Elopement Checklist: What You Pack Shapes Your Experience

When you’re planning an adventure elopement, what you pack shapes your experience. You’ve decided the location, you are ready to go, but now you are left wondering what you should actually pack? You’re not just packing a bag, but packing for one of the most meaningful days of your life. I know that might sound like a lot of pressure, but it doesn’t have to be. It’s why I have built this checklist for you – to make sure that nothing important is left behind and you can focus on being more present and less stressed. This elopement checklist is specifically designed for adventure focused elopements, but can also be useful to pack for intimate weddings or backyard elopements.

*Throughout the list I have also linked some products that I love and trust for specific items.

Why a Packing List Is Important

Out in nature, there’s no backup closet or quick Target run. You’re trading convenience for experience, and that’s a beautiful thing. But it also means the small stuff matters. A forgotten vow book, a dead phone battery, or wet socks can pull you out of the moment fast! I’ve helped enough couples to know that being prepared isn’t about being perfect, but it is about giving yourself room to be present, and that starts with packing well.

Putting together a solid packing list ahead of time means less scrambling and more space to actually enjoy your day. That’s how it should be: calm, intentional, and full of the good stuff.

How to Build Your Personalized Packing List

I want to be clear from the start, there is no one size fits all packing list for elopements because different weather, activities, and personal preference can all affect what you pack. However, you can break your packing list into categories to help you organize everything. My suggestion as someone who has helped many couples with their elopement?

Start with the must-haves and attire needed for your day. Ask yourself if there is anything special you need for your attire based on your activities or the climate/location? Then move on to personal comfort items and specialized packing items that are specific to your day. What types of items do you need for your activities or do you want to bring any special items to help make your day extra meaningful? Finally, make sure to pack some “doomsday” items. These are items that are there for the worst-case scenario: think first-aid kit, backup socks, or backup snacks. Any items that are there to help in case anything goes wrong.

At the end of the day, packing for your elopement will look different than someone else’s, but it’s about packing what will help you feel comfortable, stress-free, and prepared. Let’s go through your packing list step-by-step.

General Elopement Essentials

No matter where you are choosing to elope or what activities you are including in your adventure elopement, here’s your don’t-leave-home-without-it list. These are the simple things that can make a big difference and you definitely want to have with you!

• Marriage license + ID
  You’ll need both to make things official so don’t leave the paperwork behind.
• Black Ink Pen
  Some places require signatures in black ink, so bring your own to be safe.
• Vow books
  Write your vows ahead of time so you’re not scrolling your phone on the trail. (Bonus with me as your photographer, I actually give you some).
• Rings (check twice!)
  Pack them in something secure.
• Wedding attire
  Bring what feels good to move, breathe, and adventure in.
• Jewelry, accessories, meaningful items, heirlooms, gifts, mementos
  If it matters to you, it belongs there so bring the pieces that tell your story.
• Florals
  Pack them in a water wrap or cooler if it’s hot or especially if you’re hiking.
• Water and snacks you like
  Dehydration and hunger are a surefire way to ruin your elopement – bring fuel.
• Portable phone charger or power bank
  For photos, maps, music, or calling your grandma afterward.
• Small first aid kit (blisters happen)
  Even just some band-aids, pain meds, and wipes can go a long way.
• Touch-up kit
  Think chapstick, hairpins, mini mirrors, deodorant – whatever helps you feel fresh.
• Tissues or cloth handkerchief
  Because tears happen or sometimes it’s just windy.
• Medication
  Don’t forget any daily meds, allergy pills, or motion sickness support.
• Toiletries
  Toothbrush, wipes, sunscreen, anything to help you stay comfortable.
• Cash + Cards
  Some remote areas or trail stops don’t take cards so small bills can come in handy.

Your starting checklist. If you don’t take anything else, you should take these!

