Are you and your partner thrill-seekers, dreaming of a unique and intimate wedding ceremony in a place you’ve never explored together? A destination elopement or micro wedding could be the perfect adventure for you. But transforming this dream into reality involves much more than just booking flights and choosing outfits. From detailed planning to handling complex travel arrangements and budget considerations, let’s delve into how you can successfully plan your destination elopement of your choice.
Table of Contents
Deciding Your Destination Wedding Budget
What is the Average Cost of a Destination Wedding?
The average cost of a destination wedding or elopement can vary widely depending on factors such as the location, guest count, level of luxury, and specific preferences of the couple. However, on average, destination weddings tend to be more cost-effective than traditional weddings, with couples spending anywhere from $18,000 to $30,000. This estimate typically includes expenses such as travel, accommodations, venue rental, photography, catering, and any additional activities or experiences planned for the wedding celebration. Keep in mind that destination weddings can also offer the opportunity for cost savings, as they often have smaller guest lists and fewer traditional wedding expenses.
What Influences the Cost of a Destination Wedding?
The cost of a destination elopement is influenced by several factors. Firstly, the chosen location plays a significant role, with popular tourist destinations or exotic locales typically having higher costs for food, accommodations, and services. Secondly, travel expenses, including flights, transportation, and accommodation for the couple, contribute to the overall cost.
Want to learn more about the cost of eloping and the vendors you will need? Check out how much does it cost to elope to learn more about the cost breakdown.
Tips for Saving Money on a Destination Wedding
Planning a destination wedding or elopement doesn’t have to break the bank! Here are some tips for saving money while still creating the wedding of your dreams:
- Elope just the two of you or keep it small: Eloping with just your partner saves on guest-related costs. If you want guests, keep the list small to reduce expenses on meals, accommodations, and activities.
- Be flexible with your date: Off-peak seasons or mid-week weddings are often more affordable. Avoid popular dates and holidays to save on venues and vendors.
- Choose a budget-friendly location: Consider destinations with lower costs or less tourist traffic to stretch your budget further.
- Prioritize vendors: Focus on the vendors that matter most. Get creative—DIY flowers or hair and makeup can save money while still looking amazing.
Bring your Destination Wedding Vision to Life
Now that we’ve covered the most crucial aspect of planning a destination elopement or wedding—the budget—it’s time to delve into brainstorming about your adventurous wedding day! With destination weddings, the sky’s the limit, and you can make it as adventurous or luxurious as your budget allows. Before reaching out to an elopement photographer or planner, we highly recommend sitting down together with your favorite drink to brainstorm about your day and contemplate the most important elements you want to include.
Who are You Inviting?
The beauty of destination elopements and micro weddings lies in the freedom to choose your guest list! However, it’s crucial to consider your budget when deciding whom to invite, as accommodating guests and covering additional food costs can add up. Close your eyes and envision your ideal scenario: is it just the two of you, or are you surrounded by a select few loved ones? There’s no right or wrong answer; it all depends on what holds the most significance for you. We’ve witnessed couples exchanging vows alone as well as intimate micro weddings with around 20 guests in breathtaking locations.
What Type of Scenery or Vibe are You Looking For?
Before you dive into Google searching for the perfect spot, pause and ask: what kind of scenery do you dream of? Mountains? A tropical breeze? Or the stark beauty of a desert? Think about the weather too—crisp mountain air, sunny skies, or mild desert evenings.
Jot down your “must-haves” to make planning easier. Once you know your vibe, check out our best places to get married for inspiration. Then share your ideas with your destination elopement photographer (that’s us!). With your notes, we can help find the perfect locations and make your day as magical as you’ve imagined.
What Type of Activities do You Want to Include in Your Day?
When planning your destination elopement or wedding, thinking about activities is one of the most exciting parts. Few couples come to us with a fully formed plan. Some want to tackle a 10-mile hike, try off-roading, or add other outdoor adventures.
If you’re thinking, “We’re not sure yet,” don’t worry! Part of our job is helping you discover fun and memorable activities for your day.
Whether you love the calm of nature, the thrill of adventure, or unique cultural experiences, we guide you through the possibilities. Our goal isn’t just to capture your moments—it’s to enhance your experience. We help weave special activities into your day to make it truly unforgettable.
Destination Wedding Inspiration
Beautiful Vow Renewal in the Italian Dolomites
Stunning Wildflower Elopement in Iceland
How to Plan a Destination Wedding | Step by Step Guide
1 | Hire a Destination Wedding Photographer
Now that you’ve set your budget and dreamed up your perfect day, it’s time to connect with a destination elopement photographer—the Running Wild team here, waving enthusiastically! Take a deep breath. You’ve done the hard work. Once your budget and vision are clear, we take the reins on the rest of the planning.
As part of how to plan a destination elopement, our first step is finding the perfect location that matches your wishlist. We create a curated guide of the best spots, making sure the location feels just right for you. Next, we help you book vendors and accommodations and craft a seamless timeline for your day.
We support you from start to finish, making your adventure wedding stress-free and enjoyable. With us, you’re not just getting a photographer—you’re gaining a dedicated partner in bringing your destination elopement dreams to life.
