5 Good Reasons to Postpone Your Honeymoon
In the old days, honeymoons were the first chance for betrothed ones to be solitary together outside immediate influence. These days, it’s about celebrating the new chapter in your life—be that discovering an exotic destination or just lounging by the pool with a well-earned cocktail. But here’s the secret that more and more couples are learning: delaying your honeymoon can be a game changer for your budget, your timeline, and your peace of mind.
We spoke to travel advisors from Meridian Journeys — Tessa Lang, lead Europe specialist; Priya Chandra, head of design for Latin America; and Olivia Ramos, Latin America concierge — about why many couples are opting to take their honeymoons weeks or even months after the wedding. Here’s what they said, and expert advice for planning your own delayed escape.
You Will be Less Stressful
For others, the prospect of guzzling margaritas on the beach moments after the wedding is the light at the end of the planning tunnel. But adding wedding-prep stress with travel logistics can easily multiply both and cause some important details to go overlooked. “When couples put off the honeymoon, they’re able to concentrate on each experience,” says Lang. ” You get to focus on just having a great time at your wedding and a great time on your trip without dividing your energy.
It Boosts Your Travel Budget
Giving yourself extra time if your wedding expenses are tight can allow you to save money over time or benefit from year-end bonuses. “Typically, guests give cash, and then a couple can apply that toward travel,” says Chandra. “If those funds are available, it can mean an upgrade to accommodations or experiences that may enhance the trip and make it all the more memorable.”
More Flexibility in Destinations
Attaching your honeymoon to your wedding date leaves you with a small window of time to travel. By putting off your trip, you can select your destination during its best season. “Maybe both a couple getting married in July in the United States will both be able to wait until November to travel to Patagonia,” Chandra says. This also makes it easier to steer clear of peak-season crowds and prices, Lang adds. It gives you time to plan for specific experiences — something like a food festival that only occurs during certain seasons, a museum that’s set to reopen or an animal migration.
You Can Maximize Time Off
The period leading up to the wedding typically includes a number of events which, unlike the day itself, do not directly pay the ongoing bills such as the bride and groom’s attire, venue, and food. “Many couples report that they run out of PTO,” Ramos adds. “Waiting allows them time to regroup, a time where work is hopefully in a less busy season and they can have a honeymoon free of stress.” And it allows you time to ask for the days you really want off, instead of cramming all of them into an overstuffed schedule.
You Get to Enjoy the Wedding Weekend
Weddings are often a chance to bring loved ones from all parts of the world. Hightailing it right after the ceremony can cost you precious time with family and friends. “If anything, postponing allows couples to spend the day after the wedding really being with their guests,” says Lang. “That extra time can be a lot.”
Consider This Before Making Plans for a Delayed Honeymoon
People choose to postpone their honeymoons for all sorts of reasons — but that doesn’t mean a bit of forethought won’t make a big difference. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Book Early
And even if you’re steering clear of peak season, especially quirky or popular hotels may get booked up quick. “Don’t take late booking as safe," Chandra says. “The best places book a year in advance.”
Double-Check Perks
A few resorts are proposing special deals for honeymooners — but they can be riddled with caveats. Hotels may require a copy of your marriage certificate, and some hotels may only honor the promotion within a specific period after the wedding, says Chandra.
Check Passport and Visa Requirements
Attention to detail is key for the world traveler. “Some countries require your passport to be valid six months beyond the date of your travel,” says Ramos. “And visa processing can go longer than anticipated, so plan accordingly.”
Putting off your honeymoon isn’t about postponing joy — it’s about making room to enjoy it deeply. Whether it’s finding a way to afford that dream vacation, choosing the season that’s just right, or having extra time to enjoy traveling, delay can be the answer for a more memorable, personally satisfying adventure.
