A Guide to Planning a Destination Wedding Road Trip

Destination weddings are a magical way to celebrate love and togetherness. They combine the joy of marriage with the adventure of travel. Not surprisingly, the destination wedding trend is big in the US. According to Research and Markets, destination weddings witnessed a spending of $28 billion in 2023. The industry is projected to touch a massive $100 billion by 2028.

Beyond the thrill of tying the knot at a random destination, couples can go the extra mile. For those looking to add an extra layer of excitement, planning a road trip can turn the journey into a part of your celebration. If this seems like a lot of work, you can plan a bit to simplify the trip and the event itself.

We have a simple guide to help you organize a seamless and enjoyable destination wedding road trip.

Choose a Romantic Route

Selecting the right route for your road trip is as important as picking the right destination for your big day. Consider paths that hold sentimental value or offer breathtaking scenery. 

Back Road Ramblers shares a list of the top romantic road trip getaways. These include the coastal and interior Maine, the Oregon Coast Highway 101, Highway 12 in Utah, and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Route 66 is a classic American road trip route, spanning from Chicago to Los Angeles. It offers nostalgic charm and iconic stops such as Cadillac Ranch and Petrified Forest National Park. You can embark on a long drive along the Pacific Coast Highway if you love ocean views and want to taste wine in Napa or Sonoma.

Research the highlights along your chosen route to ensure they are right for your preferences. Also, consider the destination for your wedding to get on the right route. 

Plan Pit Stops and Accommodations

Way.com has some recommendations when it comes to driving long distances on a road trip. Ideally, you should stop every two hours for a 15-minute break. A break of 45 minutes every 4.5 hours will keep you alert and active. You must also stop for a break every 100 miles. Keep the daily driving time up to 9 hours only.

These numbers indicate that planning pit stops is essential for relaxation, safety, and enjoyment. Schedule stops every few hours to stretch, eat, and explore local attractions. You may check the maps to find the best pit stops on your route.

Booking accommodations in advance is a good idea. Choose boutique hotels, cozy inns, or vacation rentals that align with your budget and wedding theme. For example, Route 66 has many options in transformed motels with modern amenities. Make sure your itinerary includes buffer time for unexpected delays or spontaneous adventures.

Prioritize Safety

Whether you plan a family adventure or a destination wedding road trip, safety should always be a priority. Choosing a safe route is perhaps the best piece of advice. For example, you may want to avoid Arkansas as the state reported the fourth-highest road fatality rate in 2024. Yet, it is popular for destination weddings as the cost of weddings here is just $18,700, far less than the national average of $32,000. 

If you choose the state, avoid the high-traffic areas like Rogers. In December 2024, the city’s I-49 witnessed a massive wreck that stopped the northbound traffic. A Rogers personal injury lawyer can help drivers suffering due to someone else’s negligence. However, it is always better to stay safe. 

Keith Law Group notes that accidents have more than physical implications. They are emotionally and financially challenging. Committing to defensive driving can prevent mishaps in most cases. Also, stay alert to avoid bad weather, negligent drivers, and dangerous roads. Remember to get your car serviced before the trip, no matter how busy you are with the wedding prep. 

Pack like a Pro

Packing efficiently can make or break your road trip experience. However, when you are traveling for a destination wedding, expect it to be challenging. After all, you will have a lot of stuff to carry for the occasion.

The best approach is to follow a checklist. Securely pack your wedding attire, accessories, and any decorations you want to take along. Do not forget comfortable clothing for the journey, toiletries, snacks, and reusable water bottles. Load romantic playlists to make the long drive memorable. Capture memories along the way with cameras or smartphones.

You can pack smart with packing cubes to keep items organized and ensure fragile items are well-protected. Also, avoid carrying stuff you will probably not need during the trip and for the wedding party.

Keep Vendors and Guests in the Loop

Communication is key when planning a destination wedding road trip. You don’t want your vendors and guests to be left out when you want them to reach the venue as planned. Start by sharing your travel schedule with vendors at your destination. This will enable them to accommodate any last-minute changes.

According to Rustic Pathways, the guest lists of destination weddings are usually smaller than the regular ones. The average number is around 50, which is still quite a big one from a planning perspective. Provide guests with detailed itineraries if they’re joining you on the road trip. Include accommodation options and must-see stops.

In case they want to arrive directly at the venue, remember to stay in touch. You can use social media groups or messaging apps to share updates throughout the journey. This ensures everyone involved feels connected and prepared for the big day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are destination weddings popular?

Destination weddings have emerged as a popular concept as they make the occasion memorable. Couples can use this opportunity to tie the knot in breathtaking locations. They also often provide more intimate experiences due to smaller guest lists. Additionally, they provide stunning photography backdrops and unique cultural experiences.

How to plan the road trip route?

Random road trips may not be a good idea from a safety perspective. You can plan a route to ensure safety and predictability. Those planning to combine it with a destination wedding can look for scenic routes leading there. Consider factors like distance, attractions along the way, and seasonal weather conditions as well.

What are popular venues for destination weddings?

Some top venues for American couples planning destination weddings are The Dewberry (Charleston), Old Edwards Inn (North Carolina), and Grand Wailea (Maui). Other popular destinations include Tuscany for its vineyards and Bali for its tropical allure. The choice of the venue depends on your budget, preferences, and expectations.

Planning a destination wedding road trip should not be taken lightly. It requires thoughtful planning and preparation but offers unparalleled rewards. With the right approach, you’ll create an adventure that celebrates union and promises the joy of exploration together.