What to Pack for an Adventure Elopement

If you’ve decided to elope, CONGRATS! There’s a good chance your elopement will take place outdoors and if you’re planning to hike and/or backpack, this post is for you. We are going to list some items that we feel are essential for this adventure you’re about to have.

Bride

Dress or Suit: Even though you’re on top of a mountain, a dress or suit will make you feel beautiful and make it feel like a REAL wedding. We highly recommend it. Keep in mind when choosing a dress, that you will either wear or pack it while hiking so try to choose fabrics that are light and that are resistant to wrinkling.

Toiletries: By the time you get to your ceremony destination there’s a chance you will be sweaty and a little dirty from your hike up. It’s a good idea to bring some things to freshen up once you get up there!
- Dry shampoo
- Face wipes
- Deodorant
- Mirror
- Perfume
- Wrinkle spray
- Tissues
- Makeup (I suggest you wait to put on your makeup once you reach your destination or consider hiring a professional to ensure all-day wear)
Jewelry: you don’t have to bring anything fancy, but something to spruce up your dress never hurts! Make it unique to you.
Veil: if you are planning to wear a veil, this is your reminder to not forget it at home!

Groom

Suit/Ceremony Attire: pick out an outfit that feels right for you and that compliments your partner’s attire. Keep in mind that you will be packing it, so a full on tux may not be the most efficient as far as room but by all means, GO FOR IT if your heart desires.
- This is your reminder to not forget your belt! It’s probably the most commonly forgotten groom-specific item.
Dress socks: honestly, a suit just doesn’t look the same with hiking socks. But, if that rugged look is what you’re going for then be true to yourself!
- Happy socks is one of our favorite sites to get great socks from.
Toiletries: it wouldn’t hurt to freshen up yourself after getting to your destination!
- Deodorant
- Hair product
- Cologne

Wedding Specific Items

Marriage License: not something you want to forget!
- Don’t forget a pen to sign them (black ink only for legal paperwork)
Rings: create a designated person in charge of the rings and let that be their sole job. It’s an important one in our book.
Vows: whether this is written on a random piece of paper, your phone or a vow book. Don’t forget them!
Bouquet: florals are a fun way to make your wedding still feel traditional. They are also beautiful to photograph!

Random Items

Permits: bring your backcountry permit or whatever pass is necessary for your destination. Plan ahead, this is a stressor you don’t need on your wedding day!
Sunscreen: consider this for ALL seasons! The winter sun reflecting off snow is no joke and nobody wants to look like a tomato in their wedding photos.
Bug spray: especially if you are eloping in the summer, bug spray is always great to have handy
Flashlights/headlamps: elopements last all day especially if you are wanting to get some epic sunset photos. Regardless if you are planning to camp or hike back in the dark, these will be a necessity!
Map or compass: I should be with you the whole time but in case we get separated, no one needs to be getting lost in the woods on their wedding day, yikes.
Bear spray: this one varies by destination but it really never hurts to have.
First Aid Kit: no brainer and should be carried all the time while hiking/backpacking.
Pocket knife: this can come in handy for so many situations! Especially for things like cutting tags on new clothing items. 10/10 recommend.
Snacks: no one wants to get married when they are hangry. Keep some snacks that you can refuel with or hold you over until you have a full meal (if you are hiking back down the same day). We have a whole blog post dedicated to hiking and backpacking meals– check it out!
Water or water filter: it’s always a good idea to bring more water than you anticipate needing. If you know you are hiking through or to a water source, bring a water filter that will save your room in your backpack for other items.
Champagne: every wedding needs a toast and something to celebrate with! Plus, photos of popping champagne on top of a mountain…YES PLEASE.

This is not an exhaustive list but is definitely a start– your list will vary based on what climate you are hiking in. If you have a destination in mind and have any questions on items you may need, don’t hesitate to reach out. We specialize in locations across the PNW and would be happy to help!

Stephanie Keegan

I’m an adventure elopement and wedding photographer based in Seattle and the surrounding Pacific Northwest. I focus on capturing love in beautiful places while sharing a passion for the outdoors. Rock climbing, backpacking, hiking – I love it all!