How to Plan a Honeymoon Backpacking Trip

If you and your fiancée love the great outdoors, perhaps a honeymoon spent backpacking sounds more appealing than a few days lounging at a resort. Plan a trip that combines athletic challenges with opportunities for a little relaxation and a lot of romance.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Discuss your budget. A bigger bankroll will allow you to trek through a variety of locations, while a tighter budget may limit you to a single destination or local sites.

2. Calculate the duration of your honeymoon and the number of miles you want to cover. Assess your strength and endurance level (and that of your fiancée) before planning the trip. Avoid overly strenuous or long treks that will leave you exhausted or risk potential injury.

3. Research guidebooks, trail manuals and maps to plan your route. Locate campsites or accommodations to end each leg. Find paths where you'll witness romance-inspiring sites like beautiful waterfalls or picturesque sunrises and sunsets.

4. Consider the time of year. Although the season may be perfect for your dream wedding, it may be less than ideal for backpacking. If you can't find a suitable location, postpone the trip for a few months.

5. Make resort or flight reservations, update your passport if heading abroad and obtain necessary passes or permits for hiking or camping. If you'll need inoculations for your destination of choice, schedule an appointment well in advance of the wedding.

6. Gather and inspect your equipment to determine what gear you still need to buy or rent.

7. Plan a little downtime. Even die-hard athletes deserve a day of pampering on their honeymoon. Discover locations with accommodations and secluded spots where you can rejuvenate between excursions.

Tips & Warnings

• Prepare for the honeymoon backpacking with day hikes and strength training routines to build up your skill and physical fitness.