How Much Does a Destination Wedding Cost in 2025? (+ Pricing Influences)

Destination weddings have become more popular than ever, and it’s easy to see why—who wouldn’t want to say “I do” in a breathtaking location, away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life? The idea of exchanging vows in paradise with stunning views sounds like a dream come true!

But! While the idea of a dream wedding in paradise is tempting, it’s important to take a step back and really understand the costs involved. Just like choosing the perfect dress or planning the ceremony, understanding the expenses of a destination wedding is key to making your vision a reality.

The average cost of a destination wedding isn’t just about the venue—there are travel expenses, packages, and those pesky surprise fees that can really add up.

So, before you start envisioning your perfect day in paradise, let’s break down the factors that affect the cost of a destination wedding and how to plan smartly without breaking the bank!

Breaking Down Destination Wedding Costs

When it comes to the cost of a destination wedding, there’s no one-size-fits-all price tag! The key factors to consider? The breathtaking setting, the various packages and what they include, plus those tempting add-ons that can really bump up the price (ugh).

Trust me, I’ve seen countless couples go through this. Myself included!

Many resorts bundle essentials and extras into one neat package, which can actually save you some cash compared to picking everything individually.

But here’s the thing: while packages can be a money-saver, they might include stuff you don’t actually need. And those tempting add-ons? They’re hard to resist!

Personalizing your wedding with those extra touches can totally reflect your style, but don’t forget—those small upgrades can quickly add up. Be mindful of the details, because they’ll shape the budget for your dream destination wedding.

Location, Location, Location!

Let’s talk about the real impact of your wedding location – it’s not just the backdrop, it can totally shift your budget.

Think about it: the sunsets in Bali versus the cliffside views in Santorini. Both are romantic, but the cost difference? Huge.

While the beaches of Mexico offer an affordable luxury, a château in the French countryside? That’ll drain your budget faster than you can say “I do.”

Your location is the game-changer in your wedding equation. Choosing a well-known hotspot versus a hidden gem can make all the difference in your wallet.

From airfare to accommodations, every extra mile can add up. So, take a moment to map out your dream wedding, do the math, and pick the location that perfectly fits your budget.

See my guides on how to pick the perfect destination wedding location, and what month is best for a destination wedding!

Package Deals Versus A La Carte

Deciding between the ease of package deals and the customization of a la carte services for your destination wedding can feel overwhelming. 

All-inclusive packages streamline the process—where your venue, catering, decor, even photography is bundled together. This often means a single price tag, fewer invoices to juggle, and less chance of something slipping through the cracks. 

But here’s the thing: are you really saving, or are you paying for conveniences you don’t need?

Dive headfirst into the a la carte route, and you’ll see a world of possibilities unfold. Every choice, from the beachside DJ to the floral arch, fits your vision perfectly. 

But beware the budget creep, as individually selected services can quickly add up, turning your dream wedding into a financial nightmare. 

My tip? Sketch out a clear budget and stick to it like your love story depends on it. Ask yourself, does this vendor or service make the cut for our big day? Is it worth the extra spend? 

Hidden Extras That Add Up

Hidden costs that can sneak up on you. First, think about foreign transaction fees—each time you swipe your card, a little extra charge could chip away at your budget. This hurt us the most as Canadians!

Then there are gratuities and tipping. They’re not always included in your package, but they’re definitely a must for showing appreciation to the amazing staff making your day unforgettable. Some resorts charge 16% gratuity on top of your package PLUS tax, and it really adds up!

See my guide to who and how much to tip at destination weddings.

Don’t forget vendor travel costs! If you’re flying in a photographer or DJ who’s a must-have for your big day, those fees might pop up too. And don’t forget about outside vendor fees – that’s one of the many things no one tells you about having a destination wedding!

And have you factored in the cost of postage for those beautiful overseas invites? It can really add up! (Psst. think about taking the eco-friendly destination wedding route and sending digital invitations!)

Do yourself a favor and cushion your budget for these often-overlooked extras. Because – sorry to tell you – you’re going to need it!

