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Packing for any trip can feel daunting, so it makes sense that packing as a guest attending a destination wedding is especially tricky. Between choosing outfits for all of the events and lining up your everyday products like toiletries, makeup, shoes, accessories, and vitamins, choosing which essentials to pack inside one piece of luggage can seem nearly impossible. Even as Brides editors, prepping for a destination wedding is no easy task for any member of our team; we have, however, picked up a few tips and tricks over the years and even have advice on how to make the process a bit more manageable.
For starters, there are certain things that are absolutely necessary for any trip—products we swear by on and off the road. And if you're currently getting ready to jet off to a destination event, we've put together a list of the best items for your journey. From sunscreen to hair oils and travel attire, keep reading for our favorite packing essentials we're confident you'll buy for your next voyage. You can thank us later!
Courtesy of Olaplex / Design by Tiana Crispino
"My hair can be particularly unruly—especially in humid weather and summer temperatures. No matter the destination, I always pack my Olaplex No. 7 Boding Oil, which increases shine and softness while minimizing frizz and flyaways. Not to mention, it also acts as a heat protectant, so I slather it on both before and after using my hairdryer and flat iron. It comes in a variety of sizes, but the TSA-friendly version is perfect for tucking away in a carry-on. A little bit of this magic oil goes a long way; even 1 fl. oz. lasts multiple trips."- Samantha Netkin, Assistant General Manager
Courtesy of Janessa Leone / Design by Tiana Crispino
"Sun coverage is so important, which is why I always bring a good hat with me on vacation. I'm obsessed with all of Janessa Leone's offerings, but I especially love this straw hat because it's packable. The straw bounces back to its original shape even after a full day in a suitcase, so I never have to choose between safety, style, or luggage space!" - Gabriella Rello Duffy, Editorial Director
"If you're traveling with a carry-on (or face it, even a garment bag), there is a 99.99-percent chance you are going to end up with some wrinkles in your clothes by the time you arrive at your destination. While you can occasionally rely on a hotel or Airbnb to have an iron, chances are, you're going to be left in a lurch trying to hack all the wrinkles out of that dress you spent way too long trying to pick for the welcome party. Enter a travel steamer. This suitcase-friendly tool is a true savior when it comes to getting rumples out of most fabrics in an instant. Plus, it's not bad to have on hand at your home, either."- Shelby Wax, Senior Editor
Courtesy of DryBar / Design by Tiana Crispino
"I can't leave for a destination wedding without this DryBar mini dry shampoo and hairspray combo. I usually get my hair blown out *before* heading to the destination wedding, so I use the hairspray to lock-in that style, and naturally use the dry shampoo on Sunday morning before attending the brunch." - Jessica Chassin, Senior Social Media Editor
SHOP NOW: DryBar Dry Shampoo and Hairspray, $28.00
Courtesy of Djerf Avenue / Design by Tiana Crispino
"If I'm traveling for a destination wedding, my must-have is an oversized white button-down. I wear this all the time for plane travel, but it's also a wardrobe staple because it's so timeless and versatile. Pair it with straight-leg jeans for something casual (think Princess Diana in the '90s), throw it on over a bikini poolside, or wear it over a slim-fitting maxi dress for something a little more elevated (lately I've been looking to Swedish-style darling Matilda Djerf for inspiration). There will be a lot of time before and after the ceremony at a destination wedding, so a button-down is always good to have on hand if you want to look effortlessly chic. And more importantly, it's comfortable!" - Ellie Storck, Senior Editor
Courtesy of Glossier / Design by Tiana Crispino
"I don’t go anywhere without Glossier’s Balm Dotcom, specifically the rose flavor! Traveling tends to dry out my skin, and this universal skin salve is a miracle worker on my lips. It keeps them moisturized no matter the temperature of the destination I’m in, and a little goes a long way with this product. I also always pack two balms in case I lose or misplace one while traveling." - Corinne Pierre-Louis, Editor
Courtesy of Black Girl Sunscreen / Design by Tiana Crispino
"For the longest time, my go-to sunscreen has been Black Girl Sunscreen's SPF 30. Not only is it affordable and accessible, but it's also available at my favorite store, Target, for just $16! It comes in the perfect travel size of 3 oz (so you never have to worry about taking it on a plane) and will last for months. This highly-rated sunscreen is infused with jojoba and avocado that moisturizes skin to leave brides, wedding parties, and guests glowing for the entire day. Looking for something a little stronger for a warmer destination wedding? Grab their SPF 45 or 50 for more coverage!" - Araziel Jackson, Associate Social Media Editor
SHOP NOW: Black Girl Sunscreen, $23.98
"I get easily dehydrated whenever I fly, and a weekend packed with drinking and dancing is guaranteed to heighten your thirst, especially if you're visiting a warm climate. That's why a reusable water bottle is at the top of my packing list. Throw an empty water bottle into your carry-on, fill it up at the airport, and continue to refill it throughout the weekend. Pro tip: Pack a water bottle with a silicone sleeve, so you don't have to worry about breakage!" - Lilly Blomquist, Editorial Assistant
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