A Complete List of What to Pack for a Wedding in Nature
There’s something so freeing about choosing an adventure elopement. Whether you’re hiking to a scenic overlook, exchanging vows in the forest, or soaking in the sunrise from a mountaintop, getting married in nature means choosing a day that feels like you.
But while adventure elopements offer more freedom and presence, they also come with a different kind of preparation. From weather shifts to trail snacks and layered clothing, what you pack and how you plan truly matter.
This guide walks you through exactly what to pack for an adventure elopement, with a detailed checklist, practical tips, and some personal insight from a photographer who’s walked these trails before.
Why Adventure Elopements Require a Different Kind of Planning
Adventure elopements are about intention, presence, and connection. It’s just the two of you (or maybe a few close people) and the beauty of your chosen landscape. That setting invites a slower pace, more emotional space, and thoughtful planning to match.
Whether you’re eloping at sunrise or hiking to a remote location, you’ll want to feel both prepared and grounded, because when you’re hours from cell service or shelter, even little details make a big difference.
You don’t need to be a wilderness expert or own top-tier gear to have a beautiful experience. You just need to know the essentials for an elopement in nature, and that’s exactly what this guide is here for.
What to Pack for an Adventure Elopement in Nature
Adventure Elopement Packing List Essentials
Let’s start with the basics. No matter where or when you’re eloping, these are the core items you’ll want to bring.
Wedding Attire That Moves With You
Your wedding outfit should feel just as good as it looks. And when you’re getting married in the great outdoors, that means comfort and movement matter.
- For dresses: Look for lightweight, flowy fabrics that move easily and photograph beautifully. If your elopement involves cooler temps or an early start, layer with skin-toned leggings or thermal tights.
- For suits: Go for breathable, wrinkle-resistant materials that hold up during movement. Also, consider adding a wool sweater or textured vest to add warmth and personality.
If your elopement includes a hike or any outdoor activity, consider bringing your wedding outfit in a garment bag and changing on-site. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous and the location allows, wear it right on the trail!
Seasonal Layers
Layering is key when deciding what to pack for an adventure elopement. Weather can shift quickly in nature, especially in higher elevations or areas near water, so even if the temperatures look warm, it’s best to be prepared.
Think rain jackets, fleece layers, insulated coats, gloves, scarves, and hats. Even in summer, sunrise and sunset can feel chilly.
Footwear that Supports the Journey
Yes, you can hike in a wedding dress. But no, you should not wear heels while doing it. A solid pair of hiking boots or trail shoes will keep you grounded (literally) and make your experience much more comfortable.
If you want the classic wedding look, pack a pair of formal shoes to slip on for portraits or the ceremony. This still gives you the look of something more dressed up, while keeping you safe and comfortable on the trail.
Pro Tip: Break in your boots before the big day, and always carry a dry pair of socks. Trust me, your feet will thank you.
Must-Have Photography + Detail Items
Your details aren’t just pretty items; they’re the little things that help tell your story both in person and through your photos. Here are some ideas of what to bring:
Paperwork + Other Legal Essentials
Of course you can’t make your marriage official without your marriage license. Be sure to also bring a few pens along so you can sign it out on the trail. Other paper items you may want to bring along are:
- Marriage license + pens
- Vow books (bonus if they’re handwritten)
- Hiking safety cards (NH Fish and Game has a voluntary Hike Safe Card, which helps get the word out about what hikers need to know when exploring out in nature. Hikers who purchase this $25 card are also not liable to repay rescue costs in the event they a rescue is needed).
- Location permit (if needed)
- Paper map of the trail
- Journal or handwritten letters to exchange
Sentimental Details
Even if you’re keeping things simple, having a few personal items on hand can make your day even more meaningful.
- Wedding rings in a ring box
- Heirloom jewelry or accessories
- Any objects that hold personal or emotional value
Touch-Up Kit
Even if you’re going for a laid-back look, a small touch-up kit can go a long way, especially after a hike or windy ceremony. Pack a small kit with:
- Hair ties + bobby pins
- Travel-sized mirror
- Lip balm or makeup essentials
- Oil blotting sheets
- Safety pins
- Tissues or wipes for happy tears or sweat
Don’t stress if you forget something. I always carry a few extras in my backpack, just in case.
Florals That Can Handle the Outdoors
If you’re carrying a bouquet or floral element, ask your florist for something hardy that can handle movement and last through weather or temperature shifts. Dried florals, wildflower bunches, or locally sourced blooms often work well.
Adventure-Specific Gear
This is where your adventure elopement packing list becomes unique. Depending on your location, terrain, and timeline, you might be out exploring for a few hours or a full day. A little planning here makes a big difference.
Safety + Navigation
If you are hiking for your elopement, keep in mind that your ceremony spot might not have cell service, so packing navigation and emergency tools is essential.