Clothes and Accessories for an Adventure Elopement

The number one thing that I tell my couples is to wear something that you are 100% comfortable in and feel happy, beautiful, and confident in. Don’t feel any pressure to wear something that doesn’t speak to you. But also—can you move in it? Can you breathe? Can you sit on a blanket or walk through tall grass without feeling stiff or stressed? These are the real questions. Whether it’s a flowing dress, a jumpsuit, or boots with your suit, comfort and confidence go hand in hand. Here are some of the clothes that you should consider packing:

• Main Outfits
  Bring your wedding outfit that fits the vibe of your day and the activities you are doing
• Second outfits, and comfy travel clothes
  Think hiking outfit, change of clothes – bring what works for each part of your day.
• Hiking boots or trail shoes (worn in ahead of time!)
  Blisters on your wedding day? Hard pass. Bring the shoes your feet already trust.
• Backup footwear (optional but nice to have)
  Something dry, cozy, or a little less rugged for after the adventure.
• Layers: fleece, windbreaker, or thermal jacket
  Temps change fast in the mountain – layers keep you warm without bulk.
• Rain gear
  A lightweight rain jacket or poncho helps you stay dry and keep the mood high.
• Extra socks
  Always a smart idea because wet feet or cold toes can ruin the vibe quickly.
• Swimsuit
  For waterfall dips, hot tubs, or just-in-case you decide to jump in.
• Hair ties or pins
  These keep your hair out of your face and in place for photos.
• Jewelry, veil, hat, gloves
  Bring the extras that add to your story and feel like you.

Gear and Adventure Elopement Checklist

Gear up adventurers! Whether you are hiking, kayaking, or doing any sort of adventure, these are the tools that will support your day. Not fancy, not excessive – just what will help the day go smoothly. Consider packing these items:

• Daypack or hiking backpack
  You’ll want something comfortable that can carry your layers, vows, snacks, and all the small stuff.
• Blanket or mat for sitting
  Perfect for vow reading, snack breaks, or changing clothes without sitting in the dirt.
• Headlamp or flashlight (especially for sunrise/sunset)
  When the trail gets dark, this keeps you safe and hands-free.
• Mini speaker (if you want music during vows)
  A simple way to make your ceremony feel even more personal.
• Compact mirror
  Good for last-minute touch-ups or fixing flyaways after a hike or wind gust.
• Quick-dry towel or cloth (especially for waterfalls)
  Helps dry off feet, wipe off gear, or clean up after a splash or muddy trail.
• Trekking poles (for rugged trails)
  These save your knees on steep descents and help keep your balance when the trail gets tricky.
• Any personal camera or GoPro
  If you want to grab extra behind-the-scenes shots or video on the trail. Fun fact: I will capture some BTS on my own Insta360 camera for you.
• Trash bag for packing out
  Always pack out what you pack in.
• Sunscreen + bug spray
  The two things everyone forgets—until they really, really need them.
• Ziplock or dry bag for trash or muddy gear
  Keep your pack clean and organized when you’ve got dirty shoes or wet layers.

Gear Based on Hiking Distance

Short Hikes (0–1 mile):

• Light backpack with a few of the things listed above
• Water + quick snack

Moderate Hikes (2–4 miles):

• Sturdy boots or hiking shoes
• Extra layer and socks
• Blanket or changing tent (if you don’t want to hike in your wedding attire)
• Electrolytes + snacks
• Offline Map of the hike

Long Hikes / Overnights:

• Full hiking pack
• Trail food + water filtration
• Emergency blanket or shelter
• Emergency kit with GPS device
• Offline map or GPS app

Special Touches to Pack

You don’t need a lot of extras to make your elopement meaningful, but a few personal touches can make it feel like yours. These small, intentional items are often the ones couples remember most. If you want even more ideas to make your day truly unforgettable, I wrote a full guide on how to make an elopement special and unique.

