Packing is always a daunting process. Even though it is regarded as fun as you are packing for a nice trip that you probably cannot wait for, there is that thing about packing that makes us just a bit nervous. This is especially important if we tend to forget things at home or make packing mistakes that we realize once we arrive at a certain destination. When it comes to honeymoon packing, though, we have to bring our best game. This trip is probably one of the most important trips that we will ever make, so in order not to forget anything and make the most out of this trip, you need to have a certain checklist that you will make several days (or even weeks) before your trip. Take a look at the five biggest honeymoon (packing) mistakes that LGBT couples make, so that you don’t:
Finding a bad destination
This might not have anything to do with packing whatsoever, but it is definitely one of the biggest LGBT honeymoon mistakes there are. LGBT couples can travel most of the world, yes, but they can certainly find themselves in a country that is not entirely LGBT-friendly. For example, if you want to celebrate your LGBT honeymoon and you want to do it with style, make sure to stay away from countries such as Russia (which banned Pride Parade for the next 100 years and where violence towards homosexuals is not frowned upon), or certain African countries such as Nigeria, Senegal, Uganda or Ghana. You can travel there if you want to, of course, but you will have to go back in the closet for the duration of your honeymoon, which might not be exactly what you want out of this trip. This is why you should always go for safe options, such as Sydney, for example, which is a great LGBT honeymoon destination, Europe or New York City.
Not packing all the queer essentials
However, if you opt for a good destination, then you might want to pack all the queerest things that you want. Since you are married, you will probably want to leave your latex pants at home (unless that is what you and your spouse really want). But, one of the most common essentials for queer people that is slowly and slowly becoming a bigger part of their routine is the makeup. This, however, does not only include the foundation or the concealer that many use, but mascara, eye shadow, eyeliner, or any other products that many LGBT people use nowadays. For each of these, you probably have your favorite brand, and it might be a bit difficult or perhaps even expensive to buy at your new location. Opting to buy mascara online or finding an eyeliner that is very similar to the one that you use and having it delivered to your hotel is a great ideal. This is how you will save time on going shopping and you will get everything that you need. And we all know how good-looking we want to be on our honeymoon.
Forgetting the documents
This is not only important for the LGBT honeymoons, but for all of them – and it is so important that we simply have to include it in this list. You cannot forget important documents such as the passports, the IDs, the accommodation confirmation and the plane tickets. These are the documents that you should prepare beforehand – put them on your desk or your table just to make sure you do not forget them. Also, do not forget to bring your money and your card.
Not planning the activities
Even though it is your honeymoon and you will probably be doing whatever you want to do, you should have at least a plan of what you want to visit and see. The destination that you choose for your honeymoon will probably be decided for a reason, and that reason is most commonly the things that the newlywed couple wants to see there. If you want to go to a popular touristic destination such as Paris, for example, or any other major city in Europe, and you want to visit some of its most iconic landmarks and museums, you will probably have to book your tickets in advance (such as for Anne Frank’s House in Amsterdam, for instance). Do not make this mistake and plan everything in advance. It is better to be safe than sorry. This is also important so as not to forget an important piece of equipment that you might need for your destination there.
5. Leaving the day after the wedding
Contrary to popular belief, it is not the best idea to leave for your honeymoon the day of your wedding or the day after. You will need at least several days to relax after the big celebration, and secondly – why the rush? Take your time, see how the wedding went, have those memories and experiences settle down just a bit, and then opt to travel with your spouse. This is how you will manage to enjoy both of these events – as both are equally important. Also, this might result in forgetting something very crucial.
Your honeymoon is sacred and you need to plan it very carefully if you want to experience it in the best possible way. Make a checklist and also think about the mistakes other couples made – this is how you will ensure the perfect packing. Have a great one!
Peter Minkoff is a gay travel and lifestyle writer. Besides writing, he worked as a travel journalist for many publications in Australia and the UK. Follow Peter on Facebook and Twitter for more tips.
Peter Minkoff ist ein schwuler Reise- und Lifestyle-Autor. Er arbeitete als Reisejournalist für viele Publikationen in Australien und Großbritannien. Folge Peter auf Facebook und Twitter für weitere Tipps.