I always carry my Garmin GPS, a first-aid kit, emergency blankets, and more. But it’s smart for someone in your group to carry the basics, too. The day before your elopement double-check that you have:
- Offline maps or trail downloads BEFORE heading out
- Headlamp or flashlight (plus extra batteries)
- First-aid kit
- Medication (it’s a good idea to pack a little extra supply of your essential medications — even if you don’t expect to need them, it’s best to have them on hand just in case your day runs long or plans shift)
consider packing - Emergency blanket
- Water + snacks
- Hand warmers
- Sunscreen + bug spray
- Extra socks
- Trekking poles (for uneven or steep terrain)
- Trash bag or zip pouch for Leave No Trace practices
Pro Tip: Download outdoor apps BEFORE you head out on the trails. Some apps I use are OpenSnow and Mountain Forecast to track the weather and AllTrails for hiking and trail maps and information.
Comfort Items
This isn’t just a hike; it’s also your wedding day, and you deserve some comfort, even in the wild. Consider bringing:
- A blanket or ground cover for your ceremony
- Portable chairs (if you’re staying a while)
- A Polaroid camera or journal
- Champagne + drinkware for a trail toast
- A Bluetooth speaker with your ceremony playlist
These little extras can help make your experience so much more meaningful and make your day feel more like you.
How to Pack Your Backpack for an Adventure Elopement
Now that you know what to pack for an adventure elopement, I have a few more tips on how to load your pack and make the most of your space.
Packing smart can make a huge difference in your comfort and peace of mind throughout the day. Backpacks can be broken down into three main zones: top, middle, and bottom.
- Keep your most-needed items (like snacks, water, headlamps, and rain gear) easily accessible at the top.
- Place heavier items toward the middle of your pack and closest to your back for better weight distribution.
- Things you won’t need until later (like a change of shoes or your vow books) can go toward the bottom.
Pro Tip: If the forecast calls for rain, line the inside of your backpack with a trash bag. This helps keep the items inside organized and protected from the elements. You can also store important documents (ie – vow books, marriage license, etc) in a waterproof sleeve like this one, and use packing cubes or small bags to separate the rest of your gear.
The Ultimate Adventure Elopement Packing Checklist
If you’re wondering what to pack for an adventure wedding, here’s a simple adventure elopement packing checklist you can copy into your notes app or print out when packing. Not everything will apply to every couple, so feel free to customize it to fit your specific adventure!
Wedding Attire
- Wedding dress or suit
- Comfortable base layers
- Warm mid-layer (fleece or down jacket)
- Windproof / waterproof outer shell
- Hat / gloves / scarf
- Hiking boots or trail shoes
- Extra socks
- Formal shoes (optional)
Essential + Nice-to-Have Paperwork
- Vow books
- Marriage license + pens
- Hiking safety cards (1 per person)
- Location permit (if needed)
- Paper map of the trail (for detail photos)
- Journal or handwritten letters to exchange
Details + Accessories
- Rings + ring box
- Jewelry + accessories
- Small heirloom items
- A mini comb or brush
- A compact mirror
- Oil blotting sheets
- Makeup/hair touch-up kit
- Hair ties / bobby pins
- Safety pins
- Towel / wipes for sweat
- Lint roller
- Tissues
- Compact bouquet and/or boutonniere
Adventure Gear
- Hiking backpack or daypack
- Water bottles or hydration pack
- Trail snacks
- First aid kit
- Offline GPS or downloaded trail maps
- Headlamp or flashlight + extra batteries
- Emergency blanket
- Hand warmers
- Sunscreen + sunglasses
- Bug spray
- Toilet paper + hand sanitizer
- Trash bag or zip pouch
- Waterproof sleeves or packing cubes
Optional Extras
- Portable phone charger
- Trekking poles
- Picnic blanket, ground cover, or portable chairs
- Picnic gear
- Post-ceremony drink + drinkware
- Bluetooth speaker or playlist
- Polaroid or disposable camera
- Keepsakes to exchange
You Don’t Have to Pack Alone
If knowing what to pack for an adventure elopement feels overwhelming, the good news is that you don’t have to figure it all out by yourself.
When you hire a photographer who specializes in adventure elopements, you’re getting more than just someone who shows up with a camera. You’re also getting a partner in planning. Someone who knows how to prep for trail conditions, check sunrise times, pack safety gear, and make sure your day flows smoothly from start to finish.
When we work together, I help you build a packing list based on your unique location, season, and vision. We’ll chat about trail conditions, what to pack for an adventure ceremony, what to wear, and how to make space for both spontaneity and stillness.
I’ll help you customize your packing list for your adventure elopement and make sure you feel supported the whole way through.
If you’re dreaming of an adventure elopement that feels connected, intentional, and immersed in nature, I’d love to be a part of it. Whether you’re hiking to a waterfall or sharing vows in the quiet forest, I’ll help guide you through every step. Reach out here to start planning your dream elopement.
