How to Pack for a Wedding Abroad (if You Aren't the Bride or Groom)

You just got the invitation from your sister for her spectacular wedding in Sevilla, Spain, next November. Great! But you live in the US and have never been to Spain. What do you pack for a wedding abroad? It's easier than you think, provided you take the time to research and ask questions.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Outfits appropriate for the ceremony and any other planned events
• Garment bag for hanging clothes-this is ideal, but you can get away with a regular suitcase, provided your outfit fits inside and you can bring a travel iron/steamer (or your accommodation abroad
• Calendar with average temperatures and rainfall for the given location
• Valid passport
• Travel iron/steamer

1. Consider that in terms of choosing what to wear, the invitation should indicate whether the wedding is black tie, semi-formal, or informal; a day wedding versus an evening wedding; an indoor wedding versus an outdoor wedding. If it doesn't, don't be afraid to ask the bride or groom. After all, you don't want to be wearing an evening gown to an afternoon barbecue.

2. Pick a color and fabric that won't show stains easily (black is best and patterns tend to be more forgiving of any spots), just in case your suitcase gets wet or damaged during travel abroad.

3. Include at least one extra heavy-duty hanger in your suitcase, but preferably not one with metal on it, as metal may rust if it gets wet, meaning your clothes will end up with a nice orange hue. Also, some hotels don't provide hangers, believe it or not, and if you have a few days to let the outfit "air out" before the wedding, it's nice to be able to hang it on a hanger and let it naturally de-wrinkle.

4. Bring everything you usually need to get ready for a night out (for women: make-up, brushes, a hairdryer and an evening bag to match your outfit; for the men: grooming kit, razor, shaving cream), and if you plan on wearing stockings, always include an extra pair. The same goes for men with socks.

5. Find out the dress code and pack accordingly if you are also invited to events outside of the actual wedding. Ideally, when traveling for a wedding abroad, you want to take minimal clothes and provide maximum usage. Formal clothing takes up more space than everyday wear, so budget room in your suitcase for everything.

6. Make sure to try it on the week before you leave, in case there are any last-minute alterations needed.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember to have a current passport. If you don't have a passport, you'll need to apply for one at least six months prior to the trip.
• Do not wear solid white It is only appropriate for the bride to wear white (or the groom as well, if he so chooses).