Most packing lists are 80 items long and useless. This one is short, climate-specific, and built from the things honeymoon couples consistently forget — or pack too much of. Pick your climate, ignore everything else.

The universal kit (every honeymoon)

Two passports + photocopy. The copy in checked luggage.
Marriage certificate copy. Upgrade ammunition at check-in; you’ll be surprised how often it works.
Travel insurance with medical evacuation. Not a luxury.
One dressy outfit each. For the signature dinner. Take photos.
Universal adapter. One per device-pair, not per person.
Mini medicine kit. Paracetamol, Imodium, antihistamine, plasters, anti-inflammatory.
Phone charger + spare cable. Cables fail at the worst time.
Earplugs + eye mask. Travel days, jetlag adjustment.

Tropical (Maldives, Bora Bora, Caribbean, Bali, Seychelles)

Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 50). Mainstream brands are reef-toxic.
Polarised sunglasses.
Two swimsuits per person — they don’t dry overnight.
Light cover-up / sarong each.
Reef shoes if you’re going to coral.
Insect repellent for dusk.
Underwater camera (Olympus TG-7 or equivalent) — not just a phone.
Light rain jacket (tropical squalls).
Hat with chin strap (boat days).

Safari (Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, South Africa)

Neutral-colored clothing (khaki, olive, grey). No bright colors, no white.
Layers — game drives start cold and end hot.
Wide-brim hat, closed-toe shoes, long pants for evening (insects).
Binoculars (8x42 minimum; the lodge’s loaners are usually mediocre).
DEET-based insect repellent.
Sunscreen + lip balm with SPF.
Headlamp or small torch.
Camera with 200mm+ lens (or rent on arrival).
Malaria prophylaxis if region requires.

City (Paris, Tokyo, New York, Venice)

One pair of walking shoes already broken in.
One smart outfit each for restaurants.
Layers: a city honeymoon swings 10°C between morning and evening.
Crossbody bag (anti-pickpocket) for the city days.
Small umbrella.
Backup phone battery — maps eat charge.
Reservation list printed in case phone fails.

Cold-weather (Iceland, Lapland, Patagonia, Banff)

Real winter layers: merino base, mid-layer fleece, hardshell jacket and pants.
Waterproof insulated boots (not fashion boots).
Glove system: liner + insulated outer.
Buff/balaclava, beanie, wool socks (three pairs).
Hand warmers.
Sunglasses (snow glare).
Lip balm + moisturizer (the air is brutal).
Swimsuit (hot springs, hotel pools).

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