It seems like all things having to do with weddings are priced at a premium, including honeymoons. There are countless wedding debt horror stories out there that can leave couples feeling like they’re buried under a mountain of debt.
But fear not, savvy wedding planners and budget-minded couples alike! There are plenty of ways to save on your honeymoon without having to skimp on the fun. Here are eight tips for how to slash honeymoon costs:
1: Research honeymoon packages
When it comes to honeymoons, it’s all about getting the best deal. Use sites like TripAdvisor or Google Reviews to compare prices and amenities for different resorts or hotels and see which offers you the best value.
2: Plan your honeymoon around “low-season” times
Honeymoons can be expensive no matter what, but they can be incredibly pricey during high season. Consider visiting a tropical locale during a low-season month like January or February, when resorts may be half-price.
3: Book your honeymoon through an insider
If you want to get the best deal on your honeymoon, you need to know where to look. Many travel agents are familiar with exclusive deals and discounts that honeymooners can enjoy.
4: Book your hotel room early and consider non-refundable options
Honeymooners are notorious for chasing deals and booking rooms late, but this can actually cost you in the long run. Hotels often charge a higher rate for rooms that are not yet booked. It’s worth it to book your room as soon as you have a definite idea of where you’ll be staying.
Also, look into non-refundable options, as they’re typically cheaper. Granted, you’ll need to ensure you’re able to make it, but if you’re willing to take the risk, you could save a lot of money.
5: Take advantage of freebies and deals
Many resorts offer honeymooners complimentary breakfast, accommodations, or other special offers. Check with the resort before your trip to see if they offer any sweet deals.
6: Remember that taxes and fees are sometimes included
Most resorts include all applicable taxes and fees in the price of your stay, so don’t forget to add those to your total cost when budgeting so that you don’t end up going over your projected costs.
7: Plan on bringing cash
Consider setting a hard budget for your trip and bringing the majority of it in cash so it’ll be more difficult to overspend. Many couples expect to put most of their honeymoon costs on a credit card, but this can backfire for those on a budget. If you’re concerned about carrying a significant amount of cash, consider traveler checks or taking a prepaid card instead, both of which can be replaced if stolen or lost.
8: Ask for contributions as a wedding gift
Many couples decide to skip the registry altogether and ask their friends and family to contribute towards the cost of the honeymoon instead. This can be a great way to get everyone on board with your budget-mindedness and save some cash.
The bottom line
With honeymoon costs at an all-time high, it’s critical to do everything you can to save money. By following these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy a luxurious honeymoon at a fraction of the cost.