The average honeymoon costs $4,000. No matter how much you're willing to spend, there is an affordable dream honeymoon destination for you. Sit back and relax as we take you through an exciting journey of planning your perfect honeymoon while keeping your finances intact.
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What Affects the Price of a Honeymoon?
While the average honeymoon costs $4,000, they can range anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000+. Factors that affect the cost of a honeymoon include the duration, level of luxury, food, destination, time of year, and excursions. Here’s how each factor affects the total cost:
Duration
An extended honeymoon will cost more than a shorter one. Each extra day you spend away from home, you are paying for accommodations and food, at the very least.
Level of Luxury
You can keep costs down if you’re okay with staying in mid-range hotels or Airbnbs and eating at casual restaurants. If you want 5-star accommodations and gourmet dining experiences, be prepared to expand your honeymoon budget.
Food
If you plan to eat out for every meal, that will add up quickly. On the other hand, if you’re okay with cooking some meals yourself or eating at cheaper restaurants, you can save a lot of money. Remember that some of the best-tasting, most authentic food in foreign countries can be found on the streets.
Destination
Of course, some cities and countries are costlier than others. You also need to consider the price of traveling to a destination. If you want to save money, consider a mini-moon close to home.
Time of year
Summer is generally the most popular (and therefore most expensive) time to travel, while winter can often be cheaper. Shoulder seasons like spring and fall can offer a happy medium between price and availability.
Excursions
Boat tours, zip-lining, guided nature walks, skiing lessons, and jeep tours all drive up the cost of a honeymoon. Depending on which activities you choose and how often, the price of your honeymoon will significantly fluctuate.
Who Typically Pays For the Honeymoon?
Traditionally, couples expect the groom’s family to pay for the honeymoon, but this is not always the case today. Couples may finance their own honeymoon or have family and friends help contribute to their dream trip.
One option is to set up a honeymoon registry. This allows guests to contribute funds towards your honeymoon instead of purchasing a traditional wedding gift. Honeymoon registries are becoming increasingly popular, and many couples find that they can fully fund their honeymoon this way.
Another option is to work with honeymoon travel agents. These experts can help you plan and book an unforgettable honeymoon, and often they offer discounts or special rates for couples booking their honeymoon through them. This can be a great way to save money on your honeymoon without sacrificing any details or amenities you desire.
Which Honeymoon Destinations Are the Cheapest?
There are several cheap honeymoon destinations in the world. These getaways offer beautiful beaches, delicious food, and fascinating cultures at a bargain price. The following destinations are considered budget-friendly:
- Mexico: If you’re looking for an affordable honeymoon destination, look no further than Mexico. You can find all-inclusive resorts for as little as $70 per night, making it an excellent option for newlyweds on a budget.
- Puerto Rico: If your idea of the perfect honeymoon is basking in the sun on a white-sand beach with a piña colada in hand, consider Puerto Rico. Not only is this Caribbean island lovely, but it’s also very affordable, and US citizens do not need a passport to visit.
- Thailand: A honeymoon in Thailand can be incredibly cheap, with daily rates for accommodation, food, and activities often coming in at less than $100 per day for a couple. That said, there are plenty of ways to spend more if you want to, including staying in luxurious resorts, flying first-class, and going on private tours.
- Dominican Republic: The Dominican Republic is one of the most popular honeymoon destinations and one of the cheapest. This island has culture, music, mountains, and beautiful beaches.
- Belize: Belize is also an excellent choice for couples looking to save money on their honeymoon. This country has lush jungles, beautiful beaches, and Mayan ruins. If it makes you feel more comfortable, English is the official language of Belize.
Which Honeymoon Destinations Are the Most Expensive?
If you’re looking for a luxurious honeymoon experience, you may want to consider the best honeymoon destinations like Fiji, Bora Bora, or Maldives. These locations are expensive due to their popularity and high living costs in these areas. However, they offer stunning natural beauty and plenty of opportunities for relaxation and romance.
- Maldives: For many couples, the Maldives is the quintessential honeymoon destination, and with good reason. This string of idyllic Indian Ocean islands offers everything from white-sand beaches to top-notch snorkeling, luxury resorts, and five-star dining.
- Fiji: Fiji, an archipelago of more than 300 South Pacific islands, is a popular honeymoon destination. You can stay at a luxury resort and participate in many activities, such as scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, or hiking. You can also treat yourselves to massages, spa treatments, and romantic dinners.
- Bora Bora: Bora Bora is one of the most expensive honeymoon destinations and one of the most beautiful. This small island in French Polynesia is famous for its overwater bungalows, which offer stunning views of the lagoon and nearby mountains. Bora Bora is also great for snorkeling, scuba diving, and other water activities.
- Monaco: Monaco is an ultra-glamorous destination beloved by celebrities and royalty alike. A honeymoon in Monaco will set you back a pretty penny, but it’s worth it for the once-in-a-lifetime experience. Monaco has everything from stunning beaches to glamorous casinos and top-notch restaurants.
- Seychelles: Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands in the Somali Sea (Indian Ocean) that’s known for its incredible natural beauty. With powdery white sand beaches, lush jungle landscapes, and crystal clear waters, it’s no wonder this place is a popular honeymoon destination.
- Tuscany: Tuscany is one of Italy’s most popular tourist destinations and one of the most expensive places to visit. If you want to honeymoon in Tuscany, be prepared to spend big on accommodations and activities.
- Bahamas: This group of 700 islands in the Atlantic Ocean is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and luxury resorts. Because of its proximity to Florida, the flights are usually affordable. However, most items and outings are more expensive than in the US.
How Can You Save Money When Planning a Honeymoon?
- Flying during off-peak days. This can often be significantly cheaper than flying during busy times. Secondly, you could skip the flights and opt for a driving destination instead.
- Choose a less well-known destination. While it may not be as glamorous as other popular destinations, it can save you a lot of money. If you live in a popular tourist destination, consider staying close to home for your honeymoon. You’ll save on airfare by having a road trip and still enjoy a luxury hotel’s amenities.
- Book a honeymoon vacation package. All-inclusive resorts offer excellent value for your money, and they often have special honeymoon packages that include extras like champagne and breakfast in bed. Plus, you won’t have to worry about budgeting for meals and activities since it’s all included in the price.
- Travel during the off-season. You can save hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars by traveling during the off-season. For example, rates at Caribbean resorts are typically lower from August to November.
- Don’t be shy about letting people know you’re on your honeymoon. Many hotels, restaurants, and tour operators will give you an upgrade, dessert, or special treatment to help you celebrate.
Which Things Should You Splurge on When Planning a Honeymoon?
Think about the types of experiences that you and your partner would enjoy. Are you more relaxed or adventurous? Are you foodies? Once you’ve decided on the overall tone of your trip, you can start to narrow down your options. A few good investments include the following:
- Upgrade your room: Honeymoon suites often have added perks like private balconies, Jacuzzis, and butler service. If your budget allows, treat yourselves to an upgrade.
- Book a private tour or excursion: Many resorts offer private tours and excursions for an additional fee. This is a great way to make your honeymoon even more special and memorable. Or maybe you’ll want to splurge on an unforgettable experience like a helicopter tour or hot air balloon ride.
- Dine at the best restaurants: Every city has its fair share of elegant restaurants. Make reservations in advance to enjoy at least one upscale dinner together on your honeymoon.