re on your honeymoon—and that means everybody from the concierge at your hotel and maitre d’s to taxi drivers and doormen. Many hotels offer discounts or free room upgrades to honeymooning couples, along with extras like champagne and gift baskets. Restaurants may offer discounts and freebies as well. If you make reservations ahead of time and let them know you’re honeymooning, you’re almost guaranteed to get a better table. At the very least, people will be friendlier if they know you’re on your honeymoon, and if you can stand the knowing look and winks, that’s guaranteed to make your trip more pleasant.
Heather Johnson is a writer for Honeymoon Destinations, the leading online honeymoon planning resource. Learn all about the best honeymoon destinations today!