The Real Average Cost of Destination Weddings

After years of experience, I’ve lost count of how many couples have been hit with sticker shock when they first learn the average cost of a destination wedding.

Now, I have to be honest—there’s no one-size-fits-all answer here, and the price tag can vary wildly (that’s putting it lightly!). But based on my experience, I can give you a rough ballpark.

Having been in the wedding world for nearly a decade, I’ve crunched the numbers, and the average destination wedding typically falls between $10,000 and $40,000 USD.

Of course, that number can go way up for more lavish celebrations or if you’re planning to tie the knot in one of those high-end, popular spots.

Ok. I know. You may be thinking this really isn’t an answer to my question! And honestly? It’s a hard question to answer because there are SO. MANY. FACTORS. that go into the price of a destination wedding!

While this is a wide price range, this estimate includes expenses such as travel, accommodation, wedding packages offered by resorts, food and beverage costs, decor and florals, and other wedding-related expenses.

It’s essential to consider additional costs, such as travel and accommodation for guests, as well as any legal requirements or fees associated with getting married in a foreign country. 

Keep in mind this is an average. If you’re a past bride reading this and think, “hmm, I only spent $5,000!”, yes, I absolutely believe you. Our own destination wedding was $10,000, factoring in every single detailed cost!

Pricing will also be heavily influenced by your guest count, too.

The cost of a destination wedding is often surprisingly comparable to traditional weddings, which can quickly skyrocket.

What makes destination weddings so appealing is the chance to say “I do” in an exotic location, rather than sticking to a local venue, making the price tag feel a bit more balanced. It’s also an amazing way to get together with all of your loved ones – which is one of my biggest pros to having a destination wedding!

Every couple has their own unique love story, complete with a budget and vision. These numbers serve as a handy guide, showing you that saying “I do” doesn’t necessarily have to come with a hefty price tag.

All-Inclusive Destination Wedding Cost

If you read $40,000 and thought, wow, this really isn’t for me, let me break down an all-inclusive destination wedding average cost for you.

Flights: You can expect to pay roughly $1000 for flights, depending where you’re flying from, to the Caribbean. I say roughly because things are getting SO expensive, and this varies greatly depending where you’re coming from. Get your flight price trackers on, and work with a destination wedding travel agent who can help you!

All-inclusive resort: Depending on what type of room you get, you’re looking at around $3,000-$6,000 for 7 nights for a couple. Again, this is an estimate!

Wedding package: Many all-inclusives offer free wedding packages (like these ones in the Riviera Maya!), so that could essentially cost you $0! Of course, if you want to upgrade or have a larger guest list, wedding package prices can go up. The average all-inclusive wedding package ranges from $999 – $5,000. This depends on your guests and any upgrades.

All in all, a rough cost of a destination wedding at an all-inclusive resort is around $4,000-$12,000. See how the pricing varies?

Tying the Knot on a Budget

Dreaming of a sun-drenched beach wedding without breaking the bank? Let’s make that dream a reality! Here are some quick tips:

1. Start by focusing on what matters most to you—whether it’s stunning photos over lavish decorations or something else entirely. And don’t be afraid to negotiate; vendors often have some flexibility in their prices, so put those bargaining skills to work.
2. Think about tying the knot on a weekday or during off-peak seasons—venues are usually more affordable, and your guest list will likely shrink to the people who matter most. Also, teaming up with a destination wedding travel agent is a game-changer—they’ll help you score the best deals and handle all the travel details.
3. Go local with flowers and leave the location to speak for itself!

I have a ton more tips to have a destination wedding on a budget to help you plan your perfect day!

Smart Spending for Your Wedding Day

Planning your destination wedding on a budget can actually be a smart move with the right strategy! Keep in mind that you don’t need to splurge on every detail to create an unforgettable celebration.

Focus on what matters most, like capturing stunning photos or choosing a local experience that will leave lasting memories.

Yes, the average cost of a destination wedding might surprise you (or maybe not!), but with a little creativity, you can easily trim expenses where it counts without sacrificing an amazing day.

Happy planning! 😊

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