Honeymoon: 8 Days vs. 1 Carry On

Lu and I have been married four months today, and we are finally about to go on our honeymoon!

We thoroughly enjoyed our mini-moon after the wedding. It was just the rest and relaxation we needed after the big day. However, now we're ready to go exploring the best that Costa Rica has to offer.

The tricky part: fitting 8 days of clothes and toiletries into one carry-on bag each.

This will be tough, but I'm a firm believer in packing light. I don't want to waste my time or energy checking bags that can potentially get lost. In addition, we'll only be spending a few nights in each city, and I don't feel like lugging a huge suitcase around Costa Rica. Besides, whenever I have more room, I tend to throw in a lot of "just in case" items that I never wear.

My plan of attack:

1) Refill any necessary prescriptions.

2) Stock up on travel size toiletries at Target and REI.  Did you know they make insect repellent wipes? How great is that?!

3) Pack as light as possible.

In my carry on, I'll have:

• 2 pairs of capris
• 2 pairs of shorts (one nylon, one nicer)
• a skirt (I have a great one with a ton of pockets -- no need for a purse)
• 2 sundresses (one that doubles as a cover-up)
• a bunch of tanks, tees, and long-sleeved shirts
• under items and PJs (including lingerie)
• 2 swimsuits
• flip-flops 
• dressy sandals -- if they fit in the bag
• dry toiletries (i.e. medicine, deodorant, bar soap, tissues, etc.)
• small bag for day trips
• umbrella
• disposable rain poncho

In my personal item -- an oversized purse/tote, I'll pack:

• passport/ID
• one credit card 
• cash
• travel insurance info
• itinerary
• copies of all reservations (transportation, hotel, and tours)
• copy of passport, ID, and credit card
• electronics -- cell phone, camera, kindle, and respective chargers
• my quart-size bag of wet toiletries for easy airport access
• sunglasses
• mini-flashlight
• bandana
• small first aid kit
• a few snacks

4) Unpack anything that I won't need: most of the keys on my chain, debit/gym membership/blockbuster cards, my purse, jewelry, and anything on the above lists that just doesn't fit.

5) Wear layers to the airport -- jeans, tank top, t-shirt, light jacket, heavier jacket, socks, a baseball cap, and amphibious hiking sneakers (i.e. great for exploring the jungle).

I think that's it! Let me know if you think there's anything I've overlooked.

Posted in: honeymoon