Rhiannon Hendricks
Honeymoons are a once-in-a-lifetime trip for newlyweds, and couples are increasingly prioritising these experiences over physical gifts. The cost of honeymoons varies widely depending on factors such as destination, time of year, duration and activities. On average, couples spend around $4,400 to $5,000 on their honeymoon, but this can increase to $6,000 to $25,000 for more distant locations. Many couples save up for their honeymoon, viewing it as a dream getaway after the stress of wedding planning.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Average honeymoon cost | $4,466 to $5,300 |
| Average honeymoon cost (US couples) | $4,800 |
| Average honeymoon duration | 7 days |
| Average honeymoon cost as a percentage of wedding budget | 15% |
| Couples travelling outside the US for their honeymoon (2024) | 59% |
| Couples travelling outside the US for their honeymoon (2023) | 62% |
| Couples travelling outside the US for their honeymoon (2022) | 53% |
| Couples travelling outside the US for their honeymoon (2021) | 41% |
| Couples who opt for an all-inclusive honeymoon | 28% |
| Average cost of a wedding | $33,000 |
| Couples who left for their honeymoon within two days of the reception | 41% |
| Couples whose honeymoons lasted between one and two weeks | 28% |
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What You'll Learn
Average honeymoon costs
The cost of a honeymoon depends on several factors, such as the destination, time of year, duration, and type of accommodation. According to an internal study of nearly 17,000 couples who got married in 2024, the average cost of a honeymoon is $5,300. This amount is in addition to the average cost of a wedding, which is $33,000. The average duration of a honeymoon is about seven days, with many couples spending up to two weeks away.
However, the cost of a honeymoon can vary significantly based on the choices made. For example, couples can opt for a romantic getaway within the United States or a staycation in their hometown to reduce expenses. On the other hand, exotic destinations, bucket-list trips, and extended durations can increase the cost substantially. Some couples have reported spending between $3,000 and $4,000 for a week-long honeymoon, while others have spent over $12,000 on a three-week trip.
To save money, couples can consider booking their trip about a year in advance to secure better rates and room availability. Additionally, opting for an all-inclusive package can simplify planning and budgeting, as it combines accommodations, airfare, and other amenities into a single upfront cost. All-inclusive resorts in popular honeymoon destinations like the Caribbean, Mexico, and Latin America can offer both convenience and value.
It is worth noting that the cost of a honeymoon is not just a financial consideration but also a reflection of the couple's shared values and priorities. Some couples may choose to splurge on their dream vacation, while others may opt for a more financially savvy approach. Ultimately, the decision should fit within the couple's budget and align with their travel desires.
To summarize, the average cost of a honeymoon for a couple is around $5,300, but this amount can vary widely depending on the choices made and the couple's personal circumstances.
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International vs. domestic travel
The cost of a honeymoon varies depending on the destination, time of year, duration, and any upgrades. Couples can save money by opting for domestic travel within their home country, or even a staycation in their hometown. Conversely, international travel tends to be more expensive due to higher airfares and the potential for pricier accommodations.
For example, a couple from Toronto who honeymooned in Hawaii noted that it was "ridiculously expensive" due to the long flight and distant location. Similarly, another couple's honeymoon in Paris and Rome cost a little over $5,000 in plane tickets and hotels alone. On the other hand, a couple who honeymooned in South Africa found that while getting there was costly, the expenses during their stay were relatively affordable.
According to an internal study of nearly 17,000 couples who married in 2024, the average cost of a honeymoon was $5,300. This is in addition to the average wedding cost of $33,000. On average, couples spend about seven days on their honeymoon, with 28% of honeymoons lasting between one and two weeks.
When considering international vs. domestic travel for a honeymoon, it's important to keep in mind the financial implications of each option. Couples should also factor in the time and cost of obtaining passports if they opt for international travel. Additionally, booking early can secure better rates and more choices, regardless of the destination.
Ultimately, the decision between international and domestic travel for a honeymoon depends on the couple's budget, preferences, and the specific details of their trip.
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All-inclusive vs. self-planned
Planning a honeymoon is an exciting activity for couples, but paying for it can be challenging. The average honeymoon costs around $5,300, excluding the average cost of a wedding, which is $33,000. Couples can spend significantly less by travelling within their country of residence or taking a staycation.
All-Inclusive
All-inclusive honeymoons are a popular choice for couples, as they offer convenience, value, and price transparency. A true all-inclusive rate typically includes a flat fee that covers accommodation, meals, drinks, tips, taxes, airport transfers, and activities. Some resorts may even include weddings and wedding planning services. All-inclusive resorts are often located in stunning tropical locations and offer adults-only packages to create a romantic and relaxing environment for couples.
