You’ve booked the honeymoon. There’s a spa involved (of course). Cliffside or hidden among the foliage, it’s adults only, pure decadence… and now you get to pack. Swimsuit and sandals won’t do, though, if you’re packing robes, facials, and eucalyptus-charged massages ahead. A bit of intention makes the difference. You don’t want to arrive in paradise only to find your SPF lip balm left behind. Here’s what to pack for ultimate chill-out mode straight out of your bag:
A Robe You Really Like
Sure, the spa at the resort is going to have a robe, but they’re not always as plush or as long as you wish, and something about settling into your own is strangely comforting.
Swimsuits (More Than One)
Two are never too many, particularly if you’re off to somewhere damp. Bring at least a second swimsuit so you’re never stuck squirming into a wet one. Bring one spa-worthy (read: supportive, uncomplicated, no metal) and one strictly decorative. Sometimes, relaxing by the pool is as healing as any hot rock treatment.
Slippers You Won’t Confuse with the Hotel’s
Soft, clean, and yours. The majority of spas include disposable slippers, but these are generally very thin and only used for a hallway walk. A good set of packable slippers makes any suit feel like your own, though. And you can slip on them when you have your flight home; too instantly cozy.
Skincare Suitable for Humidity, Chlorine, and Champagne
The combination of travel, sun, and spa steam baths has strange effects on your face. Pack your reliable skincare essentials (cleanser, moisturizer, SPF), and don’t forget to include something calming like a face mask or under-eye patches to combat flight-induced puffing. Bonus: Your post-facial glow is different when you’re not piling it under three pounds of unknown product.
A Spa-Approved Hair Kit
Leave the heavy equipment at home; hair needs a break, too. Instead, bring with you a wide-tooth comb, some silk scrunchies, and some lightweight leave-in conditioner to get through humid conditions. If you must have something special for special nights, bring one double-tasking tool (such as one of the travel-sized curling wands with the ability to straighten).
Lightweight Loungewear
You’re not in jeans. Let’s begin with this. Loose, airy garments that are polished but feel like robes are what you’re wearing. A wrap, linen pants, and an oversized button-down are all ideal for strolling between the suite and the spa without appearing as though you gave in. You didn’t. You plotted this.
The Proper Undergarments (Trust Me)
One decent strapless bra. A few sets of seamless undies. And if you feel fancy, a silky nightie that can double as sleepwear. There is nothing worse than packing five outfits and seeing that your bras don’t coordinate with any of them. Lay out the ensembles first. Coordinate the undergarments second. Then, thank yourself afterward.
A Special “Spa Bag”
Small tote. Wet/dry pouch. Foldable backpack. In whatever form, this little bag is your spa companion. You’ll stuff in your keycard, sunscreen, book, perhaps a hairbrush, and you’re off.
Something to Read Which is Not Your Email
Yes, you could scroll, of course. But toting along a paperback, or better, something decadent like a magazine, is the gesture. You’re not here to get stuff done. You’re here to float between treatments with some happiness in your hand. Pick something light, romantic, perhaps silly. You’re on your honeymoon.
A ‘Wow’ Piece
Even if you won’t be venturing far from the resort, pack that one dress or outfit that makes you feel utterly gorgeous. You may or may not actually wear it to dinner or on an impromptu sunset stroll. You may simply dress up one evening on the balcony with a bottle of wine, but either way, pack it. It creates the atmosphere.
Something Special, Only Between the Two Of You
A small speaker full of your go-to playlists. A note is scribbled and placed in your partner’s bag. Massage oil if you’re in the mood to do it yourself. These don’t occupy much space but add so deeply to the experience. And isn’t that what you need?
Some, such as Sandals Resorts St Lucia, simplify the matter. You simply don’t need to overpack; everything you need is literally at your fingertips.
Leave Room to Breathe
There’s no need for seven iterations of absolutely everything. The optimum spa experience is about less: less sound, less hurry, and less clutter. Your bag should be the same. You need to choose thoughtfully, travel light, and keep in mind that what you don’t pack is equally as valuable as what you do pack. Your honeymoon should get this level of attention from beginning to end.
Honeymoon Escape Photo Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-couple-in-bathrobes-standing-near-a-bathtub-6634871/