Want to learn more about us and our planning process? Check out our How to Elope guide for tips and inspiration, and get to know the Running Wild team who will help bring your day to life!
2 | Decide Where and When You Want to Get Married
Choosing the right location and timing is one of the most important steps in how to plan a destination elopement. Unlike traditional weddings, adventure weddings often take place on public lands, which means you’ll need to navigate crowds, weather, and accessibility.
Start by assessing the popularity of your desired spot. Public areas can attract onlookers, so check peak times and consider quieter, more secluded alternatives. For example, if you’re eloping in Mount Rainier National Park during peak season, a weekday morning or evening can offer more privacy.
Timing your elopement is also key. Off-peak seasons can provide a more intimate atmosphere—like a December Santorini elopement, which offered nearly deserted streets and perfect sunshine. Just keep in mind that off-season travel may mean limited shops and amenities.
Finally, always consider the weather. Research seasonal conditions to stay comfortable and safe. For instance, Utah’s national parks are extremely hot in summer, making fall or late spring a better choice. Proper planning ensures your adventure wedding is both magical and stress-free.
3 | Pick Your Outdoor Ceremony Location or Micro Wedding Venue
Now that you’ve chosen the state or country for your vows, it’s time to pick the perfect ceremony location. With our help, we handle all the legwork—researching Google Earth, AllTrails, blogs, and other resources to find a spot that checks every box. Whether you’re seeking privacy, stunning backdrops, or a location that’s easy to access for your group, we make sure your dream spot becomes reality.
Planning an adventure wedding for a larger group (25–50 guests) can be trickier than a small elopement (under 20 guests). Many parks and wilderness areas limit group sizes to protect the environment. In those cases, renting a small outdoor-focused venue can be a great solution, allowing you to celebrate with guests after your ceremony. For inspiration, explore our guides to the Best national park wedding venues and Best micro wedding venues in Washington State. For example, we recently planned a two-day adventure wedding in Yosemite National Park, with the first day exploring the park privately and the second day celebrating at Glacier View Point Amphitheater followed by an intimate party at nearby Autocamp.
4 | Book Accommodation for Your Destination Wedding or Elopement
When it comes to accommodations for your wedding, don’t hesitate to think outside the box! Finding a place to stay that’s not only close to your ceremony location but also boasts excellent lighting can make a world of difference. Photographers often adore venues with large, airy windows and minimal clutter.
Why not indulge in something a bit out of the ordinary, like a modern A-frame cabin nestled in the woods or a rental with breathtaking views that’ll make you feel like royalty? After all, it’s your wedding day—time to treat yourself!
Luckily, there’s no shortage of unique Airbnbs and short-term rentals out there just waiting to be discovered. However, it’s wise to start your search around 8 months to a year in advance, especially if you’re eyeing a popular time of year or sought-after location. These gems can get snatched up quickly, so early planning ensures you’ll secure the perfect spot to rest and get ready for your big day.
5 | Hire Other Wedding Vendors
Most couples who plan a destination elopement or wedding typically hire a few other vendors for their big day. However, if you’re working within a budget, this is a great opportunity to save some money, as we discussed in Step 1. But remember, there’s no right or wrong answer here because every couple is unique, and what works for one may not work for another.
Below are examples of vendors we’ve seen other couples hire for their elopements and adventure weddings:
- Hair & Makeup Specialist
- Florist
- videographer
- Private Chef, Catering, or Charcuterie Boards
- Baker (Cakes or any other type of deserts)
- Rental Companies for Chairs, tables, and decorations
- Activities Guides for hot air balloons, offroading, helicopters, and seaplanes
6 | Research Permits, Visa’s and Legalities
Special Use Permits
If you’re planning a destination wedding in the US, chances are you’ll need a special use permit for an outdoor ceremony in a National Park, State Park, or Wilderness area.
Internationally, such as in Europe, obtaining a special permit for an outdoor wedding is often not required. However, it’s essential to ensure you’re adhering to local regulations. Always have your photographers check in with local park offices to ensure compliance with the rules.
Visa’s
Planning to tie the knot internationally? There are a few things to consider. Firstly, check if you need a visitor’s visa to enter the country. Additionally, confirm whether your photographer is authorized to work in that country. We always communicate with the country’s embassy to ensure we can work there for a short duration without needing a work visa. For example, Indonesia presents challenges for obtaining a work visa, so we typically avoid working there.
Getting legally married in another State or Country
Each state in the US has its own regulations regarding legal marriage. Therefore, once you’ve selected your location, be sure to review the state’s requirements for marriage. Planning to elope solo? Colorado is a great option as it allows self-solemnization, meaning no officiant or witnesses are required.
For international elopements, only a few countries permit non-residents to marry, but it often involves extensive paperwork. To simplify the process, we recommend getting legally married in your home state’s court before or after your destination wedding and having a symbolic ceremony on your wedding day. This approach saves time, reduces stress, and minimizes paperwork.