• Letters or journals to exchange — Handwritten notes can be even more emotional than vows. They give you a quiet, meaningful moment before or after the ceremony.
• Shared playlist — Music has a way of anchoring memories. Bring a speaker or just keep it queued on your phone – something simple that reflects your story.
• A favorite drink for a post-ceremony toast — Whether it’s champagne, beer, or sparkling water, bring something to celebrate with in your own way.
• Small heirloom or personal keepsake — A necklace from a grandparent, a patch from your backpacking trip, or something you’ve carried through your relationship.
• Polaroid or mini photo printer — Snap a few instant photos or print one to stick in your journal, it’s a fun way to remember the day on the spot.
• Notes from loved ones back home — Ask your people to write something ahead of time and bring them along for the ride, even if they’re not physically there. Read more about how to involve your family.

Elopement Checklist Packing Tips

Packing for an adventure elopement is more than just making sure you have your outfit and snacks. It’s about prepping your gear in a way that makes the day smooth, stress-free, and focused on what matters.

• Lay everything out the night before — Seeing it all in one place helps you spot what’s missing and avoid the last-minute panic the morning of.
• Use packing cubes or ziplock bags for small items — Keeping things grouped and easy to grab means less rummaging and more time in the moment.
• Store vow books, rings, and license in a specific pouch — Put the non-negotiables in one secure, easy-to-access spot so you’re not digging for them mid-hike.
• Double-check gear based on location + forecast — What works in the desert won’t cut it on a snowy trail. Take a moment to think through the weather and terrain where you’re headed.
• Don’t overpack and prioritize comfort/meaning — Bring what makes you feel good, keeps you grounded, and supports the experience you want. You don’t need everything, just the right things.
• Break in your gear beforehand — New boots or a fresh backpack can turn into a painful distraction. A few practice hikes ahead of time can make a world of difference.
• Make a “just in case” bag — It could be a tiny kit with safety pins, Advil, an extra hair tie, and a protein bar. Small things that fix big moments.

Don’t worry about having it all either! If you have an expert adventure elopement photographer like myself along for the ride, they will have some extra things to help things go smoothly.

What to Pack Based on Elopement Location

Every place has its quirks—packing with the location in mind helps you stay comfortable and free to soak it all in.

Mountains can feel like three seasons in one day. I’ve seen couples start in bright sunshine, exchange vows in a cloud, and hike down in the wind. Always bring layers, something warm for your hands, and shoes that grip. If you’re eloping above 5,000 feet, toss in some hand warmers, you’ll thank me later.

Beaches sound simple, but the salt and wind have their own agenda. Sand finds its way into everything, so I recommend quick-dry towels and a change of clothes if you’re staying barefoot. Bug spray can be a game-changer near marshy dunes.

Deserts demand water. And more water. And maybe one more bottle just in case. The air is dry, the temps swing fast, and there’s not much shade. A good hat, breathable layers, and sunscreen go a long way. I’ve photographed couples in the desert who brought a cooling towel and that was a game changer when temps creeped above 90°.

Forests are dreamy and moody, but they’re also buggy and damp. You’ll want bug spray, for sure, and a light waterproof layer, even if rain isn’t in the forecast. 

Cold weather elopements are incredible, but only if you’re warm enough to enjoy them. I always recommend thermal base layers, hand warmers tucked into your gloves, and wool socks. If you’re hiking in snow, waterproof boots are a must. And keep your phone close to your body so the battery doesn’t freeze up before the ceremony.

Hot weather is all about keeping cool and staying hydrated. Lightweight, breathable fabrics help you move and feel comfortable. I’ve had couples freeze a water bottle overnight and pack it. It doubles as an ice pack on the trail and is melted by the time you need it.

Packing for an elopement shouldn’t be stressful

If you’re still reading, I hope you’re feeling a little more grounded. You don’t need to pack like a survivalist to have an unforgettable day. You just need to pack with intention! I help every couple I work with create a plan that fits their location, pace, and vibe, so you’re not left guessing. You’ve got this. And if you’re not sure where to start, I’m here to help every step of the way. Contact me to get started!