What To Pack For Your Elopement

So, you’re gearing up for the most epic day of your lives—your elopement! First off, major props for choosing to ditch the traditional hoopla and opt for something that feels totally like you. Whether you’re planning to exchange vows atop a mountain, backpacking to a tranquil lake, or amidst the whispering trees of a forest, we’ve got your back covered with a list of essentials to make your elopement day a breeze.

When you get to packing, it’s the moment when it all starts to feel real. We’re here to help you decide what to pack for your elopement so you get to spend it relaxed and stress-free.

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General Packing List for An Outdoor Adventure Elopement

For a one-day elopement where you are exploring the outdoors, you want to ensure you’re prepared for changing weather, wildlife, and things to make your wedding day more enjoyable.

Elopement Packing List Essentials:

• Backpack – We suggest one with hip straps for support if going for a longer hike!
• Wedding Attire
• Garment Bag – To roll your wedding attire up in and pack so it doesn’t get wrinkly.
• Sturdy Shoes – With good traction! As well as a good pair of non-cotton hiking socks.
• Wool/Synthetic Socks
• Mini Bluetooth Speaker – You can also use Bluetooth headphones and put a bud in each of your ears for a more intimate experience. Quick Tip: Be sure to download your playlist for offline use beforehand!
• Sunscreen
• Rain Jacket/Umbrella
• Bugspray – Quick Tip: We love bug spray wipes so it doesn’t feel like your covered in stinky bug spray on your elopement day. If you’d rather go with a spray, we recommend picaridin over DEET, since DEET can damage some materials.
• Warm Jacket – Even on the warmest days in many locations, it can get chilly around sunrise or sunset.
• First Aid Kit – Pack a first aid kit with all the essentials to handle any bumps, bruises, or blisters along the way.
• Refillable Water Bottle With Lots of Water – Since you’ll be outdoors the majority of the day, be sure to stay hydrated with plenty of water.
• Picnic Blanket – Create a cozy spot to relax and soak in the beauty of your surroundings with a picnic blanket.
• Champagne, Beer, Sparkling Water – Bring a special drink to sip and celebrate.
• Food/Snacks – It’s essential to stay energized so you don’t get hangry on your elopement day. Along with plenty of food and snacks, we also suggest bringing energy shots and hydration packets to stay fueled.
• Headlamps/Flashlights – If your elopement starts before dawn or extends into the evening hours, be sure to pack headlamps or flashlights to light the way.
• Wipes/Hand Sanitizer – Stay fresh wherever your adventure takes you.
• Toilet Paper – And a plastic bag so you can leave no trace. For longer hikes, consider bringing a WAG Bag.
• Portable Charging Power Bank
• Offline Maps Downloaded To Your Phone – If you use Google Maps on your phone, you can download a map of the area beforehand.

In making sure you’re prepared, you’ll also want to pack all the essentials To Get Married:

• Marriage License
• Pen (to sign your marriage license) – Quick Tip: If you’re eloping in colder weather, be sure to keep your pen in a jacket pocket where it will stay warm so you don’t have issue with frozen ink when you go to sign.
• Vows – If you are planning to read them straight from your phone, be sure they’re downloaded for offline use. Not sure how to begin writing your vows? Check out our guide to crafting the perfect elopement ceremony and vows.
• Rings – Keep them safe in a ring box
• Any other special items for your ceremony
• Permit (if required)
• Letters From Family & Friends – We love this idea to include your loved ones on your wedding day. For more ways to involve your family in your elopement check out Want To Elope But Don’t Know How To Involve Your Family?

Additional Items To Pack If You’re Eloping With Your Dog

If you’re including your dogs or furry friends in your elopement day, you’ll want to make sure they are comfortable and prepared too.

• Mess-Free Paw Print Ink Pad – These are a game-changer when it comes to including your furry friends!
• Water Bowls
• Extra Water
• Leash
• Collar Ring Box
• Treats for the goodest of pups
• Towel – to wipe their muddy paws off

Additional Items to Pack For A Winter Elopement

Staying warm is essential to a happy winter elopement day. We’ve included our best items on this winter elopement packing list:

• Hat
• Ear Muffs
• Gloves
• Hand Warmers – You can use hand and foot warmers for your extremities. Large body warmers are perfect to snuggle with in your jacket.
• Base Layers – Layers made of wool, silk or a synthetic material (not cotton!). We especially love these fleece-lined leggings that are perfect for wearing under a dress.
• Micro Spikes/Snowshoes
• Warm Jackets – that you don’t mind being photographed in.

Additional Items to Pack For A Skiing Elopement

Hitting the slopes on your wedding day? Be sure to pack the following:

• Skis/Snowboard
• Poles
• Ski/Snowboard Boots
• Gaiter/Balaclava
• Helmet
• Gloves
• Snowpants
• Snow Jacket
• Wool/Synthetic Socks
• Warm Winter Hat

Additional Items to Pack For A Backpacking Elopement

• Tent
• Sleeping Bags
• Sleeping Pads
• Cooking Stove
• Cookware
• Propane
• Water Filter
• Lighter
• Hammock (optional)
• Insulated Lightweight Slippers
• Trekking Poles (optional) – This brand of trekking poles is designed and based in Boulder, CO!

With the essentials packed, you are freakin’ ready to get married! Remember to embrace the spontaneity, stop to smell the flowers, and get ready to make your best memories yet. If you have any questions on what to pack for your elopement, we’re always here for you.