However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. All-inclusive resorts may not include airfare in their packages, and alcoholic beverages may not always be included. Additionally, some couples may find the experience monotonous, especially if they crave more adventure or variety in their dining options.
Self-Planned
Self-planned honeymoons offer couples more flexibility and control over their itinerary, accommodation, and dining choices. Planning your own honeymoon can be cost-effective, especially if you can find good deals on flights and boutique hotels. It allows couples to create a unique and personalised experience, exploring different locations and engaging in activities that align with their interests.
However, self-planning may require more time and effort, and unexpected costs may arise during the trip. It is important to consider the potential for hidden expenses and the desire to have a more relaxed, worry-free experience, which all-inclusive packages can provide.
Ultimately, the decision between an all-inclusive and a self-planned honeymoon depends on the couple's budget, travel style, and desired level of customisation. Both options have their advantages, and it is essential to research and plan ahead to make the most of this special trip.
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Honeymoon length
The length of a honeymoon varies depending on the couple's preferences and budget. On average, couples spend around seven days on their honeymoon, with many spending up to two weeks away. Some couples opt for shorter trips, known as "minimoons," either as a standalone or in addition to a traditional honeymoon.
The duration of a honeymoon is influenced by various factors, including the destination, time of year, budget, and availability of vacation days. For example, couples may choose to travel to a nearby location for a long weekend or extended weekend if they have limited time off from work. On the other hand, some couples may decide to take a longer honeymoon, especially if they are visiting a distant destination or have a higher budget.
In recent years, there has been a growing trend of couples prioritising experiences over material possessions. As a result, some couples are opting for longer honeymoons to exotic locations or choosing to extend their trip by combining it with their wedding destination. For instance, a couple from Toronto shared that they spent a little over $5,000 on their honeymoon in Hawaii, which included plane tickets and hotels, and they felt it was "completely worth it."
Additionally, the type of activities and excursions planned during the honeymoon can impact its length. Couples who prefer a more relaxed and romantic getaway may opt for a shorter duration, while those seeking adventure and exploration may prefer a longer trip. For example, a couple who always dreamed of going on a safari spent 15 days on their honeymoon, costing a total of $13,000.
It's important to note that the length of a honeymoon should ultimately align with the couple's budget and shared values. While some couples may prefer a longer and more extravagant trip, others may opt for a shorter and more intimate honeymoon that fits within their financial means.
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Saving for a honeymoon
Start Saving Early:
Begin setting aside money as early as possible, preferably as soon as you get engaged. This will give you a larger pool of funds to draw from when booking your trip. If you're planning a wedding, you can also allocate a portion of any monetary wedding gifts towards your honeymoon fund.
Research and Plan Ahead:
Research your desired destinations and compare prices. Look for packages or deals that include accommodations and airfare, as these can often offer better value. Planning ahead also allows you to take advantage of early booking discounts and ensures you're not paying a premium for last-minute bookings.
Consider All-Inclusive Options:
All-inclusive resorts or honeymoon packages can help you avoid unexpected costs during your trip. While they may seem more expensive upfront, they often include meals, drinks, and activities in the price, so you don't have to worry about additional expenses popping up.
Prioritize and Postpone:
If your dream honeymoon is out of reach financially, consider postponing your trip by a few months to give yourself more time to save. You can also prioritize this trip over other vacations or weekend getaways to free up funds.
Use Credit Card Rewards:
Take advantage of credit card rewards programs to earn points or miles that can be redeemed for travel expenses like airfare and accommodations. This can significantly reduce the overall cost of your honeymoon.
Create a Honeymoon Registry:
Instead of traditional wedding gifts, you can opt for a honeymoon registry where guests can contribute to specific aspects of your trip, such as excursions, romantic dinners, or room upgrades. This allows you to fund experiences that you might not have otherwise been able to afford.
Remember, saving for a honeymoon is a personal journey, and you should tailor your approach to fit your financial situation and priorities. By starting early, planning strategically, and making savvy financial choices, you can make your honeymoon dreams a reality.
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Frequently asked questions
On average, couples spend around around $4,466 to $5,300 on their honeymoons. However, this amount can vary depending on factors such as destination, time of year, duration, and accommodations.
The average honeymoon lasts around 7 days, with many couples spending up to two weeks away.
The cost of a honeymoon depends on various factors, including the destination, time of year, length of stay, and type of accommodations. Couples can also choose to include amenities and excursions, which can increase the overall cost. Additionally, booking early or opting for an all-inclusive package can help secure better rates and simplify planning.
