Our wedding is just nine days away! Lately, there’s been so much fuss about finalizing all the big day details that we almost forgot about the big trip that follows it — our honeymoon. We booked it months ago, so once we paid our balance with the travel agent we kind of just forgot all about it. Then, I looked at the calendar and realized that – in addition to everything else — we need to get ready for a 10-day tropical trip in the middle of October. Unlike most other vacations, there’s a lot more involved in honeymoon prep than just grabbing a passport and throwing some shorts in a bag. I knew we needed an action plan fast, so I came up with the following last-minute preparation plan. Vegas and Maui here we come!

Confirm Your Seats

Have you ever booked flight reservations for two, then arrived at the airport only to find that the airline did a switcharoo and you’re now sitting on two opposite side of the plane? We have, and you would think they’re willing to make it right for you, but getting them to switch things back at the counter can be a hassle. Call the airline a week before your trip, let them know you’re on your honeymoon and confirm that you will be seated together no matter what.

Buy an Extra Suitcase

We all like to bring home trinkets and souvenirs to remember a great trip by, but when you’re headed home they don’t always fit in your suitcase on top of all the clothes you stuffed in there when you first packed. Don’t spend the last morning of your honeymoon stressing over whether your suitcases will zip, or the possible oversized bag fees awaiting you at check-in. Instead, by a small carry-on sized duffel bag ahead of time, roll it up and pack it when you leave, then bust it out and fill it with honeymoon keepsakes to bring home.

Cut Coupons and Find Deals Now

You probably already know what you plan to see and do on your honeymoon, so now’s your chance to find last-minute ways to save. Be on the lookout for deals and discounts for local shows and excursions. Even if it’s only $5 off, that’s extra cash you can use to buy a keepsake at the gift shop. It’s also a good idea to call ahead and find out if the restaurants or bars you plan to check out have drink or dinner specials. [Triple B note: Black Atlas is an excellent resource to check before making travel plans.]

Buy Warm Weather Clothes on Sale

Still need a pair of water shoes or shorts? Unless you’re honeymooning in the summer, you should be able to hunt down great off-season deals on summer clothing online. Check out sale and clearance sections on your favorite store sites and look to big name discount brands like Target and Wal-Mart to find great last minute deals on things like beach towels and snorkel gear. [Triple B note: Check sites like The Budget Fashionista for super-duper deals!]

Start Promoting Your Newlywed Status Now

Rumor has it that when you’re on vacation you can snag an extra deal or two if you tell people that you’re newlyweds. Assuming this is true, why not get a head start on this? Call the hotel and airline and let them know the news, and when you arrive make a point of telling tour guides, waiters, and bartenders, for sure. This could get you a nice upgrade on your room, or a few free shots, so it doesn’t hurt to try. (We already got the Ritz Carlton in Maui to make upgrade our suite to beachfront status!)

Prepare Your House and Pack Early

You won’t want to come home from your honeymoon to a mess. Clean the house from corner to corner and be sure you’re all packed at least 3 days before your trip. Confirm how you’re getting to the airport and be sure you’ve turned off all alarms and forwarded your mail if you need to. You don’t want to come home feeling anything but bliss!

Where are you going on your honeymoon? Any last minute travel deals to share? Tell us!