7 | Book Your Travel & Transportation
Oh my goodness, how exciting! You’re getting closer and closer to your big day, and now it’s time to sort out your travel and transportation arrangements. When booking your flights, it’s crucial to plan ahead—aim to arrive at your destination at least 3-4 days before your wedding day. This buffer allows plenty of time in case of flight delays or any unexpected hiccups along the way. Plus, let’s not forget about the dreaded jet lag! Give yourself ample time to adjust to the time difference so you can feel refreshed and ready to go on your wedding day.
And speaking of transportation, don’t overlook the importance of booking your rental car. If your elopement takes you high up into the mountains or along rugged terrain, it’s essential to choose the right vehicle. Opt for a rental car with higher clearance or a 4×4 vehicle capable of handling off-road conditions. This ensures you can navigate any dirt roads or challenging paths with ease, allowing you to focus on the excitement of your impending nuptials without any transportation worries.
8 | Build Your Timeline of Your Day
This is where your wedding day truly comes to life! While every couple’s day unfolds uniquely, here are a few key things to keep in mind:
- Embrace Golden Hour: The best light of the day happens during sunrise and sunset. Golden hour casts a soft, dreamy glow that enhances the colors of the sky and landscape. Plan to include at least one of these magical moments for stunning, sparkling photos.
- Give Yourself Plenty of Time: Avoid cramming your day. Rushing can steal the joy of the moment. Allow time for getting ready, your ceremony, portraits, and any small celebrations. This way, your photographer can capture authentic, heartfelt moments without stress.
- Expect the Unexpected: Outdoor elopements come with surprises—tears, longer hikes, or sudden weather changes. Even with a perfect timeline, flexibility is key. Planning for the unexpected helps you enjoy every moment, no matter what happens.
- Have a Backup Plan: A backup plan brings peace of mind. For international or remote locations, we scout 1–2 alternative spots the day before your wedding. If weather or crowds affect your original plan, we can quickly pivot to ensure your day stays beautiful and stress-free.
9 | Make sure You’re Ready for Travel
What type of travel documents do you need?
You might have already taken care of this when booking your flights in Step 9, but it’s important to double-check if you need to obtain a visa for the country you are visiting. Ensure that your passport is up to date and valid for the duration of your trip.
Flying inside the US? On May 7, 2025, the federal REAL ID Act goes into effect nationwide. Beginning on that date, if you don’t have a REAL ID-compliant driver license or ID card, you won’t be able to fly in the U.S. or enter a restricted federal facility.
If you are traveling outside the USA, make sure to check if your vaccinations are up to date.
Certain countries, additional vaccinations may be required, so it’s essential to check well in advance before your departure date. Make sure to research and verify the specific vaccination requirements for your destination several months before you plan to fly out. This ensures that you have ample time to schedule any necessary appointments and receive the recommended vaccinations, helping to ensure a safe and healthy travel experience.
How are you traveling with your wedding attire?
Traveling with a wedding dress requires careful planning to ensure it arrives in the best condition:
- Choose the Right Bag
Invest in a garment bag designed for wedding dresses, ideally one that you can carry onto a plane. Consider a foldable design that’s easy to handle and store. - Pack Smart
If folding is necessary, fold the dress as few times as possible and use tissue paper to prevent creases. Some brides opt to pack their dresses in a carry-on suitcase for added protection. - On the Plane
If you’re flying, contact the airline ahead of time to inquire about their policy for traveling with a wedding dress. Some airlines allow you to hang the garment bag in a first-class closet. - Upon Arrival
Once you arrive at your destination, unpack your dress as soon as possible and hang it up. A steamer can be a lifesaver for removing any wrinkles.
Make a packing list the week before your travel
The last step of planning your wedding is a crucial one—it’s time to pack for the big day! As the excitement builds and the departure date nears, it’s essential to stay organized and ensure you don’t forget anything important. About a week before you set off, take a moment to sit down and draft a detailed checklist. This list should include all the indispensable items you’ll need for your wedding, such as your wedding attire, vow books, rings, and any necessary permits.
Start by packing these critical items first, since they are the cornerstone of your ceremony and celebration. Double-check each item as you pack it, ensuring that nothing is left behind. Packing well in advance also allows you to remember any last-minute additions without the pressure of a looming deadline.
Destination Wedding Packages
Our destination elopement packages are designed to make your adventure wedding stress-free and unforgettable. Each package includes professional photography, planning guidance, and support throughout your journey—from scouting the perfect location to creating a seamless timeline for your day. Whether you’re dreaming of a quiet mountaintop ceremony, a tropical beach elopement, or an intimate city escape, we tailor each package to fit your vision. With options for small elopements or slightly larger guest groups, our packages ensure your destination wedding is beautifully captured and effortlessly planned.
Learn more about our packages and pricing on our Destination Elopement Pricing Page.
Not Sure on How to Plan your Destination Wedding?
Not sure how to plan your destination wedding? Don’t worry—you’re not alone! We guide couples through every step, from picking the perfect location to creating a seamless timeline. Reach out using the inquiry form below or check out our How to Elope or How to Plan a Micro Wedding page to start planning your dream day.
