How to Pack for a Destination Wedding Without Checking a Bag

You’re thrilled to be on the guest list for a destination wedding—until you begin considering how to pack for the joyous occasion. While you could easily overstuff (and check) a suitcase, sometimes it’s not worth the stress of wondering if this will be the time your bag gets lost in transit. Instead, a capsule wardrobe in a carry-on eliminates this risk and avoids a long wait at the baggage carousel—giving you more time to take in the destination. Here are some wedding packing list secrets to cut down the clutter in your carry-on while still meeting the big event’s dress code.

Figure out what events you’ll be attending

Formal dinner or fun night out with the girls? Knowing your itinerary will help you narrow down your choices.

In addition to the actual wedding, check with the couple (or their website) in advance to find out what other activities are planned. The fewer the activities, the fewer outfits you’ll need for your wedding packing list. It’s also good to know if you’ll be expected to attend informal events that require a casual or special outfit, like a beach luau welcome party.

Pack delicates in cubes instead of compression bags

A compression bag with difficult-to-see clothing could be flagged by TSA. Save yourself the embarrassment of an agent opening up a compressed bag of your underthings by using a packing cube to organize these items instead.

Get two outfits in one

Consider dressing up instead of down for the flight—it’ll save you space in the long run.

If you’ll be wearing a suit, build your weekend wardrobe around its fabric color. Bring two shirts—one in white, another in a coordinating color—and you’ll already have two full outfits. Women who are opting for separates can do the same thing for their wedding packing list by bringing two tops in coordinating colors to wear with a single pair of pants or a skirt. You’ll get extra mileage if you choose a shirt or top in a solid color, which is less memorable than bold prints.

Wear your suit (or separates) on the flight

Why pack when you can rent? Sometimes the best ensembles are found outside your closet (and beyond any luggage)!

You’ll free up carry-on space by wearing bulkier items, instead of your usual airport ensemble of relaxed clothes, which take up less space when folded. Though it won’t be as comfortable as the latter, the nicer ensemble might get you an upgrade—you never know.

Stick to two pairs of shoes

For women, this will likely mean a flat (or sandal) and a pair of heels. Men may be able to get away with bringing only their nicest shoes, but a second pair might be a welcomed option for your wedding packing list depending on the destination and activities planned. Wear the bulkier pair to the airport to save space in your bag.

Choose lightweight fabrics

Tropical-weight wools, shantung, linen and other heavier fabrics take up more space when folded than fabrics like jersey, silk and chiffon. Like separates, solid-colored dresses are more versatile because they’re less noticeable—a few accessories will turn it into a whole new outfit. Your wedding packing list should include two dresses along with a light scarf or shawl, a lightweight cardigan and a necklace or two to help maximize your outfit options.

Pay for priority boarding, if your airline offers it

It’s a worthy expense if you’re in one of the last boarding groups, and it’s often less than the cost of a checked bag. Priority boarding will get you first access to the overhead bins before they become packed with other people’s carry-ons, ensuring you won’t be forced to check your bag.

Consider renting your weekend wardrobe

Subscription rental clothing services like Le Tote or Rent the Runway will send outfits to you for a flat fee. You can have your clothes sent to your hotel in advance or sent to you beforehand and add them to your wedding packing list as you would your own wardrobe. If you go this route, remember your return envelope and send the outfits back on the last day of your trip.

Opt for sample size

Cosmetics, lotions and styling products can take up a surprising amount of space. You don’t need full-size bottles and palettes for two or three days’ worth of looks. Instead, pick up sample- or travel-size makeup available at stores like Sephora or Ulta. Leave your hair products at home—you can always pick up hair spray and other styling products for cheap at your destination and then ditch them before your return. Leave bulky styling tools at home and use the hotel room’s hair dryer.

Ready to travel to a destination wedding? Find a nearby hotel.